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Your Aspen Vacation

Book an Aspen vacation package that has only the things you need and nothing you don't. Good for bars and pubs, walking and dining, consider basing yourself in the neighborhood of Downtown Aspen. Any trip to Aspen needs a well-designed itinerary. Fill yours with leading attractions like Aspen Highlands , Buttermilk Mountain and The John Denver Sanctuary . Expedia has what you need to escape the everyday. Tailor your vacation to Aspen to match your travel style, whatever that may be!

The Latest Aspen Vacation Packages

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Where to stay in Aspen

Downtown Aspen

If you're spending some time in Downtown Aspen, Wheeler Opera House and Wagner Park are top sights worth seeing.

If you're spending some time in West End, Castle Creek Road and Wheeler Stallard House Museum are top sights worth seeing.

If you're spending some time in East Aspen, Roaring Fork River and Aspen Mountain are top sights worth seeing.

Red Mountain

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Red Mountain and surrounding area, you can visit Aspen Art Museum and Roaring Fork River.

Brush Creek Village

When in Brush Creek Village, you can plan a visit to Maroon Lake Scenic Trail and Snowmass Club, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in aspen, aspen mountain.

At the heart of Colorado's skiing district lies a maze of challenging runs, many of which double as summer hiking trails.

Maroon Bells

Explore the great outdoors at Maroon Bells and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Aspen. You can seek out the ski slopes and hiking trails in this quaint area.

Aspen Highlands

Famous powder bowls, slopes with views of spectacular wilderness and steep runs that challenge even veteran skiers make this spot a local favorite.

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Now's the Time to Defy Ordinary

Plan Your Stay

Finding the perfect place to stay for your vacation is easy. From cozy backcountry huts to luxurious resorts and everything in between, you’ll be sure to find a place that’s perfect for your vacation needs.

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How To Aspen

Find information on how to get around, when to visit, and everything outdoors. It’s all here to make Extraordinary easy to plan.

Make transportation a seamless part of your Aspen trip.

A few pointers on how to make the most of Aspen, year around.

How to enjoy the natural beauty that defines an Aspen vacation.

Aspen Itineraries

Below are some sample itineraries to inspire and guide on your Aspen vacation! Pick and choose activities from the samples and create the perfect itinerary for your stay that will defy ordinary. 

Aspen Vacation Ideas

Outdoor pursuits, scenic beauty, and an impressive cultural calendar are just the tip of what makes Aspen so special. Browse our itineraries to discover how to make your trip perfect.

24 HOURS IN ASPEN

If you only have one day to spend in Aspen, use this list to check off the "must-do" activities. We hope you have much more time to spend here and can spread these exciting experiences out over the course of your vacation.

FREE OR NEARLY FREE

Yes, it's possible to be mindful of your budget while visiting Aspen. Here is a list of activities that cost nothing, or close to it. The best things in life are free, aren't they?

MUSIC MANIAC

Into classical? Jazz? How about some rock? You can't get away from music during the summer in Aspen even if you wanted to. Our streets are literally filled with musicians. Check out this music filled itinerary.

HISTORY BUFF

One of the biggest differences that sets Aspen apart from many mountain resorts is its rich history. Want to know a bit about the mining days? Or the wild west? Or how World War II was influential in making Aspen, Aspen? Follow these tips to find out!

Adventure Seeker

While vacationing in Aspen, treat yourself to some truffle fries after a thrilling day of adrenaline-fueled activities. 

Aspen Mountain Gondola

Independence Pass

Aspen Saturday Market

John Denver Sanctuary

Scenic Drives

Fall Foliage

Adventure Dining

Take advantage of insights from Aspen's locals.

Where all of your Aspen questions will be answered.

ASPEN PLEDGE

WHETHER ASPEN IS MY HOME SWEET HOME, OR MY HOME AWAY FROM HOME:

I WILL EXPLORE RESPONSIBLY.

I WILL PREPARE FOR ANY EXPERIENCE. 

I WILL FIND ADVENTURE, BUT NOT VENTURE OFF THE MARKED TRAILS. 

I WILL CARVE THE SNOW AND NOT THE TREES.

I WILL GET LOST IN MY THOUGHTS, BUT NOT IN THE WOODS. 

I WILL REMAIN IN ONE PIECE BY LEAVING THE WILDLIFE IN PEACE. 

I WILL GO SIGHTSEEING WHILE LEAVING THE SITES WORTH SEEING. 

I WILL TRAVEL BY FOOT, BIKE, OR BUS WHEN I CAN, AND DRIVE CAREFULLY WHEN I CANNOT. 

I WILL HONOR THE HISTORY AND HERITAGE OF THOSE WHO WERE HERE BEFORE ME AND PRESERVE THE LAND FOR THOSE WHO COME AFTER ME. 

I WILL ACCEPT OUR DIFFERENCES AND CELEBRATE OUR DIVERSITY. 

I WILL BE KIND TO COMMUNITY MEMBERS OF EVERY KIND. 

I PLEDGE TO TAKE CARE OF THIS LITTLE PLACE CALLED ASPEN. 

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Ski the "Power of Four" this winter

Experience aspen's top summer activities, plan your aspen vacation with us.

Whether you want to schuss at one of Aspen Snowmass’ “Power of Four” mountains or experience world-class hiking, biking and outdoor concerts in the summer, Aspen provides some of North America’s best year-round mountain adventures, activities and experiences. Situated at the headwaters of the Roaring Fork River and beneath a collection of Colorado’s highest peaks, Aspen provides unforgettable views throughout the calendar year. In the summer months, Aspen’s famed snow-capped 14,000-foot peaks (14ers) transition to colorful wildflower fields. In the autumn, electric aspen leaves attract leaf peepers and photographers from around the globe. No matter your seasonal preference, you can expect a mountain retreat that you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Book your complete Aspen trip in one place

Aspen Travel is a division of Ski.com dedicated to customizing complete vacation packages to one of North America's top mountain destinations. Offering a vast selection of Aspen accommodations, Aspen Travel is an industry-leading source for planning your Aspen trip—anytime of year. We can customize an Aspen vacation package that can include lodging (hotel, condo or private home), lift tickets, flights, ground transportation, activities and ski, snowboard equipment rental and lessons in the winter and biking equipment rental in the summer.

If you want to enjoy an unforgettable ski vacation, a refreshing summer escape or a leaf-peeping retreat to Aspen, our knowledgeable Aspen Travel Specialists can help plan your trip from start to finish!

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18 Best Things To Do in Aspen

Updated Jan. 11, 2023

If there's one thing Aspen's known for, it's skiing. This tiny mountain town is surrounded by four monumental ski areas: Aspen Mountain , Aspen Highlands , Buttermilk (a favorite among beginners) and the ever-popular Snowmass Ski Resort .

• All Things To Do

Maroon Bells Maroon Bells

Rising more than 14,000 feet, these twin peaks are a favorite spot for hikers and wildlife-watchers, boasting beautiful vistas and breathtaking scenery. In fact, Maroon Bells' jagged peaks and multicolored slopes make it one of the most photographed sites in North America. The surrounding area features numerous trails and campsites, granting you a variety of viewing points from which you can capture the perfect shot. It's also a popular spot on some of the best Colorado snowmobile tours . One of the standout hikes is the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. The easy 1.9-mile loop hike features incredible views and is exceptionally popular.  

Whether you choose to head toward the summit or to lazily stroll around the beaver-laden Maroon Lake, this is sure to be one of the highlights of your Aspen trip. Recent travelers praise the uninterrupted beauty of this area, calling the Maroon Bells "stunning," "awe-inspiring" and "one of the loveliest places on earth." Some say it's the perfect place for a day of hiking and a picnic lunch. Past hikers recommended getting to the mountains early (before 7 a.m.) as the area gets crowded as the day progresses.

Independence Pass Independence Pass free

If there's one reason to rent a car in Aspen, it's to take the 20-mile drive through Independence Pass. This scenic road is one of the highest in North America, meandering along the Continental Divide at a whopping 12,095 feet above sea level. Get ready to feel like a daredevil as you navigate tight turns along towering cliffs and through thick forests. When you're ready to stretch your legs, a paved hiking trail (the Independence Pass Scenic Trail) leads to a sightseeing platform where far-reaching views of the Continental Divide are sure to make your jaw drop.

Those who cruised through Independence Pass say the scenery is truly breathtaking, adding that there are spots along the way to stop for a picnic and snap photos. Although travelers agree that a drive down Independence Pass is a must, they also advise that you proceed with caution because of the daunting nature of the narrow, winding road. (Some go as far to say if you are prone to carsickness or fear heights, this is not a trip for you.) 

Snowmass Snowmass

Aspen's largest and most popular ski area is the ultimate destination for winter sports enthusiasts (and one of the top Colorado ski resorts ). Comprising 3,342 acres of skiable terrain, this massive complex features nearly 100 trails, 20 lifts and a charming village with a variety of shops and restaurants. Roughly half of the trails here are designed for intermediate-level skiers, but more advanced powder hounds will find plenty of challenging stretches of snow to try. Snowboarders should also note that Snowmass has one of the best snowboarding schools in the United States.

Previous visitors raved about the ski area and the variety of its terrain, noting that there are runs for all types of skiers and that the lift lines and trails were not terribly crowded. But when it comes to shopping and dining options, some travelers were disappointed by Snowmass Village.

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Aspen Mountain Aspen Mountain

It's this mountain – first opened to skiers in 1947– that put Aspen on the map. And with spectacular summit views and slopes that will make even the most advanced skier's heart race, it's no wonder why Aspen Mountain remains a favorite spot for winter sports-lovers and is considered one of Colorado's top ski resorts . "Ajax," as it's sometimes called, features approximately 675 skiable acres with 64 miles of runs (complete with a variety of bumps and steeps); you can also make your own tracks along the Aspen Mountain Powder Tour's backcountry terrain. When you're ready to call it a day, you can satisfy your appetite at one of the nearby restaurants or bars.

When they compare it to Aspen's other ski areas, visitors and locals say that Aspen's veteran mountain is the best. However, novice skiers beware: Travelers warn this is not a mountain for beginners. They say it's made for intermediate to expert skiers and snowboarders, due to the challenging nature of most of the terrain. Skiers say they appreciate the variety of trails, from groomed blues to powdery black diamonds to expert-only double black diamonds.

T-Lazy-7 Ranch T-Lazy-7 Ranch

Whether you need a break from the slopes or a fun summer activity, T-Lazy-7 Ranch has you covered. Nestled in the Maroon Creek Valley just 2 miles south of Aspen Highlands , the ranch is considered the gateway to exploring the Maroon Bells . For more than 80 years, T-Lazy-7 Ranch has been owned and operated by the Deane family. Today, visitors to the ranch can explore the area on horseback or snowmobile, or participate in activities like fly-fishing. Visitors can also purchase provisions, such as eggs, honey and wagyu beef, from the on-site farm store.

There are a variety of horseback rides to choose from, ranging in length from one hour to a full day. If you're inexperienced with horses or looking for a leisurely ride, heed the advice of past visitors and consider the hourlong trek instead of the longer, 90-minute or half-day excursions. Reviewers said the trail terrain is rocky and may not be suitable for the faint of heart. Snowmobile tours are also well-reviewed (and among the best in Colorado ). Recent travelers noted that along with enjoying the views and learning how to operate a snowmobile, you will hear some local history from tour guides.

Silver Queen Gondola Silver Queen Gondola

The Silver Queen Gondola travels 2.5 miles from the heart of Aspen to the 11,000-foot-high summit of Aspen Mountain. A sundeck and eatery greets visitors at the top of the mountain and makes for a great spot to relax, grab a drink or a bite to eat, and take photos of the surrounding landscape. If you're visiting in the summer months, there are plenty of opportunities to hike, dine and even enjoy some live music. In the winter, you can access more than 75 trails from the top of the gondola. If you're not much of a skier, you can also embark on snowshoe trails on Richmond Ridge with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies , who offer daily tours.

Despite the promise of a fantastic view, some travelers say that gondola tickets are as steep as the incline. (You can save some coin by purchasing your tickets in advance.) Even though the prices are high, travelers agree that a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola is a must for visitors to Aspen, citing the fantastic views and the enjoyable journey up the mountain.

Crater Lake Trail Crater Lake Trail free

Crater Lake Trail is one of several spectacular hikes within Maroon Bells Scenic Area. The 3.5 mile out-and-back trail, which starts at the Maroon Lake parking area, is considered moderately challenging. Arrive around sunrise if you want a quiet experience, as this is one of the area’s most popular trails. The trail it is best hiked from June through October (the county will close the road in November based on snow conditions). Once the road is closed, visitors can walk, bike, cross-country ski or snowmobile from T-Lazy-7 Ranch.

Recent visitors crowed about the incredible views on Crater Lake Trail. Several noted the significant rocky portions, but all said the trek is worthwhile. Bring enough water, and be sure to seek the required permit and reservation early if you're accessing it by car.

Buttermilk Buttermilk

With 21 miles of open, stress-free trails, Buttermilk – one of the top Colorado ski resorts – is the perfect spot to try your first run or to teach your kids to ski. According to visitors, all the beginner trails are groomed and the runs are wide, so there's plenty of room for skiers to maneuver. What's more, they say it never feels crowded. You can also sign up for private ski and snowboard lessons if you need some guidance. Recent visitors described the instructors as friendly, positive and helpful. Reviewers also praised the Cliffhouse restaurant at the top of the mountain, with some saying the views from the top are among the best in Colorado.

Beginner-friendly slopes aside, this mountain also offers trails for intermediate and expert skiers and is known for its 22-foot superpipe and X Games-inspired course. Buttermilk's expansive terrain parks include 470 skiable acres. Though there are no mountain operations at Buttermilk in the summer, visitors can still access it to make use of the hiking trails.

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Aspen Highlands Aspen Highlands

Aspen Highlands is known as the preferred ski area among Aspen locals (it's also one of the top Colorado ski resorts ). If you're looking for a challenge, this is the ski area for you: more than half of the trails here were carved with advanced and expert skiers in mind, with plenty of double black diamond runs offering stomach-dropping descents.

Skiers love the local feel of this mountain and say it's a bonus that it's rarely crowded. Travelers note the majority of terrain is definitely geared toward advanced skiers who know how to handle steep pitches and deep powder. When it comes to mealtime, previous visitors strongly recommend dining at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, which offers breathtaking views of the Maroon Bells .

Aspen Whitewater Rafting Aspen Whitewater Rafting

For summer adventure, it’s hard to beat a whitewater rafting trip on the Roaring Fork River. The river is aptly named, sporting intense rapids in the south (Class V) that gradually decrease down to Class II as the river flows north. The portion of the river nearest Aspen has some of the most intense rapids.

The river has many sections, including three that are especially popular with whitewater rafters. The wildest section of Roaring Fork is Slaughterhouse, which is rated Class IV to V and reserved for experienced rafters. For the adventurous traveler seeking scenic views, Woody Creek and Toothache offer mid-rated rapids (Class III to IV).  Cemetery is the mildest section, rated Class II to III. These rapids are more family-friendly and promise equally beautiful views.  

Aspen Brewing Company Aspen Brewing Company

Aiming to bring the craft beer scene to Aspen, Aspen Brewing Company was founded in 2008 and has been brewing and serving up beers ever since. The brewery offers a wide variety of beer, ranging from blonde and red ales to stouts and pilsners to seasonal brews. With seating indoors and on an adjacent patio, Aspen Brewing Company's tap room encourages visitors to grab a pint and #DrinkInTheView.

Travelers praise this brewery, citing the friendly and entertaining staff members, the tasty brews and the relaxed atmosphere as prime reasons to return. Some recent visitors noted mediocre service, potentially due to staffing shortages.

Glenwood Springs Glenwood Springs free

While you'll have no trouble finding ways to fill your time in Aspen proper, you would be remiss if you visited the Roaring Fork Valley and didn't make a stop in Glenwood Springs – one of the top things to do in Colorado . Sitting about 40 miles northwest of Aspen along Route 82 – near the junction of Interstate 70 – Glenwood Springs offers just as many spots to hike as its more popular neighbor, not to mention fishing and whitewater rafting opportunities. The town is also home to an intricate collection of caverns that are worth exploring

But it's not caves and trails that earn Glenwood Springs a favorable reputation among travelers in-the-know – it's the town's legendary hot springs. Known as the Yampah Hot Springs by nomadic regional Native American tribes (such as the Ute), the Hot Springs Pool has been used by Indigenous Americans for centuries; and the bubbling pools have catered to such legendary clientele as President Theodore Roosevelt, the "unsinkable" Molly Brown and the notorious Al Capone. Recent swimmers mentioned that a visit to the pools can be pricey (adult rates range from $29 to $42, depending on the season). However, the admission fee allows you to stay and soak for as long as you'd like. Travelers say a soak in the hot springs is quite relaxing and rejuvenating after a few days of skiing; some previous travelers also recommended visiting during the evening for a less crowded experience.

Ashcroft Ghost Town Ashcroft Ghost Town

Ghosts may not be real, but ghost towns sure are. Ashcroft, a town about 10 miles south of Aspen, was settled in 1880 by silver prospectors. The town thundered into existence with a Miner's Protective Association, courthouse and street grid – all in two weeks. Three years later, the town was home to about 2,000 residents; bigger than Aspen, Ashcroft was a testament to its productive silver mines. Those deposits were soon depleted and rail links failed to materialize. By 1885, there were only 100 summer residents and the town was nearly bankrupt. Its fortunes rose and fell again in the early 20th century, and thanks to an interested owner, the town was protected and ecologically restored. Today, it is managed by the Aspen Historical Society.

Travelers who visit the site today can take self-guided tours of Ashcroft Ghost Town, which includes an old saloon, a hotel and a post office. Recent visitors enjoyed this short trip, with many noting that the scenic drive to it is as memorable as the visit. There are only a handful of buildings, but there are also nearby trails and scenic spots for photographs and picnics.

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Aspen Center for Environmental Studies Aspen Center for Environmental Studies free

Sitting just north of Main Street on Hallam Lake, this research center and 25-acre wildlife sanctuary works to educate visitors about Aspen's natural surroundings while preserving local flora and fauna. While here, you can attend wildlife workshops, tag along on a winter snowshoe walk and even come face-to-face with America's favorite bird, the bald eagle. Borrow the center's binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, foxes, coyotes, bears, beavers and hawks. If you're visiting with children, consider signing them up for one of the kid-friendly arts and crafts classes or nature hikes. Little ones may also be fascinated by the indoor animal exhibits, which feature bearded dragons, salamanders and cockroaches, among other creatures.

Fellow nature lovers say that the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies is the place to go to get to know this town's wilder side, and many visitors are quick to praise the facility for its environmental protection efforts. 

John Denver Sanctuary John Denver Sanctuary free

Anyone who's a fan of John Denver's music knows that the famous singer-songwriter was a big fan of Aspen; he immortalized the town's beauty and character in several of his songs, including his famous "Aspenglow." The town decided to pay tribute to its favorite musician (who died in 1997) with the John Denver Sanctuary, a memorial nestled near the Aspen Art Museum in Rio Grande Park along the Roaring Fork River. The memorial is composed of several stone slabs bearing the musician's name and some of his lyrics.

Past travelers strongly recommend a visit, even if you're not a diehard Denver fan, noting the area's beautiful flower garden and the impressive inscribed river boulders. Others said it's a great picnic spot.

Aspen Art Museum Aspen Art Museum free

There is a myriad of cultural attractions in Aspen, and for contemporary art buffs, the Aspen Art Museum is worth a visit. Instead of a permanent collection, the museum focuses on displaying exhibitions across its six galleries. Several exhibits run concurrently; sometimes relating to Colorado and its natural beauty. The Aspen Art Museum also boasts a rooftop cafe, which occasionally features free musical events, as well as regular workshops indoors.

Heed the advice from past travelers and check how many exhibitions are running before you go. Some recent visitors noted empty galleries and polarizing exhibits. However, many appreciated the museum’s distinctive architecture, which was designed by Shigeru Ban. Of particular note was the museum rooftop, which offers unobstructed views of Aspen Mountain .

