Maroon Bells Amphitheater Wedding & Elopement Guide for 2026
Hey there! My name’s Iver Marjerison.
I’m a Colorado-based micro-wedding planner and officiant, and over the years I’ve helped plan hundreds of small weddings and elopements across the state. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting married at Maroon Bells Amphitheater, in Aspen, Colorado.
Maroon Bells Amphitheater is one of the most iconic wedding locations in Colorado—and one of the most photographed mountain backdrops in the entire United States. Located just outside Aspen in the White River National Forest, this intimate ceremony site offers unbeatable views of the Maroon Bells peaks reflecting over Maroon Lake. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your Maroon Bells elopement or micro-wedding, including permit rules, booking tips, best months and times of day, weather expectations, photography advice, parking and shuttle info, and local recommendations around Aspen and Snowmass.
What The Internet Won’t Tell You…
Aspen is one of the most expensive areas of Colorado.
The amphitheater has very limited parking.
For good photos you have to do an early morning wedding.
Securing a permit for Maroon Bells Amphitheater is incredibly difficult, with thousands of people trying, and only about 75 being issued per year.
If Maroon Bells doesn’t work for you—don’t worry!
There are lots of beautiful places in Colorado to get married.
Text or Email me the word “info” to learn about all the spots we use!
Iver@ColoradoMicroWeddings.com
720-598-2862
Everything you need to know about getting married at Maroon Bells Amphitheater
Maoron Bells Amphitheater in a private wedding ceremony site in Aspen, Colorado, with built-in seating, that supports groups of up to 50 people.
Elevation: ~9,585
Max Group Size: 50 people total in your group—this includes all vendors!
Permit Fee: $200
Accessibility: June 7 - October 4 (limited weekends)
Distance from Denver International Airport: Estimated 5 - 6 hours
Nearest Town: Aspen
How-To Reserve
To get married at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater, you must secure a $200 reservation. They have an online booking calendar with availability opening exactly one year in advance.
Jump to How-To Reserve
Planning & Marriage License
Once you have the amphitheater reserved, the planning process is fairly simple, just make a timeline, get the marriage license, and secure any needed vendors (photographer, officiant, etc.).
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Best Day, Month, and Time
The best option is a Tuesday or Wednesday, at the end of September, at sunrise. This is for optimal lighting, and when the crowds are the lowest.
Jump to When to Get Married
Good to Know
This location is handicap accessible. It’s high elevation so be prepared for volatile weather. Dogs are allowed if they are on a leash. No glass containers. Decorations and chairs are allowed. Lots more info…
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How-To Reserve the Maroon Bells Amphitheater
The Maroon Bells Amphitheater wedding reservations can be made June 7 - October 4, reservations are not accepted for Fridays and Saturdays in June, July and August. Reservations are not accepted for Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in September and October. Click here to see the Maroon Bells booking calendar.
Here’s the trick: the reservations for this location open up at 8am Mtn time, exactly one calendar year in advance to the day. When the date opens, the first person to “click” the reservation gets it. Generally speaking this happens within second. This process can be a bit frustrating and makes it difficult to plan on a specific date more than a year in advance. While couples can get lucky and get their top date, my advice is generally:
If your getting married more than a year in advance, pick a month for your wedding (example July of next year) then July of this year, go on every morning and try to get a permit for each day when it opens up until you get lucky. Option 2
If your getting married less than a year in advance, simply go on their website and click “Next available” there will usually be a couple random dates that have opened up due to cancelations. If there aren’t—just keep checking!
How-To Plan a Wedding at Maroon Bells Amphitheater
Secure Your Maroon Bells Amphitheater Permit
Info above!
Make Your Day-of Timeline
Because you have to be done by 2pm, you can’t get sunset, so the best lighting is sunrise. I recommend a ceremony time of 9:00am, with the couple and the photographer doing the “first look” and portrait session prior to the ceremony (8am or true sunrise based on the date).Find Your Wedding Vendors
This is optional technically, but many couples like to have a wedding officiant and/or photographer for their day. Click here for our All-Inclusive Maroon Bells Elopement Package.
Get the Marriage License
Colorado makes getting a marriage license simple! You and your fiance simply need to go into a Colorado County Clerk during business hours to pick up the license. Here’s my full Colorado Marriage License Guide.
Get Married!
On the day of the wedding, you and your guests will meet your wedding vendors at the amphitheater. You’ll have the ceremony, sign the license, take photos, and then (generally) head to a local restaurant to celebrate!
When To Get Married at Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells Amphitheater wedding reservations can be made June 7 - October 4, reservations are not accepted for Fridays and Saturdays in June, July and August. Reservations are not accepted for Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in September and October.
What is the Best Time of Day to Get Married at Maroon Bells?
The permit allows you to use the ceremony site from 9am to 3pm. The problem is that in order to have optimal lighting for photos, you need to do your photos as close to sunrise or sunset as possible, since sunset isn’t an option, you’re stuck with an early morning if you want to ensure you get the best light (keep in mind if it’s overcast then the lighting will be good all day, but I don’t recommend counting on that to happen). The optimal day-of timeline for Maroon Bells Amphitheater is a ceremony time of 9:00am, with the couple and the photographer doing the “first look” and portrait session prior to the ceremony (8am or true sunrise).
What is the Best Day of the Week to Get Married at Maroon Bells?
The best day of the week to get married at Maroon Bells Amphitheater is Tuesday or Wednesday, when the park is the slowest. With that being said, the park is always busy.
What is the Best Month or Season to Get Married at Maroon Bells?
The best time of year to get married at Maroon Bells Amphitheater is the last two weeks of September and first week of October, when the Aspens are changing color. With that being said, getting a permit for any day is tough, its best to keep your options open.
