Maroon Bells via the Bells Traverse - Pt. 2

Chris, Josiah and Adam climb the Maroon Bells via the Bells Traverse on July 16, 2010. Although intended primarily for friends and family, the video also contains some route beta that corresponds to landmarks in the 14ers.com description. Part 2 of 2.

Category:

Sports

Tags:

• Maroon Bells
• Bells Traverse
• 14ers
• Colorado
• Aspen
• hiking
• climb
• climbing
• mountaineering
• Maroon Peak
• North Maroon Peak
• Elk Mountains

[alenhard99]

@gltrapmaster No, I wouldn't say it's dangerous as long as it's within your ability. The greatest danger might be moving too slowly and having to find your way down North Maroon in the dark.

[gltrapmaster]

I'm considering trying this next summer with some climbers way more experienced than me. I have done 12 of the 14ers with some class III exposure, a little bit of climbing here and there, and am definitely an experienced hiker. If I'm led by my buddies and given rope to use in the more challenging sections, is it that dangerous to try the transverse to get up both of the bells in one day?

[alenhard99]

@gnarbro5 It is, but the Traverse is pretty solid for the most part. Right as you drop off the north side of Maroon Peak and again as you near the top of North Maroon it's a mess. The regular (descent) route on North Maroon is loose, too.

[gnarbro5]

Okay thanks man, is the rock on the bells as loose as everyone says it is?

[alenhard99]

@gnarbro5 - I'm not a great climber either. I would guess most people doing this route wouldn't use a rope. The climbing is actually quite easy, but just high enough that you wouldn't want to fall. I used a rope, but later felt that it had been unnecessary. If you're unsure, I'd carry one just in case. The route is amazing and definitely worth doing.

[gnarbro5]

Do you need a rope to do this traverse? I'm not a great climber , is it a good idea?