Wheeler Opera House Wheeler Opera House

Constructed in 1889 by business tycoon Jerome Wheeler, this opera house has been a major source of entertainment in the Roaring Fork Valley for more than a century. Today, this performance venue remains an Aspen gem, featuring an eclectic blend of Victorian-era architectural styles, beautiful decor and a stunning electric chandelier (Aspen was the first town west of the Continental Divide to be wired for electricity).

The theater still hosts regular events ranging from concerts to film screenings to plays, and according to recent travelers, you shouldn't turn down the chance to catch a show here. Visitors love the small, intimate theater and say that it makes for a cozy atmosphere with great acoustics.

North Star Nature Preserve North Star Nature Preserve free

Located in the White River National Forest, North Start Nature Preserve is a 175-acre conservation area that encompasses the Roaring Fork River, wetlands and many species of wildlife. A series of walking trails mean visitors might encounter moose, birds or beavers. Those wishing to stand-up paddleboard, canoe or kayak can do so on the river. During the winter, there is Nordic skiing along the 1.62-mile North Star Loop trail.

Visitors say that the trails and river are lovely during the summer. One traveler noted that this is an excellent birding spot, and that diverse species are viewable. It is important to be aware of moose, and to maintain a safe distance if they are spotted; moose can react aggressively when threatened.

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14 Best Things to Do in Aspen, Colorado (+ Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 3, 2023

Planning a trip to the Colorado mountains and wondering what to see and do in Aspen? In this guide, we cover all the top places to see in Aspen. Find out!

Aspen, CO, is one of the most famous mountain resorts in the USA. With a stunning location surrounded by some of the most beautiful sceneries in the Colorado Rocky Mountains, Aspen has a lot to offer to outdoor enthusiasts in summer and in winter.

But what are the best things to do in Aspen and what are the nicest places to see nearby ? In this guide, we feature all the top things to do in and near Aspen. Some of the activities are seasonal, while the others can be done the whole year.

But no matter when you visit Aspen – in summer or in winter – there’s plenty of nice things to do in town and nearby. For each place/ activity mentioned in this guide, we also include some practical tips for your visit. In addition – at the end of the article – you can find our recommendations on where to stay and how to get to Aspen and getting around. Find out!

In order to help you get a better idea of where everything is located, we also created a map indicating all the best things to do in Aspen . This way, you can get a better idea of where everything is and plan accordingly.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the very best things to do in Aspen :

1. Maroon Bells

Maroon Bells are the incredibly picturesque mountains about 10 miles southwest of Aspen. If you are visiting Aspen in summer, this is the absolute must, number 1 place to see in the area!

Maroon Bells are said to be the most photographed mountains in the USA. I’m not sure if it’s true, but the landscape here is indeed picture-perfect! The mountains and their stunning reflections on the lake turn the scenery into a real-life painting.

The good thing about visiting Maroon Bells is that it’s easily accessible to everyone. You don’t need to hike in order to see the best scenery; the nicest views can be found just a short walk from the car parking area. In addition, you can also explore the area along the scenic lakeside trail and there are other nice hikes in the area (see also information about Crater Lake further below).

Good to know: The road to Maroon Bells is only open in summer, from approximately mid-May to early October. September is an exceptionally beautiful time to visit because of the colorful fall foliage of the aspen trees around the lake!

TIP: Visit Maroon Bells early in the morning. That’s when reflections are at their best and there is a bigger chance to see wildlife in the area. Furthermore, in high season, the road gets closed to private vehicles from 8 AM to 5 PM. So if you don’t want to take a shuttle, be sure to get there well before that. For more information and tips, please see our detailed article via the link below.

LEARN MORE:  Complete Guide to Visiting Maroon Bells

2. Silver Queen Gondola

Silver Queen Gondola is one of the must-do things in Aspen! It gives you easy access to the top of Aspen Mountain straight from the town center and offers some of the best mountain scenery in the area. In about 15 minutes, you reach Sundeck at 11,200 feet (3,414 m). The views from the top are incredible!

In winter, this is one of the prime skiing areas around Aspen. But you don’t have to go skiing in order to take a gondola up the mountain and enjoy the views. In summer, you can simply admire the scenery from the gondola and at the top, or you can also go hiking in the area.

Sundeck Restaurant on top of the mountain is a great place for lunch with amazing views all around you!

Good to know: Silver Queen Gondola is a family-friendly activity. Dogs are allowed as well. In summer, it runs daily from mid-June to Labor Day. In September and the first week of October, it also runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The winter season is between the end of November and mid-April.

TIP: If you are visiting the area in the summer, you can opt for a ‘Sightseeing Package’. It costs just a bit more than a single ticket but includes gondola and chairlift rides in the area for 3 days. It also gives lots of additional benefits and discounts. Well worth it! For more practical information, opening times, and ticket options, please check the official website .

3. Explore the Town

Aspen town isn’t big, but it has a really nice atmosphere and some beautiful Victorian homes. It’s well worth taking your time to take a walk around and explore it a bit deeper!

The origins of Aspen date back to the end of the 19th century when it was a booming silver mining town. After the 1893 silver crash, Aspen experienced a few rough decades and most of its inhabitants left. The revival came after WWII when skiing became popular and Aspen became the famous mountain resort that we know today.

There are many ways to explore Aspen. You can simply go for a walk, rent a bike, join one of the town tours (a great way to learn more about Aspen’s history), or go for a horse and carriage ride (in winter – horse and sleigh ride).

If you are looking for something a bit more special, consider Aspen’s DarkSide Ghost tour . It’s a great and fun way to learn more about the history of Aspen, based on some true stories of its residents.

4. Hiking & Summer Outdoor Activities

Also in summer, there are always so many great outdoor activities in and near Aspen! If you are only here for a day or two, you’re not going to have much time for all of them. But if you are staying in Aspen for a longer vacation, there’s plenty to keep you and your family busy for days!

If visiting between June and September, you should definitely go hiking in the nearby mountains! There are plenty of hiking trails near Aspen of various durations and difficulty levels.

You can also go biking , mountain-biking , or visit Lost Forest . Lost Forest is located at Elk Camp in Snowmass and is like a destination in itself. It offers a big variety of adventurous outdoor activities including ropes challenges, an alpine coaster, biking trails, a climbing wall, fishing ponds, and trails for hiking. It’s a great place to visit in Aspen with kids or teens!

5. Skiing & Winter Fun

Aspen is best known as a winter resort. In winter, the main reason to visit and the absolute best thing to do in Aspen is skiing .

The Aspen Snowmass skiing area has 4 mountains, 41 lifts, and 362 skiing trails. The four major skiing areas in the area are Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and – a bit further away – Snowmass. The good thing is that the same ticket is valid in the entire region, so you can hit different slopes every day. However, different ski areas are not connected to each other.

In addition to skiing, there is also cross-country skiing , ice skating , snowshoeing , snowbiking , and tubing . You can also go for a thrilling ride on the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster . Dog sledding is also available.

There’s so much to do that you can easily spend a week or two in Aspen in winter and never get bored. A perfect destination for your winter holidays!

6. Crater Lake

Crater Lake is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes near Aspen. It’s located just near the famous Maroon Bells and requires some hiking to get to. If you do just one hike in the area, make it this one!

While not as popular as Maroon Bells, Crater Lake is very picturesque as well. If you are lucky and there’s not much wind, you can see beautiful reflections on this lake as well. Just as the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park , this area also offers easy access to some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in Colorado!

The area around Maroon Bells and Crater Lake also has a big variety of wildlife. If you visit during the quieter times, you are likely to spot moose. Beware that this is also bear country. However, if you are visiting during the day in summer, it’s usually so busy that your chances of running into a bear are extremely slim.

Practical info: Crater Lake hike is a moderate hike of about 1.9 miles, 1 hour each way. So about 3.8 miles, 2 hours to hike there and back. For the best weather, reflections, and little crowds, come here very early in the morning. Afternoon storms are common here in summer! For more information and tips, please refer to our guide to Maroon Bells and Crater Lake Trail .

7. Independence Pass

Independence Pass on Hwy 82 between Leadville and Aspen is one of the most scenic mountain roads in the U.S. It passes the Continental Divide at 12,095 ft (3,686 m) above sea level and offers stunning views. First opened in 1881, this road was originally known as Hunter Pass. Later it was named after the nearby gold mining settlement called Independence.

Aspen’s increased popularity meant more visitors, many of whom were uncomfortable using an unpaved twisting mountain road. So it was paved in 1967. But because of this altitude, Independence Pass is usually closed between the end of October and May.

If you are visiting Aspen in summer, driving this road is a must! If you are driving to Aspen by car from Denver, you can simply opt for this route on your way there. It’s the shortest and the most scenic ride and takes about 3-4 hours from Denver in total. The Independence Pass road itself is about 32 miles and takes about 1 hour without the stops.

However, there are several viewpoints along the way, so definitely take your time to stop and enjoy the scenery!

It’s also possible to drive Independence Pass by bike. We met many motorcyclists as well. On a nice sunny day in summer, the road can get quite busy, so count that in if you are just passing by.

Good to know: While it’s a steep mountain road with many twists, turns, and very few guardrails, Independence Pass is not a dangerous road. Being used to driving European mountain passes (especially the ones in the Italian Dolomites), to us, this road didn’t look dangerous or intimidating at all.

8. Grottos Trail

Grottos Trail is one of the nicest stops when driving from Independence Pass to Aspen. It’s located along the road, about 9 miles southeast of Aspen town and you can also just come here even if you are not driving to Independence Pass.

Grottos Trail is an easy short forest hike that leads you to cascades/ waterfalls and ice caves . It’s about 0.5 miles to Grottos rocks and you can make a loop on your way back. All in all, it’s a relatively flat albeit uneven walk of about 1 mile in total. You can visit in half an hour or spend a few hours here.

The rocks here are hundreds of millions of years old and were formed and sculptured by the moving glaciers. It’s a very unique scenery with plenty of nice photo opportunities. In addition, you can climb down inside an ice cave. However, when we visited mid-July, the ice cave was muddy and very wet and it was very difficult to access. We didn’t go in. Be careful if you decide to go down!

TIP: The parking area is small and fills up quickly. So it’s best to come early in the morning or later in the afternoon. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common. It was raining when we arrived here, but it cleared up a few minutes later. So be prepared for quickly-changing weather, especially during summer afternoons.

Good to know: Picnic tables are available at several places along the walk and there are also bathroom facilities at the car parking. It’s best to wear sturdy walking shoes for exploring the area. While the main trail is a bit uneven, there’s also a wheelchair-friendly walk next to the river that leads to a view over the cascades.

9. Aspen Art Museum

If you are looking for something different to do in Aspen than outdoors, then pay a visit to Aspen Art Museum . It’s also something nice to do in Aspen when it rains or snows.

This contemporary art museum is housed in a very unique building. It’s a real architectural masterpiece and it’s worth coming here just for its architecture!

Every floor features works by different artists. It’s all very creatively presented and there are many interactive exhibits, movies, etc.

TIP: On the top floor, in addition to the sculpture exhibition, there’s also a nice café. In summer, when the weather is nice, it becomes an outdoor space offering stunning views of the surroundings . Food here is delicious as well!

Practical information: Aspen Art Museum is open daily, except on Mondays, from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission is FREE of charge. For more information and info on current exhibitions and upcoming events, please check their website .

10. Ashcroft Ghost Town

One of the most interesting places to visit in Aspen is Ashcroft Ghost Town . Located about 12 miles south of Aspen town, this is an old silver mining town that’s been turned into a sort of open-air museum.

Ashcroft was established in the 1880s and quickly became bigger than Aspen. In its glory days, it had a population of about 2,000, a school, sawmills, a courthouse, and about 20 saloons. However, it went bust just a few years later and never recovered. The last original citizen passed away in 1939.

Ashcroft became a National Register Historic Site in the 1970s and you can now visit this beautifully preserved ghost town. In season, there are local guides from the Aspen Historical Society that can tell you more about the history of the town. Otherwise, you can learn more about it using the interpretive signage throughout the site. Brochures are available as well.

Practical information: Ashcroft Ghost Town is officially open from mid-June to September. It’s just next to the road and there’s is car parking. During the day, you pay a small entrance fee (5$ when we visited). I’m not sure if there is a fee outside the official hours as it seems to be possible to visit the site at any time. We were there on a summer afternoon just before closing time and we were free to walk around as long as we wanted. By the time we left, there was no staff on site anymore. Count about 45-60 minutes for a thorough visit.

11. John Denver Sanctuary

John Denver Sanctuary is a sort of landscaped park in Aspen town. Located near the Roaring Fork River, it’s a relaxing garden and is a nice place to escape from the hustle of the town.

John Denver was a songwriter/singer and lived in Aspen for much of his life. He was passionate about nature and environmental protection and expressed it through his music. The sanctuary is a memorial to his life and his music. Some of his song lyrics are engraved into the rocks throughout the park.

In summer, this is a locals’ favorite place for a picnic. Various music festivals and performances are held at the Theatre Aspen (Hurst Theatre) that’s also located here. Aspen Skate Park is also located here and there were many local kids skateboarding when we visited.

It doesn’t take much time to visit John Denver Sanctuary and you can come at any time. So if you are looking for something nice and relaxing to do in Aspen after a busy day sightseeing, this is a nice place to check out.

12. Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) is a 25-acre nature preserve located just near Aspen downtown. It’s hard to believe that this quiet nature retreat is right in the heart of Aspen.

Easy self-guided walking trails take you through the wooded area and to a little lake (Hallam Lake). You can also see a variety of native animals, including a few resident birds of prey. You can simply walk around here, watch the birds, or do their Junior Naturalist program. It’s a good place to learn about the local environment.

The scenery here is simple and not as grand as in the surrounding mountains. But if you are visiting Aspen with kids and are looking to fill an hour or two, this is a nice place to visit. Hallam Lake is also a popular spot for weddings.

Good to know: ACES has several locations in the Aspen area. The most popular place to visit is the above-mentioned nature reserve in the town itself. In addition to this, they also offer guided hikes in summer and snowshoeing tours in winter, and many other environment-focused events.

Practical information: ACES is open on weekdays only, from 9 AM to 5 PM. For more information, please check their website .

13. Wheeler Opera House

If you are in Aspen for a longer vacation, make sure to catch a show at the Wheeler Opera House . Located in a historic building dating from the end of the 19th, this is Aspen’s community performance venue.

There are various events here throughout the year. Movies, theater performances, concerts, festivals, or lectures – there’s always something going on at the Wheeler Opera House.

Practical information: For the events calendar and tickets, please check the official website . If you want to be sure to attend a specific performance, it’s best to reserve your tickets in advance, before you arrive in Aspen.

14. Shopping & Dining

No list of the best things to do in Aspen would be complete without mentioning the most simple pleasures, such as shopping and dining .

Aspen is known for its shopping and you’ll find everything from the most luxurious, chic boutiques to sports stores selling outdoor wear. Whether you are looking for gifts, holiday souvenirs, haute couture ski clothing, or simply forgotten some of your ski apparel, you’ll find it all in Aspen!

Aspen also has many nice restaurants, bars, and cafés. You’ll find everything from chic eateries with top chefs to simple cafes and delis. If you’d like to try some local Aspen brew, head to Aspen Tap / Aspen Brewing Co. Or go for a casual dinner at The Red Onion , Aspen’s oldest historic tavern established in 1892.

Where to Stay

There are many accommodation options and some very beautiful hotels in Aspen. In general, it’s quite a pricey place to stay and definitely in the high ski season and during school holidays in summer. There are some really nice hotels in Aspen like the iconic Hotel Jerome or St. Regis Aspen Resort .

We were in Aspen for just a few nights and stayed at the Tyrolean Lodge . It’s a rather simple and a bit quirky hotel that indeed looks a bit like mountain chalets in the Austrian Tyrol region . But it’s very centrally located within walking distance to everything in town, and it has big family rooms, plus updated bathrooms. For us, it was one of the best price-quality options for a short stay in Aspen.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, B&Bs, and short-term rental accommodations in Aspen . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best options that are available for your stay. Check it out!

Getting to Aspen & Getting Around

Depending on when you visit Aspen and what you are planning to do, you may or may not need a car here.

Aspen-Snowmass area has a very good FREE public bus system. Using it will save you money on car rental and trouble with looking for parking at the most popular places. So whether you need a car or not really depends on your personal preferences and what you are planning to see and do.

In winter, many people just fly to Denver and book an airport transfer from Denver to Aspen and back. For skiing itself, you don’t really need a car and there are several free bus routes to bring you everywhere you need to be.

In summer – and definitely if you want to explore the area more – the best way to get around is by car. We rented a car upon arrival in Denver and we also visited Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver before heading to Aspen. Here you can find an overview of the best deals for car rental in Denver .

If interested, here you can read more about our road trip itinerary which included Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming .

So, this is our guide to some of the best things to do in Aspen. If you’ve been to Aspen before and want to share any of your favorite local hikes or experiences, feel free to leave a comment below and let us know!

READ ALSO: Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary Where to Stay near Rocky Mountain National Park

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration for the National Parks in the USA:

• Best National Parks to Visit with Kids
• Lesser-known National Parks for Families
• Best of Yellowstone National Park
• Best of Arches National Park
• Best of Canyonlands National Park
• Best of Death Valley National Park
• Yosemite Travel Tips
• … for more destinations, please see our  USA travel guide .

Itineraries:

• Grand Canyon – Antelope Canyon Itinerary
• Grand Teton – Yellowstone Itinerary
• Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
• Glacier National Park Itinerary
• Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary
• Acadia National Park Itinerary
• Zion – Bryce Canyon Itinerary
• Los Angeles 3-day Itinerary
• San Diego Itinerary

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Sunday 8th of October 2023

You want a challenge in Aspen? Try to find a place with free parking!

Unfortunately, this is a real challenge at every popular destination these days...

Aspen's best things to do for every season

Dec 26, 2021 • 10 min read

Cycling on Independence Pass on the Continental Divide east of Aspen © AspenGal / Budget Travel

From its snowy ski slopes to its tree-lined hiking trails , it’s no secret that Aspen is a great base for outdoor adventurers.

But this scenic mountain town in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, great shopping, engaging museums and top-notch bars and restaurants, making it a crowd-pleasing vacation destination for just about anyone. Whether you’re visiting for the very first time or you’ve been coming here for years, don’t skip out on these quintessentially Aspen things to do.  

Jam out at a concert at Belly Up

Belly Up is an intimate concert venue with a big reputation – it’s been a downtown Aspen staple since 2005 and regularly attracts big-name artists in all sorts of musical genres (B.B. King, Jimmy Buffett, Snoop Dogg are among the many well-known artists that have played here). The Colorado venue’s small size is a major draw: fans can get up close and personal with their favorite musicians. With a diverse lineup and over 300 concert a year, you could attend a gig nearly every night of the week and have a different experience every time. 

Drive or bike over Independence Pass

Topping out at 12,095 feet, Independence Pass is a two-lane (and, at times, one-lane) highway that traverses the Continental Divide. It’s a scenic summertime drive, with vibrant orange Indian paintbrushes, lavender Columbines and other abundant wildflowers blooming along the side of the road in July and August. The pass is also popular among road cyclists, though it’s a challenging climb that requires a high level of fitness and constant vigilance for cars. Whether you drive or bike, stop for a break at Independence Ghost Town , where you can wander among restored miners’ cabins and the remains of abandoned buildings from the 1880s. 

Snap a sunrise photo of the Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells – a pair of 14,000-foot peaks reflecting in an alpine lake near Aspen – are some of the most photographed mountains in North America. Their natural beauty has made them incredibly popular, but you can ditch some of the crowds by waking up before dawn to reach Maroon Lake. Plus, sunrise is a stunning time to photograph the Bells, which become pink and sparkly as the sun hits them. You can also start one of Aspen's best hikes from there.

Depending on when you go, you may need to make a parking reservation or take a shuttle bus, so be sure to read up on the latest seasonal requirements for visiting the Maroon Bells . 

