Your Complete Maroon Bells Elopement Guide

Dreaming of saying ‘I Do’ with gleaming lakes, gorgeous aspen groves, and magnificent mountain peaks as your scenery? Then the Maroon Bells near Aspen, Colorado, may be the perfect place for you to tie the knot. 

The planning process can be scary. As a Maroon Bells Elopement Photographer, I’ll walk with you every step of the way. From reservations to season recommendations to reception venues, this Ultimate Maroon Bells Elopement Guide is your one-stop shop. 

Is A Maroon Bells Elopement Right For You?

If you…

• Find more inspo in a jagged mountain skyline than a ballroom chandelier 
• Consider “peak golden hour” a non-negotiable part of your wedding decor
• Are ready to tackle the reservation window to secure your date
• Don’t mind the cheers of passing hikers 
• Prefer natural scenery over specifically curated decor
• View a shuttle ride with your friends and family as a fun adventure
• Are prepared to swap high heels for hiking boots

Then look no further than the Maroon Bells for your big day!

Planning Your Maroon Bells Elopement

Who Should You Invite To Your Maroon Bells Elopement?

If you plan to reserve the Maroon Bells Amphitheater, there is a 50 person guest limit. While this is larger than other popular elopement locations, it means you’ll have to think long and hard about who you want there on your big day.

Try to think about who has made the biggest impact on you as an individual, but also you as a couple. Remember, you don’t have to pack the house. If you can only think of 40 people you truly can’t imagine your day without, leave it at that. The more you expand the list outside of those closest to you, the more feelings may get hurt and stress may bubble up. 

Planning Note: The number 50 includes you, your future spouse, your vendors, and your guests. Keep that in mind when curating your guest list! 

Don’t Want Any Guests Attending Your Maroon Bells Elopement?

Thinking of making your big day a more intimate experience? Honestly, that makes it easier! The surrounding Maroon Bells area is open for elopements WITHOUT a permit. Gather your small group along the trails, at the top of the mountain, or on the banks of the lake. If you want a true elopement (6 people or less), ditch the amphitheater and take on the adventure.

When Should You Elope In The Maroon Bells?

Season

Technically, The Maroon Bells area is open during the winter season. However, The Maroon Creek Road is closed to all vehicles starting in mid November due to dangers of avalanches which means if you want to get there, you’ll have to ski, hike, bike, or take a guided tour. This means that popular choice dates fall somewhere between June and October. Maroon Creek Road typically opens back up around mid May.

Amphitheater reservations are available starting June 7 and close October 4

Planning Note: The park is not closed to other visitors during your elopement. Prime time for lighting and less crowds would be sunrise on a Tuesday or Wednesday, though any day at sunrise or sunset will be stunning.

Time

Your amphitheater reservation gives you private use of the space from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. You can start your ceremony later in the day, however, as soon as 3:00 rolls around, the amphitheater is open to the public again. For that reason, I usually recommend leaning into an earlier ceremony time. Maroon Bells is famous for its sunrise views, and getting there early often means beautiful light, fewer crowds, and a more intimate experience.

You’re more than welcome to head into the park before your amphitheater reservation and stay later for photos. I highly recommend getting either sunrise or sunset shots. Sunrise is typically between 5-6 AM during the summer and closer to 7:00 AM in the fall. Depending on the time of year, sunset falls anywhere from about 5:00 PM to 8:40 PM, giving you plenty of time to soak in those golden mountain views.

Where Should You Elope Within The Maroon Bells?

The Amphitheater

Surrounded by the iconic mountains, the sparkling waters, and the lush wildlife, an elopement at The Maroon Bells Amphitheater is sure to be unforgettable. It’s the only location within the scenic area where you can host a structured, semi private ceremony. With seating for 50 guests and a required permit that gives you full access to the area, the amphitheater is a great place to replicate a more traditional ceremony, but with a stunning backdrop.

The Open Trails

If you’re going full adventure mode, don’t want to have anyone in attendance, and are okay with a bit less structure, the trails at the Maroon Bells are open to you! You don’t need to obtain a permit or pay any extra fees to self-solemnize or elope. The two of you can settle on the side of the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail or the Crater Lake Trail and tie the knot right there. 

