Maroon Lake

Maroon Lake sits at roughly 9,580 feet elevation in Pitkin County, Colorado, cradled beneath the iconic Maroon Bells, two fourteener peaks that tower above 14,000 feet. This glacial lake near Aspen ranks among the most photographed spots in North America, drawing visitors year-round for its mirror-like reflections of the twin pyramidal summits. Whether you arrive by shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands or drive in during off-peak hours, the first glimpse of those rust-colored peaks mirrored in still water is genuinely unforgettable.

Hiking is the primary activity at Maroon Lake. A paved, wheelchair-accessible trail loops the north shore, making it one of the most beginner-friendly alpine walks in Colorado. For a more strenuous outing, the unpaved trail to Crater Lake climbs roughly a mile through rocky terrain at altitude, and reviewers consistently note the elevation gain is harder than it appears. The Crater Lake trail rewards hikers with a quieter alpine basin, though the lake there can be low or dry by late summer. Additional backcountry trails branch into the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness for experienced hikers seeking solitude beyond the main viewpoint.

Fall foliage season, typically late September, transforms the surrounding aspen groves into brilliant gold, making autumn the peak period for photography. Early morning visits, particularly at sunrise, yield the calmest water and the most vivid reflections. Expect frost and temperatures in the mid-30s Fahrenheit during autumn mornings, so layered clothing is essential. Winter visitors report skiing and snowshoeing opportunities in the surrounding backcountry.

Access requires planning. From roughly May through October, vehicle reservations or the RFTA shuttle bus are mandatory during daytime hours, generally between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. The shuttle costs around sixteen dollars per person, and parking permits run about thirty-five dollars per vehicle. Arriving before 7 a.m. or after 5 p.m. allows personal vehicle access without a reservation during the controlled season. November through spring, restrictions lift and visitors can drive in freely with no reservation needed.

Fishing at Maroon Lake is essentially prohibited. Ropes block shoreline access, and the lake is extremely shallow, making angling impractical. One reviewer noted trout fishing in the area, but the main lake itself offers no fishable shoreline. Swimming and boating are not permitted; the shallow, cold glacial water and restricted shoreline access prevent any water-based recreation. Wildlife sightings include moose, which have been spotted wading in the shallows.

Mosquitoes can be heavy during summer months, so insect repellent is worth packing. Rangers stationed at the lake are reported as friendly and helpful. Cell service is limited in the valley. For photographers, every angle produces a compelling image, but the classic Maroon Bells reflection shot is best captured from the eastern shore during calm, early-morning conditions.