Find the shrines on Aspen Mountain

Keep your eyes peeled while skiing at Aspen Mountain, aka Ajax, and you might suddenly find yourself immersed in a colorful shrine to Jerry Garcia or John Denver. There are dozens of shrines hidden among the trees at Ajax, as well as Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass , paying homage to everyone from celebrities to beloved deceased locals; there are even shrines honoring dogs who have crossed the rainbow bridge. Some are somber, others are lighthearted and fun – but they offer a window into Aspen’s unique culture and identity.

Go mountain biking at Snowmass Bike Park

While there are hundreds of miles of mountain bike trails throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, a good place to start is Snowmass Bike Park . In the summer and fall, the snowy ski slopes transform into lush, wildflower-speckled singletrack trails for all skill levels. The bike park makes it easy to spend all of your time going downhill, since you can hop on the Elk Camp Gondola with your bike for the ride up the mountain – no huffing and puffing required (unless you want to ride cross-country!). There are 25 miles of downhill trails spanning nearly 3,000 vertical feet, with terrain for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. If you want to beat the crowds on trails like these, September to November might be the best time to visit Aspen.

If you’re new to the sport, Snowmass Bike Park is also a great place to take a lesson or sign up for a skills clinic; you can rent gear there, too. Beyond that, there are more than 300 miles of mountain bike trails throughout the valley, which has been designated a gold-level ride center – the highest rating possible – by the International Mountain Bicycling Association .

Enjoy music under the tent at Aspen Music Festival

In the summer, Aspen is brimming with music students and professional musicians from around the world, who travel to the Roaring Fork Valley for the renowned Aspen Music Festival and School (you’ll often hear and see students playing expert-level classical music downtown to make a little extra cash!). Since 1949, students have been able to rehearse and perform alongside principals from major orchestras, attend lectures, participate in masterclasses and listen to panel discussions.

Members of the public, meanwhile, benefit from the hundreds of public performances that students and professionals put on, many of them taking place in the open-air Benedict Music Tent on the Aspen Institute campus. Though the venue seats more than 2,000 people, many concert-goers  lounge on the grassy lawn surrounding the tent, with a picnic or a book to read, while listening to the world-class performances.

Stroll through the Aspen Art Museum

Designed like a woven picnic basket, the Aspen Art Museum is a great place to spend an afternoon, no matter the season. The museum, one of the many free things to do in Aspen , hosts rotating exhibitions featuring mostly contemporary art; there’s also a gorgeous, sunny cafe on the third floor that’s perfect for a light lunch or catching up on emails. Expect to spend about an hour here – it’s not a very big museum, but the architecture and building design are also inspiring. 

Go uphilling at Buttermilk

To work up a little sweat while you ski – or “earn your turns,” as some skiers say – try uphilling at Buttermilk , one of Aspen Skiing Company’s four mountains. Uphilling is exactly what it sounds like: skiing uphill. It’s a workout for sure, but also allows you to skip the lift lines and avoid many of the crowds, which can make for a more peaceful, serene experience on the snow.

To uphill, you’ll need some special equipment – chiefly, skins, which are grippy strips that attach to the bottom of your skis to prevent you from sliding backward as you glide uphill. There are special hours for uphilling to avoid getting in the way of fast-moving downhillers, and you’ll need to buy an uphill season pass for $69 .

A popular route for uphilling is Tiehack, which climbs 1,600 feet to Buttermilk’s east summit. Once you get to the top, take off your skins, tighten your boots and let it rip to ski back down.

Eat pancakes at Bonnie’s

Take a break from skiing at Ajax to refuel and warm up at Bonnie’s a cozy, mid-mountain spot that’s known for its pancakes and apple strudel. On bluebird days, it’s also a great place to grab a beer and soak up the sun on the deck while skiers and snowboarders cruise by.

Another must-visit on-mountain restaurant is the Sundeck , located a few paces from the top of the Silver Queen Gondola (the main lift from downtown Aspen). It’s a cafeteria-style setup, but this is far from cafeteria food – perfectly cooked burgers, gourmet pizzas, creative sandwiches and other hearty, fresh foods prepared by the top chefs at the Little Nell , one of the most luxurious hotels in Colorado. Even if you’re not hungry, the Sundeck is worth a stop for the views of the surrounding 14,000-foot peaks. 

Walk back in time with Aspen Historical Society

Aspen’s active historical society keeps the city’s history alive and relevant with museums and ghost towns. The Aspen Historical Society also offers an array of informative and entertaining walking tours around town, including a Victorian West End walking tour that explores the historical characters and distinctive architecture of the West End neighborhood. The historians are highly knowledgeable and often wear period-appropriate clothing, helping you imagine what Aspen was like decades ago.

Ride an e-bike to Pine Creek Cookhouse

Cycling is a popular sport in Aspen, but the city’s already high starting elevation (8,000 feet) and even higher mountain roads can make it a challenge for visitors, particularly those coming from sea level. Enter the electric bike, or e-bike for short, which will give you a little extra oomph while you pedal and is one of the best ways to get around Aspen.

Rent an e-bike for the day from one of Aspen’s many bike rental shops, then begin the 12.5-mile climb toward Pine Creek Cookhouse , a popular lunch restaurant in a log cabin. Even with the electrical assistance of your bike, this ride is still a challenge, so you’ll be hungry by the time you arrive. The ride back to Aspen, however, is a breeze as it’s all downhill: don’t be afraid to eat every last bite of your massive Castle Creek Knife Burger.

In the winter, you can also cross-country ski or take a scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride to the restaurant, which is just up the road from Ashcroft Ghost Town .

Go birding at Hallam Lake

Founded in 1968, the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies is a beautiful 25-acre environmental learning facility and nature preserve – and one of the best spots to go birding year-round in Aspen. Hallam Lake, located on the center’s grounds along the Roaring Fork River, is home to dozens of species of resident and migratory birds, including colorful waterfowl, delicate warblers and impressive birds of prey.

ACES hosts monthly group birding outings led by naturalist and writer Rebecca Weiss – and there’s even a bird club you can join to help support the center’s work. 

Sip an Aspen Crud at the Hotel Jerome’s J-Bar

The Hotel Jerome has been an Aspen landmark since 1889. For more than 130 years, the stately brick building has stood at the corner of Main and Mill streets, surviving the mining boom, the silver crash, the quiet years, the start of Aspen’s ski area, the Hunter S. Thompson years (when gonzo journalist Thompson ran for sheriff in 1970, he made the hotel’s J-Bar his unofficial office) and, finally, the glitz and glimmer of the present day.

The J-Bar, inside the hotel, was also a very popular hangout spot during Prohibition. According to legend, the bartender would surreptitiously toss a few shots of bourbon into a vanilla milkshake for those who asked for “that Aspen Crud.” The boozy milkshake is still on the menu today – and yes, it’s delicious.

Ride bikes along the Rio Grande Trail

This 42-mile “rails-to-trails” route connects the communities in the Roaring Fork Valley from Aspen to Glenwood Springs. It’s a popular trail for cycling, running, walking, jogging and rollerblading because it’s protected from vehicle traffic (except for a handful of well-marked spots where it intersects with roads) as it meanders through varied scenery along the Roaring Fork River. The trail, which is mostly paved and relatively flat, can also connect you with dozens of other trail systems, which means you can ride to your heart’s content without needing to rely on a car.

Get swept up in a Theatre Aspen show

Head to Hurst Theatre, a unique and elegant enclosed tent structure located right along the Roaring Fork River, to be transported to another time and place during a Theatre Aspen musical or play. The professional theater company puts on Broadway shows like Chicago and Guys and Dolls  during its annual summer season.

You might also like: The easiest ways to get around Aspen Aspen experiences that don’t cost a penny The best time to visit Aspen

This article was first published Nov 16, 2021 and updated Dec 26, 2021.

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Aspen Travel Guide

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Arguably no U.S. mountain town is as synonymous with ski culture as Aspen. It's got glitz and glamour — think: Moncler jackets and pop-up bars from New York brands — and a cadre of die-hard skiers who practically live on the slopes. The worlds collide during après-ski , when unbuckled ski boots, cold beer, and tall ski tales reign supreme. It's a tradition that started over 75 years ago, when the ski area first opened, and it remains strong today .

But while Aspen will always be first and foremost a ski destination, the party doesn't stop when the snow melts. Hiking and biking trails replace ski runs and the snow-dusted mountains pop against the couleurs du saison — bright green in the spring and yellow-orange in the fall. And, if Aspen's natural beauty and outdoor offerings don't interest you, there's still plenty to do — the mountain town is home to plenty of high-end boutiques and a food and art scene that's on par with the nation's largest cities.

So, slather on some sunscreen — the sun shines year-round in Colorado — and head to the hills of Aspen, a veritable playground for anyone lucky enough to visit.

Mountain Standard Time

Best Time to Go

If you're drawn to Aspen for the skiing, book your trip in February or March when the snow base is reliable, fresh flakes tend to fall, and the weather begins to warm. If you're all about food, there's no better time to visit than during the Food & Wine Classic, which typically takes over the town in mid-June. For a quieter visit, come during the spring or fall shoulder seasons, when the crowds dissipate and the vibe is more relaxed.

Things to Know

Elevation: 7,908-feet

Ski Areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, Snowmass

Distance From Denver: less than four hours by car

Airport: Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)

How to Get Around

Buses: Free shuttle buses make stops throughout town and at the base of the town's four ski areas

Taxis: High Mountain Taxi , Downtowner (Aspen's Uber-style taxi service)

Car service: Aspen Star Limo , Aspen Transportation Co.

Best Hotels

The st. regis aspen resort.

Address: 315 E. Dean St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 920-3300 Website

It's hard to miss this five-star hotel, which is housed in a grand, redbrick building at the base of Aspen Mountain ski area. Inside, travelers are welcomed into apartment-style rooms (think: full kitchens, fireplaces, and multiple bedrooms) with all the amenities you'd expect from a luxury hotel — a full-service spa, heated outdoor pool, and on-site restaurant.

The Little Nell

Address: 675 E. Durant Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 920-4600 Website

If you're looking for a high-end stay at a ski-in, ski-out property, look no further. This iconic Aspen hotel is the only luxury ski-in, ski-out property in town — and its reputation is well-deserved. In the rooms, you'll find marble bathrooms, balconies, and suites with steam showers and fireplaces. And when it's time to leave your cozy Aspen home, it's just a few steps to the lifts of Aspen Mountain and the Silver Queen Gondola.

Limelight Hotel

Address: 355 S. Monarch St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-3025 Website

If you visited Aspen in the good ol' days, you probably remember the storied Limelight Lodge (formerly a bar called The Limelight). The hotel remains today, although as you might expect, it's undergone a hefty facelift, evolving into a hip, youthful hotel with sister properties in Ketchum, Idaho and the neighboring town of Snowmass. Included in your stay at this truly iconic hotel are loaner bikes, ski lockers, and a ski shuttle to make the four-block walk to the lifts that much easier.

Address: 550 S. Spring St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 431-0800 Website

It's a breezy two-minute walk to the base of Aspen Mountain ski area from W Aspen, but even if you never set foot (or ski boot) on the mountain, you'll enjoy 360-degree views from your perch in this sophisticated hotel. Hotel perks include access to the WET Deck, an outdoor patio with a pool, hot tub, fire pits, and mountain views. For a day of shopping, reserve the property's house BMW and cruise around in style.

Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection

Address: 330 E. Main St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 920-1000 Website

This Main Street property is found in a distinct redbrick building that's been an Aspen landmark since 1889. That means Hotel Jerome has seen it all — from the city's silver boom (and crash) to Hunter S. Thompson's run for Aspen sheriff. The hotel remains a go-to for visitors thanks to its luxurious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and buzzy location in the heart of town.

Best Restaurants

Ajax tavern (french/american).

Address: 685 E. Durant Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 920-6334 Website

When it comes to après it's hard to top Ajax Tavern, which sits at the base of Aspen Mountain ski area and has a wonderful sun-drenched patio that will entice you to put up your ski legs and order a cocktail. The casual, yet quality menu makes sticking around for dinner a no brainer — especially if you're craving truffle fries and a wagyu double cheeseburger. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, and reservations are recommended.

Jing (Asian Fusion)

Address: 413 E. Main St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 920-9988 Website

Just because you're in the mountains doesn't mean you can't get your sushi fix. At this cozy Asian-fusion restaurant you'll have access to a full raw bar and sushi menu along with dim sum, small plates, and steaks. (We recommend the French onion soup dumplings.) Indoor and outdoor seating is available, weather dependent, and reservations are recommended.

Ellina (Italian)

Address: 430 E. Hyman Ave. (downstairs), Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-2976 Website

Ellina, which has been an Aspen mainstay since 2009, is a must for pasta lovers craving a romantic night out on the town. The menu of housemade pasta pairs perfectly with a handful of meat and fish-driven entrees and a list of starters that will leave your mouth watering (try the artichoke heart bruschetta). Seating is indoors and reservations are recommended during the height of summer and winter season.

The Wild Fig (French)

Address: 315 E. Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-5160 Website

If you're craving a cozy evening at a French brasserie, look no further. This intimate restaurant has all the charm and energy you'd expect from its European counterpart with a menu that draws from Spanish, Italian, Greek, and, of course, French cuisine. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, weather dependent, and reservations are recommended.

White House Tavern (American)

Address: 302 E. Hopkins Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-1007 Website

Sometimes simplicity is where it's at — and while the menu at the White House Tavern is simple (think: French dip, kale salad, and a burger), every menu item is elevated to make the meal a memorable one. The restaurant is housed in a tiny 19th-century miner's cottage, so seating — both indoor and outdoor — is limited, and they don't accept reservations.

Catch Steak (Steakhouse)

Address: 515 E Hopkins Ave, Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 452-8080 Website

Just as buzzy as the New York City original but bringing its own Colorado flair, Catch Steak is the place to flaunt the high-end western wear you just bought at Kemo Sabe over a cold brew negroni or smoked cocktail that actually comes shrouded in smoke. Start with oysters or sushi, but save room for the main event: the meat. Opt for Japanese wagyu cooked tableside or large cuts like a 40-oz. tomahawk or 32-oz. prime porterhouse for sharing. Sit outside by the fire with views of Aspen Mountain, or grab a booth or a seat at the bar indoors if you can. Reservations are recommended.

Duemani (Mediterranean/Seafood)

Address: 216 S Monarch St, Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 920-2555 Website

From the team behind Aspen's top pizza spot, Acquolina, Duemani serves quality seafood and meats prepared with Mediterranean flavor alongside an extensive wine list. This may be a mountain town, but the fresh raw bar selection and perfectly grilled fish instantly transport diners to the seaside. The mood is upscale but not stuffy — you can even indulge in caviar served with crème fraîche and tater tots. For a special treat, book the private yurt dining experience and enjoy a cozy meal surrounded by vintage ski and American West decor while grooving to your favorite playlist. Reservations are recommended.

Things to Do

Belly up aspen.

Address: 450 S. Galena St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 544-9800 Website

It doesn't get more up-close-and-personal than the Belly Up, a small live music venue known for giving music lovers an intimate evening with their favorite artists (think Norah Jones, John Legend, and Wyclef Jean). Seating is open and the venue's two full bars keep the drinks coming.

Silver Queen Gondola

Address: 611 E. Durant Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-1220 Website

Here's a secret: You don't have to ski to scale Aspen Mountain resort and enjoy the view — all you have to do is hop on the Silver Queen Gondola. The year-round gondola whisks you to the top of the mountain where you can snap a photo, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat at the view-laden Sundeck Restaurant.

Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

We'd be remiss not to include the ski resort on this list since skiing is what put Aspen on the map in the first place. Arguably the best thing about skiing Aspen Snowmass is that one lift ticket gives you access to four separate mountains — Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass.

Aspen Art Museum

Address: 637 E. Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-8050 Website

Aspen is a town of less than 10,000 people, but because it draws visitors from all over the world, it has amenities most small towns could only dream of. Enter, the Aspen Art Museum, a contemporary museum with rotating exhibitions that feature works of art by international artists (hello, Andy Warhol) as well as local talent.

Food & Wine Classic in Aspen

Food. Wine. Aspen. It doesn't sound half bad, does it? Each year, food and drink experts (think Marcus Samuelsson, Guy Fieri, and Martha Stewart) descend on Aspen for a weekend of seminars, demos, and lots and lots of tastings. It's a true must-attend event and a go-to for foodies all over the globe.

Best Shopping

Address: 419 E. Cooper Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-7576 Website

Gorsuch is so synonymous with high-end ski fashion that they have three locations in Aspen and one in Snowmass. This is where luxury travelers shop to look their best both on and off the mountain — you'll find top-of-the-line ski equipment, beautiful clothing, and chic home furnishings.

Kemo Sabe Aspen

Address: 217 S. Galena St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-7878 Website

Wanna look like you belong in the Wild West? Head to Kemo Sabe, Aspen's go-to spot for handmade hats, walls upon walls of cowboy boots, and other high-end Western wear.

Pitkin County Dry Goods

Address: 520 E. Cooper Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-1681 Website

The tagline at Pitkin County Dry Goods is "Aspen's Original Clothing Store," which makes sense when you learn that the shop opened in 1969 and still outfits Aspenites today. The whole biz — which now has four locations — supplies contemporary fashion for men and women and remains a true, family-owned business.

Explore Booksellers

Address: 221 E. Main St., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-5336 Website

Explore Booksellers is located in an unbelievably quaint Victorian house on Main Street, but the real magic is found inside, among the historic home's nooks and crannies. For around 50 years the bookshop has been supplying visitors and locals with books that transport you out of the Roaring Fork Valley and into another world.

The Little Bird

Address: 525 E. Cooper Ave., Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 920-3830 Website

The Little Bird may be a consignment shop, but we'd argue it's unlike any resale shop you've ever been to. The knowledgeable staff inspect every item, curating a selection of luxury and designer clothing that's in tip-top shape. That means you can get your Chanel, Hermes, and Valentino for a fraction of what it originally cost.

Address: 205 S, Mill St., #231A, Aspen, CO 81611 Phone: (970) 925-2580 Website

Nothing says "luxe Aspen ski trip" like a cozy cashmere sweater. And for the best cashmere — think pieces that are hand-loomed locally — you'll want to head to Souchi, a women's boutique that specializes in comfy cashmere pieces. In addition to cashmere, the shop sells designer clothing, accessories, and shoes.

Neighborhoods to Know

Aspen is a small town in every sense; it's physically only four square miles. That being said, you'll still find a few distinct neighborhoods within the city limits:

Central Core: This is the true heart of Aspen — the gondola, restaurants, boutiques, and ski lifts are never more than a few blocks away, making getting around on foot (or ski boot) a breeze. The Central Core community is the go-to spot for visitors to Aspen and includes a mix of both modern and historic buildings.

East Aspen: East Aspen has a more laid-back feel than the "downtown" Central Core. Here, the vibe is residential and family friendly, with mountain views as far as the eye can see.

Smuggler: To the far east of Aspen, nestled at the base of Smuggler Mountain, is the Smuggler neighborhood. The views of Aspen Mountain ski area are particularly impressive from here.

West End: The West End butts up against the Central Core, offering travelers a sense of calm without compromising access to the town's amenities. In this mellow neighborhood, you'll find a pristine blend of historic houses, canopied streets, and a generally slower pace.

Spring: With temperatures that range from the low 20s to the low 60s, spring in Aspen is all about waiting for the thaw. Late season snow gives way to warmer days around April, as the first blooms of the year appear.

Summer: The temperature can still be as low as the mid-30s in the summer (especially in the earlier months), but in general, daytime summer temperatures make it into the 70s.

Fall: In the fall, the weather begins to make its way back into the low 30s, prompting the area's famous Aspen trees to turn wonderful shades of gold before the cold weather arrives.

Winter: It can be chilly in the winter, with below-zero mornings, but the midday thaw can also result in ski days in the 30s and 40s.

Apps to Download

Aspen Snowmass: The hub for all four of the ski area's mountains. From here, you can buy lift tickets, book lessons, and get updates on parking and lift wait times. iOs | Android

Downtowner: An Uber-esque app that makes catching a ride across town super easy. iOs | Android

OrderFood Aspen: Aspen's take on Uber Eats, with easy in-app ordering and payment. iOs | Android

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• Aspen, Colorado

Plan Your Trip

• Getting Around
• Summer & Fall Activities
• Winter Activities
• The Mountain
• Ski and Snowboard

Rocky Mountain Travel can help you plan your trip to Aspen Colorado.  We invite you to discover the Town of Aspen on your own as everything you need is on our website for you to plan your dream ski or summer vacation. With miles of runs to ski, Aspen Colorado has world class skiing in a charming town setting alive year round with festivals, mountain biking, and stunning trails to hike and camp.

