If you’ve been picturing a wedding that’s peaceful, beautiful, and close to the heart, a Maroon Bells If you’ve been picturing a wedding that’s peaceful, beautiful, and close to the heart, a Maroon Bells wedding might be the kind of celebration that feels right for you. Tucked into the Rocky Mountains near Aspen, Colorado, the Maroon Bells Amphitheater offers a place where the noise fades away and the scenery quietly takes your breath away. This is a place where nature’s stillness invites you in and where every moment can feel deeply connected.

Whether you’re planning something simple or bringing along a small group of loved ones, there’s something about this place that naturally slows everything down. It’s a break from the busyness of wedding planning and a chance to focus on what really matters. Let’s take a closer look at why a Maroon Bells wedding isn’t just about a location, it’s about the way it makes you feel.

What Makes a Maroon Bells Wedding Stand Out

There are wedding venues that are convenient, and there are venues that are breathtaking. A Maroon Bells wedding is one of those rare places that is both accessible and awe-inspiring.

Imagine standing side by side with your partner, with the calm waters of Maroon Lake behind you and the iconic twin peaks towering in the background. The mountains don’t ask for much, no extravagant decorations or large crowds. Just you, your partner (maybe a handful of your favorite people), and a quiet moment that feels utterly yours.

This setting invites you to be present. It removes the pressure of creating a perfect day and replaces it with the opportunity to share something honest and meaningful. It’s a ceremony that feels like it belongs to you and the natural world around you. The landscape doesn’t compete for attention, it simply compliments and holds space for your love story.

Beyond the obvious beauty, a Maroon Bells wedding offers a certain groundedness. The mountains remind you of strength and endurance, the lake mirrors your shared reflections, and the wildflowers at your feet hint at new beginnings. This kind of environment naturally sets the tone for a wedding that is calm, heartfelt, and deeply personal.

Surprisingly Accessible, Deeply Beautiful

One of the best-kept secrets about a Maroon Bells wedding is how easy it is to get there, especially considering the stunning views that await.

The Maroon Bells Amphitheater is just a short, paved walk from the main drop-off area. There’s seating for up to 50 guests, so you can include your closest family and friends without making them hike miles or rough terrain. For couples with mobility concerns or those wanting a stress-free day, this accessibility is a major plus.

During peak season, shuttle services run regularly to manage traffic and parking, which makes arrival smooth for your guests. There are also accessible restrooms nearby and a designated parking area. These details might seem small, but they make a big difference when you’re trying to focus on the joy of the day rather than logistics.

The ease of access means you won’t be weighed down by complicated travel arrangements or worried about your guests struggling to reach the site. Instead, you can relax knowing everyone can be present and comfortable. It’s a wonderful balance of being immersed in nature and still feeling grounded in convenience.

For the Couples Who Feel Most at Home Outside

If you feel most yourself in hiking boots or sitting quietly beside a lake, this place will feel like coming home. A Maroon Bells wedding doesn’t need much more than what’s already there to be deeply meaningful.

You might choose to wander the shoreline after your ceremony, taking time for a few quiet moments together while the sunlight dances on the water. Or you might hike a short trail to Crater Lake or somewhere even more secluded for your vows, allowing the two of you a private moment to connect with the landscape and each other.

This is a wedding for people who find their calm in nature’s rhythms, for those who don’t want to spend the day caught up in details but want to soak in the experience. It’s a chance to slow down, to breathe, and to celebrate in a space that invites honesty and presence.

Your Maroon Bells wedding can include as much or as little adventure as you want, and there’s something deeply rewarding in sharing that experience with just your partner, or a small group who understands the importance of being there fully.

How the Seasons Shape Your Day

One of the many reasons a Maroon Bells wedding feels special is that the place changes with the seasons, and each season offers a different but equally beautiful experience.

Summer (June to August):

Summer brings warm days, wildflowers in full bloom, and lush green trails. The long daylight hours mean you have plenty of time to explore, celebrate, and relax. It’s the most popular time to visit, so if you want a summer Maroon Bells wedding, it’s wise to plan ahead and book early.

Summer evenings cool off nicely, and you might enjoy a ceremony just before sunset, when the golden light softens the mountains and makes everything feel calm and inviting.

Fall (September to early October):

Fall is a season many couples choose for their Maroon Bells wedding. The golden aspens create a natural tapestry of oranges, yellows, and reds, mirrored perfectly in the still lake. The air is crisp but not cold, and the crowds thin out slightly as summer ends.

Fall brings a certain stillness and reflection that many couples say deepens their experience. It’s an ideal time if you’re looking for color, cool air, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Winter and Spring:

While the amphitheater is closed during winter, the surrounding areas of Aspen still offer beautiful snowy landscapes for adventurous couples who want a truly unique winter elopement. Snowshoeing or hiking in boots to find a quiet spot can make for a memorable day. Spring brings melting snow, early wildflowers, and a feeling of fresh starts.

Each season invites you to experience Maroon Bells in a new way, so consider what vibe feels most aligned with your relationship and your wedding day vision.

Planning a Maroon Bells Wedding: What You Need to Know

Planning a Maroon Bells wedding is simpler than many people expect, especially when you focus on the essentials and embrace the beauty of nature as your backdrop.

1. Reserving the Amphitheater

Securing the Maroon Bells Amphitheater is your first step. Only one wedding is allowed per day, so early booking is essential.