There is no permit or fee to elope on one of the open trails. While you aren’t allowed to shut down or block the trail, this is a great option for couples who want to spend the day with only each other and a few vendors to document the day.  

Planning Note: If you go with the open trails option, it would be considered self-solemnizing. Self-solemnizing is a way for couples to legally marry without an officiant present. Instead of having someone else lead the ceremony, you exchange your vows and commit to each other on your own terms, creating an experience that feels deeply personal and intentional.

Where Else Can I Take Wedding Photos In The Maroon Bells?

Maroon Peak

Towering above the valley with dramatic alpine scenery and rugged red-rock faces, Maroon Peak offers some of the most iconic mountain views in Colorado. They are actually one of the most photographed peaks in North America. Located just beyond Maroon Lake, this area feels remote and adventurous, with little walking required for the main viewpoints but endless opportunities for couples wanting striking backdrops and an untamed, high-alpine atmosphere. 

North Maroon Peak

Set beside its equally stunning counterpart, North Maroon Peak brings bold mountain scenery, dense evergreens, and sweeping valley views together in one unforgettable setting. Easily viewed from the Maroon Bells area with minimal hiking needed, it’s ideal for couples looking for dramatic Colorado landscapes paired with peaceful alpine surroundings. 

Maroon Lake

Nestled at the base of the Maroon Bells, Maroon Lake combines glassy water reflections, towering mountain peaks, and easy shoreline access in one of Colorado’s most scenic locations. With little to no hiking required, it’s perfect for couples wanting iconic mountain views, convenient access, and a peaceful lakeside setting surrounded by aspen groves and alpine beauty. 

Crater Lake

Tucked farther into the valley beyond Maroon Lake, Crater Lake offers a more secluded alpine experience with forest trails, rocky shorelines, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Reached by a moderate 2-mile roundtrip hike, it’s a beautiful option for couples who want a quieter location with a balance of adventure, mountain scenery, and intimate wilderness views.

Check out this interactive map of The Maroon Bells!

The green pins are all the ceremony locations and the brown pins are all the photo-only locations (or elopement only locations if it’s just the two of you or you have fewer than 6 guests!)

Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping The Maroon Bells

Feeling overwhelmed about planning your Maroon Bells wedding?

I’ll help you nail down every detail!

Let’s Start Planning!

Maroon Bells Permit and Legal Info

Applying For An Amphitheater Permit

While the Maroon Bells aren’t technically a State or National park, you still need to get a permit to host your elopement there. Permit applications open a year in advance, and popular dates at the Maroon Bells tend to go fast. Your permit is one of the first things you’ll want to tackle in your planning process. 

I’m not going to sugar coat it, getting your Maroon Bells Elopement Permit can be a challenge. It is a very competitive process. Booking opens 1 year in advance at 8:00 am MT, and you need to be ready.

Tips for attaining a Maroon Bells Elopement Permit:

• Be flexible on your date
• Create an account on the reservation website in advance
• Get two or three other people to help
• Have your form of payment ready
• Open the page 20 minutes in advance 
• Set up a world clock so that you can see the seconds
• Continue quickly refreshing the page as the time gets closer 
• Whoever sees it first, add it to the cart!

Apply for your permit at Recreation.gov. 

Permit Note: Don’t get discouraged! You may have to try a handful of times for different dates. You can also set up availability alerts for three different dates in the chance someone cancels and the date becomes available again.

Things To Keep In Mind About Attaining A Permit

• Open a year in advance
• Cost a non-refundable $200
• Maximum of 50 people
• Includes 5 vehicles
• Your location will not be closed to the public

For more info, visit Recreation or the Aspen Chamber. 

Rules and regulations can always change, so if you have questions or want to confirm any additional questions, I recommend calling the Aspen Ranger Station at 970-963-2266.

Parking & Shuttle Tips & Tricks

Parking can be a big hurdle if you are planning to have a guest count closer to the 50 person maximum. You only get five vehicle passes with your permit (keep your vendors in mind for this as well). The passes can be picked up at the Welcome Station up to five days before your event and they request you pick them up at the latest the day before your reservation. You need to have them with you when arriving at the Maroon Bells. 

