Planning / Small wedding venues in Colorado / Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells Wedding & Elopement Guide
Cost, Permits, Photos & Tips
With the stunning mountains, reflective lakes and enchanting aspen groves, Maroon Bells is one of the best places to elope in Colorado!
As Maroon Bells photographers and elopement experts, weโll guide you through everything you need to know while planning your Maroon Bells wedding. We’ll be sharing our best insider tips to planning a Maroon Bells wedding. Discover how to secure your Maroon Bells Amphitheater reservation, how much it costs to get married at Maroon Bells, the best time of year, locations and more.
Table Of Contents
Maroon Bells Amphitheater Wedding Pros & Cons
Considering a Maroon Bells wedding, but not sure if it’s the right fit for you? Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Stunning & Accessible Views
The Maroon Bells are the most photographed mountains in Colorado! This iconic mountain range is very accessible and is a beautiful place to get married. You’ll have stunning wedding photos!
Great for micro-weddings & Elopements
You can get married at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater for just $200 and invite up to 50 guests. It’s also great for adventurous hiking elopements.
difficult to get a reservation
The reservation for the Amphitheater must be booked a year in advance from June-October and can be difficult to get, which can cause delays in planning your wedding.
It is a busy location
If privacy and intimacy is important to you, a Maroon Bells Amphitheater wedding might not be the best fit. This is a VERY popular spot.
It’s is expensive
The surrounding area is one of the most expensive places in Colorado, so be prepared to pay quite a bit for your lodging, food and drinks and even vendors.
How To Plan A Maroon Bells Wedding
tips & tricks
Is this your first time trying to plan an elopement or micro wedding at Maroon Bells in Colorado? Don’t worry- as photographers who have shot numerous Maroon Bells weddings we’re here to help you through the whole process! Here’s a step by step guide on how to get married at Maroon Bells:
STEP
01
Step 1: Obtain Your Permit
Maroon Bells AMphitheater Wedding Reservation
If you’re planning to invite guests you’ll need to reserve the Maroon Bells Amphitheater for your ceremony. The Maroon Bells Amphitheater can be reserved for wedding ceremonies for up to 50 guests.
Reservations for Maroon Bells Amphitheater are available the first week of June to the last week of September and release one year in advance. The reservation is very competitive, you have to be ready to reserve it the second it releases. To do this, create or sign in to your recreation.gov account and refresh the page until the permit releases at 8am MST one year prior to the date.
PS – Parking passes or taking the shuttle is required to access Maroon Bells at all times. Your reservation comes with 5 parking passes.
Step 2: Plan Out The Details
Hire Vendors & Plan The Day
After you secure a reservation, your date is officially set and you can continue with your planning!
You’ll want to secure your important wedding vendors such as your photographer, videographer, hair and makeup artist, florist and optionally a planner. You’ll also need to plan your lodging and transportation. You may also need to hire a shuttle for your guests, as your permit only comes with 5 parking passes. We send our clients a list of awesome local vendors and lodging ideas around Maroon Bells!
Then, collaborate with your photographer on a timeline for the wedding. We highly recommend hiring a photographer that has worked at Maroon Bells before for the best lighting, locations and photos throughout your day.
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02
STEP
03
Step 3: Get Married At Maroon Bells
Enjoy your Maroon Bells Wedding!
Whether you’re getting married at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater with family and friends, or eloping just the two of you in the Maroon Bells Wilderness, be sure to get your marriage license prior to the wedding!
Youโll have the best day ever and weโll be there capturing every moment! Within a few days youโll have sneak peek photos in your inbox, and the full gallery within 2-3 months. All thatโs left is to choose which photos to print!
“We had a micro wedding at Maroon Bells in Colorado and they were so helpful with helping us get everything we needed! Booking them was the first things we did once we got engaged and it was the best decision we made!”
– Cheyenne & Kaden | Maroon Bells
Tips For Getting A Maroon Bells Amphitheater Reservation
If you’re like most couples, you’ve been trying to get a Maroon Bells Amphitheater reservation every day for weeks or months.. The good news is, as someone who has gotten reservations here before, we have tips for you!
