The Maroon Bells (Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak) are the two most photographed mountains in Colorado. Known for their striking color shades and layered rock, they’re a tempting climb. However, the mudrock that gives the peaks their vivid colors and layers are also extremely loose and rotten, making these peaks very dangerous. Handholds routinely crumble underneath you, and rockslide risk is confirmed. Climbing Maroon Peak is the easier of the two, but it’s by no means easy, best saved for experienced mountaineers. Plan a visit with my Maroon Peak route guide below.
NEW TO THE 14ERS? GET READY WITH OUR BEGINNER’S GUIDE FOR A SAFE FIRST ASCENT.
Climbing Maroon Peak: Fast Facts
- Standard Route: South Ridge
- Trailhead: Maroon Lake
- Elevation Gain: 4,800 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 12 Miles
- Difficulty Level: Class 4 Climb
- Range: Elk Mountains
CAUTION: This Route is Hazardous!
You are responsible for your personal safety in the backcountry.
These peaks can be unpredictable and dangerous. Help is often hours or days away: your safety is primarily your responsibility. Prepare for your trek, understand your limits, be aware of the risks, and equip yourself with the necessary skills and gear.
Climbing Maroon Peak - South Ridge Route
For the best route description available, I recommend visiting the 14ers.com Route Guide for climbing Maroon Peak.
If you plan on climbing Maroon Peak, you will need a topographical map of the route like this. It’s perfect for your trip. Download it on your phone and print out a paper copy so that you have a spare just in case anything goes wrong. Click on the map below to view it larger.
Before climbing Maroon Peak, you should research the weather conditions for your climb from multiple websites, so you can pack and prepare properly. Here are two dependable options to start with.
Mountain Forecast Maroon Peak – Click Here
NOAA Weather Forecast Maroon Peak – Click Here
Climbing Maroon Peak is an inherently high-risk activity – do so at your own risk, and use the following best practices to help keep yourself safe. Good Luck!
- Research your route using my Maroon Peak route guide and bring a compass & topographic map.
- Check the weather forecast and stay home during inclement weather.
- Bring the Ten Essentials and the knowledge/skill to use them.
- Leave your plans with someone back home along with a detailed itinerary.
- Start early, and end early: Be back at tree line by noon to avoid lightning.
- Bring a buddy on your first ascent, preferably someone experienced.
NEW TO 14ERS? CHECK OUT MY BEGINNERS GUIDE FOR A SAFE FIRST SUMMIT!
climbing Maroon Peak is an inherently high-risk, dangerous activity. There is a significant risk of injury or death, even with proper planning and experience. Those using my Maroon Peak route guide accept all risks associated with climbing 14ers and do not hold this website or any information they obtain from it liable for any accidents or injuries that occur while engaging in these activities on Colorado’s high peaks. It is each hiker or climber’s responsibility to research their route carefully, bring the ten essentials, and practice other safe practices, though even these precautions do not eliminate risk and danger. Visit these summits at your own risk.
