Are dogs allowed on Maroon Lake Scenic Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Maroon Lake Scenic Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

How difficult is Maroon Lake Scenic Trail?

Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is rated easy. It is 1.3 miles long. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Maroon Lake Scenic Trail?

Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is best hiked in summer and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Colorado trail conditions

EasyLoop

Colorado

Maroon Lake Scenic Trail

Aspen, Colorado

1.3 mi

Distance

45m

Est. Time

Loop

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

Generated from trail data

A short interpretive loop around Maroon Lake at 9,500 feet, directly beneath the twin 14,000-foot Maroon Bells in the White River National Forest — the most photographed mountain scene in Colorado. The trail (USFS #2197) hugs the lake's north shore through willow flats and aspen, with moose frequently feeding in the wetlands. It is the arrival point for every Maroon Bells shuttle rider and the start of the wilderness trails toward Crater Lake.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

High altitude (~9,580 ft)Afternoon lightning storms in summerMoose at close range — give them distanceEarly-season snow possible any month

Trail Details

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Permit required

Apply through the issuing agency. Many systems run seasonal lotteries or fixed application windows — confirm current dates on the agency page.

No hiking permit, but access reservations are mandatory May 15-Oct 31: $10/vehicle parking reservation or RFTA shuttle from Aspen Highlands ($16 adult), booked at visitmaroonbells.com. Overnight wilderness trips require a separate recreation.gov permit.

Get permit

Official sources & verification

Verify before you go

Reserve or permit

Apply for permit
Required permit application for this trail. Many systems run seasonal lotteries or fixed application windows — confirm current dates here.

Source of truth

Agency source page
The page our published rules and notes are derived from.

Best Seasons

Summer Fall

Highlights

Mirror reflection of the Maroon Bells in Maroon LakeMoose and beaver wetlands at the lake inletGolden aspen show in late SeptemberGateway to Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness trails