Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail Guide (+Shuttle Tips)
This guide covers everything you need to know for hiking the Maroon Bells Crater Lake trail, including parking, shuttle info, and helpful tips.
Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail Guide
The Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Colorado, and for good reason. With panoramic views of the Maroon Bells, vibrant wildflowers in summer, and golden aspens in fall, this trail delivers classic Colorado scenery. All without requiring a full-day trek.
I’ve hiked this trail multiple times and noticed something different during each visit. The Maroon Bells are one of those places that keep you returning for more.
➡️ Find more day hikes on my Colorado outdoor adventure page.
Hiking to Crater Lake isn’t as simple as just showing up. You’ll need to plan ahead for parking or shuttle reservations, understand seasonal road access, and prepare for crowds.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hiking the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail. Including trail stats, what to bring, when to visit, and how to secure your reservation. Whether you’re visiting from Denver or planning a longer trip near Aspen, this hike is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Check out these other impressive Colorado hiking locations:
Crater Lake
Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail Details
- Distance: 3.7 mi round trip
- Elevation gain: 695 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trail type: Out & back
- Time needed: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
- Dog friendly: Yes (leashed)
- Permit required: No
Where Is the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail?
The Crater Lake Trail is near Aspen, Colorado, in the White River National Forest. Your hike begins at the scenic Maroon Lake beneath the iconic Maroon Bells peaks.
The Maroon Bells parking area is about 3 hours and 20 minutes from Denver.
➡️ Another nearby trail is the famous Conundrum Hot Springs hike. See my post for a complete backpacking guide and campsite information.
Parking and Shuttle Reservations at Maroon Bells
You will need to reserve a parking spot or take the shuttle to the Maroon Bells. When I was backpacking the Four Pass Loop, my husband and I reserved parking in the overnight lot. We had to reserve our spot for July all the way back in February.
➡️ Read my complete guide to backpacking Four Pass Loop Colorado.
When I’ve gone to do the Crater Lake hike at Maroon Bells only for the day, the shuttle was the easy choice. You can get last-minute shuttle reservations or book in advance.
Reservation Details
Maroon Bells Parking and Shuttle Reservations
Maroon Creek Road is only open from mid-May through October, and parking and shuttle reservations open in mid-February.
If you want to drive the road yourself and not rely on the shuttle, you must arrive before 8:00 am or after 5:00 pm on the day of your reservation. The Forest Service wants to limit vehicle traffic on the road so the shuttle can maintain its schedule.
Shuttle Details
The shuttle bus will pick you up at the Maroon Bells Welcome Center at the base of the Aspen Highlands Ski Resort. Park your car in the paid parking lot and walk inside to verify your reservation at the desk.
The shuttle runs from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm, with the last return shuttle leaving at 5:00 sharp. If you’re not back to the shuttle pickup location by 5, you’ll have to walk the 8 miles back to your car.
I recommend using the restroom before boarding the bus, as there may be a long wait at the restrooms in the Maroon Lake area. Leashed dogs are allowed in the shuttle.
While you ride the shuttle, listen to the recorded presentation that points out landscape details and provides the history of the Maroon Bells. There are some fun facts worth remembering.
Maroon Bells Fees
Parking at the Welcome Center: $7/hr
Reserved round-trip shuttle: $16 per adult
Day-of round-trip shuttle: $20 per adult
Maroon Bells parking reservation: $10 per vehicle
(Prices subject to change)
I’d recommend paying for 4 hours of parking. The shuttle ride is 30 minutes to the Bells one-way and the hike will take about 2 hours. Paying for 4 hours means you won’t feel rushed.
Maroon Lake
Hiking to Crater Lake from Maroon Lake
The shuttle will drop you off at Maroon Lake, and your walk begins from there. A flat gravel path winds alongside the lake to the Maroon Bells Crater Lake trail.
Study the trail map and make sure you’re going the right direction. There is a small loop trail to the left and the Crater Lake trail to the right. If you’re hiking up, you’re on the right trek.
Most of the trail gains elevation until you reach a boulder field. Then, it’s a gradual descent to Crater Lake. You’ll be hiking in the aspen trees with pockets of mountain views.
➡️ Did you know the Maroon Bells are 14ers? Learn more about hiking 14ers in my beginner’s guide. Also see my guide to the easiest 14ers in Colorado to pick your first 14er.
Each time I’ve hiked this trail, it’s been fairly busy. Catching the first shuttle of the morning is your best bet for fewer crowds.
If you’re hiking in July, expect to see some stunning wildflowers like purple Columbines and red Paintbrush flowers. Please leave them for others to enjoy!
The water level in Crater Lake can vary dramatically from year to year, depending on the previous winter’s snowfall. I’ve seen the lake around mid-rise water levels and at a very low point.
Even if the lake is low, I think the views of the Maroon Bells are better from the Crater Lake hike than down below at Maroon Lake. And honestly, if you’re going to pay for the shuttle and parking, you might as well hike all the way to Crater Lake.
Best Time to Hike the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail
I’ve only hiked the Crater Lake trail in summer, and in my opinion, the best time to go is when the wildflowers are blooming. Plan your visit for around mid-July to see the flowers at their peak.
Visiting the Maroon Bells during autumn is probably the most crowded time to plan your trip. Fall colors in Colorado are a big deal and people turn out in mobs to see them.
➡️ Instead, drive Ophir Pass in the fall. The views are spectacular! I included a detailed itinerary with stops from Silverton to Telluride.
Whether you’re visiting in summer or fall, consider planning your adventure for a weekday rather than a weekend to avoid large crowds. The Maroon Bells will always be busy, but you can strategically plan your timing.
What to Bring for the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Hike
Even though this is a relatively short hike, you’ll still want to be prepared for changing mountain weather. Rain clouds can crop up quickly in summer afternoons.
➡️ Get a detailed day hike packing list for Maroon Bells hiking.
- Day pack
- Water (2 liters)
- Snacks
- Layers (warm layer and raincoat)
- Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)
- Trail shoes
- Trekking poles (optional)
Crater Lake with Low Water
Is the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail Worth It?
Absolutely. Hiking the Maroon Bells Crater Lake trail is a must-do for all Colorado locals and anyone seeking an iconic Rocky Mountain adventure. While the trail can be busy, find solitude when you’re sitting next to the lake and admiring the scenery.
Consider backpacking the Four Pass Loop if you want more time in the Colorado backcountry. Crater Lake is a stop along this incredible multi-day trek.
Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail FAQ
Do you need a permit to hike the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail?
No, you do not need a hiking permit for the Crater Lake trail. However, you must reserve either parking or a shuttle ticket to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area.
How long is the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail?
The Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail is 3.7 miles round trip with approximately 695 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers complete it in 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
Do you need reservations for Maroon Bells parking?
Advanced reservations are required to park at Maroon Lake. But you can make day-of shuttle reservations or book the shuttle in advance (recommended). Reservations typically open in mid-February and sell out instantly.
Is the Crater Lake hike difficult?
The Crater Lake hike is considered moderate. The trail steadily climbs through forest and rocky terrain before reaching the lake. Most hikers in reasonable shape can complete it without issue.
Are dogs allowed on the Crater Lake Trail?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Maroon Bells Crater Lake Trail as long as they are kept on a leash. Leashed dogs are also permitted on the shuttle.
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