10+ Best Things to Do in Aspen for Non-Skiers: Activities Beyond the Slopes

Aspen may be famous for its world-class ski resorts, but you don’t need to hit the slopes to have an unforgettable winter vacation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there are countless things to do in Aspen for non-skiers that showcase its stunning scenery and vibrant atmosphere. From snowshoeing through quiet mountain trails to speeding down tubing hills, you can experience the magic of winter in so many ways, no skis required.

1. Explore Aspen’s Winter Trails on a Nature Walk

If you love being outside but don’t want the intensity of skiing or snowboarding, a winter nature walk is the perfect way to take in Aspen’s breathtaking scenery. The area is home to several scenic walking trails that offer snow covered landscapes, peaceful forests, and even wildlife sightings.

Best Trails for a Winter Walk

• Rio Grande Trail: One of the most popular trails in Aspen, this easy, mostly flat path follows the Roaring Fork River and provides stunning mountain views. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll while enjoying the crisp winter air.
• Hunter Creek Trail: If you're up for a moderate winter hike, this trail offers snow dusted aspen groves and peaceful creekside views. It’s a great way to experience Aspen’s backcountry without skiing.
• Maroon Bells Scenic Area: Even in winter, the iconic Maroon Bells are a must see. While the main road is closed to vehicles, you can reach the area on snowshoes or cross country skis for a breathtaking winter wonderland experience.

Why You’ll Love It

• Perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
• No special gear required—just warm layers and sturdy boots.
• A great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Aspen without skiing.

2. Try Snowshoeing for a True Winter Adventure

For a more immersive way to experience Aspen’s snow covered backcountry, strap on a pair of snowshoes and explore the area’s beautiful winter trails. Snowshoeing is an excellent alternative to skiing because it allows you to go off the beaten path and enjoy the tranquility of nature at your own pace.

Top Snowshoeing Spots in Aspen

• Ashcroft Ghost Town: This historic site transforms into a winter wonderland, offering peaceful, well groomed trails surrounded by untouched snow. It’s one of the best places to experience Aspen’s winter beauty without the crowds.
• Aspen Nordic Trail System: With over 60 miles of groomed trails, this network is perfect for beginners and experienced snowshoers alike. Trails vary in difficulty, so you can choose a route that matches your fitness level.
• Maroon Bells Wilderness: If you want a truly magical winter experience, snowshoeing to the Maroon Bells is a bucket list adventure. The snow covered peaks and frozen lakes create an unforgettable setting.

Why You’ll Love It

• Easy to learn, no prior experience needed.
• A great full body workout without the intensity of skiing.
• Offers a peaceful, crowd free way to explore Aspen’s winter landscapes.
• Many locations offer guided snowshoe tours, making it beginner friendly.

3. Speed Down the Mountain on a Tubing Hill

If you’re looking for a fun, adrenaline packed activity that doesn’t require skiing, snow tubing is a must try! No skills or special equipment are needed, just grab a tube, hold on tight, and enjoy the ride. Among the many things to do in Aspen for non-skiers, tubing stands out as an exciting yet accessible way to experience the winter fun. Aspen’s tubing hills offer high-speed thrills while still being a safe and enjoyable activity for all ages.

Where to Go Snow Tubing in Aspen

• Snowmass Tubing Hill: Located at Elk Camp Meadows, this dedicated tubing hill offers multiple lanes and a lift that takes you back to the top, so you can enjoy the ride over and over. It’s a great family friendly winter activity in Aspen.
• Elk Camp Meadows: In addition to tubing, this area offers a winter playground with cozy fire pits, s’mores, and hot chocolate—making it the perfect place for an evening of winter fun.

Why You’ll Love It

• A fast paced, exciting winter activity with no skiing required.
• Great for families, kids, and anyone looking for winter thrills.
• No experience or equipment needed—just show up and have fun!

4. Go on a Dog Sledding Adventure

For a truly unforgettable winter experience in Aspen, hop on a dog sled and glide through the snow covered backcountry. This one of a kind adventure allows you to take in Aspen’s pristine winter landscapes while being pulled by a team of energetic Alaskan huskies. It’s the perfect mix of thrill and natural beauty, and best of all, no skiing skills required!