1. Plan your Season

Each season of Aspen brings different festivals and activities.  Are you a skier? Are you a hiker?  Do you love to camp?  In Aspen, the winter season focuses on ski sports.  At an altitude of 7,908′ above sea level and an average snow fall of 179″, there aren’t any days during the winter without snow on the ground.  But come late spring, the rivers are running with snow melt, the humming birds are heard around town and the trails become colored with wildflowers.  Camping, fishing, hiking and biking are some of the choices for summer activities .  And come fall, the turn of the aspens, light the forest ablaze with the quaking of their golden yellow leaves. So plan your trip around the season that you love.

2.  Choose a location

There are several choices of location when it comes to planning your Aspen vacation.

Town of Aspen offers hotels and condos.  The night life is alive in Aspen with clubs, theater, and apres ski.  Several properties are situated close to the slopes, such as North of Nell, The Little Nell and Lift One.  There are budget properties, such as the Snow Queen and The Tyrolean Lodge.  There are even hostel rooms at the St. Moritz.

Snowmass Village offers hotels and condos with many ski in and ski out options.  Snowmass is considered more of a family feel.

Buttermilk The Inn at Aspen is the exclusive property at Buttermilk Mountain.

Basalt   is located 30 minutes outside of Aspen.  Giving you more affordable lodging options with easy access to the mountains via RFTA and a quick drive to Glenwood Springs.

3.  Getting to Aspen

Deciding what airport to fly into is pretty easy.  There are only three choices!  Aspen Airport (ASE) is just minutes away but can typically cost more money.  Eagle Airport (EGE) is an hour and a half away, offers more daily flights but will also add the cost of a shuttle or rental car.  You can also fly into Denver International Airport (DIA) and either rent a car or shuttle to Aspen.

4.  Book your lodging

Next decision is the type of lodging you need and want.  There are several options to consider.  Would you prefer a condo and have the option to cook at home?  Or do you love the luxury and ease of a hotel? Do you have a nightly budget?  Aspen offers hotels from luxury to hostels.   Are you planning a ski vacation? Discounted lift tickets are available when you package your lodging with your lift tickets.

Save up to 50% off your lift tickets by bundling your lodging reservation.

5.  Plan your Activities

There is no short supply of things to do in Aspen.  Check out some of the activities Aspen offers in the summer and winter .

Are you planning a ski vacation?  You can purchase discounted lift tickets if you book your lodging and your lift tickets together.  If you wait inside of seven days or until you are in Snowmass to purchase your lift tickets, you will pay a dramatically higher price.   Click here to learn more.

Reach out and ask a Rocky Mountain Travel Advisor

We hope this information helps you think about the steps needed to plan your trip to Aspen Colorado. From the trip planning process to questions that surface upon arrival in Colorado, our goal is to help you enjoy your time visiting Aspen!

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THE COMPLETE ASPEN ITINERARY FOR AN OUTDOOR LOVER (A 4-DAY ITINERARY)

Car camping time! Chances are you have probably gone car camping at some point in your life or another. 

Maybe it was in your younger days, but I am sure you have slept in your car at one point in time!

But, have you ever flown somewhere and car-camped? Well, this is always an option! 

And this is what my husband and I did when we visited Aspen in August of 2020.

In this post, I am giving you a complete 4 day Aspen itinerary breakdown focused on the outdoors! 

Aspen is located in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. It is a small ski town known for its year-long outdoor adventures. It is a quaint little town also known for its upscale shopping and healthy living. 

I will also be sharing some general car camping tips and bear safety tips!

So, let’s get started!

THE ULTIMATE FOUR DAY ASPEN ITINERARY

Free aspen checklist download.

Grab yours now!

CAR CAMPING PREPARATION

Going into this trip, my husband and I knew we wanted to try to save some money as it was already expensive to fly to Aspen itself. So, we decided the best way to save money on this trip would be by car camping. 

There were quite a few things to do in preparation for this trip. Actually, a lot more than I was expecting. So, I figured I would share my tips with you!

First off! Of course, we needed to make sure we got a car big enough for both of us to sleep in. We decided to get the ultimate adventure car!

A Jeep Wrangler!

This car was the same price as any other car that would allow us to sleep in it, so we figured why not get the super cool adventure car!

(And let’s just say I now am trying to convince my husband to buy us a Jeep Wrangler as our next car). 

There are a few things you should be packing when preparing to go car camping. 

Since we were trying to make this trip as cost-effective as possible we also decided that we were going to cook our own meals for the most part.

So, of course that meant we had to bring our cooking gear too. 

Here is a list of items that we packed in our suitcase specifically for car camping:

-Sleeping Bag

-Sleeping Pad 

-1 extra blanket 

-Blow up camping pillows

-Burner and Stove 

-Bear canister for our food 

Tip: If you are traveling with a second person and plan to car camp, try sharing a suitcase. It will save space in the car. 

You are going to be more than likely “roughing it,” so there are a few extra things that I made sure to bring to help me feel clean!

-Eco Friendly Wet wipes to wipe my body off with 

-A multipurpose quick dry towel  

-Hand sanitizer that had aloe vera in it to keep my hands from feeling super dry

-Face wipes by Neutrogena 

ASPEN CAR CAMPING TIPS

Car camping can be daunting at first, especially if you don’t know where to park and sleep safely at night. 

I wrote a whole blog on how to properly and safely car camp with lots of tips! 

If you are looking for remote and free car camping spots like we did there are a few options. 

Some apps/websites that I love and are free to use are:

Freecampsites.net

Boondocking App

Any BLM land

A paid app would be the Dyrt. However, I find that a lot of these resources have overlapping results. They tend to show all the same places where you can legally sleep for free. 

The nice thing about the Pro version of the Dyrt is that it has offline browsing. 

Pro tip: Once you leave the small town of Aspen the service becomes minimal, so make sure to download your google map sleeping location while you have service!

Car camping not your thing but still want to visit Aspen? Then check out these best hotels and Airbnb in Aspen!

DAY 1: FLY INTO ASPEN, GONDOLA, & HOT SPRINGS

This is your first day in Aspen, so once you land you will need to pick up your rental car. 

This was super simple. The Aspen airport is extremely tiny and the rental car parking lot is right across the street. I do recommend booking your car ahead of time though. There were only about 20 rental cars in the whole parking lot. 

Pro tip: If you plan to go anywhere outside of Aspen you will need a car. There is a free shuttle that does take you around town but will not get you to the more remote places. 

If you are looking to save money then plan to do your grocery shopping after you land. All the restaurants in Aspen are quite expensive. 

There is a City Market (grocery store) right in downtown Aspen and this is where we picked up all our groceries. We then headed over to their local outdoors gear store, called Ute Mountaineer, to grab gas for our stove and some bear spray as well as some freeze dried meals. 

If you are looking for a cute place to eat and have coffee as soon as you land then check out The Local Coffee House . 

Our coffee was now in hand and we were ready to enjoy the day. Unfortunately, the rain kind of took over, but we still decided to head up the Silver Queen Gondola .

There are two package options. We chose the cheaper of the two. It was $29/person. 

It is a beautiful ride up. Once we reached the top we headed to the dining area and enjoyed some epic views. It was freezing out, so we got some chili at the top. This would also be a great place to enjoy a glass of wine.

We went on a small hike, but it didn’t last long as it was raining out and we were not appropriately dressed. 

Some hikes you can do from the top of the Gondola :

• Aspen Mountain Nature Trail: 1 mile RT
• Richmond Ridge trail: 2.2 miles one way

You can purchase your ticket here ahead of time or there is a booth at the base of the Gondola to purchase tickets. 

Once the rain cleared we headed to Penny Hot Springs . 

This place is literally right off the right. Just type in Penny Hot Springs into google maps and it will direct you there. Make sure to do so while you have service, because you will lose service on your way there.

There is a dirt path down to the hot springs! Sit and soak in multiple different pools. 

After you enjoy your time at the top of the Gondal head back down and finish your night off by enjoying a beer and Pizza from the Aspen Brewing Company . 

If you are looking to car camp at night this is where we stayed. 

***Note we drove up the mountain like it said to and there was no camping spot at the top, so we ended up driving down and parking at the base of the mountain to sleep. 

RECAP OF DAY 1

• Pick up your rental car
• Do some grocery shopping 
• Ride up the Silver Queen Gondola
• Do a hike once you get off the Gondola 
• Walk around downtown Aspen 
• Penny Hot Springs

Places to eat:

• The Local Coffee House for Breakfast 
• Sundeck at the top of Aspen Gondola
• Aspen Brewing Company for Pizza and Beers

DAY 2: SUNRISE AT MAROON BELLS & INDEPENDENCE PASS

We had planned to watch the sunrise for multiple days at Maroon Bells and we did, but we had a few hiccups along the way. 

RAIN. BOO! 

So, note that this day was planned to be spent at Maroon Bells, but went a little differently. 

Maroon Bells now requires permits to see the iconic mountain and the permits sell out fast. So, make sure to book way in advance. You can book them here.  

Insider’s tip! We booked a 60 hour overnight permit. This is the way to go. It allowed us the opportunity to come and go multiple times, which was great because of the rain.

After we saw the sunrise at Maroon Bells it began to pour. So, we decided to head back into town. 

We decided to enjoy a second breakfast at Poppycock’s. This is a very popular breakfast location in downtown Aspen. The food and service were both great!

We took it pretty easy this day because of the rain. Aka we watched TV and slept in the back of our car. 

Butttt if it is not raining here are some hikes I was looking forward to doing: 

• American Lake 
• Old Crystal Mill
• Crater Lake 

Other fun day activities near Aspen:

• Mountain bike
• Alpine Coaster
• Ski in the winter

The rain cleared around 3pm, so we actually were able to do a few more activities. We did the Grotto Trail and then drove up to the peak of Independence Pass for sunset. 

I highly recommend catching the sunset at the top of Independence Pass! It is gorgeous!

Insider tips: It is freezing at the top of the pass, so pack warm clothes, there are bathrooms at the top, and the road is windy and steep on the way up.

It rained so much that we were miserable and cold in the car, so we chose to book a hotel this night. We stayed at the Snowmass Mountain Chalet and Inn.

We got a great last minute deal on Priceline! Another great option to steal a last minute deal is HotelTonight. 

DAY 3: MAROON BELLS HIKING

Ahhh back to the iconic Maroon Bells. This whole Aspen itinerary is built around the iconic Maroon Bells.

Maroon Bells is located just 10 miles west of Aspen. It takes about 30 minutes to get from downtown Aspen to the parking lot of Maroon Bells. 

Thankfully this day was sunny, so we woke up for sunrise again.

The iconic photo/screensaver shot of Maroon Bells is from the Fall when the leaves are yellow and the mountains are snow-capped. 

But it is still absolutely stunning in the summer! 

There is a popular backpacking route here called the Four Pass loop or you can just do day hikes.

Popular day hikes that begin at Maroon Bells Lake:

• Maroon Lake Scenic Trail
• Maroon Creek Trail
• Crater Lake Trail
• Willow Lake Trail

Pro tip: Sunrise is the best time to see Maroon Bells. 

-The sun rises and lites up the Maroon Bells mountain a beautiful pinkish/orange color

-It is quiet and peaceful

-Not too many people out 

-Makes for the best photos 

-It is very cold out (make some coffee ahead of time and bring it with you)

For sleeping purposes, again we got the 60 hour overnight permit and slept in the overnight parking lot in our car.

***Make sure to put your food in a bear canister even when sleeping in the car as you are in bear territory. 

DAY 4: RELAX AND FLY HOME

Well this day turned out to be a little unexpected. 

We woke up for sunrise at Maroon Bells Lake one more time and found the most perfect spot to take photos.

Our flight was supposed to leave at 1130am, but apparently they changed it to 920am so we missed it. Haha

So, we ended up having a relaxing day in downtown Aspen.

Non-tourist things to do in Aspen:

• Do a workout in the Aspen Ruggerfest park
• Do a drop in workout class at O2 Aspen
• Grab a green smoothie and wrap from JUS Aspen
• Hike the Smuggler Mountain Trailhead
• Head to the Aspen recreation center for swimming and rock climbing
• Go shopping!

ITEMS I DID NOT BRING ENOUGH OF:

The mornings were extremely cold and I did not pack appropriately and neither did my husband. I wish I brought more of the following:

-Thicker gloves 

-Warmer jacket

-Warmer pants

-Warmer socks

-Deck of cards for the rainy days 

FINAL THOUGHTS FROM YOUR OUTDOOR LOVING GIRL

I hope this detailed Aspen itinerary was helpful for you. I know I kind of gave you the background of how each day went for us personally, but I like to be thorough and tell you about our full experience. 

Tell me in the comments below if you have ever been to Aspen!

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26 Best Things to do in Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, Colorado, is a stunning destination that should be on everyone’s Colorado itinerary. Located high up in the Rocky Mountains, this ski resort town has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.

Once a booming silver mining town, Aspen was reborn as a winter sports tourist destination in the 20th century. Tourists flock to Aspen for its world-renowned ski slopes, hiking trails, and beautiful scenic drives.

The town also has a vibrant culture with a variety of museums, galleries, and music festivals. Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Aspen, Colorado.

Also Read: 39 Best Things to do in Colorado

Best Things to do in Aspen, Colorado

Aspen has become a hub for the rich and famous.

It is notorious for being expensive, but this should not deter you from planning a once in a lifetime trip.

Take a stroll around downtown and appreciate the excellently preserved Victorian architecture.

Visit the museums and their historical exhibits to understand the realities of harsh life in the Gold Rush era.

Admire the views of the mountain peaks from the gondola. Tap your feet at the many music festivals happening in the short summer.

See the mountainside ablaze in fall colors. Ski down the powdery slopes in winter. Enjoy cross country skiing and spot wildlife.

Here are the best things to do in Aspen, Colorado with your loved ones.

Discover the Rich History and Vibrant Culture of Downtown Aspen

Downtown Aspen is a treasure trove that beautifully merges history with modern attractions.

The city’s past as a 19th century mining town is still palpable as you stroll through its streets.

You can appreciate the Victorian-era buildings and the activity of this beautiful mountain town.

One can’t help but admire the grandeur of the Wheeler Opera House, a major landmark in Aspen.

This was originally built in 1889. It showcases live performances such as plays, music concerts, and special events.

Other historic buildings include Hotel Jerome, Aspen Community Church, and the Pitkin County Courthouse.

Downtown Aspen is also renowned for its gastronomic scene.

At the heart of it all, you’ll find Wagner Park, a welcoming green space perfect for a picnic during summer.

As the sun sets, downtown Aspen continues to buzz with energy as its nightlife comes alive.

Admire the exhibits at Wheeler-Stallard House Museum

Take a journey back in time as you explore the Wheeler/Stallard Museum.

This is a symbol of Aspen’s Victorian past, once a grand residence and now home to the Aspen Historical Society.

The museum holds memorabilia, photographs, and other displays that illustrate the rich history.

The house was built in 1893 by Jerome B. Wheeler, one of Aspen’s most prominent citizens.

You can also take a look at his personal collection which includes firearms, American Indian artifacts, rocks and minerals from around the world.

See the artwork at Aspen Art Museum

The Aspen Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts as well as casual visitors.

Unlike most museums, entry here is free of charge, inviting everyone to experience the world of contemporary art.

The museum boasts an impressive collection of innovative artworks from international artists, presented through thought-provoking exhibitions.

In addition to its indoor galleries, the Aspen Art Museum also features a rooftop sculpture garden, which provides breathtaking views of Aspen Mountain.

On top of its art exhibitions, the museum offers educational programs and workshops for all age groups.

Aspen Art Museum is a truly amazing place to visit.

Indulge in some shopping therapy at Aspen’s boutiques and stores

Aspen is home to an array of stylish boutiques and stores where you can find everything from designer labels to local artisanal goods.

Take a stroll down the pedestrian-friendly streets and browse through the stores for unique souvenirs and gifts.

If you’re looking for luxury items, head over to Galerie Maximillian on Main Street which houses an impressive selection of jewelry, watches and artwork from renowned artists.

For some winter apparel, you can check out Gorsuch on Cooper Avenue which offers a wide range of ski and snowboard gear.

From outdoor apparel to chic boutiques, Aspen has something for every kind of shopper!

Take a ride to the top of Aspen Mountain

The Silver Queen Gondola is one of Aspen’s iconic attractions and a must-do experience for every visitor.

Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, the gondola provides a scenic 14-minute journey to the summit.

From here, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Elk Mountains and the town of Aspen laid out below.

Equipped with comfortable seating, the gondola cabins offer a relaxing and enjoyable ride, even in snowy weather.

During the summer months, the top of Aspen Mountain transforms into a playground with outdoor yoga, disc golf, and guided nature tours.

In the winter, it’s a ski paradise with unrivaled ski slopes.

The Silver Queen Gondola is an integral part of the Aspen experience.

Explore the Aspen Snowmass Area and Snowmass Village

The Aspen Snowmass area is a unique and vibrant destination that offers year-round activities.

It is a combination of four distinct ski areas, namely Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass (covered below).

Each of these areas has its own character and charm but together they form a ski experience that is second to none.

Snowmass Village, nestled within the larger Aspen Snowmass area, is an intimate and welcoming community.

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a serene mountain getaway.

During the winter, Snowmass Village is a snow lover’s paradise with world-class ski slopes, snowboarding parks, and cross-country trails.

In the summer, it transforms into a hiker’s and mountain biker’s dream with miles of scenic trails.

The Village also boasts a wide range of dining and shopping options, making it a complete vacation destination.

Ski with the famous at Aspen Mountain Ski Resort

Aspen Mountain Ski Resort, affectionately known as “Ajax” to locals, is known worldwide for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding activities.

The resort features over 675 acres of skiable terrain, boasting a vertical drop of 3,267 feet.

The storied slopes cater to intermediate and advanced skiers, with several challenging trails weaving through the spruce and aspen forests.

The resort’s modern infrastructure includes efficient lift systems and well-groomed tracks.

In addition to winter sports, Aspen Mountain Ski Resort serves up a vibrant après-ski scene with upscale restaurants, cozy cafes, and lively bars.

It is the perfect place to relax after a day on the slopes.

Throughout the year, the resort also hosts various events and competitions, adding to the competitive atmosphere.

Or try the lessons at Aspen Highlands Ski Resort

Aspen Highlands Ski Resort, another gem in Aspen’s crown, is revered by those who know it well.

A local favorite, it is famous for its stunning panoramas of the Maroon Bells and an abundance of expert terrain.

The resort stretches across 1,028 acres, featuring a variety of trails that cater to skiers of all levels.

The resort is best known for the Highland Bowl – an in-bounds backcountry skiing experience that is hard to rival.

The resort’s amenities include ski schools, equipment rentals, and dining options.

Aspen Highlands may not have the glamour associated with its sibling resorts but it offers an authentic ski experience.

Watch the experts ski at Buttermilk Ski Resort

Buttermilk Ski Resort is renowned for hosting the ESPN Winter X Games multiple times.

It is a fantastic destination for beginner and intermediate skiers, as well as families looking for a more relaxed environment.

The resort covers a spacious 470 acres, offering 44 trails that are designed to cater to various skill levels.

Buttermilk is divided into two areas: Buttermilk Main and Tiehack.

The former is home to a majority of green and blue runs, making it an excellent place for those just getting their snow legs.

The latter, Tiehack, offers more advanced runs and stunning views of Maroon Creek Valley.

One of the biggest draws, however, is Buttermilk’s renowned terrain park, the Buttermilk Park.

Globally recognized for its innovative and exciting features, it’s the perfect spot for adrenaline junkies.

The resort also offers ski and snowboard lessons, as well as a variety of dining options, ensuring a great ski experience for everyone on Buttermilk Mountain.

