While Aspen, Colorado, is famous for its skiing, it truly shines in the summer with its stunning natural beauty and a diverse array of activities suitable for all ages.

FUN FACT: Aspen was originally established as a silver mining camp during the Colorado Silver Boom in the late 19th century and named after the abundance of aspen trees in the area.

Here are some personal experiences and recommended activities to help you make the most of your visit.

Outdoor Adventures

As an outdoor enthusiast, I found summer in Aspen to be a paradise. The Rio Grande Trail is a must for anyone who enjoys cycling—it offers beautiful, easy routes for a leisurely ride, but also challenging paths for more intense mountain biking. Paragliding off Aspen Mountain was an unforgettable way to see the Elk Mountains from above (and I have a bad habit of jumping off mountains, but I digress). If you’re seeking a thrill, the hot air ballooning and whitewater rafting on the Roaring Fork River are exhilarating experiences that I highly recommend.

FUN FACT: Aspen was the third city in the United States to transition to 100% renewable energy in 2015. This initiative reflects the community’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation, aligning with its beautiful mountain setting and outdoor lifestyle.

Cultural Immersion

The cultural scene in Aspen blooms in the summer. I was particularly moved by the classical music performances at the Aspen Music Festival and School, a highlight from June through August that draws top-class musicians from around the world. Jazz Aspen Snowmass brings the town alive during the Labor Day Experience with vibrant performances. Another personal favorite is the Anderson Ranch Arts Center, where I spent a fascinating afternoon exploring art workshops and galleries.

Relaxation and Leisure

For those seeking relaxation, the ride up Aspen Mountain via the Silver Queen Gondola offers not only yoga and music once you reach the top, but also panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. On one quiet afternoon, I found solace at the John Denver Sanctuary—a perfect spot for meditation or a peaceful walk. The town itself is dotted with luxurious spas and quaint cafes, ideal for unwinding.

Family Activities

Aspen is incredibly family-friendly, with activities that can keep children entertained while educating them about the natural environment. The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies offers interactive nature walks​, while the Aspen Recreation Center provides indoor fun like ice-skating and swimming—perfect for cooling off in the middle of the day​​.

Dining and Shopping

Aspen’s dining scene matches the elegance of its landscapes. I indulged in a farm-to-table dinner at a high-end restaurant that offered a delicious meal and a feast for the senses with spectacular mountain views. The Aspen Saturday Market is a fun way to stock up on local produce and find locally-made crafts—I always make it a point to visit and pick up a few unique items.  There’s also the annual FOOD & WINE Classic in June, which attracts renowned chefs and wine experts for a grand tasting event, educational seminars, and demonstrations.

For Solo Travelers

Traveling solo can be an exhilarating and empowering experience, especially in a welcoming destination like Aspen. As a solo traveler, I found Aspen to be incredibly inviting. Engaging with local culture was easy at community events at the Aspen Art Museum and workshops at Anderson Ranch. I felt safe hiking the well-populated trails around Maroon Bells, and joining group tours for biking and hiking helped me connect with fellow travelers and locals. Here are some tips and activities that are great for solo travelers:

1. Engage with Local Culture and Events: Participate in community events at the Aspen Art Museum or attend workshops at the Anderson Ranch Arts Center. These venues often host solo travelers and provide a great opportunity to meet locals and other visitors​.
2. Outdoor Solo Activities: The myriad of trails, such as those at Maroon Bells, are perfect for solo hiking. Start early in the day to enjoy the tranquility and safety in numbers as more hikers are likely to be on the trails​​.
3. Relaxing Retreats: Visit the local spas for a day of pampering. Many of Aspen’s spas offer treatments that cater to rejuvenation and wellness, which can be a perfect solo activity to relax and refresh.
4. Join Group Tours: Opt for group outdoor activities like bike tours or guided hikes. These are not only safe but also a great way to meet other travelers. Companies such as Blazing Adventures or Aspen Outfitting Company provide group tours that maintain a safe and sociable environment​.

Local Tips

When planning your trip, consider the array of accommodations from luxury resorts to cozy cabins to enrich your stay. It’s advisable to book activities like the Maroon Bells shuttle in advance to ensure availability​​. Also, staying hydrated and prepared for altitude changes will make outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Keep up-to-date with local news and weather forecasts to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Aspen’s mountain weather can change rapidly, and being prepared will help you enjoy your activities safely.

Aspen is generally safe, but it’s wise to stay vigilant in the evenings like any tourist destination. Stick to well-lit areas and main streets if you’re out late and consider using taxis or rideshare services rather than walking alone at night.

By combining these activities, your trip to Aspen can be as dynamic or relaxed as you desire, offering a rich mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure that makes it a standout summer destination.

ITINERARY:

Here’s a four-day itinerary from my last trip, with some restaurant picks thrown in for good measure, to use as an idea starter for your visit:

Day 1: Discover Downtown Aspen and Local Culture

Morning:
Start your first day with breakfast at Poppycock’s Café, known for its oatmeal pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through downtown Aspen to explore the local shops and galleries.

Lunch:
Enjoy a light lunch at The Wild Fig, a European-style brasserie with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for refueling midday.

