Home / Engagement Locations / Colorado / Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells is one of the most beautiful and iconic locations for engagement photos in all of Colorado.
When you arrive it will be clear why this is one of the most photographed locations in all of Colorado. But with the proper permits and planning, Maroon Bells can be one of the best places to capture your engagement session.
The Forest Service usually opens the road in late May and it remains open until mid November. When the bus service from Aspen Highlands is active (early June – early Oct) cars are only allowed to drive in before 8am or after 5pm. The cost is $10 per car. During September and October weekend days the parking lot can fill up quickly and when that happens the Rangers can send you back down the road. There is no parking allowed on the road.
Reservations are required to visit Maroon Bells. You can make reservations here. Tickets for the bus can be purchased at Four Mountain Sports at Aspen Highlands. Adult bus tickets are $16. Keep in mind that the bus only runs from 8am to 5pm, daily, every 20 minutes. This means if you’re hoping to be on site when the light is ideal for photos you’ll have to make plans to drive in before 8am or after 5pm.
It’s important to stay on the trail because of the heavy use that the area receives from people all over the world. Park Rangers frequent the area to make sure everyone is following the rules and staying on the trail.
If you’re looking for a similar location that’s a little closer to Denver, check out Piney Lake.
VENUE DETAILS
Location: 39° 6' 39.6"N 107° 1' 13.51"W
Nearest Town: Aspen
Elevation: 8,460 ft.
Permit: Not Required
WHY WE LOVE IT
Although this is a popular destination for tourists it can still be a great location for engagement photos. The area is significantly quieter once the last bus for the day heads back down the mountain with most of the tourists. This is perfect timing because when the light starts to get good all of the people head home. In the fall, the abundance of changing Aspen trees make this an ideal location for a fall colors engagement session. I know some fantastic locations in the area if you're willing to do some hiking.
