Take Your Team to Maroon Bells

Recommended as the No. 1 thing to see and do in the Aspen area, the Maroon Bells are a natural wonder not to be missed. One of the most photographed peaks in North America, the Maroon Bells near Aspen is a premier scenic overlook composed of two peaks over 14,000 feet in elevation – Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak. “The Bells” are nestled in the White River National Forest on the border between Pitkin and Gunnison Counties. 

Visiting here as a group during a meeting or used as a backdrop for a wedding or reception, the Maroon Bells provide a dramatic view for business or leisure groups visiting this part of Colorado. At the base of the Bells is Maroon Lake, where several trails offer visitors safer routes to explore the area.  These include Maroon Lake Scenic Trail (upper and lower), Maroon Creek Trail, and Crater Lake Trail – all of which are easy to moderate hikes with hiking times ranging from 1 1/2 hours to 2 1/2 hours each way. 

Catch-and-release fly-fishing is available in the creeks and lakes around Maroon Bells so you can bring your own gear and a license or hire a guide from town. Wildflower wandering, picnicking and photographing the area are also popular activities.

The Unique Beauty of the Bells

The twin peaks are often referred to as the “Deadly Bells” due to the many climbing accidents that have occurred on the sheer slopes over the years. The peaks are known for their instability due to its metamorphic sedimentary mudstone that can be loose and unpredictable. While most of the Rocky Mountains are composed of more sturdy granite and limestone, the unique composition of the Bells not only give the peaks their signature color and allure, but also makes them more treacherous to climb.

How to Enjoy Maroon Bells

When you plan your meeting in Aspen or Snowmass during the warmer months, set aside time to visit Maroon Bells. The secluded park offers unmatched scenery, especially during the “colors” season of late September and early October. The lake area is perfect for a gathering and picnic. There are boundless photo opportunities and lots of trails to explore at the lake. Some organizations have chosen to get a ride to the lake, have a beautifully catered picnic and then bike all the way back to Aspen. It’s all downhill, so it’s an easy ride, but one of the most scenic you’ll ever take.

The base of the Bells can be accessed by private car or group bus tour throughout the summer months from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.