Maroon Peak

Description:

• If you want to hike one of Colorado's famed 14,000-foot peaks, this is one of the more memorable ones to climb. As part of the famed Maroon Bells, the hike carries a level of prestige with it. Beginners, and those who are not acclimated to the thin air, are best advised to avoid this 10-mile hike. It gains 4,600 feet in elevation before the summit at 14,156. Snowfields above 12,000 feet are not uncommon so be sure to pack gaiters as well as good storm gear. Start early to beat afternoon monsoons. Follow Maroon Creek Road for 9.5 miles to the Maroon Lake parking area. The trailhead starts there. Directions: Drive 1/2 mile west of Aspen on Highway 82 and turn left onto Maroon Creek Road at the roundabout. Keep right and continue 9 1/2 miles to the Maroon Lake Parking Area.From mid-June through September, the Maroon Creek Road is closed from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and you will need to take a shuttle bus from Ruby Park in Aspen. The bus includes an informative guided tour of the valley. Contact the Roaring Fork Transit Agency at 970-925-8484 for more information.
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