The Story Behind Aspen’s Iconic Peaks

Much more than postcard-perfect vistas, the Maroon Bells of Colorado are masterpieces in geology, hiking paradises, and, to be frank, something of a mystery. If you’ve ever stood in awe of those twin summits, you might be wondering: Why is it called Maroon Bells?

Is it because of that deep reddish hue? Or do they make a mysterious ringing sound when the wind just touches them? Well, spoiler: They don’t. The answer perhaps lies somewhere between science and history, garnished with a little poetic interpretation.

So, let’s take a journey into the origins of this name, uncovering the forces—both natural and historical—that gave Maroon Bells their identity.

A Name That Reflects the Landscape

Unlike some mountain names that seem completely random (looking at you, Mount Sneffels), Maroon Bells is quite literal.

The color “Maroon”, as a matter of fact, results from the mountain being dyed in a natural reddish brown. If the sun highlights them at the proper angle of sight, the mountain peaks will literally burn the eyes with a dark maroon, which one may say is earth’s way of showing off.

The term “Bells” refers to the unique elliptical form of the peaks; they do seem rather like bells, ring-able even in the presence of the neighboring mountain’s thorny fantastically-described-ass rough and remarkable forms.

Indeed, it is because of their color and shape that we do find that name perfect concerning these peaks. But how did that color form to start with? Let’s put our heads together and get a little bit deeper into the science behind that unmistakable color of the Maroon Bells.

The Science of the Maroon Color

If you were expecting an explanation of a mystic nature- such as that caused by an ancient spirit coloring the mountains red- you may find it a little disappointing. The reason behind Why Is It Called Maroon Bells has everything to do with geology and chemistry and a whole lot of time.

These mountains are made of soft red shale and siltstone, which were first deposited on the ancient sea floor over 290 million years ago. During the following millions of years, iron-containing particles within the rocks were oxidized, sometimes called rusting, imparting the reddish hue characteristic of Maroon Bells.

The whole of that considers that when you put an old bicycle out in the rain long enough, it would develop a rusting color of reddish brown. Now imagine that happening for millions of years on a much larger scale. This is what practically happened to the Maroon Bells, except that instead of our rusty, abandoned bike, we got one of the loveliest mountain sceneries in the continent of North America.

The Shape of the Bells: A Work of Ice and Time

The Maroon Bells got their color from oxidation and their shape from glaciers. During the Ice Age, giant glaciers carved slowly through the Elk Mountain Range and formed the bell-shaped Marion Bells that exist today.

But glaciers weren’t the only forces acting upon the terrain. Geologists refer to the Maroon formation as a formation of soft, crumbling rock subject to landslides and erosion. Because of this combination, steep walls, loose rocks, and some seriously nasty hiking conditions have emerged.

If you have ever tried to go up Maroon and North Maroon Peaks, you know that these were difficult climbs. The instability of the rocks is what makes the two peaks some of the most deadly Fourteeners in Colorado, which earned them the nickname “Deadly Bells.”

(So if you ever decide to climb them, make sure you’ve got some experience—and maybe a will written out, just in case.)

The Human Connection: From Indigenous Land to Tourist Attraction

Before becoming one of the most photographed places in North America, the Maroon Bells were firmly in possession of the Native American tribal groups living in harmony with the land. The Ute were the first people to enter the region and sustained life, spiritual needs, and seasonal movements about the mountains.

It was only during the silver-mining boom in Colorado in the late 1800s that settlers in Aspen “discovered” the peaks and began mapping the area. By early in the 20th century, as Aspen transitioned from a mining town to a ski and tourism town, the Maroon Bells started receiving recognition as a natural wonder.

Today, they are part of the White River National Forest, and thousands of visitors flock to Maroon Lake every year to take in their breathtaking beauty.

Maroon Bells Today: A Destination Worth the Hype

Are you a mountain climber at heart, or do you desire a great snapshot to brag about on Instagram? Maroon Bells offers something for all influencers.

• Maroon Lake Scenic Loop: A 1.9-mile easy hike that offers one of the best views of the peaks.

•Crater Lake Trail: A moderate 3.6-mile round-trip hike, perfect for those looking for a little more adventure.

• The Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop: A 26.6-mile backcountry trek for those seeking an unforgettable alpine experience.

In addition to hiking, visitors may camp, fish, or bike. During winter, activities like cross-country skiing are possible. Due to extreme overuse, access to Maroon Bells is closed off to vehicle traffic, which requires a reservation for parking and shuttle transportation.

A Name That Captures the Essence of the Peaks

So, Why Is It Called Maroon Bells? Because nature has a way of getting straight to the point. The name describes exactly what makes these peaks unique—their maroon-coloured rock and their bell-like shape.

But beyond just a name, Maroon Bells represents something deeper. It’s a place where geology meets history, where rugged beauty meets delicate balance, and where every sunrise turns the peaks into a fiery spectacle of colour.

Whether you’re planning a visit or simply admiring them from afar, Maroon Bells is a reminder of the breathtaking artistry of nature.

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There are a few places that have odd names (I mean, take Greenland, for instance), but the name Maroon Bells certainly is not one of them. The name describes the area perfectly, from its rich maroon rock to the graceful bell-shaped summits.

Indeed, whether marvelling at the beauty, trekking on the steep terrains, or simply shooting a photo for a travel album, Maroon Bells would remain close to your heart- in both name and nature.

So, next time someone asks, “What’s the story behind the name Maroon Bells?” you’ll have the ultimate response on lock. If they still don’t understand, just take them to Aspen and let nature speak on the matter.