Aspen is a little mountain town with a huge track record. This dream location for outside enthusiasts brings in excitement hunters year-round. As soon as the snow falls, Aspen is a winter season wonderland with world class snowboarding and panoramas, while in the summertime, its natural charm shines through with clear blue skies and thick forests.
Aspen is understood for its huge mountain snowboarding and plentiful winter season activities, however when the snow melts, you can pick from horseback riding, rock climbing, cycling, and treking routes. Aspen likewise beings in the middle of White River National Park, so you are never ever far from the outdoors. Something is for sure: there are lots of things to do in Aspen.
Finest Things to Do in Aspen, Colorado
Schedule your personal round-trip airport transfer from Denver Airport to Aspen or Snowmass Town. Take the stress of discovering transport
This guide will cover the absolute best things to do in Aspen. From snowboarding in the winter to treking and mountain cycling in the summertime, Aspen is a year-round location. From picturesque gondola trips to art museums, these destinations will keep you captivated and material.
1. Strike the Slopes
You can’t check out among the very best snowboarding locations in the United States without snowboarding. Aspen Mountain’s 4 primary ski locations are Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk Mountain. There are 5,300 acres of skiable surface in between them.
Aspen Mountain (previously Ajax Mountain) is for skiers with experience. The runs are moderate to tough, so anticipate tough slopes. Aspen Mountain is located in the heart of Aspen, which is exceptional for those desiring a main place.
Aspen Highlands is another mountain for skilled skiers. Aspen Highlands ski location is understood for the Highland Bowl, which tops at 12,392 feet above water level and has a few of the steepest descents in the location. If you desire adrenaline, the Highlands is where you’ll discover it. And even much better? You just need to stroll a couple of miles along Maroon Creek Roadway to reach Aspen town center from the Highlands Ski Resort.
Buttermilk Mountain ski location is famous for the Winter season X Games, making you believe it is for skilled skiers just. Nuy he mountain in fact accommodates all levels, and even newbies can delight in progressively zipping through Aspen trees on mild ski slopes.
2. Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort
Snowmass Town is a location unto itself with numerous slopes and cross nation snowboarding plus outside activities and a dynamic town.
In the cold weather, its first-rate ski resort boasts a varied series of routes for snowboarding and snowboarding enthusiasts of all levels. Snowmass Mountain is the biggest of the 4 mountains, with 17 various ski lifts and the most vertical ski location in Aspen.
The town is a center of dining, shopping, and home entertainment choices, with occasions and celebrations regularly contributing to the enjoyment. Lodgings in Aspen Snowmass variety from elegant turn to comfortable lodges, dealing with every choice and making sure a comfy stay.
Throughout the warmer months, Snowmass is terrific for treking, mountain cycling, and taking picturesque gondola trips.
3. Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are the most photographed mountains in Aspen. Professional photographers flock to this place to picture the 2 mountains of Maroon Bells showing in the lake, forming the supreme alpine postcard image. The 2 peaks, Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak are only split by 0.5 km. The Maroon Bells are a popular field trip from Aspen in a glacial valley in the Elk Mountains.
Wondering how you reach Maroon Bells? The bright side is that several treking routes lead out to Maroon Bells. You can trek the Maroon Lake Beautiful Path, which is just a mile long, or take on the Maroon Creek Path for a mix of lakeside views and alpine meadows. The Maroon Creek Path is a bit longer, determining 3.2 miles one method.
4. Trek the Crater Lake Path
The Crater lake Path is a 3.5-mile path that is among the very best walkings in Colorado and most likely the finest in Aspen. Found in the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Location, Crater Lake was formed from geological procedures countless years ago w hen glaciers began drifting away and left what we understand as Crater Lake.It deserves keeping in mind that swimming is restricted at Crater Lake.
Treking on unknown routes alone can be complicated, and transport can be a concern if you do not lease a vehicle. If you wish to take a directed trip, Blazing Experiences provides assisted walkings around the Maroon Bells.
5. Self-reliance Pass
Checking out Self-reliance Pass permits you to integrate several destinations in Aspen into one experience. Take a picturesque drive to visit this landmass on the Continental Divide of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. You can check off standing on the Continental Divide, checking out the Rocky Mountains, and checking out among the most picturesque locations in Aspen– all in a couple of hours.
