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 Reporter |
Summary: Start down the trail along the right (North) side of Maroon Lake and take the trail that leads up to Crater Lake. Look for the turn off on the right about halfway along Maroon Lake. Follow the trail to Crater Lake and beyond as it follows West Maroon Creek. Look for a cairned trail turn on the right off just before the trail crosses West Maroon Creek. The trail will almost immediately do a steep ascent up a small head wall and then work its way up to the ridge. As the trail nears the ridge it can become a little difficult to follow, but use good judgment and you'll get there. Once on the ridge the trail then heads North to Maroon Peak through some very difficult and rotten terrain. Stay on the left (West) side of the ridge until just before the summit. There are many good cairns to follow, but always use your own good judgment as well. More info can be found at: http://www.hikingintherockies.com/fourteeners/maroon_bells/Maroon_Bells_Traverse.htm Trailhead: The trail head is easily accessed from Aspen. From the round-about on the West end of Aspen on Highway 82 take Maroon Lake road to its end at the trailhead. The trail is paved all the way. If you arrive after 7 am there is a $10 fee to drive the road. If you arrive after 9 am you must take the bus. This hike requires a lot of time to complete before the afternoon storms roll in, so I suggest a 4 am departure from the trailhead. (Lat:39.09907 Lon:-106.94139) Trail Guides for Maroon Peak: Colorados Fourteeners by Gerry Roach (Fulcrum Publishing) Dawsons Guide to Colorados Fourteeners Nothern Peaks by Louis Dawson (Blue Cover Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Aspen Ranger District 970-925-3445 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joshua Friesema, who has posted 97 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Submit your own review Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Colorado Hiking, Colorado Trails, Colorado Hikes, Pitkin County Hiking, Pitkin County Trails, Pitkin County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
