Maroon Bells
Rocky Mountains - Colorado
Current 2023: From the beginning of May until the end of October you need a reservation for Maroon Bells no matter if you want to drive or take the shuttle. For information on how to make a reservation, please visit ther reservation page.
Entrance fees and opening hours
- 10$/car
- Covered by the Anual Pass*
- Normally the road is open from mid-May to mid-November. Between June and October, the best way to get in is by shuttle bus.
*The Anual Pass is so to speak the "flat rate" for all Parks managed by the National Park Service. The pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and can be purchased at the entrance to each National Park, National Monument, etc. The pass is valid for 13 months.
Our visits: So far 1 visit in October 2014
Maroon bells
Description: The Maroon Bells are a mountain formation in the Elk Mountains. The two peaks are both over 13123ft high. South Maroon Bells (14157ft), North Maroon Bells (14009ft). The Maroon Bells are said to be the most photographed landscape in Colorado.
Many things have changed for visitors to the Maroon Bells. For example, from 2022 there will be a reservation system with which the crowds of visitors, especially in the fall should be controlled a little. So everyone needs a reservation between the beginning of May and the end of October. This applies regardless of whether you use your own car or the shuttle service. The reservation is valid for 24 hours a day.
Our rating: With minor limitations, this is a pretty great place. The biggest problem is the accessibility in the fall. We were here in October 2014 for sunrise. The glow of the mountains is nice, but we found the lighting of the scenery to be more attractive in the afternoon. Early on, everything is backlit. But that is certainly a matter of taste.
Our experience refers to the time when reservations were not needed. We therefore cannot judge how the new regulation has affected the crowds.