Do not be tricked though; Self-reliance Pass is likewise one heck of a drive. The roadway zig-zags up the mountain, with barrette turns and areas so narro, that just a single cars and truck can squeeze through. IThis part of Colorado State Highway 82 is limited to camper trailers and rvs over 35ft in length.
Integrate your drive to Self-reliance Pass with a see to Twin Lake or a go up Mt Elbert. You might leave Self-reliance Pass for the drive back to Denver if you fly into Denver International Airport and work with a vehicle.
6. Go Mountain Cycling
Aspen’s varied surface accommodates all levels of mountain cycling from newbies to advanced. The Rio Grande Path, with its mild slope is best for households and casual riders. For those looking for a more tough trip, the Federal government Path supplies an awesome mix of technical descents and natural charm.
On The Other Hand, the Smuggler Path is a regional preferred, providing scenic views of Aspen and beyond. Each path in Aspen assures not just a daring trip however likewise a chance to immerse oneself in the natural charm of Colorado’s mountains. o
7. Trek the Grottos Path
The Grottos Path can’t be beaten for an interesting walking near Aspen. While just 1 km long, the path has a lot to see along the method, and it is among the most beautiful routes in the area.
Positioned simply off Self-reliance Pass, the Grottos ice cavern is a marvel of geological developments, and waterfalls bring in visitors with its amazing ice structures and cool, heavenly atmosphere.
An area of the track looks like a dark grey variation of Antelope Canyon. You’ll rush through ribbon-like canyons and crevices to finish the walking.
Perfect for those looking for a mix of treking and expedition, the path to the caverns is a simple, picturesque walk, appropriate for any ages and ability levels. Inside the caverns, the play of light through the ice produces a wonderful environment, best for memorable picture chances. We likewise suggest arriving early in the day, before 9 am, as this path is popular, and parking areas are restricted.
8. Check Out the John Denver Sanctuary
John Denver Sanctuary is a lovely nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary simply north of Aspen town center. It was established in memory of the late vocalist John Denver, hoping visitors might discover peace, meditation, and solace in nature. Nestled along the Roaring Fork River, this peaceful sanctuary is a must-visit for both John Denver fans and nature enthusiasts.
The sanctuary, includes wonderfully manicured gardens and a range of his tune lyrics engraved into native stones, developing a path of motivation and reflection. Visitors are frequently mesmerized by the “Tune Garden,” where Denver’s music gently plays, boosting the serene environment.
Lyrics and quotes aren’t the only creative thing in John Denver Sanctuary. The Aspen Theatre group has a camping tent established in the middle of the John Denver Sanctuary providing a lovely location to delight in carrying out arts. It lies near Rio Grande Park, making it a best area for a walk or a peaceful minute of reflection.
9. Aspen Art Museum
Aspen Art Museum is a capital for modern art in the area, hosting exhibits and display screens of global and regional artists including sculptures, paintings, sketches, and even multimedia display screens.
It is complimentary to get in and has a roof balcony with remarkable views over Aspen and the surrounding mountains. Found in downtown Aspen, the Aspen Art Museum can quickly be contributed to any Aspen travel plan. Throughout the cold weather or on a cold and drizzly day, visitors can enjoy the heat of an indoor tourist attraction. The museum is simply a five-minute walk from the base of Aspen Mountain Ski Resort, so it is a best location to rush for a taste of the art on a cold day. You’ll quickly identify it. In real modern design, the structure has an enormous copper lattice façade.
10. Go paragliding
Adrenaline addicts will like paragliding over Aspen’s gorgeous vistas. There is no much better method to take in the awesome landscapes of aspen. Paragliding is among the most daring things to do in Aspen.
Aspen Paragliding is the most popular business to go paragliding within the location, and you’ll require to the skies with a licensed pilot. The entire experience lasts around 2 hours– so conclude and get ready for the weather. You’ll carefully slide past a few of the most spectacular scenes in Colorado. In the winter, you may even have the ability to identify the skiers on the slopes listed below.
