Driving to Maroon Bells from Glenwood Springs
We are thinking of seeing the Maroon Bells when we are in Glenwood Springs. We would be going on Wednesday September 24. I see that if you get a parking permit you have to arrive by 8am. Sunrise is just before 7am. Is it safe to drive there if you leave before sunrise? Twilight is about 6:30.
I see the release date for parking reservations for that time frame will be June 17. I don't want to take a space if we shouldn't try the drive.
Driving from Glenwood Springs to the Maroon Bells in late September is feasible, but there are several important factors to consider for safety and logistics.
Distance and Drive Time:
- The drive from Glenwood Springs to the Maroon Bells is approximately 65–70 miles and typically takes about 1 hour 45 minutes without stops. The route goes along I-70 to Aspen and then up Maroon Creek Road.
- Maroon Creek Road is a narrow, winding mountain road with limited shoulders, hairpin turns, and some steep sections. Driving before sunrise means you will be on the road in low-light conditions.
Driving Before Sunrise:
- Leaving Glenwood Springs around 6:00–6:30 am (civil twilight starts ~6:30 am, sunrise ~6:55 am) is generally safe if you are comfortable with mountain driving in darkness.
- Ensure your vehicle headlights and fog lights are fully functional, and drive at reduced speed. Wildlife, including deer and elk, may be more active at dawn.
- Road conditions in late September are usually dry, but mornings can bring frost, and shaded areas may be slick. Check the weather forecast and any road alerts in advance.
Parking and Access:
- Parking permits for the Maroon Bells require arrival by 8:00 am. Since sunrise is just before 7 am, leaving early gives you enough buffer to arrive on time and possibly catch early morning light for photos.
- The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is very popular. Even with a permit, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot and avoid congestion.
- Reservations release on June 17, and it’s a good idea to reserve as soon as possible. The early morning drive aligns well with your scheduled arrival time.
Additional Tips:
- Carry a flashlight or use your car’s interior light for extra visibility when preparing to leave before sunrise.
- Fuel up in Aspen or Glenwood Springs to avoid any stops on the mountain road.
- If you prefer not to drive in the dark, consider staying in Aspen the night before to reduce morning stress and ensure a safe, short drive to Maroon Bells.
- Watch for cyclists and wildlife on Maroon Creek Road, especially at dawn.
Bottom Line:
It is generally safe to drive to the Maroon Bells before sunrise from Glenwood Springs, provided you are comfortable with mountain driving in low light, check weather/road conditions, and drive cautiously. Early departure allows you to arrive on time for your parking permit and enjoy the morning scenery, which is often the best time for photography.
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