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- Maroon Peak
14,163 ft · Elk Mountains, Colorado
Maroon Peak
Maroon Peak is a 14,163 ft peak in the Elk Mountains, Colorado. The standard route is the South Ridge: 11 mi, 5,013 ft of gain, Class 3.
Maroon Peak at a glance
- Elevation14,163 ft4,316 m
- RouteSouth RidgeClass 3
- Distance11 mi5,013 ft gain
- Time10 – 12 hrsVery Hard effort
- SeasonJul – Sep
- RangeElk MountainsColorado
Climbing the South Ridge
From Aspen, Colorado, drive to the Maroon Lake area. During summer months (typically late May through October), private vehicles are restricted and a Maroon Bells reservation is required for the shuttle from Aspen Highlands. The approach via Maroon Creek is beautiful but the upper mountain is infamous for extremely loose, rotten rock that has claimed many lives. Test every hold before committing your weight. Helmets are absolutely essential. Route-finding through the upper gullies is tricky. Start very early (2-3am) to avoid afternoon storms. The Deadly Bells warning sign at the trailhead is not an exaggeration.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (30–40 L)
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Helmet
Rope
Harness
Carabiners
Belay Device
Whistle
Hiking Boots
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Sun Hat
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- Loose rock
- Steep exposure
- Snow near summit
- Ice near summit
- Storms
- Low visibility
- High altitude
- Altitude sickness
- Rockfall
- Route-finding difficulty
Maroon Peak on Yak
Climbers have shared 5 climbs of Maroon Peak on Yak. Read their trip reports and recent conditions in the app
Quests with Maroon Peak
Colorado 14ers
Lower 48 14ers
Colorado CentennialsPeaks near Maroon Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Maroon Peak?
Maroon Peak is 14,163 feet (4,316 m) tall. It is in the Elk Mountains, Colorado.
How does Maroon Peak rank among the Colorado 14ers?
At 14,163 feet, Maroon Peak is the 25th highest of the 58 Colorado 14ers. The highest is Mount Elbert.
How hard is it to climb Maroon Peak?
The South Ridge is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 11 miles with 5,013 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to climb Maroon Peak?
Most people take 10 – 12 hours round trip on the South Ridge, covering 11 miles with 5,013 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.
Is Maroon Peak dangerous to climb?
It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.
Do you need a rope to climb Maroon Peak?
Most parties bring one. The South Ridge is Class 3, and the gear list includes a rope, harness and belay device.
Will you get altitude sickness on Maroon Peak?
You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Maroon Peak reaches 14,163 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.
What time should you start climbing Maroon Peak?
Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon. At 10 – 12 hours round trip, many parties start in the dark.
When is the best time to climb Maroon Peak?
The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for Maroon Peak?
The South Ridge starts at about 9,580 feet, roughly 4,583 feet below the summit.
What routes go up Maroon Peak?
The standard route is the South Ridge. Other routes include the Combo: Bells Traverse and the North Maroon, Maroon, and Pyramid Peak Loop.
Climb Maroon Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list