The Maroon Bells is arguably the most iconic and easy-to-recognize place in the Centennial State, so it may be hard to believe that this stunning area is also deemed one of the most dangerous and deadly. What makes it so terrifying? It is all thanks to the seemingly innocent South Ridge Trail:

Spanning 12 miles round trip, the trek up South Ridge Trail may not sound too daunting, but it's what you can't see at first glance that makes the path so dangerous.
AllTrails/Lang Deng
Nicknamed the "Deadly Bells," the South Ridge Trail is rated a Class 3 (with Class 1 being easy and Class 5 meaning the climb is technical and requires ropes and belaying) due to steep terrain, loose rocks, and gullies.
AllTrails/Henry Leon
While the base of the Maroon Bells already sits at a high elevation, it gains even more along the South Ridge Trail (almost 5,000 feet, to be exact), which makes extreme, fast-changing weather yet another dangerous factor.
AllTrails/Peter Griffin

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Because of this, the South Ridge Trail has claimed the lives of eight hikers in five different instances, resulting in a strongly worded sign placed at the trailhead.
AllTrails/Henry Leon
If you are a beginning or intermediate hiker, it is best to avoid the South Ridge Trail and opt for one of the many others that require less footwork and climbing.
AllTrails/Robert Tschirn
Are you an expert hiker and climber and want to see South Ridge for yourself? If so, it is recommended that you use extreme caution, give yourself plenty of time, and check the route before you go.
AllTrails/Deena Tenzer
To learn more about the Maroon Bells - including current conditions, parking, and access to trails - please visit the US Forest Service's website.
AllTrails/Frederick Stein

Are you looking for a safer hiker? Then you will want to check out one (or all) of these 11 Incredible Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Colorado Should Take.

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Maroon Bells, Colorado 81654, USA