Biking to Maroon Bells is one of Colorado's most iconic bike rides. The cycling route climbs 1,300 feet over nearly 7 miles from Highlands to Maroon Lake (el. 9,100 feet). The 16.2-mile round-trip route (from Aspen Highlands to Maroon Lake) passes through countless aspen groves and underneath the watchful gaze of 14,026-foot Pyramid Peak, before rounding the bend for a splendid view of Maroon Bells, and an eventual arrival at Maroon Lake.
For the physically fit, the route makes a beautiful road bike ride. You can also opt for an E-Bike rental to save your energy for another day and still enjoy the spectacular bike ride.
Be Aware
Fortunately for cyclists, Maroon Creek Road is mostly free of vehicles during the daytime hours due to car restrictions and the use of shuttle bus. Still, riders should always be vigilant of vehicles and need to watch their speed, especially on the return ride back to Aspen from Maroon Lake. Also, like every ride in the valley, cyclists need to pay attention to the effects of altitude. Learn more.
Mountain Biking is Not Allowed
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area — which surrounds the Maroon Bells and much of the valley — is closed to mountain biking and all mechanized vehicles. Learn more on how you can Protect the Bells.
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The Approach to Maroon Bells
One of the cycling world's most dramatic turns occurs just short of Maroon Lake. Hello, Bells!
One of the cycling world's most dramatic turns occurs just short of Maroon Lake. Hello, Bells!
Rent a Road Bike...
There is no need to lug one from home. Four Mountain Sports has the latest road bikes for the ride to the Bells.
There is no need to lug one from home. Four Mountain Sports has the latest road bikes for the ride to the Bells.
...Or E-Bike It
You can also rent an e-bike from Four Mountain Sports and enjoy Maroon Creek Road in a whole new way.
You can also rent an e-bike from Four Mountain Sports and enjoy Maroon Creek Road in a whole new way.
Aspens Galore
Ever wonder where the town of Aspen gets it's name? Come in fall and the answer is pretty obvious.
Ever wonder where the town of Aspen gets it's name? Come in fall and the answer is pretty obvious.
An Epic Ride
The 16.2-mile roundtrip ride begins at the Aspen Highlands parking lot, culminating with an amazing view of Maroon Bells at Maroon Lake.
The 16.2-mile roundtrip ride begins at the Aspen Highlands parking lot, culminating with an amazing view of Maroon Bells at Maroon Lake.
The Approach to Maroon Bells
One of the cycling world's most dramatic turns occurs just short of Maroon Lake. Hello, Bells!
One of the cycling world's most dramatic turns occurs just short of Maroon Lake. Hello, Bells!
Rent a Road Bike...
There is no need to lug one from home. Four Mountain Sports has the latest road bikes for the ride to the Bells.
There is no need to lug one from home. Four Mountain Sports has the latest road bikes for the ride to the Bells.
...Or E-Bike It
You can also rent an e-bike from Four Mountain Sports and enjoy Maroon Creek Road in a whole new way.
You can also rent an e-bike from Four Mountain Sports and enjoy Maroon Creek Road in a whole new way.
Aspens Galore
Ever wonder where the town of Aspen gets it's name? Come in fall and the answer is pretty obvious.
Ever wonder where the town of Aspen gets it's name? Come in fall and the answer is pretty obvious.
An Epic Ride
The 16.2-mile roundtrip ride begins at the Aspen Highlands parking lot, culminating with an amazing view of Maroon Bells at Maroon Lake.
The 16.2-mile roundtrip ride begins at the Aspen Highlands parking lot, culminating with an amazing view of Maroon Bells at Maroon Lake.