If you think you’re going to have more than five vehicles, there are a few options for you.

Parking Pass Reservation Info:

Your guests can purchase a day-use vehicle pass. 

It’s important to note that if your guests purchase a day pass, traffic on Maroon Creek Road is restricted between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm between May 23rd and October 19th, so this means they must arrive before 8:00 am. If you’ve planned your ceremony later in the day and your guests don’t want to be there all day, this might not be the best option. 

Handicapped individuals and any vehicles with children 2 and under in a car seat are exempt from the road restrictions and do not need to make prior reservations, but they are not guaranteed a parking space and may have to turn around if the lot is full

Parking passes sell out months in advance as parking is limited in the trailhead area, so your guest must plan accordingly if they choose this route. It costs $10 plus a $2.40 service to purchase the pass and you can do so here: purchase a day-use vehicle pass.

Parking Note: Keep in mind if you do not get an amphitheater reservation with the 5 vehicle passes but still want to elope at Maroon bells, you must either get the day pass and arrive before 8 am and leave before 4:30 pm. Or get the evening pass and arrive after 5 pm and leave before midnight. 

Shuttle Info:

 Or your guests can purchase and reserve a seat on the shuttle bus. 

The shuttle runs from the Maroon Bells welcome center, located at Aspen Highlands Ski Area, and will drop you off at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, which is about 25 yards from the amphitheater, which makes it a super convenient option for most guests. 

The shuttle is about a 15 minute ride each direction and runs from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.  However, you must make a reservation, choose a departure time from a list of pre-determined options at the time of booking, and the return shuttles are first come first served. 

If your guests choose this route, I highly suggest that they choose the shuttle time at least an hour before your ceremony start time just to be safe! It costs $16 for adults, $10 for children 12 years or younger, and $10 for seniors 65 years or older. The shuttles are handicap accessible. 

You can make your shuttle reservation here: reserve a spot on the Maroon Bells shuttle.

Shuttle Note: There are parking fees at Aspen Highlands. It is typically $35 for up to 4 hours and $40 for 4 or more hours, rates increase for the weekend. 

Park and Ride Info:

To get to Maroon Bells without paying parking fees, you can utilize the free Brush Creek Park and Ride. From there, you can take a free RFTA bus to Aspen Highlands, where you would then have to transfer to the mandatory paid Maroon Bells shuttle to reach the scenic area.

Private Shuttle Info:

If you don’t have a limited budget and want to give your guests a stress free experience, the only shuttle option outside the Maroon Bells Shuttle is Blazing Adventure. You can rent private shuttles to pick up and drop your guests off at your convenience. You can find out more information at Blazing Adventure here: more info.

Obtaining Your Marriage License

Besides the specific Maroon Bells permit, the only other legal document you need to elope is a standard Colorado marriage license. You must apply and use your marriage license within 30 days of your wedding. You can obtain the marriage license at any Colorado county clerk for around $30. The closest county clerk is the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder. 

Not sure where to start with permits and legalities?

Don’t worry, I’m here to help!

Inquire today!

Personalize Your Maroon Bells Elopement

The best part about getting married in the Maroon Bells? You can customize your entire experience however feels right to you! From where you stay, to what activities you do, to where you host your reception (if you choose to have one). 

Note: Honestly, Aspen can be an expensive location. If budget isn’t an issue, check out these local places to stay and eat. If you want alternative options, consider Carbondale, Basalt, or Snowmass, Colorado.

Travel Basics

Vendors

Reception Spaces

On site receptions are not permitted at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater. You can however rent the East Maroon Portal Picnic site to host a small reception. Located 4 miles from the amphitheater, the site can accommodate 70 guests and has 3 large picnic tables. Similar to the amphitheater you must make a reservation and pay a $75 fee. But don’t worry, this is not nearly as competitive to reserve as the amphitheater is.

To book the picnic site and learn more about its rules and regulations visit Recreation.gov.

Other reception locations to consider in the nearby area:

The Little Nell

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro

Limelight Hotel

Sky Valley Chateau

T-Lazy-7 Ranch

For a longer list of reception venues, visit The Knot.