1) Create An Account & Log In Early
To make a Maroon Bells Amphitheater reservation, you’ll need to make an account with reservation.gov. To avoid any delays, be sure to do this well in advance and be signed in.
2) Refresh the page repeatedly
Reservations release 1 year in advance of the date and book IMMEDIATELY! The reservations are supposed to release at 8am MT, but they have been opening up about 15 minutes earlier than that each day. Open the reservation page at least 15 minutes early, and consistently and quickly refresh until it becomes available, then add it to your cart!
3) Enlist the help of your family & friends
The more people on your team trying to secure a spot, the better chance you have! Consider enlisting the help of your family and friends to try to get a reservation. Be sure to give them all the instructions we provided above.
4) Set up a cancellation alert
Didn’t get a reservation? There’s still a chance. When someone cancels, the date will become available again. You can set cancellation alerts for up to three date ranges. Also, join the Maroon Bells Weddings group on Facebook, as people will post about cancellations in there.
When To Plan A Maroon Bells Wedding
Best Time Of Year To Get married at maroon bells Colorado
The best times of year for a wedding at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater are summer and fall for beautiful conditions and accessibility to trails. Plan your wedding for June, July, August or September. There is no vehicle access to the Maroon Bells in the winter, as the road closes due to dangers of avalanches.
Spring Maroon Bells Wedding
May & June
While the road to Maroon Bells reopens around mid-May each year, reservations for the Maroon Bells Amphitheater become available the first week of June.
June in Maroon Bells is one of the best times of year for an elopement as everything is lush and green, there are some wildflowers present and the mountains are still dusted with snow. The temperatures are quite mild and perfect for a mountain elopement!
Summer Maroon Bells Wedding
July & August
Summer in Maroon Bells is beautiful. While mid-day can be quite hot, mornings and evenings are a nice temperature.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Colorado mountains, especially during the summer months. However, these rain storms can mostly be avoided by opting for a sunrise or sunset event.
Fall Maroon Bells Wedding
September & October
Fall is one of the most popular times for a Maroon Bells wedding. Plan your elopement during peak foliage season, typically from late September to early October, to catch the yellow and orange aspens.
Weather can vary greatly day by day in the fall, so be prepared for a perfect fall, sunny and crisp day, or a rainy or even snowy day with cold temperatures.
This is also the most busy time of year at Maroon Bells!
Winter Maroon Bells Wedding
November to April
Vehicle access closes to Maroon Bells due to snow each winter around mid-November and reopens in mid-May, weather dependent, as the road to Maroon Bells is prone to avalanches.
However, for super adventurous eloping couples you can actually get a snowmobile tour back to Maroon Bells for your winter elopement! This would allow for a much more intimate and private elopement away from the crowds.
However, be prepared for cold temperatures and snowy conditions. When planning a winter elopement it’s important to be prepared for the elements and have an indoor location you can use as a back-up incase of storms.
Choose A Weekday At Sunrise
We always recommend having your wedding on a weekday (Monday-Thursday) to minimize the amount of tourists that will be in the area. Sunrise or sunset is the best time of day to elope for the most privacy and best lighting!
“Authentic Collective gave us all that we could have asked for! They were able to get us our dream venue, Maroon Bells, and helped us with all that we needed to make our wedding day what we wanted.”
– Erin & Derek | Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells Wedding Locations
wedding & elopement locations
If you’re planning a micro wedding with up to 50 guests, you must reserve the Maroon Bells Amphitheater for your ceremony. However, you can explore the area for your newlywed photos afterwards! Additionally, if you’re eloping just you two or with just a few guests, you may not need a reservation (contact us for full details). There are also countless other small wedding venues and beautiful places to elope in Colorado that offer more privacy and seclusion for those couples planning a Colorado elopement with less than 15 guests.
As Colorado elopement photographers, we’ve hiked the trails and scouted the best places for elopements and wedding photos at Maroon Bells. Here are the best Maroon Bells wedding photo and elopement locations!
Maroon Bells Amphitheater
The Maroon Bells Amphitheater is a reservable space that you can book for micro weddings with up to 50 guests. You must book it one year in advance starting the first week of June each year.