Afternoon:
Visit the Aspen Art Museum to immerse yourself in contemporary art. This free-admission museum offers innovative exhibitions and a rooftop sculpture garden with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Dinner:
Dine at Matsuhisa Aspen, a renowned spot for its exceptional sushi and Japanese cuisine, located right in the heart of downtown.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure and Panoramic Views

Morning:
Have breakfast at Element 47 in The Little Nell hotel, where you can enjoy a luxurious start with gourmet dishes and a view of Aspen Mountain. After breakfast, take the Silver Queen Gondola up Aspen Mountain for breathtaking views and morning yoga sessions offered at the summit.

Lunch:
Eat lunch at the Sundeck Restaurant atop Aspen Mountain, featuring American cuisine with a view that can’t be beaten.

Afternoon:
Spend the afternoon hiking the trails around the mountain or try your hand at disc golf on one of the highest official courses in the world.

Dinner:
Return to town and enjoy dinner at Steak House No. 316, an upscale steakhouse with a charming ambiance, perfect for relaxing after a day of activity. The wine selection is quite good here too.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

Morning:
Breakfast at Peach’s Corner Café, a hotspot for locals and visitors alike, known for its health-conscious dishes and good coffee (sensing a theme yet?). Post breakfast, head to the Anderson Ranch Arts Center to partake in a morning workshop or a gallery tour.

Lunch:
Lunch at Home Team BBQ for some comforting Southern-inspired barbecue, a casual place to relax and enjoy hearty food.  As someone who spends a lot of time in the Carolinas, I can attest that this is some darn good BBQ.

Afternoon:
Spend a relaxing afternoon at the John Denver Sanctuary, reflecting by the riverside. Optionally, book a spa treatment at one of Aspen’s luxurious spas, like the St. Regis Aspen Resort RAKxa Wellness Spa.  Try the “BallancerPro” to help you adjust to the altitude change, or get a day pass to enjoy the facilities without a spa service.

Dinner:
For dinner, try The White House Tavern, which offers delicious sandwiches and a vibrant atmosphere in a historic Aspen building.

Day 4: Natural Beauty and Family Fun

Morning:
Grab breakfast at Jour de Fête, a quaint French café known for its pastries and robust coffee. The cheddar & chive scone and blueberry Belgian waffles here cannot be beat (although the ginger scone is a close second, as are the omelets…oh gosh, its all so good!). Following breakfast, drive or take a shuttle to the Maroon Bells to explore the scenic trails early in the day when it’s less crowded.

Lunch:
Pack a picnic to enjoy by Maroon Lake, or return to Aspen and have lunch at Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop, where you can indulge in freshly made farm-to-table dishes.  The “Italian grinder sandwich” may be the best I’ve had outside of New York City’s Little Italy.

Afternoon:
Visit the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies for a guided nature walk to learn about local wildlife and ecology.

Dinner:
Conclude your trip with a memorable dinner at Cache Cache, a French bistro that offers a fine dining experience with an extensive wine list, perfect for a celebratory last night in Aspen.

Getting to Aspen and getting around once in town: Traveling from Denver Airport (DEN) to Aspen involves a few options depending on your preferences for speed, convenience, and budget:

By Air

1. Direct Flights
   The quickest way to get to Aspen from Denver Airport is by flying directly to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE). Several airlines offer flights from Denver to Aspen, which typically take about 1 hour.

By Road

2. Shuttle Services
   There are several shuttle services, such as Colorado Mountain Express (now part of Epic Mountain Express), which provide direct transportation from Denver Airport to Aspen. This is a convenient option as it doesn’t require you to drive and allows you to enjoy the scenic Rocky Mountain views.
3. Rental Car
   Renting a car from Denver Airport and driving to Aspen gives you flexibility, especially if you plan to explore other areas around Aspen during your stay. The drive takes approximately 4 hours via I-70 W and CO-82 E, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route offers stunning landscapes, particularly as you pass through Glenwood Canyon.
4. Bus (Public Transport)
   For a more economical option, take a bus from Denver to Glenwood Springs using services like Greyhound, and then transfer to a local RFTA bus to Aspen. This option is budget-friendly but takes longer and requires a transfer.

Getting Around Aspen: Once in Aspen, there are several convenient ways to navigate the town and its surroundings:

1. Public Transportation
   Aspen’s public transportation system, operated by Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA), is robust and free within Aspen and Snowmass Village. It’s highly effective for getting around and connects you to various ski resorts and downtown areas.
2. Biking and Walking
   Aspen is a very walkable town, and there are plenty of bike trails. Renting a bike or simply walking can be a pleasant way to explore the area, especially during the summer.
3. Rental Cars
   If you prefer to drive yourself, there are rental car facilities in Aspen and at the Aspen Airport. This might be a good option if you plan to visit sites outside Aspen, such as Maroon Bells or other parts of the Roaring Fork Valley.
4. Taxis and Rideshare
   Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in Aspen. These can be convenient for quick trips around town or when public transportation schedules are less frequent.

Each of these options offers a different mix of convenience, price, and flexibility, so you can choose based on your priorities and travel style.

Wishing you a fantastic adventure in Aspen!