While the Maroon Bells are considered some of the most beautiful mountains in Colorado, they’re also among the most difficult and deadly. The loose mud rock that gives them a vivid color also leads to rockslides and dangerous climbing conditions. North Maroon Peak is the more difficult of the two peaks with class 4 climbing, exposure and serious route-finding involved with reaching the summit. Do not attempt this climb without proper experience and a partner. If you’re ready to start planning, use my North Maroon Peak route guide below.
DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS PEAK WITHOUT SERIOUS EXPERIENCE & PLANNING.
NEW TO 14ERS? GET READY WITH MY BEGINNER’S GUIDE HERE FOR A SAFE FIRST ASCENT
North Maroon Peak Route Guide Facts
- Standard Route: Northeast Ridge
- Trailhead: Maroon Lake
- Elevation Gain: 4,500 feet
- Round-Trip Distance: 9.25 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.
North Maroon Peak Route Guide - Northeast Ridge
Getting to this fourteener can be a logistical challenge, as you will need a reservation to shuttle in. Click here for more info on reaching the Maroon Leak trailhead using the shuttle system, which drops you off at the trailhead.
For the best experience, I recommend checking out the route description at 14ers.com. They have a very in-depth route description for climbing North Maroon Peak that should meet your needs.
Let my topographical map of the North Maroon Peak Route guide you along your way. 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.
Besides checking out this North Maroon Peak route guide, 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 North Maroon Peak – Click Here
NOAA Weather Forecast North Maroon Peak – Click Here
Hiking & climbing 14ers 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 North 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!
Hiking, scrambling and climbing up Colorado’s high peaks are inherently high-risk, dangerous activities. There is a significant risk of injury or death, even with proper planning and experience. Those using my North 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.
