Maroon Bells

Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak both exceed 4,300 metres and are made of sedimentary mudstone rather than the granite of most Colorado peaks, which gives them their colour and their horizontal banding - and also their danger, because the rock is weak, layered and breaks under hand and foot. After eight deaths in 1965 the Forest Service posted a sign calling them the Deadly Bells, and the warning stands. Maroon Lake below reflects them, and the combination is among the most photographed scenes in the state, which is why access is now controlled entirely by reservation - shuttle or timed private vehicle entry, booked in advance, with no walk-up. Autumn aspen colour in late September is the peak demand.

Highlights

• Two peaks over 4,300 metres - layered maroon mudstone.
• Maroon Lake - reflecting them on still mornings.
• Rock loose enough to kill - the Deadly Bells warning stands.
• Aspen colour in late September - the busiest window.

When to go

June to October; late September for aspen. Half a day.

Practical notes

Access requires a reservation for the shuttle or a timed vehicle slot, booked ahead - there is no walk-up. Autumn slots sell out immediately. Climbing the peaks is genuinely dangerous and not a scramble. The road closes for winter.

Nearby

Aspen is down the valley; Crested Butte is over the pass on foot.

Key facts