Maroon Lake hike
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Maroon Lake hike
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Although crowded, the quick hike along Maroon Lake is definitely a must for anyone spending time in Aspen. It is said that the view across Maroon Lake with North Maroon Peak in the background is the most photographed scene in the Colorado Rockies.
Getting there
Head west out of Aspen along Colorado 82. At the first traffic circle take the second exit onto Maroon Creek Rd. Continue along Maroon Creek Rd for 9.4mi
About
| When to do | June through September |
| Backcountry Campsites | Yes, deeper in the Maroon Bells Wilderness |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Lollipop |
Maroon Lake
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Maroon Lake
From the parking area, head down to Maroon Lake. The view across Maroon Lake with Maroon Peak in the background is stunning. It’s one of the most photographed shots in the Colorado Rockies, so enjoy this absolutely stunning vista before starting the work ahead of you.
Walk along the north side of the lake. You will reach a junction after about 1312ft; take the path on your right. This path will steer you away from the lake and through a nice wooded path. It will eventually veer left, down towards the lakeshore again.
At the junction you can stop at appreciate the scenery! From here you will look up across Maroon Lake and up to Pyramid Peak. Looking back to the north you will see Sievers Mountain looming over the lake and parking area.
Then you will begin your trip back towards the parking lot. Take the path on your left that walks you back along the shoreline. It will meet up with the path you came out on. From there you can return the short distance to the parking lot.
Insider Hints
There are several picnic opportunities at the trailhead.
A fee is required to enter this section of the park, or a National Parks Pass. Note that for most of the summer, Maroon Creek Rd is closed from around 8a.m.-5p.m. If that is the case, you will have to take the Shuttle from Aspen Highlands Ski Area. Contact the National Forest Service for more information on the shuttle.
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Lola M. 4 years ago
Great short hike. Worth every mile. There are stunning vistas and beautiful lakes. The amazing weather amplified their beauty.
BoulderBound 4 years ago
Absolutely breathtaking! Really worth it to make good memories with wonderful beauty of nature.
Tiffany Swift 4 years ago
We wandered up the trail to get a different perspective and were rewarded with great views and far fewer people. I am so glad I took the trip up to see Maroon Lake
Xyla O. 4 years ago
This hike is great, and the views are amazing. Nice lollipop trail, it was super easy and fun.
lilibethl 4 years ago
Took about an hour to finish the trail. It was an exciting hike despite the lack of challenges.
Lloyd Frank 4 years ago
The views were satisfying. The trail was decent and I can't say much about the views because it was so crowded.
Sofia L. 5 years ago
Incredible day hike. The weather was warm, even though the sky was completely gray.
Banter F. 5 years ago
The lake offers a nice view but it's crowded.
Ashton L. 5 years ago
The view is breathtaking. Will definitely go back again.
Brexit Smith 5 years ago
Pleasant hike with majestic scenery. No wonder why Maroon Lake is one of the most photographed scenes in Colorado. It's just incredible.