Maroon Bells Amphitheater Wedding FAQs
Is a Permit Required to Get Married at Maroon Bells Amphitheater?
Yes. To have a wedding at the Maroon Bells Amphitheater, you must reserve the site through Recreation.gov for $200 per day. Reservations open one year in advance on a rolling basis. However, you can elope on the nearby trails without a permit, as long as you don't have any guests or an officiant.
How Much Does it Cost to Get Married at Maroon Bells?
The Maroon Bells Amphitheater reservation fee is $200. The only additional costs are your wedding vendors, such as a photographer and officiant.
What Days Can I Get Married at Maroon Bells Amphitheater?
The amphitheater is not available for reservations on Fridays and Saturdays in June, July, and August, or Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in September and October. Plan for a weekday ceremony during peak season.
How Many Guests Can I Have at Maroon Bells Amphitheater?
The amphitheater allows a maximum of 50 people. However, I strongly recommend keeping your group to 20 or fewer due to parking and shuttle logistics, and the difficulty of finding a nearby venue for larger group receptions.
How Does Parking Work for a Maroon Bells Wedding?
Your reservation includes five vehicle passes, available for pickup at the Welcome Station five days before your event. Vehicle traffic is restricted on Maroon Creek Road from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., so guests with vehicle passes must arrive before 8:00 a.m. Guests without vehicle passes must purchase a pass or reserve a seat on the shuttle bus at Aspenchamber.org. The shuttle operates from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and drops off just 25 yards from the amphitheater. Handicapped individuals and vehicles with children under 2 in a car seat are exempt from road restrictions and do not need prior reservations.
Can We Have a Reception at Maroon Bells Amphitheater?
No. Receptions are not allowed at the amphitheater. However, the East Maroon Portal Picnic Site is a popular option, located about four miles away. It accommodates up to 75 people and can be reserved for morning (10 a.m.–2 p.m.), afternoon (3 p.m.–7 p.m.), or both. A bear-proof food locker is available on-site.
What Decorations Are Allowed at Maroon Bells Amphitheater?
Decorations are allowed but must be removed when you leave. The following items are prohibited: arches or large structures, thrown items like flower petals, rice, or confetti, released animals such as doves, PA systems or loud music, hanging lights from trees, floating lanterns, fireworks, and aluminum cans dragging from vehicles.
Are Dogs Allowed at Maroon Bells Weddings?
Yes. Dogs are allowed at the amphitheater ceremony site and on the Maroon Bells Shuttle, but must be kept on leash at all times. Dogs are not allowed on the Scenic Loop Trail around Maroon Lake.
Is Maroon Bells Amphitheater Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes. Maroon Bells Amphitheater is one of the most accessible mountain wedding locations in Colorado. The amphitheater has a paved path, accessible vault toilets, and a short, flat walk from the nearby parking area. The shuttle bus drops off just 25 yards from the site.
Are There Restrooms and Amenities at the Amphitheater?
Yes. Accessible vault toilets and a water fountain are available at the site. There are no electrical outlets or cell phone service.
What's the Best Time of Day to Get Married at Maroon Bells?
Plan your ceremony for 9:00 a.m. to take advantage of the best photo lighting and avoid afternoon thunderstorms. If you want optimal light for portraits, consider a first look and photo session at 8:00 a.m. before the ceremony.
What's the Weather Like at Maroon Bells?
Weather changes rapidly at high elevation. Expect cooler temperatures, sudden rain, and afternoon thunderstorms—especially in July and August. Even in summer, mornings can be 35–45°F. Snow is possible as early as September and as late as June. Always bring layers and be prepared for changing conditions.
When Is Independence Pass Open?
Independence Pass (Highway 82) is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October, weather dependent. If you're planning a wedding during shoulder season, call the Colorado Department of Transportation Hotline at (877) 315-7623 for road updates.
What is the Travel Time to Maroon Bells from Denver?
Maroon Bells Amphitheater is located near Aspen on the western side of Colorado. Google may estimate 3.5 hours from Denver, but mountain traffic and road conditions can push travel time closer to 5 hours. Plan accordingly, especially if guests are flying into Denver or driving from out of state.
How Early Should We Arrive for Our Maroon Bells Wedding?
Plan to arrive at least 45–60 minutes early to manage shuttle logistics, parking, walking time, weather delays, and tourist crowding. Check in at the Welcome Station between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to confirm your reservation.
How Private is a Wedding at Maroon Bells?
The amphitheater is a designated private ceremony space, but Maroon Bells is one of the most visited locations in Colorado. Expect other visitors in the surrounding area, especially around Maroon Lake.
Can We Take Photos Anywhere Around Maroon Bells?
Yes, but you must remain on designated trails and follow wilderness regulations. Popular photo spots include Maroon Lake's shoreline, the Scenic Loop Trail (no dogs allowed), the bridge area, and the meadow near the amphitheater.
Is Aspen a Good Area for a Small Wedding?
Aspen is one of the most expensive areas in Colorado. Expect higher prices for lodging, dining, and rentals. The area doesn't have a budget-minded culture, so small groups looking for flexibility may find fewer options. Consider staying in Carbondale or Glenwood Springs for more affordable alternatives.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for Maroon Bells Amphitheater?
You can cancel your reservation any time before your scheduled arrival date. You'll receive a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee, any reservation fees paid at booking, and any previous change fees. If you need to change your dates entirely, there's a $10 change fee per reserved site.
How Do I Get to Maroon Bells Amphitheater?
From downtown Aspen, take Highway 82 West for 1 mile to the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 miles to the Welcome Station, then continue 5 miles to the amphitheater at the end of the road—approximately 9 miles total from Highway 82. If coming from Glenwood Springs, take Highway 82 East for 40 miles to the roundabout and follow the same route.
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