Take a look at the activities that Blazing Adventures has on deal here. Blazing Experiences focuses on outside experiences that get your adrenaline pumping. You might even continue your ‘flight style’ with a hot air balloon trip.
11. Ashcroft Ghost Town
Checking out ghost towns is most likely not the very first thing you anticipate to do in Aspen. Nevertheless, Ashcroft Ghost Town is quickly among the most amusing destinations in the Aspen Location. As soon as a silver mining town, Ashcroft Ghost Town is now totally unoccupied. The Aspen Historic Society opened the town as much as visitors every year in between June and October.
You can check out old historic structures, consisting of the old post workplace, Blue Mirror Saloon, and a previous hotel structure. Ashcroft Ghost Town is a special chance to go back and immerse yourself in Old Western history. Strolling in between the log cabins and wood public structures is sort of scary and enjoyable.
The town lies on Castle Creek Roadway, about eleven miles south of Aspen. It takes about 25 minutes to drive to Ashcroft Ghost Town.
Take a look at among these trips to ghost towns to maximize your time in Aspen. Aspen’s Dark Side Ghost Trip,, Aspen’s Off the Beaten Course Trip, Aspen’s Past to Present Historical Trip
12. Cross Nation Ski in Aspen
Aspen boasts a few of the most stunning cross-country snowboarding routes in The United States and Canada. The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Path System, a huge network including over 60 miles of complimentary, perfectly groomed routes, links Aspen to Snowmass and Basalt.
This network of routes offersa range of surface for all ability levels. Newbies can slide along the mild slopes of the Aspen Golf Course, while more skilled skiers can challenge themselves on the rolling hills of the Owl Creek Path.
The Rio Grande Path, with its spectacular river views, supplies a more leisurely experience, perfect for taking in Aspen’s natural charm. These routes not just use exceptional cross-country snowboarding however likewise function as best courses for snowshoeing, making them a flexible option for winter season outside activities.
13. Stroll the Rio Grande Path
The Rio Grande Path is no simple task. The path runs for an excellent 42 miles and is normally dealt with over 2 to 4 days. Anybody figured out enough to handle the difficulty can delight in unequaled views along the path. You’ll generally follow Roaring Fork River, however you’ll have snow-capped mountain views and wildlife galore– so keep your eyes peeled. Load your swimwear due to the fact that you can go swiming along the Roaring Fork River.
The path itself cuts through Roaring Fork Valley. Anticipate to share the track with horseback riders, pet walkers, and bicyclists, and note that horses have the right-of-way.
The Rio Grande trailhead starts in this little ski town extending from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, where the Roaring Fork River combines into the Colorado River. If you like multi-day walkings, include a couple of days to your Aspen vacation to finish the path.
14. Cycle the Rio Grande Path
If you are searching for a leisurely trip when biking, take in the charm of Aspen along the Rio Grande. Much faster and simpler than strolling the Rio Grande Path, is the best experience from Aspen appropriate. As you cycling along the path, you’re dealt with to spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains, lavish meadows, and the carefully streaming Roaring Fork River.
The path is primarily paved and with a mild grade making itideal for any ages and ability levels and a family-friendly experience. Along the path, riders can delight in numerous features, consisting of rest stops, picnic locations, and access to captivating towns for a wonderful break or a meal. Whether you’re searching for a leisurely trip or an all-day adventure, the Rio Grande Path supplies a best mix of natural charm, workout, and relaxation.
15. Cloud 9 Alpine Restaurant
Cloud 9 Alpine Restaurant has among the very best views of Maroon Bells. The little European-style cabin is set down on top of a mountain in the Aspen Highlands Ski Resort.
Cloud 9’s environment is great dining fulfills après ski. The dining establishment has the menu to draw in those searching for a chic, refined experience, yet the character to host a few of the most energetic celebrations. It is stated that Cloud 9 brings the European alpine scene to Aspen.
16. Aspen Developing Business
You actually can discover breweries in the most simple of locations. Aspen Developing Business is stashed on Galena Street in Downtown Aspen. Part pizzeria and part club, the location serves fifteen craft beers brewed internal. Simply think of tucking into a sourdough pizza and a tasting flight of craft beer after a complete day of snowboarding– happiness, right?