Here’s how to get started:

• Choose Your Date:
  The most popular dates fill quickly, especially in summer and fall. Have a few backup options in case your first choice is taken. You can try to reserve the amphitheater one year in advance on the day you are wanting to book. For example, if you would like to book September 30th, 2026, you can try to get the reservation on September 30th, 2025.
• Enlist Support:
  Having multiple family or friends help with the booking can improve your chances of snagging your ideal date.
• Submit a Special Use Permit Application:
  This requires details like your wedding date, number of guests, and a brief description of your event.
• Pay the Fee:
  There’s a $200 fee that covers the permit and includes parking passes for up to five vehicles.
• Review Permit Terms:
  Restrictions might include guest limits, noise levels, and parking rules. Make sure you read everything carefully.

Remember, this permit covers both your ceremony and photography, so there are no surprise costs or extra applications needed later.

You can reserve the Maroon Bells Amphitheater here.

2. Timing Your Ceremony

Timing makes a big difference for a Maroon Bells wedding. Early morning ceremonies offer quiet, soft light, and an atmosphere that feels fresh and still. If you prefer, late afternoon brings warm, golden tones perfect for photos and creates a cozy vibe.

Avoiding the midday sun also helps with comfort (it can get really warm in summer) and keeps your photos free from harsh shadows.

How to Celebrate After the Ceremony

A Maroon Bells wedding isn’t just about the ceremony itself; it’s about the moments after when you can savor being together without rush.

Some couples choose to pack a simple picnic to enjoy, complete with local cheeses, fresh fruit, and a bottle of sparkling cider or champagne. Sitting on a blanket, sharing food, and soaking up the mountain views can feel intimate and relaxed.

Others opt for a short hike on nearby trails, giving them private time to reflect and explore together as newlyweds. A walk through the woods or along the water’s edge invites quiet conversation and peacefulness.

If you’re staying in town afterward, Aspen has a wonderful selection of restaurants where you can enjoy dinner. Whether it’s a cozy bistro or a lively pizza joint, it’s a great way to transition from mountain calm to celebration.

At night, if you’re near the mountains, the stars can be incredible. Consider ending your day with some stargazing, bring a blanket and a thermos of hot tea or cocoa, and enjoy the quiet night sky.

Your Vendor Team, Simplified

You don’t need a large crew to make your day feel complete, just a few people who understand the place and your vision.

Photographer:
Hiring someone local to Colorado is a smart move. They’ll know the best times, the best spots, and have backup plans for weather. I’ve been a Colorado elopement photographer since 2018 and work closely with couples to create timelines that feel natural and flexible.

Florist:
Local florists understand what blooms thrive in the mountain air and how to create arrangements that stay fresh outdoors. Wildflower bouquets and simple greenery work beautifully here.

Hair and Makeup:
There are many artists in Aspen who specialize in on-location weddings and elopements. They can come to your lodging early and prepare you comfortably without stress.

Officiant or Self-Solemnizing:
Colorado allows couples to self-solemnize, meaning you can legally marry yourselves without an officiant or witnesses. This option adds privacy and simplicity to your ceremony. You can read more about self-solemnizing in Colorado here!

Where to Stay Near Maroon Bells

Aspen has accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets.

• The Little Nell:
  This luxury hotel offers mountain views, fine dining, and a welcoming atmosphere right in the heart of Aspen.
• St. Regis Aspen Resort:
  Known for its spa and ski-in, ski-out access, this resort combines comfort and adventure.
• Cabins and Airbnbs:
  For a more private, intimate stay, renting a mountain cabin or a cozy Airbnb can provide the quiet and comfort you need before or after your Maroon Bells wedding.

Being a Respectful Guest of the Land

Maroon Bells is part of the White River National Forest, so it’s important to care for this special place.

• Stick to marked paths to avoid damaging fragile plants.
• Avoid picking wildflowers or disturbing wildlife.
• Pack out everything you bring in, including biodegradable materials.
• Keep noise levels low to maintain the peaceful atmosphere.
• Use restrooms before your ceremony to minimize impact.

By treating this place gently, you help preserve it for other couples and visitors for years to come.

Quick FAQ for Planning Your Maroon Bells Wedding

Can we bring our dog?
Yes! Dogs are welcome on leash. Just be sure your pup is comfortable with new surroundings.

Is a photo permit required?
No additional photo permit is needed if you’ve reserved the amphitheater.

What if the weather changes suddenly?
Come prepared with layers and a flexible attitude. Weather shifts quickly in the mountains but often adds character to photos.

Do we need witnesses?
No. You can self-solemnize in Colorado, making your ceremony truly your own.

How long can we stay at the amphitheater?
Typically, the permit allows for entry between 9 AM – 3 PM , enough for ceremony, photos, and a little celebration.

A Maroon Bells Wedding is Quietly Extraordinary

This isn’t a wedding with flashing lights or elaborate choreography. It’s a day where the landscape does the talking and your love simply unfolds.

If this resonates with you, I’d love to help make your Maroon Bells wedding feel calm, genuine, and just right. Whether you want support with planning, vendor connections, or capturing the day in photos, I’m here for you.

Reach out here to start the conversation! Let’s create a wedding day that’s truly yours: quiet, meaningful, and surrounded by Colorado’s iconic mountains.