Snowmass Village, Colorado · Pitkin County · Campground
Overview East Maroon Portal Picnic Site is situated next to Maroon Creek, offering spectacular views of towering red stone cliffs, lush wetlands and evergreen forests. The area is an excellent gathering spot for families, group gatherings and parties. The picnic area is available for use by the general public, but can …
Overview East Maroon Portal Picnic Site is situated next to Maroon Creek, offering spectacular views of towering red stone cliffs, lush wetlands and evergreen forests. The area is an excellent gathering spot for families, group gatherings and parties. The picnic area is available for use by the general public, but can be reserved for private events. This is the only site available in the Maroon Bells Scenic Area for wedding receptions.Recreation Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River national Forest is one of the top recreation Forests in the nation. For hikers and backpackers, the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness epitomizes the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Starting from the East Maroon Portal, the Maroon Creek Trail winds through aspen groves and across boulder fields. After about a mile the East Maroon Trail branches off the Maroon Creek Trail and enters the wilderness. Climbing to alpine terrain, backpackers will find high mountain lakes and a smattering of wildflowers in early summer. Check specific regulations for camping in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area.Facilities This picnic area is available for use by the general public, but can be reserved for private events for a fee. The picnic site can be reserved for the morning, afternoon, or both. This is the only site available in the Maroon Bells Scenic Area for wedding receptions.The picnic area has three large picnic tables and can accommodate up to 70 people. Individuals who reserve this picnic site are issued five vehicle passes which allow travel in a motorized vehicle to this site. Parties reserving both the amphitheatre and picnic site for the same event will only be issued five vehicle passes total. Parking is severely limited at the Bells and public access is our first priority. We recommend renting one or more high occupany vehicles that hold 12 or more guests. For all others not accomdated by the 5 vehicle passes, they will have to make a reservation to
Photos
The purple Maroon Bells peaks over Maroon Lake with wildflowers in the foreground — Rhododendrites, via Wikimedia CommonsEast Maroon Portal Picnic Area — White River National Forest
How to Get There
From Independence Pass, take Highway 82 west from downtown Aspen for a mile to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 miles to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station; East Maroon Portal is 2 miles past the Welcome Station on the left. From Glenwood Springs, take Highway 82 for 40 miles to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 miles to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station; East Maroon Portal is 2 miles past the Welcome Station on the left.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITE
Heading to EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITE? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITE?
No central reservation system listed for EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234588) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITE?
From Independence Pass, take Highway 82 west from downtown Aspen for a mile to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 miles to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station; East Maroon Portal is 2 miles past the Welcome Station on the left. From Glenwood Springs, take Highway 82 for 40 miles to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 miles to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station; East Maroon Portal is 2 mi…
How do I contact EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITE?
You can reach the park at phone: 970-963-2266 or email: [email protected].
