Travel Guide
Everything you need to know β hours, tickets, tips, and how to make the most of your visit.
Overview
Two maroon-colored, 14,000-foot peaks reflected in Maroon Lake near Aspen, often called the most photographed mountains in North America. In summer and fall, access is mainly by reserved shuttle from Aspen Highlands, with limited reserved parking for private vehicles.
Insider Knowledge
Reserve a shuttle seat or parking spot in advance through the official Aspen-area reservation site.
Nearby
A free city park in Colorado Springs filled with towering red sandstone fins and balanced rocks set against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. Paved and dirt trails wind among the formations, and the Visitor and Nature Center explains the geology.
Two maroon-colored, 14,000-foot peaks reflected in Maroon Lake near Aspen, often called the most photographed mountains in North America. In summer and fall, access is mainly by reserved shuttle from Aspen Highlands, with limited reserved parking for private vehicles.
America's Mountain, a 14,115-foot summit above Colorado Springs that inspired the song America the Beautiful. You can reach the top by the Pikes Peak Highway, a 19-mile toll road, or by the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway from Manitou Springs.
A world-famous open-air concert venue set between 300-foot sandstone monoliths in the foothills near Morrison, about 30 minutes west of Denver. On non-show days the amphitheater and surrounding park are free to explore, with trails, a visitor center and views back to the city.
A park of alpine lakes, high peaks and big elk herds just outside Estes Park, about 1.5 hours from Denver. Highlights include the Bear Lake corridor's lakes and trails, Moraine Park's elk meadows and Trail Ridge Road. In summer and early fall, entry during the day requires a timed-entry permit.
The highest continuous paved road in the US, crossing Rocky Mountain National Park from Estes Park to Grand Lake and peaking at 12,183 feet. About 11 miles run above treeline, with overlooks like Many Parks Curve and Forest Canyon and the Alpine Visitor Center near the top.
Go at sunrise for still water and mirror-like reflections, especially during aspen season in late September.
Walk the easy Maroon Lake Scenic Trail or hike to Crater Lake, about 3.6 miles round trip.
Expect cold mornings even in summer; Maroon Lake sits at about 9,580 feet.
Common Questions
Yes, in summer and fall you need a shuttle ticket or a vehicle parking reservation; walk-up access is very limited.
Reservation rules change each year, so check the current system before your trip.
National park passes do not apply here; the area is managed by the US Forest Service with local partners.
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