Aspen Developing Business was established in 2008 with the slogan ‘make first-rate beer, downstream from no one’. Lots of awards later on, Aspen Developing Business has actually ended up being a huge name. Technically, the business is divided in between 2 areas: the taproom and pizzeria in Downtown Aspen and after that the brewery near Aspen Airport. The craft beers are all brewed at the 2nd website, with some being transferred to the very first for visitors to delight in.
17. Trip the Silver Queen Gondola
Skiers get access to a few of the most remarkable tops in Aspen, as do hikers in warm months. However what if you do not ski and do not feel comfy treking fars away? The Silver Queen Gondola is the response.
The Silver Queen Gondola is great, making Aspen Mountain available for everybody. Whether taking a trip with kids or simply do not trust your physical fitness levels, the Silver Queen Gondola is a fantastic method to zip up to Aspen Mountain top– experiencing an adventure and all the very best views concurrently. The trip to the leading takes around fifteen minutes. There is lots of time to snap pictures and value the novelty of racing up a mountainside.
At the top, we suggest getting a table on the sundeck and treating yourself to food and a hot beverage from the dining establishment. Dining neglecting the slopes is an experience you’ll keep in mind. And, if you aren’t a skier, you must maximize remaining in ski area.
You can schedule tickets for online or show up on the day. The gondola service ranges from 10 am till 4 pm every day (weather condition enabling), so it is simple to slot into a hectic travel plan. Plus, the gondola station sits simply on the borders of Downtown Aspen. You might quickly pop by for a spontaneous experience.
18. Aspen Golf & & Tennis Club
Aspen Golf & & Tennis Club is among the very best sporting places and Aspen golf course in the town. Visitors can delight in an 18-hole champion golf course backed by Aspen’s spectacular range of mountains. You’ll get a taste of playing golf in alpine environments, which is unquestionably a remarkable experience. There are likewise 7 sets of tees dealing with various levels, implying all golf enthusiasts can occur to delight in.
The tennis courts are similarly remarkable. There are 6 clay courts, once again with spectacular mountain views. You can quickly schedule a tennis court online or ring to schedule a slot. If not, it deserves dropping in to see if a court is complimentary without booking. If you need to wait, simply be prepared to treat yourself to a meal at the club’s dining establishment, Red Mountain Grill.
19. Wheeler Opera Home
If you like live music, seeing motion pictures, or going to celebrations, checking out the Wheeler Opera Home is among the very best things to do in Aspen. The 1889-built theater is a treasured regional tourist attraction and is thought about the home of carrying out arts in Aspen. A mix of Romanesque and Italianate architecture, Wheeler Opera Home is a sensational location and unique location to delight in the arts. Examine the Opera Home’s schedule to see what live music occasions and efficiencies accompany your journey. Capturing a program is a wonderful method to relax at night after a hectic day outdoors.
Intrigued in the history of the Opera Home? Aspen Historic Society runs trips of the location, so you can constantly enjoy a helpful expedition of the Opera Home, not simply an efficiency. And, as an additional suggestion for live music enthusiasts, Aspen Music Celebration runs in between mid June and August. Summertime has plenty of performances and efficiencies, so examine that schedule too if you’re checking out Aspen throughout this duration.
20. Glenwood Springs
Simply a picturesque drive away from Aspen, Glenwood Springs provides a wonderful adventure, mixing natural marvels and unwinding experiences. This mountain town is well-known for its world-renowned warm springs, consisting of the Glenwood Hot Springs Swimming pool, the world’s biggest mineral warm springs swimming pool. The warm springs use a revitalizing retreat with its healing waters.
Experience hunters will like the Glenwood Caverns Experience Park, boasting cavern trips and thrilling trips with awesome mountain views. The town’s historical downtown location welcomes visitors to check out distinct stores, dining establishments, and cultural destinations, such as the Glenwood Springs Historic Society and Frontier Museum.
The close-by Hanging Lake is a crystal-clear lake set down atop a cliff, and supplies an attractive treking location. Glenwood Springs’ mix of relaxation, experience, and cultural experiences makes it an important addition to any Aspen travel plan, providing visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of Colorado’s natural charm and hospitality.
