Maroon Bells receives federal ‘exception’ to keep area open, for now

As the recent government shutdown is compromising operations for a large swath of the U.S. Forest Service, the iconic Maroon Bells location outside of Aspen has received an “exception” from the federal government for employees to keep it open to visitors, at least through next week.

“It’s operations as normal with the Bells right now,” Brian Pettet, Pitkin County Public Works director, said. “While the government shut down, the U.S. Forest Service and the Aspen-Sopris District were able to get an exception for employees up at the scenic area.” 

The current plan, according to Pettet, is to keep Maroon Bells open through Oct. 10. A closure could be sooner depending on funding.

As of Oct. 2, all reservation holders for bus service and parking at the Bells can expect normal operations. Pit toilets are available, but the rest of the facilities including most bathrooms and the visitor center remain closed. There is no drinking water, which has been the case all summer.

If the road to the Bells does close and compromise existing reservations, all reservation holders will be reimbursed, Pettet confirmed.

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“There are a lot of variables,” he said, “and they don’t know how long they’ll be able to keep the employees up there.”

The Aspen Times will continue to provide updates as they become available.