Aspen - Latest Update on Maroon Bells Lake 🍂🏔️

This week felt like peak foliage to me — though many leaves are still green, quite a few have already fallen. I’m guessing by next weekend there won’t be much left to see. My trip to Aspen was pretty last-minute, so I didn’t plan much ahead. Luckily, I still got to see everything I wanted, even if the lighting wasn’t ideal. If I come back to Aspen for fall colors again, here’s what I’ll do: 1️⃣ Book my Maroon Bells entry ticket online in advance—whether driving or taking the shuttle. 🎫 If tickets sell out, don’t panic! Same-day standby tickets are usually available. They often add extra shuttles during peak season. 2️⃣ Go in the morning! 🌅 The lake is calmer and better for reflections—way better for photos. Afternoon light can be harsh and less ideal. These pics were taken around 4 PM… you can see the water wasn’t as still. 3️⃣ For trails, the Scenic Loop and Crater Lake are classic and enough if you’re short on time. ⛰️ Took me about 3.5 hours total. Crater Lake trail has lots of rocks, and it often rains up there—wear shoes with good grip! 4️⃣ Shuttle location & ticket office: Aspen Highlands, 75 Boomerang Rd, Aspen, CO 🚌 5️⃣ There’s paid parking at the shuttle site—$8/hour, max $40/day. 💰 Better to park somewhere with free bus access and ride public transit to the shuttle point. #Colorado #FallColors #Aspen #MaroonBells