Maroon Peak is half of the famous Maroon Bells, and one of the deadliest 14ers in Colorado. The rock is sedimentary mudstone that crumbles in your hands — the standard route involves loose class 4 scrambling on rotten rock, with dozens of fatalities recorded.
Standard Route
From Maroon Lake (requires permit/shuttle), the trail climbs to Crater Lake then ascends the south ridge through a series of class 4 sections. The route is notorious for being hard to follow — climbers regularly get cliffed-out trying alternate lines. 11.5 miles round trip, 4,800 feet of gain.
What to Expect
The Deadly Bells nickname is earned. Loose rock can give way without warning. Climb early to avoid afternoon storms on exposed sections. Strongly consider hiring a local guide for your first attempt.
Related Reading
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