Maroon Bells Traverse

Maroon's South Ridge - Class 3
Traverse to North Maroon - Class 5
North Maroon Descent - Class 4

Trailhead: Maroon Lake
Summits: Maroon Peak, North Maroon Peak
Distance: 15.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 5800ft
Time: 12 Hours
Partners: Kristi Henes, Robby Grace, Mike Poland
GPX

14ers.com Page

The images in this gallery are the "best of" from two outings on the Bells traverse.

Climbing Maroon's east slopes is easily the most strenous part of the day. Once at the top of the east slopes the route to the Maroon's summit is fun class 3 scrambling and route finding.

The traverse from Maroon to North Maroon consists of some exposed class 5 climbing. It is important to be patient with route finding and choose climbs that aren't overly difficult. When in doubt go left.

Descending North Maroon's class 4 Northeast Ridge is definitely one of the cruxes of the day... expecially if your aren't familiar with the route. Be sure you know your way off of the moutain. You may also consider carrying a rope for this section as the cliff band with the chimney can be slick and difficult to down climb. The last time we did this route there was a thin layer of snow and we were happy to have a rope.

The Elks are an awesome range and this is one of it's best summer routes.