Best Dog Sledding Experience in Aspen

• Krabloonik Dog Sledding (Snowmass): The premier dog sledding outfitter in Aspen, Krabloonik offers guided tours through the Snowmass wilderness, where you’ll experience breathtaking alpine scenery. Their expert mushers lead you through serene, snow covered forests, giving you a glimpse into the world of traditional dog sledding.

Why You’ll Love It

• A bucket list winter activity with incredible photo opportunities.
• Perfect for couples, families, and groups.
• Offers a unique, non-ski way to explore Aspen’s winter wonderland.

5. Feel the Rush with Snowmobiling in Aspen’s Backcountry

If you’re looking for an adrenaline packed adventure without hitting the slopes, snowmobiling is the way to go. This high speed activity lets you cruise through Aspen’s backcountry, covering miles of pristine snow covered terrain that would be hard to reach otherwise.

Best Snowmobiling Tours in Aspen

• T Lazy 7 Ranch (Maroon Bells): One of the most popular snowmobile tour operators in Aspen, offering guided trips to Maroon Bells, Independence Pass, and Lenado. Their tours take you through stunning alpine meadows, dense forests, and panoramic mountain passes.
• Aspen Snowmobile Tours: A great option for those looking for a thrill ride through deep powder, with trails leading to secluded areas of the White River National Forest.

Why You’ll Love It

• Perfect for thrill seekers who want to experience the mountains at high speed.
• Great for families, couples, and solo adventurers.
• A fantastic way to see remote areas of Aspen in winter.

6. Glide Across the Ice at Aspen’s Best Ice Skating Rinks

Looking for a classic winter activity that’s fun for all ages? Ice skating in Aspen is the perfect way to soak up the festive atmosphere, whether you're spinning on an outdoor rink under twinkling lights or gliding across the ice in a cozy indoor arena.

Best Places to Go Ice Skating in Aspen

• Aspen Ice Garden: A historic indoor rink in downtown Aspen, offering public skating sessions throughout the winter.
• Snowmass Village Rink: A charming outdoor ice rink located right in Snowmass Base Village. The best part? Skate rentals are free!
• Lewis Ice Arena (Aspen Recreation Center): A full sized NHL rink, perfect for casual skaters and hockey enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love It

• A classic winter activity with a festive atmosphere.
• Perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends.
• Easy to try, even if you’ve never skated before!

7. Relax and Rejuvenate at a Luxury Spa

After a day of exploring Aspen’s snowy landscapes, there’s nothing better than warming up and unwinding at a luxury spa. Among the many things to do in Aspen for non-skiers, a spa day offers the perfect way to relax and escape the winter chill. Aspen is home to some of the best spas in Colorado, offering hot stone massages, steam rooms, and rejuvenating winter treatments designed to help you recharge in total comfort.

Best Spas in Aspen

• Remède Spa at The St. Regis Aspen Resort: One of the most luxurious spas in Aspen, featuring a heated oxygen lounge, hot tubs, and customized massages.
• O2 Aspen Spa: A boutique yoga and wellness spa offering organic facials, deep tissue massages, and holistic treatments.
• The Little Nell Spa: A five star wellness retreat known for its detoxifying body wraps, deep muscle therapy, and steam rooms.

Why You’ll Love It

• The perfect way to relax after a busy day in the snow.
• Offers soothing treatments designed for cold weather recovery.
• A great activity for non-skiers looking for ultimate winter relaxation.

8. Discover Aspen’s Arts and Culture Scene

Skiing might be the main attraction in Aspen, but the town is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene that offers plenty of indoor entertainment for non-skiers. Whether you're an art enthusiast, music lover, or history buff, Aspen has a variety of museums, galleries, and live performances to explore during the winter months.

Best Arts and Culture Spots in Aspen

• Aspen Art Museum: A must visit for fans of contemporary art, featuring rotating exhibitions from internationally renowned artists. The museum's rooftop café offers stunning views of the snow covered mountains.
• Wheeler Opera House: This historic theater, dating back to the 1880s, hosts live music, comedy shows, and film screenings throughout the winter.
• Baldwin Gallery & Harvey Preston Gallery: Two of the best art galleries in Aspen, showcasing everything from modern sculptures to fine photography.

