Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Pitkin County is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is no exception. This sprawling wilderness area offers a wealth of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and camping to fishing and rafting. Regardless of your interests, there is sure to be something for you to do at Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the area is to go on a hike. There are countless trails winding through the wilderness, each offering its own unique set of scenic views. For those looking for a challenge, there are also several summits that can be reached, including Mount Sopris and Snowmass Mountain. No matter what level of hiker you are, there is sure to be a trail that is perfect for you.

If you are more interested in spending time on the water, there are plenty of options for you as well. The Fork of the Gunnison River is a popular destination for rafters and kayakers, and there are also several lakes where you can enjoy fishing or swimming. Whatever your preference, spending time in nature is sure to be an enjoyable experience.
 

The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is a wilderness area located in the White River National Forest of Colorado. It includes the Maroon Bells, Snowmass Mountain, and Capitol Peak. The area was first protected as a primitive area in 1932 and was expanded to its current size in 1963. The wilderness is known for its majestic peaks, alpine meadows, and vivid fall colors. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and black bears. The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and backpacking. In recent years, it has also become a popular spot for mountain biking and rock climbing. With its stunning scenery and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, it is easy to see why the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is one of Colorado’s most beloved places.

The best time to visit depends on what you're looking for. If you're interested in hiking, the summer months are the best time to go. The weather is warm and the trails are dry, making for an enjoyable hike. However, if you're interested in photography, the fall months are ideal. The leaves change color, creating a stunning landscape. Winter is also a great time to visit if you're looking to ski or snowboard.

1. Bring plenty of water and food, as there are no stores in the wilderness area. Dress in layers, as the temperatures can vary widely depending on the time of day and elevation. 
2. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, as there are many potential hazards in the wilderness including slippery rocks, steep cliffs, and wildlife. 
3. Hike with a partner or group, as it is always safer to travel in numbers. Stay on marked trails, as it is easy to get lost in the wilderness. 
4. Check the weather forecast before you go. The conditions in the wilderness can change quickly, and you'll want to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
5. Be aware of wildlife. The wilderness is home to a variety of animals, including some that may be dangerous if they feel threatened. Be sure to keep your distance and never feed the wildlife.

1. The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness was established in 1980 and covers a total of 181,531 acres. 
2. The Maroon Bells are two peaks (Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak) that are located within the wilderness area. These peaks get their name from their maroon-colored rock, which is composed of shale and sandstone.
3. The Snowmass mountain range is also located within the wilderness area and includes Snowmass Mountain, which is the fifth tallest peak in Colorado. 
4. There are over 300 miles of trails within the wilderness area, including over 20 miles of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. 
5. There are five different types of forests within the wilderness area, including aspen, spruce-fir, and lodgepole pine forests. 
6. There are several dozen lakes and ponds located within the wilderness area, as well as countless creeks and streams. 
7. On average, the wilderness area receives around 200 inches of snow each year, making it a popular destination for winter recreation such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
8. 9The Snowmass Ski Area is located within the boundaries of the wilderness area and offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain.

It is said that it would take a person approximately six weeks to explore the entire Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness if they were to hike for eight hours every day. 

The best way to reach the wilderness is by taking a scenic drive on the Maroon Creek Road. The road winds through an aspen forest and provides stunning views of the nearby mountains. Once you reach the trailhead, there are a number of different hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy strolls to strenuous hikes. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Pitkin County, Colorado. 

The wilderness is open to the public from sunrise to sunset and the hours may vary depending on the season.