LOCATION – Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, CO 81611
HIKE – none, short walk from parking lot
FEATURES – LAKE, MOUNTAINS
Maroon Lake
Maroon Lake is a short walk from the parking lot and from the amphitheater, making it a popular location for photos. The downside of this location is it’s busy and there is a rope around the lake.
LOCATION – MAROON LAKE TRAILHEAD, Aspen, CO 81611
HIKE – NONE, SHORT WALK FROM PARKING LOT
FEATURES – LAKE, MOUNTAINS
Maroon Bells Scenic Trail
The easiest trail in the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is the Scenic Loop Trail. This is a short walk around the side of the lake that brings you close to the Maroon Bells before looping back.
LOCATION – Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, CO 81611
HIKE – 1.9 MILES, 160FT ELEVATION GAIN
FEATURES – river, ASPEN FOREST, MOUNTAINS
Hiking Trails
There are numerous trails in the Maroon Bells wilderness area that lead to epic views of the bells, and other lakes.
LOCATION – Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, CO 81611
HIKE – varies, 3+ MILES
FEATURES – MOUNTAINS, aspens, lakes
We’ll show you the best locations
You won’t find the best locations online. You need a photographer who has spent time hiking around and scouting these locations in person to help you plan your Maroon Bells elopement.
We provide our couples with exclusive Maroon Bells elopement location guide, custom timeline, vendor recommendations and even lodging ideas!
Maroon Bells Wedding Reception Options
While you can’t have your reception at Maroon Bells, you can reserve the East Maroon Portal Picnic Site which accommodates up to 75 people. Alternatively, there are lots of gorgeous venues in Aspen and Snowmass for your reception! A few of our favorite options include Lynn Britt Cabin, Limelight Inn, T Lazy 7 Ranch and Viceroy Snowmass.
East Maroon Portal Picnic Site
This picnic site offers a serene setting nestled among the aspens and vistas of Maroon Creek Valley. Some couples also opt to do their ceremony here if they are unable to get a reservation for the Amphitheater!
CAPACITY: UP TO 75 people
AVAILABILITY: May 28 – October 04
COST: $75
Highlands Alehouse
Looking for a casual intimate dinner after your Maroon Bells wedding? Highlands Alehouse offers pizza and beer for your after party, with stunning mountain views right outside!
CAPACITY: UP TO 130 people
AVAILABILITY: YEAR-ROUND
ESTIMATED COST: $$$
Lynn Britt Cabin
Lynn Britt Cabin is a luxury Aspen, Colorado wedding venue perfect for small weddings ceremonies and receptions. The quaint and romantic cabin is nestled among aspen trees overlooking the mountains.
CAPACITY: UP TO 65 GUESTS
AVAILABILITY: YEAR-ROUND
ESTIMATED COST: $10,000+
Crestwood Condominiums in Snowmass offers a full-day rental for just $950, which includes tables, buffet tables, a bar table, linens, and chairs. The space accommodates up to 70 guests seated banquet style. The best part? It’s completely BYOโbring your own food and alcohol! This flexibility lets you DIY your event and save significantly by avoiding required vendors.
Clark’s Oyster Bar – Aspen: Situated at 517 E Hyman Ave, Clark’s Oyster Bar is more than just an oyster joint. Enjoy affordable martinis and a killer burger in the heart of Aspen’s dining scene.
Ajax Tavern: Situated at the base of Aspen Mountain on 685 E Durant Ave, Ajax Tavern is known for its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering cuisine. Enjoy classic American dishes with a modern twist while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Venga Venga in Snowmass offers a cozy, intimate space perfect for smaller gatherings. The rental fee is around $2,500 plus tax and seats up to 30 people. It’s a great option for those looking for a more exclusive setting with a stunning mountain backdrop.
T Lazy 7 Ranch is located right outside the gate of Maroon Bells, you can even see the bells from their lawn!
Hotel Jerome is a historic hotel in the heart of Aspen blends old-world charm with modern luxury. Its ballroom and courtyard are perfect for elegant receptions, offering a sophisticated and timeless ambiance.
Sundeck: Perched at 675 E Durant Ave, Sundeck offers budget-friendly bites with a view. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring town, it’s the ideal spot for a quick and satisfying meal in Aspen.
