A recent proposal may impact how one of Colorado’s most popular and most iconic tourist destinations is managed over upcoming years.

Per a report from Pitkin County, they’re working with the U.S. Forest Service to explore an expanded partnership related to the management of the Maroon Bells Scenic Area near Aspen, which would start in the 2027 operating season.

“The U.S. Forest Service has faced several challenges managing the Maroon Bells Scenic Area in recent years, including staffing shortages and funding shortfalls,” reads a press release on the matter. “During the May 12 work session, the Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners reviewed a proposal under which the U.S. Forest Service would issue a Special Use Permit authorizing Pitkin County to oversee the day-to-day operations and management of the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, while USFS would retain ownership and overall oversight responsibilities. The proposed permit would be valid for an initial five-year term, with the option to renew for an additional five years.”

The Maroon Bells Scenic Area has long-been a major driver of tourism in the Roaring Fork Valley, especially during summer and fall months (it’s one of the state’s top leaf-peeping spots). Between May and October of 2025, the destination attracted around 191,000 visitors.

While Pitkin County has worked with the U.S. Forest Service for nearly 50 years in the management of the destination, the proposed model is said to allow for more flexibility when it comes to collaborating with community partners and in adapting operations amid changing demands.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to protecting one of Colorado’s most iconic landscapes while ensuring visitors continue to have a safe and enjoyable experience,” said Kara Silbernagel, County Manager for Pitkin County.

It’s likely that this proposal may remind some of how Hanging Lake is managed via a partnership between the City of Glenwood Springs and the Forest Service. In this scenario, Glenwood Springs is able to contract a local company for management of parking and other operational aspects, while Forest Service employees are able to focus on managing the trail. This system and the revenue it generates has been cited as a key reason why Hanging Lake trail has been able to quickly recover from recent damages due to wildfire and landslides. Per the Hanging Lake website, “proceeds from the revenue collected are used to support the partnership and long-term sustainability of Hanging Lake, including the operations and management of the site as well as its stewardship as a National Natural Landmark.”

Per a report from Aspen Times, the Pitkin County proposal is, in part, a response to concerns about funding and federal support. Forest Supervisor for the White River National Forest Brian Glaspell described current operations as “in the red,” continuing to state that this is “not sustainable for the Forest.”

Meanwhile, campground recreation manager Kendra Head was cited in the Aspen Times report as explaining how the USFS is unable to easily change fees under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, with challenges related to hiring employees also impacting the area for many years. Head noted that a new management structure could generate sufficient revenue and better ensure appropriate staffing.

Looking ahead at the Maroon Bells management proposal, discussions are set to continue throughout 2026 and there will be an opportunity for public input prior to a final decision from the Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners.

“Pitkin County is not going to be alone in managing this permit. We have a community here, many of whom have been part of managing the Maroon Bells for the last 50 years. It’s going to take a village to protect this special place,” said Gary Tennenbaum, Pitkin County Open Space and Trails Director.

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