Now that we have actually covered the very best things to do in Aspen let’s have a look at some fast Frequently asked questions. These are the most crucial things to understand before you check out Aspen.
How to get to Aspen
The very best method to get to Aspen is to fly to Aspen-Pitkin County Airport or Denver International Airport. Flying into Denver is the most popular alternative, as it is less expensive, has more regular flights, and is finest for global tourists. Taking a trip from Denver is uncomplicated too, and you simply capture a shuttle bus service or lease a vehicle to drive the 4 hours to Aspen.
Those flying globally must think about including an over night remain in Denver because there are lots of things to do in the city.
Navigating Aspen
As a little mountain town, Aspen is barely tough to navigate. Many locations are available on foot, particularly in Downtown Aspen. A reputable bus service likewise runs around the town and the larger Aspen location. Do not stress over leasing a vehicle unless you wish to take excursion to remote routes and destinations.
You can navigate by roadway cycling and the roadways around Snomass Town and Aspen brings in bicyclists from around the nation to dominate its mountains. If you are up for it, biking is a fantastic method to navigate.
When the snow vanishes, lots of people cycle around Aspen. It might deserve seeing if your lodging rents bikes or checking out a bike rental shop in the town center.
Finest time to check out Aspen
Colorado is among the United States’s finest winter season vacations. If you like winter season sports, we suggest checking out Aspen while there’s snowfall. The ski season ranges from November to April. Nevertheless, we suggest checking out Aspen in March for the very best snowboarding experience. The back end of the season is a little less expensive and quieter, and you have more daytime hours for snowboarding.
Naturally, Aspen is a best all-year-round location for an active vacation– loaded with treking routes, horseback riding, and rock climbing while the snow melts. If winter season sports aren’t your thing, check out Aspen throughout the spring shoulder season. May is the quietest month, and you must have much of the treking routes to yourself. Plus, Aspen is less expensive throughout this time.
Where to remain in Aspen
It’s clear that lodging can make or break a journey. Here are our leading suggestions on the very best locations to remain in Aspen.
Spending Plan: St. Moritz Lodge
St. Moritz Lodge might be a self-described ‘easy lodge’, however its high volume of favorable evaluations speaks volumes. Visitors can delight in dorm spaces, personal spaces, and apartments. For versatile and affordable lodging, St. Mortiz Lodge is quickly the very best in Aspen.
You can dip in the heated outside swimming pool, unwind in the jacuzzi, and begin every early morning effectively with a complimentary breakfast. St. Moritz Lodge is both comfy and practical.
Mid-range: Aspen Square Condo Hotel
Aspen Square Condo Hotel is an outstanding mid-range lodging alternative in Aspen. The residential or commercial property provides apartments, which vary from studios to three-bedroom systems. The condo-only design suggests you’ll constantly have homely features like a kitchen area and a comfortable seating location. You likewise get access to a health club and organization center. Nevertheless, the gaining element of the Aspen Square Condo Hotel is its outside centers.
Take pleasure in the heated outside swimming pool throughout the year, swimming lengths with snow-capped mountain views. Additionally, relax and take in among the 2 outside jacuzzis while taking pleasure in the views.
High-end: The Little Nell
The Little Nell is high-end lodging at its finest. The stylish resort provides ski-in/ski-out centers– best for snowboarding lovers wishing to make the most of time on the slopes. The Little Nell sits ideal beside the Silver Queen Gondola base station and is a practical first-class base for a high-end ski vacation.
You can shower in an outside day spa tub or swim in the heated outside swimming pool. All spaces include marble restrooms and terraces with city or mountain views. And particular suites consist of personal jacuzzis and steam showers, so you can sprinkle out on additional high-end if you desire.
Trying To Find a VRBO residential or commercial property rather of a traditional hotel experience? You might want to read our guide on the very best cabins in Colorado.
There are many extraordinary things to do in Aspen. Its place is dreamy for anybody who likes outside experiences. You can unwind surrounded by the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Roaring Fork River, and White River National Park. Choose a treking path or ski slope and let the fresh air do the rest. We understand that you’ll have a wonderful time in Aspen.
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