Activities

While you only have access to the amphitheater from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, the rest of the park is yours to explore the rest of the day! The Maroon Bells is renowned for their beautiful landscape and incredible hiking trails. Take an easier stroll around the Maroon Lake Scenic Loop. Put on your hiking boots and take the moderate trail to Crater Lake. Or get your adventure pants on and take a full-day to do some backcountry trekking. 

There are so many ways to spend your day, and the best part, no matter what you do you’ll be surrounded by the gorgeous creation that is the iconic Maroon Bells. 

Traditions

Lots of couples hesitate to consider an elopement because they’re afraid of missing out on classic wedding traditions. I’m here to tell you that you can still incorporate so many fun, special, sacred traditions. Do a first look with your dad surrounded by snowcovered peaks. Have your first dance on the banks of a shimmering lake. You will not miss out. If you want to include traditions, all it just takes is a little creativity and commitment. 

Maroon Bells Elopement Timeline Examples

How you spend your wedding day is entirely up to you! Whether you want a slow-paced, go-with-the-flow day or a planned-out, organized timetable, there is a perfect timeline for every couple. Check out these timeline examples to help you visualize what your day could look like and choose a schedule that feels just right for you. Of course your timeline can always be flexible!

Maroon Bells Elopement Photography Packages

Here’s a little peek at what’s typically included in ALL my Maroon Bells elopement photography packages! Each package comes with different options and extras, so if you’re curious about full package breakdowns, just send over an inquiry and receive a full pricing & info guide with all the details laid out for you.

Ready to make your dream of eloping in Maroon Bells a reality?

Check hiring an elopement photographer off your list today!

Packing For Your Maroon Bells Elopement

My biggest advice when packing for your big day, is to bring anything you can think of. It’s better to feel like you over packed than be in the middle of the Maroon Bells and need something. Think about all the wedding essentials: make up, deodorant, a stain stick, etc. But also the outdoor essentials: water, a flashlight, warm clothing, etc. 

Depending on the activities you choose, it may also be a good idea to bring a change of clothes. Wear that big bridal gown that has lived on your pinterest board since you were ten, just make sure that if you plan on any hiking, you may need to change into something a little more accessible.  

Maroon Bells Elopement Planning Tips

1. Follow Leave No Trace Principles

One of the best ways to protect this incredible landscape is by following Leave No Trace principles. Stay on designated trails, pack out everything you bring in, and leave the area exactly as you found it so future couples can enjoy it too.

2. Consider The Elevation

The Maroon Bells sit at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, and the elevation can affect visitors who aren’t used to it. Drink plenty of water, take it easy the first day or two, and give yourself time to adjust before your ceremony.

3. Consider Bringing Your Dog Along!

Your wedding day is about celebrating with the people (and pups!) you love most. Dogs are allowed on the shuttle, at the amphitheater, and along the first path of the scenic trail. It is not advised you take them further into the trails due to potential wildlife. As long as you be mindful of other guests, pick up after your pup, and stay to the designated areas, the Maroon Bells is a perfect place to bring your four-legged friend!

Curious how you can include your dog on your wedding day? Check out this blog post for a few ideas!

4. There Is No Cellphone Reception

Don’t count on having reliable cell service during your time at the Maroon Bells. Download maps, directions, permits, and any important information ahead of time so you’re prepared once you arrive. If communication is something you’re worried about, bring along a few walkie talkies to keep in touch and add a little fun to your big day!

The Day Of Your Maroon Bells Elopement!

It’s finally here! The day you have dreamed of, planned for, and potentially stressed over! But now it’s arrived and there’s only one thing you have to do: enjoy. 

Don’t dwell on the details, let the day unfold how it will. There are always going to be things out of your control, but you’ll end the day married to the love of your life, and that’s what it’s all been about. This sacred, monumental commitment that you’re making with your spouse. In a few years, you won’t even remember the small mishaps. Only the moments that meant the most to you. 

Ready to plan the Maroon Bells elopement of your dreams?

From location tips, to timeline planning, to packing recommendations… I’m here to help you navigate it all!

Contact me!