Be awed at the Holden-Marolt Mining and Ranching Museum

The Holden-Marolt Mining and Ranching Museum is a must-see spot for visitors interested in Colorado’s mining history.

This museum offers an educational look at how the mining industry shaped Aspen and the surrounding area.

It features photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of the town’s past.

Visitors can learn about the day-to-day life of miners and ranchers, as well as the equipment used to extract minerals from deep underground.

The museum also has a photo archive with over 2,500 photos that capture the spirit and culture of past eras.

Be sure to check out the impressive scale model of a mining camp, as well as the photographs, maps, and other displays that illustrate the rich history.

Take in a performance at the Wheeler Opera House

The Wheeler Opera House is an iconic venue for music and theater performances in Aspen.

Established in 1889, the theater has entertained locals and visitors alike with its unique architecture and top-notch programming.

The theater showcases a wide range of performances, from musical and theatrical to dance and comedy.

The Wheeler Opera House also hosts film screenings and other special events throughout the year.

It is an excellent place to experience Aspen’s lively arts culture, as it is home to some of the most talented professionals in their respective fields.

Take a ghost tour of Aspen

If you’re looking for a more macabre experience, then be sure to take the Haunted Aspen Ghost Tour.

This tour takes you through some of the city’s legendary haunted locations, where visitors can learn about Aspen’s dark past and spirits that linger in its streets.

The tour includes stops at notorious locations such as the Jerome Hotel, the Wheeler Opera House and Aspen’s oldest jailhouse.

Visitors will be taken on an eerie journey full of spooky stories, local lore and chilling history.

This tour is sure to leave you with a lingering feeling of unease – a great way to end your stay in Aspen!

Admire the view at Maroon Bells Scenic Area

Maroon Bells are inarguably the most photographed mountains in Colorado.

It offers breathtaking views of two majestic peaks that mirror beautifully into the clear waters of Maroon Lake.

The two bell-shaped peaks, named Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, are both towering fourteeners.

Located just a short drive from Aspen, via the Maroon Creek Road, this area is known for its stunning landscapes, which transform with the changing seasons.

During summer, the meadows are filled with vibrant wildflowers, and in autumn, the leaves of aspens paint the hillsides with shades of gold.

The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is a popular walking path that winds around the lake and offers exceptional views of the peaks.

This easy, 1-mile round-trip trail is accessible for all ages and fitness levels.

This area has been designated as a National Natural Landmark to protect its unique wildlife and vegetation.

Hike the trail to Crater Lake

Crater Lake trail is one of the best hikes in Aspen, CO.

This unique, stunning hiking route is located in the Maroon Bells Scenic Area.

It is a moderate level hike that starts at Maroon Lake and makes its way up to Crater Lake, covering approximately 3.6 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 700 feet.

The journey offers an amazing chance to embrace the wild beauty of the Colorado Rockies.

The trail weaves through dense spruce forests, across meadows blanketed with wildflowers, and past shimmering streams.

The endpoint is a sight to behold, with Crater Lake’s crystal-clear waters reflecting the towering Maroon Bells Peaks.

This trail is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Aspen, presenting an opportunity to soak in some of the most spectacular landscapes in the United States.

Take the kids on the Grottos trail

Grottos Trail, located in White River National Forest, is an easy family friendly hike in Aspen.

Situated just off Independence Pass, the easy and mostly flat trail is approximately 1.2 miles round trip.

The trail weaves through an enchanting forest, leading to fascinating geological sites like unusual rock formations and cascading waterfalls.

At the end, you will find a collection of small caves known as the Grottos, from which the trail gets its name.

In summer, these caves provide a refreshing natural escape from the heat.

The surrounding picnic areas offer a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch amidst the captivating scenery.

A highlight of the trail is the Ice Caves, where ice usually lingers well into the summer months.

Go white water rafting on the Roaring Fork River

The Roaring Fork River is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience white water rafting in Aspen.

This river offers a range of activities for all ages and skill levels, from mild beginner floats to thrilling class IV rapids.

The calm stretches of the river flow through stands of Aspen trees and provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

The rapids offer an exciting challenge and a heart-pounding adrenaline rush, full of thrills and spills in the colder months.

For those looking to enjoy the scenery without tackling white water, there are plenty of guided drift boat tours that take you through the quieter sections of this beautiful river.

Learn about the environment at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) is a non-profit organization that educates the public about local environmental issues.

This center host educational programs, hikes, and talks on topics such as wildlife conservation, climate change, air quality, and more.

Visitors can also explore ACES’ nature centers in town, which offer interactive exhibits and guided tours.

The River Center, located at Hallam Lake, offers visitors a chance to learn about the local watershed and get up close with aquatic wildlife like trout and beavers.

At Rock Bottom Ranch, visitors can observe different animals living their natural habitat including elk, mule deer, bobcats, raptors, and more.

The ranch also features interactive displays, organic gardens, and educational programs to teach about the importance of sustainable living.

Pay a tribute to John Denver at the Sanctuary

Aspen’s John Denver Sanctuary, located near the Roaring Fork River, is a serene and beautiful place.

It honors the life and legacy of the famous singer-songwriter who had a deep love for Aspen.

Denver is best known for his hits like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Rocky Mountain High.”

He made Aspen his home and frequently expressed his affection for the natural beauty of Colorado in his music.

Visiting the John Denver Sanctuary provides a peaceful retreat, perfect for contemplation and relaxation.

A unique feature of this sanctuary is the “Song Garden” where visitors can find boulders etched with the lyrics of Denver’s songs.

These rocks, sitting amidst wildflowers, create a harmonious blend of art and nature.

You can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the garden, listen to the soothing sound of the river, or simply enjoy a picnic with a stunning view of the mountains.

The sanctuary also hosts frequent concerts and events, particularly in the summer season.

The annual “John Denver Celebration” held in October is a highlight, where fans gather to celebrate Denver’s music and legacy.

Grab a cold beer at Aspen Brewing Company

For beer lovers, the Aspen Brewing Company is a must-visit.

This award-winning brewery has been crafting high quality craft beers since 2008.

Their flagship brews such as Independence Pass Ale and Red Rush have won numerous awards over the years.

There’s also an extensive list of seasonal beers that will keep your taste buds happy year-round.

The brewery provides a cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating that overlooks the Rocky Mountains.

In addition to their delicious beer, the brewery offers an array of food options like burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

This vibrant spot is perfect for relaxing with friends or just enjoying a cold beer in the sun.

Admire the views from Independence Pass

Independence Pass, located in Colorado Rocky Mountains, is one of the most scenic destinations in the Centennial State.

The highest paved pass in the state, Independence Pass is known for its sweeping views of the Sawatch Range and surrounding high peaks.

At 12,095 feet (3,687m) above sea level, this pass offers a unique chance to admire alpine wildflowers and landscapes.

You can take a leisurely drive up the pass, or hike to the top for a stunning view.

There are also several campsites located near the pass, making it an ideal spot for camping and stargazing.

The breathtaking scenery of this place is sure to take your breath away!

Take a day trip to see Ashcroft Ghost Town

Ashcroft Ghost Town, south of Aspen, offers a glimpse into the area’s silver mining history.

Once a booming mining town in the late 19th century, Ashcroft now stands as a well-preserved ghost town that attracts history buffs and culture seekers.

Here, you’ll find a collection of restored buildings including the Blue Mirror Saloon, the post office, and the hotel, which speak to the town’s vibrant past.

Walking through the deserted streets of Ashcroft, you can almost hear the echo of miners’ pickaxes and feel the pulse of the once thriving community.

Managed by the Aspen Historical Society, guided tours are available during summer months, providing detailed narratives about the town’s history and its people.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this fascinating relic of Colorado’s silver mining era.

To reach Ashcroft Ghost Town, drive along Castle Creek Road from Aspen for a little over 12 miles.

Hike the Rio Grande Trail…or a section of it!

The Rio Grande Trail is a long distance trail that connects Aspen with Glenwood Springs.

This 42-mile trail meanders through the Colorado River Valley, providing stunning views of rivers, mountains and wildlife.

Hikers can do a one-day trek to explore a section of the trail or opt for an overnight camping trip to experience its beauty in full.

One popular section is the 6-mile stretch from Woody Creek to Basalt, which passes through dense forests and rolling hills.

The trail also takes you to a small creek, offering a perfect spot for a picnic or just admiring the surrounding beauty.

At certain times of the year, you may even come across wildflowers in full bloom!

Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or an overnight camping adventure, the Rio Grande Trail is a great choice to explore the Roaring Fork Valley.

Hike to Cathedral Lake

Cathedral Lake is one of the most popular hiking destinations near Aspen.

The hike to this alpine lake takes you through stunning forests and meadows, giving you a chance to spot wildflowers in summer months.

At the end of the trail awaits your reward: an incredible view of Cathedral Lake surrounded by mountains.

You are also rewarded with spectacular views of Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak.

This pristine lake is a great spot for a picnic and swimming.

The trail is 5.4 miles long, with an elevation gain of 2070 feet, making it suitable for avid hikers.

It typically takes 4-5 hours to complete the hike, depending on your pace.

Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks as well as warm layers for the cooler weather at higher elevations.

The trailhead is accessible only with a 4WD vehicle.

Explore the trails at Lost Forest

Lost Forest Mountain Adventure Center is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities including zip lining, ropes course, and indoor rock climbing.

The alpine coaster here is a favorite with teens and young adults.

It also has a network of hiking and biking trails with stunning views of the Rockies.

The center also offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore its unique terrain in greater depth.

Mountain bikers can rent out bikes and helmets and enjoy the many different trails on offer here.

See the fall colors in Aspen

Aspen looks its prettiest when the surrounding aspen trees turn a vivid yellow gold.

The fall colors usually arrive in September and last until October, painting the entire landscape in an array of vibrant tones.

For the best views of these glorious displays, head to Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

You can also visit the Castle Creek Valley, where you can take a leisurely stroll through meadows filled with golden aspen trees.

The Burgess Creek Trail, located near the base of Aspen Mountain, is also a great spot for fall foliage viewing.

These breathtaking vistas will make it easy to see why Aspen is known as one of Colorado’s most beautiful destinations!

Also Read: 20 Best Fall Hikes in Colorado

Experience Christmas in Aspen

Christmas in Aspen, Colorado is one of the most wonderful times of the year.

The temperatures are freezing, snow blankets the charming town and surrounding mountains, and Main Street is buzzing with twinkling lights and activity.

Aspen hosts the 12 Days of Aspen festival every year which includes several fun festive activities for the whole family.

You can also enjoy holiday events in Snowmass such as Ullr Night and the New years Eve Torchlight Parade.

Enjoy paragliding in Aspen, CO

Paragliding is a popular activity in Aspen, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains from above.

Several paragliding operators offer tandem flights for adrenaline seekers who want to experience this thrilling adventure.

You can also take lessons and fly solo, or just spectate and watch the experienced pilots soar through the skies.

The beautiful views of the mountains, rivers and lakes make this a truly unforgettable experience.

Aspen, Colorado, is more than just a winter destination.

It is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those who seek a serene retreat amidst breathtaking scenery.

In addition to the ski areas, Aspen offers excellent outdoor activities year-round – from hiking and mountain biking trails to fly-fishing and hot air balloon rides.

Delicious food, luxury shopping, and cultural events make Aspen perfect for all travelers.

Whether you’re delighting your palate with craft beers at Aspen Brewing Company or soaking in the tranquility of the John Denver Sanctuary….

….or admiring the views from Independence Pass, there is something for everyone in this fantastic mountain town.

With its historical ghost town, vibrant trails like the Rio Grande Trail, and incredible fall colors, Aspen offers an unforgettable experience.

Did we miss anything that should be on the list when you visit Aspen?

What are your favorite things to do in Aspen, Colorado? Let us know below.

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About Aspen, Colorado

Aspen Snowmass' 4 unique ski resorts, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass provide travelers with a world-class mountain destination that caters to all levels of skiers and riders. Guests to the Roaring Fork Valley can experience four mountains within minutes of one another, all from downtown Aspen, Colorado. The wonderfully Victorian throwback architecture in downtown Aspen offers a glimpse into the Elk Mountains' storied mining-boom era. Plus, there is a wide variety of resorts in Aspen, Colorado to choose from all dependent on your preferences for the trip.

Above town, Aspen Mountain (formerly known as Ajax) is the local's favorite. At Buttermilk, less-seasoned skiers and snowboarders are welcomed with gentle groomers well spaced glades. In Snowmass Village, ski-in ski-out lodging and slopeside attractions offer the classic base area feel whose convenience and proximity to the slopes can't be denied. Atop Aspen Highlands Bowl, alpine fantasies are realized within sight of the iconic, Maroon Bells whose top elevation is over 14,000 feet. It’s all here, it's all top-notch and it's all on just one lift ticket. The four resorts combined offer 5,517 total acres of terrain, eight parks and 336 trails served by 43 lifts.

…in resorts in Aspen, Colorado whether they're nestled in downtown Aspen or over at Snowmass Village . Both provide perfect basecamps for an unforgettable ski trip.

…by flying directly into the Aspen airport (ASE) for easy convenience. Or fly in and hop in a rental car or shuttle from Grand Junction airport, Eagle County airport or Denver International Airport.

…charming, historic downtown Aspen and the exhilarating nightlife.

…yourself to designer shopping and award-winning spas, many of which can be found in multiple resorts in Aspen, Colorado.

…at a top elevation of 12,509 feet on an annual average of 300 inches throughout 5,547 combined acres.

…breathtaking views of 14,000-plus-foot peaks: Pyramid Peak and the Maroon Bells.

…Aspen’s 100+ world-class restaurants.

…cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding and ice skating – just a few examples of Aspen’s many winter activities.

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Ski Aspen, Colorado

Beginner skiers will thrive at Buttermilk and Snowmass, both have beginner and kid-friendly facilities and designated “learn to ski” zones designed for adults and children. All-in-all Aspen Snowmass is an intermediate skier’s heaven, since the overwhelming majority of all four mountains, aka the “Power of Four” terrain is designated as intermediate terrain. Beginner skiers, especially first-timers, are discouraged from skiing at Aspen Mountain because there are no green trails.

On the flip side, expert skiing is what Aspen Mountain or "Ajax Mountain" and Aspen Highlands are known for. There’s no better place for top-to-bottom runs thanks to Ajax’s Silver Queen Gondola’s 3,267-foot vertical ascent. Aspen Mountain is famous for its long, steep mogul runs and challenging fall line. Those with a spirit of adventure can also get their kicks by hiking the 700 vertical feet to the top of the famed Aspen Highland Bowl. You’ll be rewarded at the Bowl’s summit with one of Aspen Snowmass’ best views and an unparalleled off-piste experience.

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If you can see yourself sipping wine in the warm Colorado sun, gazing at Aspen's 14,000-foot peaks and indulging in one of Ski Country's best dining and nightlife scenes, make that vision a reality and book your ski trip to Aspen today. We're here to help you make the process easy as possible, and save you money with the industry's largest collection of lodging and lodging and lift ticket deals.

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Customer reviews (20), overall customer experience*, what the experts are saying, summertime in aspen snowmass, expert reviews (3).

• 4.3 Intermediate Skiing
• 5.0 Shopping
• 4.0 Ski-in Ski-out
• 5.0 Luxury Vacation
• 5.0 Activities
• 5.0 Expert Skiing
• 4.3 Family Vacation
• 2.5 Budget Vacation
• 3.3 Beginner Skiing
• 5.0 Terrain Park
• 4.3 Accommodations
• 4.7 Nightlife
• 5=Excellent

Summertime in Aspen Snowmass 4.5 Excellent 4.0 4.0 5.0 4.0 NR 5.0 5.0 4.0 4.0 5.0 NR 5.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 Over the past two weeks I had the pleasure of staying and playing in the Aspen Snowmass area. I cannot begin to explain the beauty that fills the valley this time of year.  The days were warm and the nights were cool, just the way I like it. The flowers and grass were blooming and truly made my experience that much better. I took advantage of biking on the Cozyline trail, which was so much fun I immediately wanted to ride it again. Great for intermediate riders. There was live music to be found, the restaurants all had their outdoor patios open, and the seasonal food, cocktails and beers were just awesome. I would highly recommend a summer vacation in the Aspen Snowmass area to someone looking for a town that is easy to navigate with stellar service no matter if its at your hotel or in a restaurant, and simply amazing access to nature!

Best Variety of Skiing 4.8 Excellent 5.0 5.0 5.0 4.0 3.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 Between all Four Mountains in Aspen Snowmass, you are sure to find something for everyone!

Aspen, both a town and a ski resort! 4.1 Good 5.0 1.0 2.0 5.0 5.0 4.0 4.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 NR NR NR NR NR Aspen is graced with one of the finest ski Mountains around. Ajax, as the locals like to call Aspen Mountain, is not huge (673 acres) compared to the other 3 Aspen/Snowmass mountains operated in the Aspen area, but it is one of my favorites. There is no beginner terrain on the mountain; mostly it is intermediate, advanced and expert. I love its quirkiness; it has numerous homemade memorials and tributes that you can find hidden in the trees of the mountain created in honor of famous people such as John Denver and Elvis. The town of Aspen is right at the base of the mountain, and it is really special by any standard. There you will find incredible dining, unique and amazing shopping, and some of the finest lodging options anywhere. I find that the convenience of the free skier shuttles is tops. You can get to any of the 4 Aspen area ski mountains quickly and easily. There is always something great going on in the area, whether it is the X Games in late January, or the Aspen Music Festival and the Food and Wine Festival in the summer. Aspen truly has it all. Call me; I can help you put together a package customized for your needs and interests.

Great ski area with 4 mountains to choose to ski. Aspen is outstanding but on the expensive side. Grateful Deli has the best sandwiches.

Something for everyone Aspen/Snowmass has 4 great mountains. with different terrain to satisfy all skiers. Snowmass has great off the snow activities for younger kids, while Aspen satisfies the needs of teens and adults. The town has many options for non-skiers or injured skiers. There are fat biking and XC skiing trails. The free bus service makes car rental non-essential. The entire family loves Aspen/Snowmass.

Great Ski Town The skiing was tremendous. It snowed a foot or 2 while we were there. The lift lines were very manageable; particularly at Aspen Highlands.

Perfect spot for family stay Quiet, accessible and quick walking distance from downtown.

I have been skiing in Aspen since 1970 and have been there at least 35 times. We now come every year in the spring. This was another great trip. We normally ski on Ajax because we like groomed black runs.

Great trip and stay at Hotel Jerome Great customer service, very friendly atmosphere, all parts of Hotel Jerome were very nice and great location

Everything you could want in a ski vacation All aspects of our vacation were A-One. A little tough to get to compared to some other resorts but well worth it for us. $ mountains to choose from, free public transportation to all, so we didn't need a car. (Flew in to Aspen Airport, just a short ride from there to the Prospector.

Incredible in all aspects No complaints at all, everything was a 10. Great diversity in skiing, dining, shopping and sightseeing options. Don't be turned off by the Aspen "mystique", we find it very competitive price wise vis a vis places like Vail and Beaver Creek. and the people are very friendly and down to earth, can't do enough for you. Of course, you have the additional element of the "star watching'", e.g., how about Ringo Starr and Ralph Lauren and all the International ski racers in town/at the Limelight on this visit? Weather was great also. Once you go you'll have difficulty going somewhere else! At least we do, we've been going there for years.

Wonderful, magical town, with great mountains, hiking, and scenery. The variety and quality of the terrain and conditions is impressive -- although all of my non-Aspen experience has been in the Northeast :) The ski area staff, ski instructors, and shops are all so welcoming and friendly, which just contributes to the whole experience. This year I had all of my (non-on-slope) meals at the Little Nell because the food was so good and I saw no reason to leave the wonderfully relaxing environment, but I know from past experience that the food options are more than enough to keep one interested indefinitely.

Fun in the sun Skied at Aspen, Snowmass and Aspen Highlands. Snowmass is by far the biggest and for us, being from the east, we stuck to the wide groomers. Aspen and Aspen Highlands both had a smaller feel and the off piste skiing was easy to find and world class. If the snow is good, and you are an expert skier, the hike to the back bowl at Highlands is worth the effort.

