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Maroon Bells question

We have reserved a parking pass for Maroon Bells. I know we have to be inside the gate before 8:00am but how early do we need to get there to get a parking spot? Do they have the same number of parking spots as number of parking reservation spots? If we get there at 7:30am will that be too late to get a parking spot? We will be there on a Saturday in June.

Maroon Bells is one of the most popular destinations in Colorado, especially in June, so planning your timing carefully is important. Since you already have a reserved parking pass, that will guarantee you a spot, but there are some details worth knowing for your visit.

The parking reservation system is designed so that the number of parking passes matches the available parking spots for private vehicles. This means that if you have a valid reservation, you are assured a spot as long as you arrive within your reservation window. The reservation window for private vehicle access is typically from 5:30am to 8:00am for early arrivals, depending on the date and gate schedule.

For a Saturday in June, which is peak season:

  • Arriving at 7:30am with a reservation should be fine. You are still within the allowed entry window, and the system ensures that every reservation holder has a spot.
  • It’s important not to arrive after your reservation window closes, because then the guarantee may not apply, and you could be turned away.
  • If you want more flexibility or the ability to pick a preferred spot within the lot, arriving closer to the start of the window (around 6:30–7:00am) gives you the best options.

Additional tips:

  • Make sure to have your reservation confirmation ready, either printed or on your phone, as rangers check passes at the gate.
  • Weekends in June are extremely busy, so even with a reservation, plan for some traffic congestion getting to the Maroon Bells area.
  • If you are flexible and want to do a shuttle or hiking combination, some visitors choose to park in Aspen and take the shuttle, but with your parking pass, this is optional.

In summary, with a valid reservation, arriving at 7:30am should not be too late to get a parking spot, but arriving earlier gives you more flexibility and a less stressful start to your visit. Just ensure you’re inside the gate by 8:00am.

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