Summer in Aspen Colorado
Summer in Aspen
As the days become longer, Aspen Snowmass’ four mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass and the surrounding peaks and valleys are transformed from snowbound slopes to wildflower-dotted settings for biking, hiking, trail running, horseback riding, on-mountain sunset dinners and more! In the summer, historic downtown Aspen hosts a stacked gamut of internationally acclaimed classical and contemporary summer concerts and festivals. Aspen’s charming cobblestone streets provide the perfect venue for al fresco dining and idyllic window-shopping. Those seeking outdoor adventurers will find that basing their summer vacation out of Aspen provides unrivaled accessibility to some of Colorado’s most legendary vistas and trails.
Popular Aspen summer activities
ASPEN HIKING
In Aspen, hikers can choose from trails convenient to the downtown area, atop Independence Pass and along Castle and Maroon Creek roads, which feature views of iconic 14,000-foot peaks (14ers). One of the post popular—and most photographed—14ers are the Maroon Bells. Hikers can enjoy gentle, lakeside hikes at the base of the Bells or high-alpine overnight summits that provide unique views of these gorgeous peaks. In the summer, it’s even possible to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte. Aspen and Crested Butte are only about 12 miles apart, but steep peaks, wilderness land and winter road conditions put winter travel time between the two historic towns at about 4.5 hours. When the snow melts and the days warm up, thousands of hikers make the six-hour, 12-mile journey on foot over breathtaking mountain passes and through fields of wildflowers.
ASPEN BIKING
A town steeped in all types of biking culture, Aspen has a gamut of trails, routes and rides for every level and stripe of biker. Those who want enjoy Aspen atop a trusty cruiser bike, check out the local scenery and take some pictures will enjoy a guided 12-mile downhill cruiser ride from the famous 14,000-foot Maroon Bells through the Maroon Creek Valley. Road cyclists can make their way to Aspen’s legendary places of interest like the Maroon Bells, Independence Pass or Ashcroft Ghost Town. Mountain bikers can even start pedaling right from downtown Aspen to access the vast Hunter Creek trail system, Buttermilk’s Tiehack trails, or explore Snowmass Bike Park. Beginner to expert mountain bikers can enjoy guided single-track mountain biking in Aspen, which includes tips and tricks from the pros to help you improve your technique.
ASPEN HORSEBACK RIDING
Horseback riding in Aspen provides the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful corner of the Elk Mountains at a more idyllic pace. Atop your four-legged trail steed you can take in each wildflower, enjoy the sounds of a babbling creek and marvel at Aspen’s famous 14er peaks.
ASPEN JEEP TOURS
Sit back and enjoy a fun-filled, scenic ride on one of Aspen’s guided jeep tours. Excursions range from full-day trips deep into the backcountry to half-day trips and on-resort dinner tours. During the ride, knowledgeable guides explain local history and point out flora and fauna.
ASPEN STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING (SUP)
Stand up paddleboard the Colorado River through picturesque Glenwood Canyon in a morning half-day guided tour. Not only is SUPing a fun way to experience the river, but it’s also awesome exercise! During the tour you’ll learn balancing, paddling, maneuvering and safety techniques in gentle class I and II waters.
Getting to Aspen
Getting to Aspen is easy. Located in the beautiful Roaring Fork Valley in west-central Colorado there are many options on how to get to your Aspen Vacation.
Flying
Fly directly into the Aspen airport (ASE) for the greatest of convenience . Or fly in and hop in a rental car or shuttle from Grand Junction airport, Eagle County airport or Denver International Airport.
Travel by car
Getting to Aspen by car is simple via Interstate 70 and Highway 82. Aproximately 1 hour 30 min from Eagle, 2 hours and 10 min from Grand Junction and 4 hours from Denver International.
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