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11 Fantastic Things To Do In Aspen, Colorado In The Winter

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Aspen is a glorious winter playground where the rich and famous hobnob with ski enthusiasts, both looking for excitement and an adventure-filled getaway. The beloved mountain town offers an abundance of snowy outdoor adventures and ample indoor coziness. 

Unique experiences and unparalleled scenery will make your Aspen getaway unforgettable. Four mountain complexes, breathtaking Rocky Mountain views, delectable culinary bites, and luxurious stays come together to make Aspen, Colorado, the winter vacation of your dreams.

Your Aspen experience can be super lux and upscale or fashionable ski-bum focused, depending on your travel style. Either way, you can hunt for the perfect stash, enjoy fabulous cuisine, and experience fun winter activities.

1. Snowmass

The Aspen/Snowmass ski complex, comprised of four ski areas, has everything you need for your ultimate winter getaway. From double black diamonds to beginner slopes, every skier and snowboarder will find their favorite run, backcountry bowl, or hidden stash.

Snowmass , Aspen’s most well-known ski area, offers 3,339 acres of skiable terrain and one of the biggest vertical drops in the United States , a whopping 4,406 feet. Imagine the excitement of traversing that downhill run. The rush of hitting a steep grade peppered with bumps will certainly get your adrenaline pumping. 

Snowmass has a few beginner trails to get your snow mojo up and running. However, the majority of the runs are geared toward intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders.

2. Aspen Mountain

Aspen Mountain — known as Ajax to the locals — is an intermediate and expert ski area with blue, black, and double black diamond trails for your skiing and snowboarding adventure. 

Ajax has spectacular views of the Rockies, runs right into downtown, and is a local favorite for lunchtime ski runs.

• 10 Must-See Family-Friendly Aspen Vacation Rentals

3. Aspen Highlands

At Aspen Highlands , you will find locals and visitors enjoying the mountain views and powdery snow this ski area is known for. The Highlands is perfect for intermediate and expert skiers and boarders looking for a challenge.

The trail map for Aspen Highlands lists four types of runs: blue (difficult), black diamond (very difficult), double black diamond (expert only), and E.T. double black biamond (insanity runs). As you can see, there are no beginner trails at Aspen Highlands. 

4. Buttermilk

Buttermilk is the best place for beginners in Aspen; many of Buttermilk’s trails are rated easy. If you are new to skiing, start your vacation here. Later, you can move on to an intermediate mountain to hone your skills. Buttermilk is the perfect family-friendly mountain.

5. First Tracks

Virgin powder untouched by skis awaits at Snowmass’s First Tracks . Skiers and snowboarders with solid skills are invited to join the staff in the first run of the day on select days of the week. Play at being an Aspen insider and be the first to cut tracks in the freshly groomed snow or fluffy, new powder. Experience the thrill of having the entire mountain mostly to yourself during your early-bird run. 

It is a unique treat to be out on this huge mountain enjoying the quiet beauty of a nearly solo run. Contact the Snowmass Ticket Pavilion to make a reservation.

6. Alpine Coaster

Have you ever wondered what riding down a luge would be like? Now’s your chance to get that feeling (with the dangerous aspect eliminated!). The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster allows you to experience the sensation of speeding down the track, banking tight curves, and watching the trees whistle by as you ride a tandem coaster car. The mile-long track gets you up to about 28 miles per hour — not quite a luge speed, but fast enough for a thrilling ride.

Ride the Breathtaker at night for an eerie, speedy adventure illuminated only by your coaster car light and the moon.

8. Snowshoe

Explore the Aspen/Snowmass area on foot with a guided snowshoe tour . Aspen Center For Environmental Studies’ naturalist guide will take you on a 2.5-mile trek through a peaceful winter wonderland setting while discussing the ecology of the area. It is a fun combination of exercise, education, and entertainment for skiers and non-skiers alike.

9. John Denver Sanctuary

The John Denver Sanctuary is a memorial to the legendary country singer, composer, and guitar player. His love for Colorado and the wide-open country was ever-present in his music. This small park is a tribute to Denver’s love for the natural world. It is a nice spot to stop and reflect upon the beauty of the gifts Mother Nature allows us to enjoy.

Breathe in a meditative breath and contemplate the glory of Denver’s beloved Rocky Mountains.

10. Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells area is one of the most visited and hiked scenic areas in the White River National Forest. The picturesque Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak are two of Colorado’s 58 14ers (mountain peaks that exceed 14,000 feet). 

The Maroon Bells are a challenge to hike in the summer months, even for the most experienced climbers. In the winter, they are best viewed from a distance at Maroon Lake. The crystal-clear lake is accessible by Moon Creek Road. When the weather is good, you can drive up or take the shuttle; in the winter, you’ll need to get creative.

Cross-country skiing, snow biking, snowshoeing, or hiking with crampons will get you to Maroon Lake. If you want to ride, the T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers a Maroon Bells snowmobile tour. The 2-hour tour takes you through the breathtaking backwoods scenery of the White River area. Single and tandem snowmobiles are available, and driving instructions are provided.

11. Shopping

Enjoy a stroll through the downtown area, where you could easily dine, drink, and shop for days. Aspen’s understated elegance is evident everywhere, particularly in the storefronts. 

The epitome of elegance, the Prada Aspen , is only one of many luxury shops. For amazing deals, stop by The Little Bird , a consignment shop where you can find Gucci, Chanel, and other designer names to fill your closet. For the discerning shopper, Pitkin County Dry Goods carries casual clothing that makes an elegant statement.

Restaurants In Aspen

Apres-ski spots, fine dining, and cozy bars dot Aspen’s landscape. Whether you are enjoying an elegant sit-down dinner or a nosh at a mountain peak restaurant, Aspen restaurants offer amazing ambience and a great dining experience.

If you enjoy dive bars, you will love the Red Onion in downtown Aspen. Serving patrons since 1892, the Red Onion is a popular hangout for Aspen’s in-the-know crowd. You never know who you will run into; business insiders, celebrities, and athletes frequent this local hub. Grab a seat at the bar for some friendly conversation, a drink, and a yummy nosh.

Betula Aspen

Betula Aspen serves expertly crafted upscale cuisine. The rack of lamb with caponata, pine nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted garlic is heavenly. The pan-seared Colorado trout with artichokes, cauliflower, and pickled onions is a delightful rendition of a local catch.

Pro Tip: Ask for a seat on the porch for a luxuriously casual meal.

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro

Warm, gooey, and oh-so yummy, raclette and fondue are fortifying after a morning on the slopes. At the Top of the Cloud Nine Lift in Aspen Highlands is Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro . This ski-in, ski-out lunch spot is a favorite stop for hungry skiers. Order several plates to share while you swap downhill run stories. It’s the perfect midday pick-me-up. On a clear day, you can dine with a breathtaking, mountain top view. 

Resorts In Aspen

Finding a place to stay in Aspen is easy, but deciding how you want to visit can be challenging. Options include ski-in, ski-out stays, downtown hotels, and private rentals.

The Little Nell

The Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen Mountain and downtown Aspen are both at your fingertips when you stay at The Little Nell . This five-star hotel offers fine dining at Element 47, as well as the Wine Academy program, spa services, and an amazing staff ready to serve you. The Little Nell will ensure your luxurious Aspen getaway is perfect.

Snowmass Ski-In, Ski-Out Properties

Snowmass offers a listing service where you can research and compare all of their ski-in, ski-out properties . With options like the modern Limelight Hotel Snowmass , you will find the perfect stay for your snowy vacation.

Pro Tip: Hop on the free shuttle from Snowmass to the city bus stop. From there, you can take a bus to downtown Aspen. Enjoy exploring the downtown area, and then ride back to Snowmass and leave the driving to them.

For more on Aspen/Snowmass, read:

• 16 Fantastic Things To Do In Snowmass, Colorado This Summer
• Everything You Need To Know About Hiking Maroon Bells In Colorado

After you enjoy your Aspen getaway, discover your next ski destination by learning about the other great ski resorts in Colorado for every level and interest .

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

A Summer Ski Town Escape: What to Do in Aspen During a Pandemic

If you can get there safely, it' s the perfect outdoorsy retreat—and an ideal place for an extended stay.

I've been lucky enough to hunker down in Aspen since June 1, and have been taking full advantage of the town's natural beauty, optimal weather, and food and culture. Even given the current environment, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself while staying socially distant. From hiking to fly fishing, and from outdoor dining to drinks al fresco, here's my list of 12 reasons why Aspen is the only place you need to visit this summer.

It’s Made for Extended Stays

Effective July 1, hotels have been allowed to increase their occupancy from 50 to 100% capacity, making accommodation choices plentiful. Additionally, the 11.3% lodging tax is waived for stays greater than 30 days, so feel free to settle in for a while.

The Weather: An Extra Month of Sunshine

On average, there are 246 sunny days per year in Aspen (the US average is 205). June, July and August's average high temperatures are 74, 79, and 76, respectively.

The Cuisine Rivals Anywhere

Whether you choose to dine outdoors (six feet from other tables) or take food to-go, there are plenty of safe ways to get your gourmet fix.

Steakhouse 316

The Cuisine: Housed in an 1888 Victorian home, husband and wife team Craig and Samantha Cordts-Pierce have been turning out opulent, classic steakhouse fare, from meat to seafood to delectable sides for years in this 120-seat ode to carnivorous perfection .

Can't Miss Dish: Tomahawk rib eye for two with blue cheese bone marrow butter.

The Cuisine: Just opened in April 2020, this casual eatery is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Options are plentiful, including fresh bread and pastries baked daily, home-made soups, sandwiches and salads using local and organic ingredients, and craft cocktails and unique wines by the bottle.

Can't Miss Dish: "Easy Caprese" Salad.

The Cuisine: New for the 2019/20 ski season, Duemani highlights contemporary coastal Italian flavors, composing seafood dishes, prime grilled meats and rotisserie selections alongside a robust wine cellar full of of domestic, Italian and French varietals.

Can't Miss Dish: Branzino carpaccio with radish, fennel, lemon and olive oil.

Bosq (pictured)

The Cuisine: Chef Barclay Dodge focuses on a unique and fresh approach to "modern alpine," cuisine centered around flavors sourced from the Mediterranean to China and local menu of unique, freshly foraged ingredients.

Can't Miss Dish: Mayan pesto chicken with fire-roasted zucchini, Hakurei turnips, green herb molé.

Whatever Your Style, There's an Accommodation for You

The Little Nell (pictured)

Entering its 30th year and situated at the foot of Aspen mountain, the Little Nell has often been called "the Aspen of Aspen." This 92-room, classic ski-town 5-star hotel boasts a renovated lobby, pool, attentive staff, and two world-class restaurants. Ski in / ski out in the winter, the proximity to the gondola makes "the Nell" the ideal location to take advantage of everything at your fingertips.

This 40-year old collection of 120 luxury condo rentals combines the comforts and conveniences of home with the luxury of resort services and amenities. With units of varying sizes from one to four bedrooms, the Gant is located in a tranquil 5-acre enclave at the base of Aspen Mountain, only three blocks from the Silver Queen Gondola, downtown shopping, world-class dining, nightlife and cultural attractions. We can't pass up the tennis courts, pool and hot tubs, outdoor gas grills, and indoor wood-burning fireplaces on chilly nights.

Aspen Independence Estate

The ultimate luxury retreat only minutes from downtown, the Aspen Independence Estate is one of the more rare estate rental homes on the market today. Enjoy complete seclusion on 160 acres of pristine wilderness with private lake access and unparalleled views of Independence Pass. Three fully-equipped residences, available individually or choose from two of the three properties on site, offer stunning and comfortable spaces for you and your family to experience the true Aspen lifestyle. A la carte services such as a chef, housekeeper, and driver, can be arranged upon request. Sleeps up to 34.

The St. Regis Aspen Resort

Pursue your summer passions and retreat into sophistication at The St. Regis Aspen Resort, overlooking Aspen Mountain and featuring 179 rooms with custom furnishings by Ralph Lauren, spacious marble bathrooms and sumptuous 400-thread-count Frette linens. Don't miss the St. Regis daily ritual of champagne sabering, invented by John Jacob Astor IV when he founded the first St. Regis Hotel in New York in 1904, at 5:15 pm to celebrate the transition from day to night—complete with a complimentary glass for resort guests. For dog lovers, the hotel welcomes pets and also offers a "fur butler" service to ensure pets have just as much fun as their owners.

W (Hotel and Residences)

Opened in 2019 as the newest major hotel project in years, the W Aspen is the product of a complete rebuild that replaced The Sky Hotel. With striking architectural and interior design inspired by the decadence of the 1970s, Aspen's newest slope-side accommodation features an 8,000 square foot rooftop wet deck complete with impeccable dining by chef Jacqueline Siao, cocktails and pool. The year-round, all-weather rooftop retreat is highlighted by 360-degree jaw-dropping, panoramic views of Aspen, fire pits, cabanas and a DJ booth. For those opting for a longer stay with more of the comforts of home, book a stay at the Sky Residences at W Aspen, a limited collection of six three-bedroom and five two-bedroom residences. Reserve from 30-120 days and enjoy a “home away from home” experience .

Direct and One-Stop Flights from Most Major US Cities

For July 2020, United Airlines has resumed nonstop flights to Aspen Pitkin County airpot (ASE) from ORD & SFO, while increasing flights from DEN to four times daily. Additionally, American Airlines resumes their nonstop service from ORD to complement their service from DFW. Starting August 3, United will add a fifth daily DEN-ASE frequency to the 4x daily they started last. Via DEN, one-stop travel to ASE increases to a planned total of 33 flights per week from Aug 3 – Sep 7. All told, United is now scheduled to offer a total of 47 flights per week into ASE for the same period.

Take Up a New Hobby

Aspen's natural beauty lends itself to social distancing. Explore the town's trails and creeks by trying out one of these outdoorsy activities.

Road Biking / Cycling

The paved mountain roads of Aspen and Snowmass are ideal "trophies" to conquer for intrepid cycling enthusiasts. Hundreds of miles of roads make for endless adventures. You'll need a guide: Dean Hill, owner of Aspen Pro Cycling trains elite athletes and wannabes, alike.

Hiking With countless trails and nearly endless summer sun, options to hike in and around Aspen are limitless, regardless of your fitness level. For easy to moderate hikes such as the Ute or Smuggler's Trails, arrange for a guide through ACES (Aspen Center for Environmental Studies) . Our guide, Olivia Niosi, was as knowledgable as can be. For something more challenging like rock climbing or one of Colorado's famed "14ers" (14,000+ foot pistes) call Aspen Alpine Guides . Or, if you are so inclined to just escape Aspen entirely and hike to Crested Butte, call the husband and wife team of Colorado Backcountry , Ben and Janae Pritchett. Fly Fishing

For 70 miles, from Independence Pass down valley to Glennwood Springs, the Roaring Fork River holds the key to some of the finest fly fishing in North America and the only way to truly experience it is with a guide. The Aspen Outfitting Company has been servicing novice and professional anglers alike since 1969. They are all you need to catch and release in these Gold Medal waters.

The Aspen Golf Club is an ideal place to practice your stroke. The Frank Hummel-designed 18-hole course measures 7165 yards (from the back tees, one of the longest municipal courses in the States), a state-of-the-art academy, and practice range.

Work East Coast Hours

If you're lucky enough to work from home, Aspen's early sunrises and late sunsets make for an easy transition from the jam-packed days of an East Coast work schedule and commute.

Rise and shine at 6 a.m. MT, check emails, walk to grab coffee from one of the cafes and coffee shops catering to early birds ( Jour de Fete , Victoria's , Local Coffee are my personal favorites that open at 7 a.m. MT). Hustle throughout the day and wrap up as late as 5 p.m. MT.

From here on out, the rest of the evening is yours. Hike the Ute or Smuggler trail and catch the town bathed in the orange glow of an extended golden hour. Take a road or mountain bike on a 20-mile long trek down the Rio Grande. Grab takeaway cocktails at Hooch or Ajax Tavern at the Little Nell. Casually enjoy the perfect outdoor meal and finally sit back and gaze skyward to watch the stars emerge around 10 p.m. MT right before hitting the hay and doing it all again. I officially nominate Mountain Standard Time as my new favorite time zone.

Aspen Is a Hub of Culture and History

With outdoor exhibitions and social distancing protocols, Aspen's cultural institutes are back in business.

Aspen Art Museum

Reopened in early July and back to presenting the "newest and most important evolutions in international contemporary art," this free museum is one of the staple art museums in any ski town, anywhere.

The Aspen Institute

While COVID-19 has forced The Aspen Ideas Festival and many other signature Institute events to convene virtually (check out the calendar here ), you can still visit and tour the historical grounds. From guided hour-long art and landscape tours (register here ) to lectures on Earth and Land Art, there are some things you need to see in person to truly appreciate. Aspen Historical Society

As of June 30th, this venerable institution was allowed to reopen. From the living history of ghost towns like Ashcroft and Independence to the Victorian charm and drama of the Wheeler/Stallard and Holden/Marolt Mining & Ranching Museums watch the past come to life before your eyes. Check the schedule regularly for guided experiences.

You Don't Need a Car

With most hotels offering free shuttle service from Aspen Pitkin County Airport (just four miles from town), most of Aspen's attractions are walkable or accessible by bike. Bike share by We-Cycle is available throughout town, Snowmass, and Basalt across 45+ stations. Finally the Roaring Fork Transit Authority is one of the most user-friendly public transportation systems of any mountain town.

Aspen Means Snowmass, Too

Occasionally overlooked as being (slightly) out of town, Snowmass Village has been drawing intrepid travelers to its own universe of charm and adventure since 1967. With 3,362 acres of skiable terrain in the winter, black diamond runs are converted to nearly 3,000 vertical feet of the IMBA Gold-Level downhill mountain bike trails in summer, welcoming riders of all technical ability.

For accommodations, The Viceroy Snowmass celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2020. The rooms, residences, and 7,000 square feet spa are the perfect place to camp out (without actually camping out). While Chef Richard Sandoval's Pan-Latin establishment, TORO Kitchen and Lounge delivers fine dining at 8,000 feet above sea level.

For a little culture, visit Anderson Ranch Arts Center . For more than 50 years, it has been one of the most prestigious visual arts programs in the country, normally welcoming artists residencies and more than 100 workshops per season. Due to COVID-19, most are available via Zoom; however, an exciting new outdoor sculpture exhibition, “Sculpturally Distanced: an Anderson Ranch Outdoor Exhibition” opened on July 6th and will remain installed through September 2021. Finally, don't miss the 45th anniversary of the Snowmass Balloon Festival (September 11-13) where hot air balloons from all over take to the sky for a truly unforgettable sight.

Broadway is Alive and Well

As many theater programs and live concerts across the country have been cancelled or postponed indefinitely, Theatre Aspen 's announcement of their IRL summer lineup is a welcome surprise that Broadway is alive and kicking in the mountains. The 'All for One' summer season brings a series of one-off performances from audience favorites to new productions featuring major Broadway stars such as Tony Award winners Audra McDonald and Kelli O'Hara, and Tony Award Nominees Beth Malone and Carolee Carmello. The season kicks off July 27 and will run through August 18.

Social distancing guidelines will be strictly followed as the Hurst Theatre is being converted into a 50 seat cabaret-style space, providing maximum flexibility and spacing. Additional modifications are also being considered, such as lifting the sides of the tent to allow for fresh, open air flow.

Socially Distanced Socializing

Need a place to (safely) mix, mingle, meet, and work in order to feel less disconnected? Here House , Aspen's most recent members-only 'social club,' which opened in 2019, is just the thing you might need. Like a Soho House at 8,000 feet above sea level, Candice Olson and Michaela Carpenter's brainchild provides members and guests with gorgeous curated and private surroundings for meetings and work, delicious delicacies and coffee from next-door neighbor, Local Coffee , and a schedule of countless events and experiences to expand your social circle. Daily and seasonal (2 months+) memberships are available for $50 or $225 respectively, or annually starting at $150/month. Inquire here .

Brandon Perlman is the Founder and CEO of the Gramlist and Creator of Mr Luxury Ski .