Why You’ll Love It

• A perfect indoor winter activity for art and history lovers.
• A chance to experience Aspen’s creative side beyond the slopes.
• Offers a mix of free exhibits, ticketed performances, and live entertainment.

9. Soak in Natural Hot Springs Near Aspen

Nothing beats the feeling of soaking in a steaming hot mineral pool while surrounded by snow covered peaks. Just a short drive from Aspen, several natural hot springs offer the ultimate winter relaxation experience for those looking to warm up after a cold day outdoors.

Best Hot Springs Near Aspen

• Iron Mountain Hot Springs (Glenwood Springs): A picturesque riverside retreat featuring 16 geothermal soaking pools with varying temperatures, plus a family friendly mineral pool.
• Glenwood Hot Springs Resort: Home to the largest mineral hot spring pool in the world, this historic resort offers healing waters and stunning mountain views.
• Penny Hot Springs: A hidden gem along the Crystal River, this natural, undeveloped hot spring is a great spot for a peaceful soak surrounded by nature.

Why You’ll Love It

• A must try winter activity for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Offers natural wellness benefits, including muscle relaxation and improved circulation.
• A great way to experience Aspen’s winter beauty without skiing.

10. Experience Après Ski Without the Skiing

Even if you’re not skiing, you can still enjoy Aspen’s legendary après ski scene. From mountain lodges with roaring fireplaces to trendy cocktail bars, Aspen offers plenty of ways to unwind with great food, drinks, and live music after a day in the snow.

Best Après Ski Spots for  non-skiers

• Ajax Tavern (The Little Nell): One of Aspen’s most iconic après ski spots, known for its truffle fries, craft cocktails, and lively atmosphere.
• Element 47 (The Little Nell): A luxurious après ski experience offering fine wines, gourmet bites, and cozy fireside seating.
• The Snow Lodge: A trendy live music venue and après ski hotspot, perfect for dancing, drinks, and socializing.

Why You’ll Love It

• A great way to experience Aspen’s social scene without hitting the slopes.
• Features live music, craft cocktails, and cozy winter vibes.
• Perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Aspen’s non-ski activities.

11. Dine at a Snowcat Only Mountain Restaurant

For a truly unique dining experience, book a reservation at one of Aspen’s snowcat accessible restaurants. These exclusive, high altitude dining spots are only accessible by snowcat rides, making for a memorable, scenic, and cozy winter evening.

Best Snowcat Dining Experiences in Aspen

• Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro: A legendary mountaintop restaurant known for its fondue, champagne showers, and breathtaking alpine views. This lively spot is a must visit for those looking for a one of a kind après ski party.
• Lynn Britt Cabin: A rustic yet elegant log cabin serving multi course gourmet dinners in an intimate, candlelit setting. The snowcat ride up adds to the magic of the evening.

Why You’ll Love It

• A once in a lifetime winter dining experience.
• Offers incredible mountain views and a cozy alpine atmosphere.
• Combines adventure, fine dining, and après ski fun.

12. Visit the Snowmass Ice Age Discovery Center

If you're interested in prehistoric history, the Snowmass Ice Age Discovery Center is a fascinating indoor attraction where you can learn about the ice age fossils discovered in the Snowmass area. It’s a great family friendly winter activity, especially for those looking to take a break from the cold.

What You’ll Find at the Discovery Center

• Fossils of Ice Age creatures, including mammoths, mastodons, and giant sloths.
• Interactive exhibits and educational displays about the prehistoric history of the region.
• Kid friendly activities, including fossil digs and hands on learning experiences.

Why You’ll Love It

• A fun and educational indoor activity perfect for winter days.
• Great for families, history lovers, and science enthusiasts.
• A unique way to learn about Aspen’s prehistoric past.

Enjoy Aspen’s Winter Wonderland Without Hitting the Slopes

Skiing might be the star attraction in Aspen, but it’s far from the only way to enjoy this world-class winter destination. In fact, there are plenty of things to do in Aspen for non-skiers. Aspen’s blend of outdoor adventure, luxury, culture, and relaxation makes it the perfect winter getaway for skiers and non-skiers alike. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a solo retreat, there are plenty of unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

If you’re ready to explore Aspen beyond the ski slopes, let Snowmass.com be your guide. Find top rated accommodations, must try activities, and insider tips to make the most of your winter escape.