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Maroon Bells Wedding FAQs
question
01
How far of a hike is it to maroon bells AMPHITHEATER?
If you’re considering getting married at Maroon Bells, you’re likely curious how accessible the ceremony location is. “Do you have to hike to get there? If so, how far?”
The good news is that Maroon Bells Amphitheater is very accessible! It’s only a short walk from the parking lot, and even a shorter walk from the shuttle drop off.
The walk from the shuttle drop off to the Amphitheater is only about a 2 minute, very easy walk. The parking lot is a bit farther away, but only about 5 minutes up a slight hill.
Do I have to reserve the amphitheater for my wedding?
For most couples, reserving the Amphitheater is required to have a wedding at Maroon Bells. However, if you are eloping and not bringing guests along (or 6 or less) and are not bringing any props (arches, chairs, etc.) you may be able to get married at Maroon Bells without needing to reserve the Amphitheater.
If going this route, you will still need to secure a parking pass (one per vehicle). It will also be essential that you hire a photographer familiar with the area, as there are only a few locations that are suitable for elopements without reservations due to the roped off areas and crowds.
question
02
question
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Are Dogs Allowed?
If you want to bring your dog along to your wedding, you’re in luck! Dogs are allowed at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater.
Pets must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed on the surrounding hiking trails due to Moose. If you plan to include your pet in your ceremony, make sure to clean up after them to maintain the pristine environment.
Maroon Bells Wedding Cost
The cost for a Maroon Bells amphitheater wedding ceremony is only $200! This covers your wedding reservation for the amphitheater and provides you with access to the amphitheater. It also includes 5 vehicle passes to park at Maroon Bells.
You will additionally need a Colorado marriage license, which is $30 from Pitkin County. You can choose to hire an officiant for your ceremony, have a family/friend perform it, or even self-solemnize.
The total cost for your wedding will vary significantly depending on the style of wedding you choose to have. For example, a simple elopement with no guests will be much more affordable than a wedding with guests which you will then need a venue to host a reception, cater food, hire additional vendors, etc. It’s important to note that elopements can be as simple or as extravagant as you desire, there is no set cost for this type of wedding!
The couples that hire us value their photos and experience more than anything, which is why they typically spend majority of their budget on their photography package. Additionally, you can check out this full elopement cost breakdown.
Hey, we’re Savannah & Greg!
Maroon Bells Wedding Photographers
We’re Sav & Greg of Authentic Collective- a photo and video team who’s documented and helped plan numerous Maroon Bells weddings, from micro weddings at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater to hiking elopements in the Maroon Bells wilderness. We know Maroon Bells like the back of our hand. We’ve explored every trail and have documented weddings here in almost every season. Not only that, but we’ve also gotten reservations and know the ins and outs of the permitting process.
Maroon Bells Wedding Photos
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Erin & Derek
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Colorado Elopement
Planning checklist
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planning Resources
Planning guide
The Best Places To Elope In Colorado
Planning guide
Colorado Elopement Planning Guide
Planning guide
Small Wedding Venues in Colorado
Maroon Bells Wedding Packages
Photography Packages
It might seem counterintuitive to look for a photographer before you have an exact location and date set, but trust us on this one. If you’re looking for some help finding the perfect location, an elopement photographer who specializes in the area you’re considering will be a huge help to you.
Photography & Videography
Professional photography and optional videography services from an experienced husband/wife team who’ve photographed over 150 weddings together. Posing guidance and direction to make you feel and look great in front of the camera, no experience necessary.
Planning Guide
A 50+ page digital planning guide to help you through the whole elopement planning process. Including tips on booking travel and lodging, buying your attire, activity ideas, packing checklists, including family and more.
Custom Location Guide
A list of all the most beautiful locations in the area you choose based on scenery, accessibility, permits and logistics. We do the work so you don’t have to!
Timeline Creation
We’ll craft a timeline that fits all the locations, activities, and moments you have planned for your day as well as consider ideal lighting and making sure your whole experience is relaxed and stress free.
Vendor Recommendations
Looking for a florist, hair and makeup artist, or other vendors? We’ve got you covered with local recommendations.
Contact
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