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From Denver to Aspen: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Carri Wilbanks Updated Apr 14, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The glitzy mountain town of Aspen, famous for its natural beauty, world-class Colorado skiing , and celebrity residents, is about 200 miles southwest of Denver, and there are many ways to get between the two destinations. While it is possible to fly directly to Aspen from your destination of origin, most travelers chose to fly into Denver , which offers many more flight options at more affordable prices, and then either drive or take a bus or shuttle service.

From Denver, it is about a 3-hour-and-45-minute drive to Aspen . Depending on the season, there are two different routes you can take. Both involve stunning scenery and climbing over multiple mountain passes.

If you are not interested in driving yourself between Denver and Aspen, you can still get there via a few other transport options, including taking a private luxury SUV transfer with a driver or taking a more affordable shuttle service .

Really, how you get between Denver and Aspen will depend on your budget, travel priorities, and timeframe, but if you enjoy road trips, we highly recommend making the drive in one form or another, as it honestly takes you through some of Colorado's most gorgeous Rocky Mountain scenery.

On This Page:

• From Denver to Aspen by Car
• From Denver to Aspen by Private Luxury SUV Transfer
• From Denver to Aspen by Air
• From Denver to Aspen by Shuttle
• From Denver to Aspen by Bus

1. From Denver to Aspen by Car

Driving from Denver to Aspen in a rental car means you'll have a mode of transport to get around once you are there. Rental cars can be picked up at Denver International Airport or from various outlets around the city center, depending on your starting point. The drive is around 200 miles and takes about four hours on the faster route .

It is important to note that if you are renting a car in winter, Colorado has strict winter driving traction laws that go into effect when it snows on the highway between Denver and Aspen. As such, you will need to make sure you rent a vehicle that is equipped with winter driving tires to avoid getting fined.

In summer , there are two different ways to get between Denver and Aspen: The most scenic route is via Highway 82 over Independence Pass, which is the highest paved state highway over the Continental Divide in Colorado. To get to Independence pass, you'll take I-70 from Denver to Highway 91 south to Leadville and then follow signs to Highway 82 and the pass.

It takes just under two hours to reach Leadville, which is a nice spot to stop for a coffee or lunch. From here, it is at least another hour over Independence Pass down into Aspen. Independence Pass is usually open between Memorial Day and Labor Day depending on snowfall. The drive up and down the pass features lots of hairpin turns, and you'll need to pay close attention when driving, and go slow. Make sure to pause at the top of the pass to snap a few pictures and marvel at the high alpine terrain.

The other route is open year-round . Leaving Denver, you will get on I-70 west and take it all the way to Glenwood Springs . The drive through Glenwood Canyon is quite stupendous, and if you have time and want to break up the drive, you can pause in Glenwood Springs for a soak at one of several hot spring resorts in town.

Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is the oldest, first opening in the 1880s. This resort can be seen from the highway, and it has a million-plus-gallon swimming pool fed by the Yampah spring, which is said to be the world's largest.

You can also check out the Iron Mountain Hot Springs Resort, which opened in the last few years and has 17 pools set along the Colorado River. The Yampah Spa is next to the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and offers the opportunity to take a steam bath in a natural vapor cave. This is the only place in North America where you can do this, and it's a unique experience.

From Glenwood Springs, it is 40 miles to Aspen. You will take Highway 82. Follow the signs; the turns through town are well-marked.

2. From Denver to Aspen by Private Luxury SUV Transfer

If you would rather not drive yourself and want to travel in style, book a Luxury SUV private transfer from DEN directly to your hotel in Aspen. These transfers are great because you won't share the vehicle with other guests outside your party, and you can schedule your pickup for immediately after you arrive at the airport .

The vehicles come with Bluetooth, so you can listen to your own music and just soak up the gorgeous Rocky Mountain scenery along the way. Snacks and beverages are also served, and the service includes a complimentary 20-minute rest stop to stretch your legs. If you need a child seat, these can also be arranged with advance notice.

3. From Denver to Aspen by Air

You can also fly between Denver International Airport (DEN) and Aspen Pitkin County Airport (ASE), with at least four daily nonstop flights on United Airlines that operate year-round. The flight from Denver takes just one hour , and ticket prices vary.

If you purchase tickets to Aspen from other parts of the country, it is usually more expensive than flying into Denver. However, check prices, as this is not always the case, and there are sometimes deals. Obviously, if you can find a flight that fits your budget, and your final destination is just Aspen or nearby resorts like Snowmass then flying to ASE, even with a connection flight, will still be the most convenient way of getting here.

4. From Denver to Aspen by Shuttle

Another option, if you don't want to drive yourself but don't want to pay for a private transfer service, is to use the shuttle service offered by Epic Mountain Express .

The company offers frequent shared ride transport in small vans that can accommodate 10 people . These depart frequently from DEN, and will drop you at most hotels and resorts around Aspen. The trip takes a little over four hours, and the vans are comfortable, although you will be traveling with other passengers.

5. From Denver to Aspen by Bus

The cheapest way to get between Denver and Aspen is to take public transportation utilizing the Colorado Department of Transportation's Bustang system.

From Union Station in downtown Denver, you will take the CDOT West Line bus (runs twice daily) west to the West Glenwood Park and Ride in Glenwood Springs. This portion of the trip takes just under four hours.

Bustang has a mobile app users can download. The app allows users to buy tickets online in advance and provides easy access to them on the road. The buses are also family friendly. Seats have seatbelts that allow for car seats to be strapped in. The overhead storage bins are also roomy enough to fit strollers and other gear.

Once you reach the West Glenwood Park and Ride, you can catch the Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) bus L into Aspen. This portion of the trip takes about one hour. Depending on where you are staying, you may have to catch an Uber or Lyft to your hotel or resort from the bus stop.

Aspen - Climate Chart

More on Colorado

The World on my Necklace

A Travel Blog by Katie Chavez

Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary to See the Best of the State

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through an affiliate link, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support.

Colorado is a land of epic mountains, abundant wildlife, historic mountain towns , natural hot springs, striking red rocks, more sunny days than Florida, and the BEST beer.

I always knew I would love Colorado , and it is no surprise that it is now one of my favorite places in the world, and a place that I am very lucky to call home – well, part of the time at least #nomadlife .

Since I first arrived in Colorado four years ago, I have been all over the state, crisscrossing road trips through the desert and over gravel mountain passes, up 14’ers, soaking in hot springs , to numerous charming mountain towns and haunting ghost towns, on beautiful and challenging hiking trails, and to more breweries than I can count.

There is so much to explore in Colorado that you could travel the state for a year and still not experience everything. It is an outdoor lovers’ dream that I just can’t get enough of, and there is so much Wild West history here too.

It is also a state that is best explored with your own set of wheels, you simply won’t see the best of Colorado without a vehicle. It is one of the best US Road Trips you can do, in a country that is made for road-tripping.

I have been wanting to put together a Colorado road trip itinerary for the longest time, an epic Colorado itinerary that will take at least three weeks to do, but would be better suited for a month or more of travel.

This ain’t no Denver /Vail/Colorado Springs jobbie, this is the real deal, super detailed, massive circular (kinda) road trip route that will take you to the best of the state, including hot springs, breweries, mountain towns, ghost towns, scenic drives, and awesome hiking trails – amongst other things.

It includes my favorite places to eat, the best drinking holes in town, and a handful of accommodation options per place, including budget hostel or camping options, vacation rentals, and a nicer lodge or hotel option, focusing on independent businesses that are historic or charming, rather than chain hotels. 

We have done a lot of incredible housesits all over Colorado, and this is an excellent way to travel as you get free accommodation and get to stay in someone’s home, which I think is so much nicer than staying in a hotel.

There are always loads of Colorado housesits on Trusted Housesitters. Sign up through my link to get 25% off your first year of membership – you can search for housesits before signing up.

Because it includes hiking trails and mountain passes that are only open from June/July till September/October, this road trip is designed for the summer and fall months.

This is the road trip that will make you fall head over heels for Colorado, and I warn you – once you have followed this Colorado road trip itinerary – you may just end up moving there.

So here it is, my super-duper, gigantic Colorado itinerary for an epic summer or fall road trip!

Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

Colorado road trip route.

Check out my Colorado road trip interactive map here.

Here is my Colorado road trip route, with every overnight stop included as well as places to visit along the drive. As most people will be flying in and starting from Denver, this is where my Colorado itinerary starts and ends.

Denver – Boulder – Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park – Grand Lake – Hot Sulphur Springs – Steamboat Springs – Glenwood Springs and Hanging Lake – Grand Junction and Colorado National Monument – Montrose and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park – Crested Butte – Telluride – Ouray – Silverton – Durango and Mesa Verde National Park – Pagosa Springs – Great Sand Dunes National Park – Valley View Hot Springs – Salida – St Elmo Ghost Town – Buena Vista – Aspen and Maroon Bells – Leadville – Vail – Frisco – Breckenridge – Georgetown – Idaho Springs and St Mary’s Glacier – Denver

There are a few places that I really love in Colorado that I wasn’t able to fit into this route without a lot of backtracking, but check out my other Colorado posts to find out more.

This is the perfect route in my eyes, but everyone is different and likes different things. You can pick and choose from this Colorado itinerary and cut some things and add others to make it the perfect Colorado road trip for you.

I know not everyone has weeks to explore Colorado, so if you have less time and are looking for the best road trips from Denver for one week or even less, get in touch – I would love to help you out and give you some suggestions for the amount of time you have.

My Perfect Colorado Itinerary for 3 + Weeks

Denver 2-3 days.

Even if you aren’t a fan of big cities, I recommend spending at least two days in the city and surrounds of Denver.

The Greater Denver area is home to nearly half the population of the whole state, and I think to get a good understanding of Colorado you need to experience where so many Coloradans live.

I already have a detailed post about how to spend three days in Denver , so go and check that out for more details on places to go, where to stay, and where to eat in the city. Also, check out my Denver suburbs guide with a more in-depth look at what to do, eat, and drink in Denver’s best neighborhoods.

Denver highlights include soaking up 19th-century history in Larimer Square and LoDo, having an out-of-this-world experience at Meow Wolf, brewery and restaurant hopping in the Highlands, biking the riverside trails around the city, street art hunting in RiNo, hiking or catching a show at Red Rocks, hiking in Golden and tubing the river, and exercising and picnicking in expansive Washington Park.

Where to Stay in Denver: For budget options, Hostel Fish or Ember Hostel and The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa  or The Crawford Hotel for refined luxury. If you prefer vacation rentals, then check out  RiNo Luxury Flat ,  City Park One Bedroom , and Urban Refuge Carriage House.

Where to Eat in Denver: So many places! Go to Snooze or Sassafras for brunch, sample some creative small plates at Root Down where the focus is eating local, grab a burrito bowl at Illegal Pete’s, eat at a former mortuary turned eatuary – Linger, try delicious Native American fare at Tocabe, and make sure to check out a few of the food halls that Denver is known for including Avanti, The Denver Central Market, Zeppelin Station and Denver Milk Market to name a few.

Where to Drink in Denver: Again, so many places! Have pickle shots at the Retro Room, amazing craft beer at Denver Beer Company, Little Machine, Ratio Beerworks, New Terrain in Golden, Strange Craft, and Goed Zuur – a sour and wild beer-only bar, libations in the sun on the roof terrace at Avanti, and giant frozen margaritas on the patio at Rio Grande. And don’t miss one of the best speakeasies in the country – Williams and Graham.

Boulder 1-2 Days

Drive Time to Boulder: 30 minutes/27 miles

Boulder is both a mountain town and a college town and is a liberal place that is a great stop for eating and hiking, and a must on any Colorado Itinerary.

If you are short on time I recommend spending at least one day there, checking out the shops and buskers on pedestrian Pearl Street, wandering along pretty Boulder Creek, eating at one or two of the excellent restaurants in town, grabbing a beer at a local brewery, and doing a hike – Royal Arch in Chautauqua Park and the Mount Sanitas Loop are my favorites.

Where to Stay in Boulder: Boulder Adventure Lodge, Basecamp Boulder , or Hotel Boulderado. For vacation rentals, check out this Cabin on Boulder Creek , or this South Boulder Studio .

Where to Eat in Boulder: The beautiful, hand-painted Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse which was gifted by Tajikistan offers delicious teas and food from around the world, the Avanti food hall which has an awesome roof terrace with mountain views and various restaurants including a pizza place, Korean, and pupusas, and try the best pizza in Boulder at Pizzeria Locale.

Where to Drink in Boulder: There are tons of great breweries in Boulder, I would recommend Sanitas Brewing Co., VisionQuest, and Twisted Pine. Also make sure to check out the awesome Rayback Collective which has a cafe, bar, food trucks, and live music on site – it’s a great place to get a couple of hours of work done before knocking off for some beers.

Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park 2-4 Days

Drive Time to Estes Park: 50 minutes/37 miles

After stopping for a look around and a drink at Oskar Blues in the cute town of Lyons , you will arrive in touristy but very pretty Estes Park – the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park . 

You can either explore Estes Park for a couple of hours and then head into Rocky Mountain National Park to camp, or you can base yourself in Estes Park – it’s up to you and they are both good choices.

Pro Tip: If you are planning to visit the four National Parks in Colorado as well as Colorado National Monument – they are all in this itinerary – then get the America the Beautiful Annual National Parks pass.

The pass lasts for one year, covers your vehicle and anyone in it, and costs $80. It will save you $35 in entry fees compared to purchasing passes to each park separately, and you can use it for one year at National Park sites all over the U.S. Buy it at the entrance gate to Rocky Mountain National Park.

In Estes Park, make sure to visit the infamous Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for The Shining, and reputed to be haunted. To avoid the entrance fee, park your car in town and walk up there to look around for free.

Estes Park is a great place to get your Colorado souvenirs, and if it is a rainy day, catch a movie at the historic Park Theatre, the oldest theater west of the Mississippi.

Rocky Mountain National Park

There is so much to see in Rocky Mountain National Park that you could spend weeks hiking the different trails. For a short visit of only a couple of days, I recommend doing the Gem Lake trail, which is in a section of the park very close to Estes Park, then heading into the park via the Beaver Meadows Entrance.

The most trafficked part of Rocky Mountain National Park is the area around Bear Lake, and you need to go as early as possible if you want to get a park there, otherwise, you can park at the park and ride and take the free bus.

Spend at least a day in the Bear Lake area, making sure to do the hike to Emerald Lake via Dream Lake, the short Bear Lake trail, and the longer trail to Sky Pond if you have time – my favorite trail in the park.

On your last day in Rocky Mountain National Park, spend a day driving Trail Ridge Road, stopping at viewpoints, the Alpine Visitor Center, and doing the short Alpine Ridge trail and Tundra Communities Trail.

For a longer hike, the Ute trail is very worth it, even if you just do a section of it.

On the other side of Trail Ridge Road, stop to do the short but interesting hike to the Holzwarth Historic Site, and perhaps a longer hike on the western side of the park – I have hiked to Cascade Falls on the North Inlet Trail and it is a beautiful hike. 

If you want to spend a couple of extra days in Rocky Mountain National Park, consider visiting the lesser-known Wild Basin area of the park. To get to Wild Basin, you need to take State Highway 7 from Estes Park towards Allenspark, before turning off to get to the entrance station.

One of the top hikes in the Wild Basin area is to Ouzel Falls, if you are hot after your hike make sure to take a shower under the falls. I have heard great things about the Chasm Lake hike too. Stop in Allenspark for a beer and pizza at Rock Creek Tavern and Pizzeria before heading back to Estes Park.

Where to Stay in Estes Park: Estes Park Adventure Hostel offers dorm accommodation and a communal kitchen right by town. Hotel options are Murphy’s River Lodge , Blue Door Inn , or The Stanley Hotel . For vacation rentals, stay in this charming rustic studio cabin , or this cozy downtown one-bedroom loft .

Alternatively, camp at one of the campgrounds on the eastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park – Moraine Park or Glacier Basin. It is best to book these online in advance as they are full most nights in summer, especially weekends. 

Where to Eat in Estes Park: For good BBQ, try Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew, have a massive breakfast at Big Horn Restaurant, and have some beers and pub grub at The Wapiti Colorado Pub.

Where to Drink in Estes Park: After a day of hiking, try some local beers at Rockcut Brewing Co., Avant Garde Aleworks, and Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.

Grand Lake 1-2 Days

Drive Time to Grand Lake: 1 hour 40 minutes/46.5 miles

Grand Lake is the gateway to the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park, and is a bit more rustic and less touristy than Estes Park.

The town isn’t large so a couple of hours looking at the shops, checking out the lake, and eating at one of the restaurants there should suffice, although if you get in late after driving Trail Ridge Road, it’s a good overnight stop.

Stay longer if you want to base yourself there to do some of the trails on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park – the East Inlet trail is meant to be a stunner.

Where to Stay in Grand Lake: Shawdowcliff Mountain Hostel or Grand Lake Lodge . For vacation rentals, stay at this affordable Grand Lake condo , or this dog-friendly lakefront rental . If you want to camp, Elk Creek Campground and RV Resort is right by town. 

Where to Eat in Grand Lake: Sagebrush BBQ and Grill for great BBQ in a rustic setting, Grand Pizza for a massive range of specialty pizzas.

Where to Drink in Grand Lake: The Worlds End Brewpub has the best selection of craft beers on tap in town, and a nice patio to enjoy them in the sun.

Hot Sulphur Springs – Half day

Drive Time to Hot Sulphur Springs: 30 minutes/25 miles

If you are a hot springs junkie like I am, make sure to stop at the small town of Hot Sulphur Springs on the way to Steamboat Springs for a few hours, to take a dip in the pool complex of the same name. This is one of my favorite hidden gems in Colorado .

There are 22 pools and private baths, all of different temperatures, and it is a relaxing and unassuming place that doesn’t get a load of tourism. But don’t expect anything fancy.

You can stay at the Hot Sulphur Springs Resort as an alternative to Grand Lake, and you get unlimited access to the pools from check-in to check-out. The Canyon Motel in town is also a great option.

For vacation rentals, stay at this Modern-Rustic Luxury Rock House , or this Hot Sulphur Springs Cottage .

Steamboat Springs 1-3 Days

Drive Time to Steamboat Springs: 1 hour 20 minutes/70 miles

Beautiful Steamboat Springs gets missed off many a summer Colorado Itinerary and that is such a shame, because it is one of the most beautiful mountain towns in the state, and it’s home to one of the best hot springs: Strawberry Hot Springs.

I recommend spending at least one night in Steamboat Springs, to look around town, grab a beer at one of the brewpubs or breweries, eat a meal at one of the excellent restaurants, and hit the hot springs – evening is best.

Stay even longer and you can check out some of the hiking trails near town too – Fish Creek Falls is probably the most famous. This winter resort town is just as good in summer.

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs: Stay at the Chalet Val d’Isere Bed & Breakfast , or  The Steamboat Grand . For vacation rentals, stay in this  quaint and luxurious studio , or this  downtown condo with balcony . Alternatively, stay at Strawberry Hot Springs in a caboose, a cabin, or camping. 

Where to Eat in Steamboat Springs: Winona’s for giant cinnamon rolls and big breakfasts, and Creekside Cafe and Grill for their very reasonable happy hour menu for snacks and drinks, and their garden patio overlooking a creek.

Where to Drink in Steamboat Springs: Mountain Tap Brewery for great local beer and wood-fired pizza, Storm Peak Brewing Company for eclectic craft beer, and The Barley Tap and Tavern for locally sourced beer and spirits.

Glenwood Springs 1-3 Days

Drive Time to Glenwood Springs: 2 hours 15 minutes/115 miles

Glenwood Springs is a historic town that is famous for its hot springs. My favorite part of town is the riverfront and Grand Avenue near the river.

Grab some food from one of the restaurants in this area, and if you love eclectic fashion, then check out the awesome Elizabeth Dean Boutique .

Skip the main Glenwood Springs Hot Springs and go to Iron Mountain Hot Springs instead, located on a hillside overlooking the river. These peaceful hot springs pools are absolute heaven and you should spend an afternoon and evening soaking here.

Calming music plays, and you can hop around the different pools of different temperatures.

Another big Glenwood Springs attraction is the hike to Hanging Lake, arguably the most famous hike in Colorado. Check here for up-to-date information about prices and reservations.

