01 COLORADO

Maroon Bells

If any single scene captures the rugged grandeur of Colorado, it’s this: two bell-shaped peaks tinted wine-red by the sun, shimmery gold aspens below, every exquisite detail reflected in the ephemeral stillness of an alpine lake. You’ve seen the images a thousand times, yet they are a poor substitute for standing there yourself. Maroon Bells is stunning in any season, but autumn at sunrise is singular in its beauty. —Christine Loomis

WALK THE TRAILS

Five trails, ranging from 13 miles to less than 1 mile round trip, offer views that bring the enduring beauty of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains into focus. Avid hikers should explore the surrounding landscape on Crater Lake Trail (3.6 miles) or Willow Lake Trail (13 miles). To get the image pro photographers do, walk the easy Maroon Late Trail. You'll know the spot.

PROTECT THE BELLS

From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., mid-June to early October, private vehicles are prohibited to lessen damaging impact. The solution: e-bike or old-school cycle the (mostly uphill) 8 miles to the trailhead from Aspen Highlands, or take the shuttle (reservations required).

CULTURAL EXPLORATIONS

Discover the industrial and agricultural history of the area at Aspen’s Holden/ Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum. aspenhistory.org