Maroon Bells

Aspen, Colorado, US

Maroon Bells are twin granite peaks rising above Maroon Lake near Aspen, Colorado, offering some of the most photographed alpine scenery in North America. The area draws hikers and photographers who seek dramatic reflections, rugged trails, and crisp mountain air.

Why choose Maroon Bells

You’ll experience a sense of scale that few places match, with the peaks mirrored perfectly in the lake’s still water. The combination of easy shoreline walks and more demanding summit routes gives you flexibility that other mountain sites often lack.

Best for: Photography · Hiking · Nature

Start your Maroon Bells morning here

Begin at Maroon Bells, then stroll to nearby Maroon Lake for iconic photos and a short walk.

1. Morning — Maroon Bells
2. 11:00 — Maroon Lake

Visit tips

• Take the early shuttle; the parking lot fills quickly in summer.
• Walk the shoreline trail for the clearest reflections of the peaks.
• Visit early morning or late afternoon for the clearest reflections and fewer cars.
• Allow at least half a day for a lake walk and a short hike; parking fills quickly in summer.

Plan your visit

• Recommended duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best time of day: Early morning, before 9:00
• Category: mountain
• Rated 4.9 by 2653 reviewers
• Tags: photography, mountain views, hiking, early morning

Nearby attractions

• Maroon Lake — lake, 5 min walk

More things to do in Aspen

• White House Tavern
• Aspen Hickory House
• Independence Pass
• Matsuhisa
• Buttermilk Mountain
• Paradise Bakery & Cafe

See all things to do in Aspen or plan a full Aspen itinerary with Next Getaway.