Here are the pros and cons:

The cons: the Maroon Bells shuttle station is a mess. The exit payment is want working so we had to kind a kiosk. We couldn’t find parking on the top level but the only way to get to the lower level is to go out of the lot, circle back around, and come back in! It is $7/hr or $30/day to park.

The cons: the shuttle staff are so friendly! The Maroon Bells are a must see. Bring water and sunscreen and good walking shoes. There is a easy walk around the lake or you can hike to Crater Lake which is a bit rocky. The bathrooms at the Bells were clean, not water in sink. Worth the trip! After, have lunch and drinks at Highlands Alehouse. The burger and shrimp quesadilla was delicious!

Buy tickets in advance and arrive early like they say on the instructions.