There are lots of other hikes in the area too, including the short hike to Doc Holliday’s grave, and the Roaring Fork River trail – both of which you can begin right in town.

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs: Ami’s Acres Campround close to town, Hotel Denver , or Starlight Lodge . For vacation rentals, stay at Casa Del Sol with mountain views, or this modern one-bedroom in downtown Glenwood Springs.

Where to Eat in Glenwood Springs: Smoke Modern BBQ for delicious BBQ and mac and cheese, Grind for a wide range of burgers, beers and boozy shakes , and 19th Street Diner for a classic American Diner experience.

Where to Drink in Glenwood Springs: Casey Brewing Taproom for excellent craft beer – especially the sours, Glenwood Canyon Brewpub is a cozy spot for a local craft beer, and Doc Holliday’s Saloon is a historic western-themed tavern with drinks and pub grub.

Grand Junction and Colorado National Monument 2-3 Days

Drive Time to Grand Junction: 1 hour 20 minutes/87 miles

Grand Junction is the most populous city on Colorado’s Western slope and is the gateway to Colorado’s wine region.

Although Grand Junction is a pleasant city in itself and a great place to wander around and explore, the main reason people visit this college city is because of its proximity to Colorado National Monument . 

Spend at least a day hiking and driving the scenic roads through the red rock desert of underrated Colorado National Monument – my favorite hike was the Monument Canyon and Wedding Canyon loop trail.

Also, make sure to visit pretty Palisade, home to some of the best peaches in the country and surrounded by wineries, farm stands, breweries, and even a distillery – visit the best by following the self-drive Fruit and Wine Byway routes.

Where to Stay in Grand Junction: Camp at Saddlehorn Campground in Colorado National Monument or stay at Hotel Maverick or the Grand Vista Hotel . For vacation rentals, stay at this affordable suite near downtown, or the charming Sweet Apple Cottage .

Where to Eat in Grand Junction: The Goat and Clover Tavern for English pub food, Pablo’s Pizza for inventive pizzas.

Where to Drink in Grand Junction: Edgewater Brewery and The Rockslide Brew Pub for local craft beer, and The Feisty Pint for generous happy hours and Colorado beer, cider, and spirits.

Montrose & Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park 1-2 Days

Drive Time to Montrose: 1 hour/61 miles

Montrose itself is not terribly exciting, but it is the gateway to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and has a handful of good restaurants and breweries.

There is also an excellent living history museum – Museum of the Mountain West – that includes a number of 19th-century buildings, and all kinds of stuff from the past 150 years that the owner has painstakingly collected over his lifetime.

The entry fee includes a two-hour tour of some of the restored buildings and it was fascinating.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of the least visited National Parks in the U.S. and comprises a very deep canyon of distinctive black rock.

It is a small park at only 231 acres, but there is enough to keep you busy for a day or two – from various viewpoints to hiking trails.

Where to Stay in Montrose: South Rim Campground in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. In Montrose, stay at Old School Lodge or Double G Ranch & Guestlodge . For vacation rentals, stay at this rustic mountain cabin , the beautiful Black Canyon Cottage on a private ranch, or this unique rustic treehouse .

Where to Eat in Montrose: Crash Burger for simple but delicious burgers, and Colorado Boy for inventive and delicious pizza.

Where to Drink in Montrose: Horsefly Brewing Company for local craft beer, burger and wings on their sunny patio, and Phelanies for top-rate cocktails.

Crested Butte 2-3 days

Drive Time to Montrose: 1 hour 45 minutes/92 miles

Crested Butte is my second favorite mountain town in Colorado – only just edged out by Telluride, and if you have the time then you should definitely add Crested Butte to your Colorado Itinerary, despite it being a big detour to get there.

Crested Butte is a vibrant and pretty mountain town that is surrounded by some of the most scenic wilderness in the U.S., with Maroon Bells right on its doorstep.

In the fall, drive Kebler Pass, Ohio Pass, or Cottonwood Pass for breathtaking fall colors, and hike Gothic Mountain for a summit hike with epic views and wildflowers.

Nearby Gothic Ghost Town is worth checking out, originally a silver mining town it now has a second life as a facility for the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte: Crested Butte Hostel , Cristiana Guesthaus , or Nordic Inn. For vacation rentals, stay at this private guesthouse on Elk  or The Alley House , both in downtown Crested Butte.

Where to Eat in Crested Butte: McGill’s for their hearty breakfasts, awesome pitas at a great price from Pitas in Paradise, upscale pub grub at Irwin Brewing Company’s Public House, Sherpa Cafe for your Indian fix, awesome bagels from Butte Bagels, Secret Stash for perfect pizza.

Where to Drink in Crested Butte: Camp 4 Coffee for great coffee and breakfast burritos, The Dogwood for incredible craft cocktails, and local beer at The Eldo Brewery.

Telluride 2-4 Days

Drive Time to Telluride: 3 hours/157 miles

Telluride is one of my absolute favorite mountain towns in Colorado, and although it is a bit out of the way, you should definitely have Telluride on your Colorado Itinerary. This town is so dang gorgeous and has a vibrant and active community.

Telluride is also home to a number of festivals in summer, with the Telluride Bluegrass Festival being one of the biggest. If you want to visit during a festival, make sure to plan your tickets and accommodation in advance.

There are tons of things to do in Telluride and you should definitely hit up some hiking trails, take the gondola up to Telluride Ski Resort from town, and visit the nearby Alta Ghost Town.

Check out this post I wrote for more details about what to see and do in Telluride.

Where to Stay in Telluride: The Bivvi is an excellent affordable option with dorm and private rooms. Town Park Campground for camping right in town, Inn at Lost Creek in Mountain Village, or   the New Sheridan Hotel. For free camping, stay at beautiful Priest Lake. If you want a vacation rental, this bright one-bedroom with a patio overlooking the river and this cute studio are both great choices and both are right downtown.

Where to Eat in Telluride: Award-winning Brown Dog Pizza for delicious Detroit-style pizzas, Smuggler Union Restaurant and Brewery for a range of craft beers and pub-style food, and Baked in Telluride is the best budget option in town and had excellent pastries, soups, and sandwiches. If you are in Telluride on a Friday, don’t miss the weekly Farmer’s Market.

Where to Drink in Telluride: Telluride Brewing Company for inventive beer, Stronghouse Brewpub for craft beer, and rustic Last Dollar Saloon for its massive range of beers and awesome margaritas. 

Ouray 1-2 days

Drive Time to Ouray: 1 hour/50 miles

Rivaling Telluride in beauty, Ouray is another gorgeous historic mountain town that is absolutely picture-perfect and has a number of hiking trails nearby. It is a must-add to a Colorado Road Trip!

Other than just wandering around the town and swooning at the colorful flower boxes and historic buildings, I highly recommend you visit the Wiesbaden Hot Springs and Vapor Cave for a relaxing experience at a great price. This is one of the most unique hot springs in Colorado .

Wiesbaden is actually a lodge but you don’t have to stay there to visit the pools. There is a hot pool outside, and then under the lodge there is a small natural hot pool inside a cave with a waterfall – so cool!

Alternatively, Orvis Hot Springs is another great local hot spring set in a beautiful garden with a few outdoor pools, as well as private indoor pools which are included in the price. It is clothing optional.

A popular and very beautiful trail nearby is the Blue Lakes trail near the town of Ridgway to the north. This eight-mile out-and-back hike is moderate to difficult but so worth it to see these gorgeous lakes! For shorter hikes in town, hike along the river or do the Ouray Perimeter Trail.

Where to Stay in Ouray: Amphitheater Campground , Wiesbaden Hot Springs and Lodgings , Imogene Lodge , or Timber Ridge Lodge. For vacation rentals, this renovated historic home in the heart of downtown, and this modern studio apartment on the river.

Where to Eat in Ouray: Brickhouse 737 for eclectic American cuisine and cocktails – this is one of my favorite restaurants in Colorado!, Colorado Boy Southwest Pub for killer artisan pizza and Southwestern cuisine.

Where to Drink in Ouray: Ouray Brewery for award-winning beers on their rooftop with mountain views, or enjoy beers at Mr Grumpy Pants Brewing (also known as Ourayle House Brewery).

Silverton 1-2 days

Drive Time to Silverton: 45 minutes/24 miles

The drive from Ouray to Silverton on the Million Dollar Highway is one of the most beautiful in the country, especially in mid to late September when the fall colors are at their peak.

Silverton is a real wild west mountain town that is not polished like Telluride or Ouray, and in that lies its charm.

With unpaved streets and more historic buildings than you can shake a stick at, a walk around Silverton will make you feel like you have stepped back in time to the Gold Rush days.

This is another favorite Colorado road trip stop.

The best place to learn about the storied history of Silverton is at the San Juan County Historical Museum, which has loads of info about the founding of the town and mining history in the area, and it incorporates the old county jail.

Like most mountain towns in Colorado, there are a number of hiking trails nearby and it’s a great base if you want to get into the wilderness. I am dying to do the Ice Lake Basin trail myself.

Where to Stay in Silverton: Teller House or the   Grand Imperial Hotel. For camping, stay at Molas Lake Campground or Silverton Lakes RV Resort. For vacation rentals, stay at Stellar House in downtown Silverton, or this unique tiny house that is also downtown.

Where to Eat in Silverton: Rocky Mountain Funnel Cake Factory for decadent funnel cakes, The Bent Elbow for excellent American dishes, Handlebars Food and Saloon for their extensive menu and western decor, Eureka Station for pasties.

Where to Drink in Silverton: Golden Block Brewery for local brews, The Bent Elbow for their old-timey bar.

Durango and Mesa Verde National Park 2-3 days

Drive Time to Durango: 1 hour/48 miles

Durango will feel like the big smoke compared to the mountain towns you have been visiting, but it’s still a lovely small city with beautifully restored historic buildings and a lively student population.

Mesa Verde National Park is only a 40-minute drive away so unless you are wanting to camp in the park, Durango is a great base as there are a number of good restaurants, breweries, and bars in town.

Mesa Verde National Park is one of the highlights of this whole Colorado road trip itinerary, especially if you are into history like me. The cliff dwellings here are simply spectacular, and are some of the best-preserved archeological sites on the whole continent!

Along with doing some hiking and visiting the viewpoints over the different cliff dwellings, you absolutely have to visit at least one of the cliff dwellings up close and personal. I highly recommend taking tours of Balcony House, Long House, and/or Cliff Palace and doing the self-guided tour of Step House.

For hikes in Mesa Verde National Park, I enjoyed the Spruce Canyon Trail, the Point Lookout Trail, and the Soda Canyon Trail.

Along with visiting Mesa Verde National Park, another popular attraction in Durango and one of the most beautiful train journeys in the country is between Durango and Silverton – the Narrow Gauge Railway.

I am yet to do this myself but I have heard great things! You can do the return train journey with two hours spent in Silverton in one nine-hour day trip.

Make sure to save an afternoon and evening to soak at the excellent Durango Hot Springs which has over 20 different pools to choose from and a restaurant onsite.

Where to Stay in Durango: Morefield Campground in Mesa Verde National Park, or stay at The Strater Hotel or the General Palmer Hotel in Durango. For vacation rentals, stay at this cozy treehouse condo or this urban homestead in downtown Durango.

Where to Eat in Durango: Grab sliders, pizza, or tacos from one of the eateries at 11th Street Station which also has a bar and live music. Neopolitan pizza from Fired Up Pizzeria. 

Where to Drink in Durango: Awesome craft beer at Ska Brewing Co or Steamworks Brewing Company. Cocktails at the Old West-style Diamond Belle Saloon where the wait staff dress in period clothing.

Pagosa Springs 1-2 days

Drive Time to Pagosa Springs: 1 hour 10 minutes/60 miles

Pagosa Springs is a pleasant town set on the San Juan River and is most famous for its hot springs. There are a couple of different options in town, and if you love hot springs and want to try more than one.

I recommend the relaxing Overlook Hot Springs with various pools over three levels, and The Springs Resort and Spa which has pools sitting right on the river and is the premier hot springs complex in town (the price certainly reflects this).

If you want to stay longer, there are plenty of activities in the area like hiking, tubing, kayaking, fishing, and mountain biking to keep you busy.

Where to Stay in Pagosa Springs: Pagosa Riverside Campground , The Springs Resort and Spa , Fireside Cabins , or Healing Waters Resort & Spa . For vacation rentals, stay at this charming studio with mountain views, or this cozy downtown studio .

Where to Eat in Pagosa Springs: The Peak Deli for delicious breakfasts and sandwiches (the best breakfast burrito in Colorado!), Mountain Pizza and Taproom for pizzas and pour-your-own beer taps, Root House for coffee drinks and cafe fare.

Where to Drink in Pagosa Springs: Riff Raff Brewing Company for craft beer in a Victorian house.

Great Sand Dunes National Park 1-2 days

Drive Time to Great Sand Dunes National Park: 2 hours 10 minutes/108 miles

Great Sand Dunes National Park will make you feel like you are on the planet Tatooine, but without Luke Skywalker. You probably wouldn’t expect to see so much sand when you are so far from the ocean, but there it is. This is definitely one of the more unique stops on this Colorado Road Trip Itinerary!

This offbeat National Park is home to the tallest sand dune in North America, and you can hike up it. But if you don’t have nine hours, then hike up the highest dune on the first ridge instead, and then slide back down if you have something to slide on.

Along with all that sand, Great Sand Dunes National Park is also home to wetlands, grasslands, alpine forests, and tundra, and there are numerous hiking trails that will allow you to explore the diverse landscapes in the park.

In spring and early summer, cool off in Medrano Creek – it is only flowing during this short window each year.

Where to Stay for Great Sand Dunes National Park: For camping, Piñon Flats Campground in the park or Great Sand Dunes Oasis RV Park just outside the park. Nearby hotels are Great Sand Dunes Lodge or The Sunet Inn in Alamosa. For a vacation home, stay at this artsy Southwest house in Alamosa.

Where to Eat & Drink in Great Sand Dunes National Park: The only place to eat within 25 miles of the park is the Great Sand Dunes Oasis Restaurant. It’s best to bring your own food for your visit.

Valley View Hot Springs 1-2 days

Drive Time to Valley View Hot Springs: 1 hour 10 minutes/66 miles

If you manage to book a slot to visit or stay a night, you should definitely add the remote Valley View Hot Springs to your Colorado itinerary.

These rustic, clothing-optional hot springs are managed by a land trust, and you have to make sure you book in advance because only a certain number of people are allowed in each day.

Ring a week in advance to book and make sure you will be there on the day you say because the cancellation fee is hefty.

But believe me, this special place is worth the hassle. I met the most friendly and interesting people soaking in the various natural pools and the views are incredible down over the San Luis Valley.

Bring your own food because there are no restaurants or stores nearby. Be warned – if you are not comfortable around nudity then it is probably not the place for you, although it is perfectly acceptable to wear a bathing suit if you feel more comfortable.

Salida 1-2 days

Drive Time to Salida: 45 minutes/38 miles

Another day, another beautiful and historic mountain town – there really are so many in Colorado! Salida is home to Colorado’s largest National Historic District with 136 preserved buildings that have a wild west past.

You can either drop in for a short visit to Salida to check out the pretty main street and go for a stroll by the river or stay longer to do some hiking, mountain biking, or world-class white water rafting.

If it’s hot, you can swim in the river right in town, then grab a local beer at one of the town’s breweries.

Where to Stay in Salida: The Salida Inn and Hostel , American Classic Inn , or Silver Ridge Lodge. For vacation rentals, stay at cute Tenderfoot Cottage or turn-of-the-century Dvora’s Guest House , both downtown.

Where to Eat in Salida: Amicas Pizza Microbrew for wood-fired pizzas and beer brewed onsite, Tacos El Tapatio for authentic Mexican food. Brown Dog Coffee Company for good coffee and breakfast burritos in cozy surroundings.

Where to Drink in Salida: Try local craft beer at Soulcraft Brewing, Tres Litros Beer Company, and Moonlight Pizza and Brewpub. The Biker & The Baker is a great choice for wine and cocktails, and Benson’s Tavern and Beer Garden for drinks and live music.

St Elmo Ghost Town – Half Day

Drive Time to St Elmo Ghost Town: 50 minutes/32 miles

My favorite ghost town in Colorado, St Elmo is also one of the best-preserved in the American West. It is absolutely worth going a little out of your way to visit, whether you love history, photography, hummingbirds, or just exploring beautiful places.

On arrival, grab a pamphlet to take a self-guided walk of this late 19th Century historic town, where 43 buildings remain, including a saloon, a courthouse/jail, mercantile, and private homes.

Summer is an excellent time to visit if you love hummingbirds because there are dozens of them buzzing around the various feeders by the General Store in town.

There are also lots of chipmunks, I love those little cuties! In fall, the gold of the aspens surrounding the town is absolutely spectacular.

Another couple of ghost towns that are definitely worth visiting in the area are Vicksburg and Winfield.

Located in Clear Creek Canyon just north of Buena Vista, these two ghost towns are great for a wander and there is dispersed camping all along the gravel road. You can easily do this drive in a 2WD.

If you want to stay at St Elmo, you can camp at Iron City Campground right by it.

Buena Vista 1-3 days

Drive Time to Buena Vista: 40 minutes/20 miles

Buena Vista is another one of my favorite mountain towns, and I love the friendly locals, the cute downtown, and the proximity to hot springs, hiking trails, and other outdoor adventures.

I don’t see Buena Vista on many a Colorado Itinerary, but I think it should be on them all.

My favorite things to do in Buena Vista are to hang out around town looking at the boutiques and people-watching at a bar or cafe, walking along the river in fall to admire the fall colors, hiking alpine trails in the stunning Collegiate Peaks – like the popular Ptarmigan Lake, and soaking at one of the hot springs nearby – I love Cottonwood Hot Springs, but Mount Princeton Hot Springs is another popular option.

Like Salida down the road, Buena Vista is one of the best places in the country to go white water rafting so if that is something you are interested in, you should get on a rafting trip here.

I did a rafting trip through Browns Canyon National Monument and absolutely loved it!

Whether you are only passing through or you decide to stay a few days, you are going to love Buena Vista – we are even thinking of buying land here we love it so much.

Where to Stay in Buena Vista: Cottonwood Hot Springs Lodging for rooms, cabins, dorms and camping, Five Peaks , or Surf Hotel & Chateau. For vacation rentals, stay in this cute one-bedroom in the trendy South Main district, or this sweet cabin in the heart of BV.

Where to Eat in Buena Vista: The Buena Viking Food Truck is very popular with locals and visitors for their amazing burgers and sides, or try the pizza at Elkhorn Pizzeria.

Where to Drink in Buena Vista: Eddyline Brewery for local brews, The Lariat for cocktails and live music, art-filled local hot spot Buena Vista Roastery Cafe for craft coffee and tea drinks and baked goods.

Aspen, Maroon Bells and Independence Pass 2-5 Days

Drive Time to Aspen: 3 hours 15 minutes/162 miles

This is another big detour in this Colorado road trip itinerary. I have tried to take you on a mostly circular route but you shouldn’t miss Aspen and Maroon Bells – it’s worth the detour, I promise.

Take at least half a day to drive over scenic Independence Pass, the highest paved pass in North America which is only open in summer and fall.

Stop for photos or hike the Interlaken trail at Twin Lakes to the remains of a once luxurious resort, enjoy epic views at the Continental Divide Viewpoint, and learn about mining history at beautiful Independence Ghost Town .

This is also one of the best fall color drives in Colorado, and once you start the descent from the Continental Divide into Aspen, the golden display of aspen trees covering the mountains on both sides of the road will knock your socks off.

Aspen is a former mining town, turned hedonistic counter-culture town, turned ritzy mountain resort with some of the most expensive real estate in the country.

Unfortunately only the rich can afford to live in Aspen now but it is still a beautiful place to visit, with the gorgeous historical buildings and colorful flower baskets that you see in a lot of mountain towns in Colorado.

There is also a lot to do around Aspen with some incredible mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing.

No matter what, spend at least half a day in nearby Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness , which is one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the whole country. There are a number of hiking trails from short strolls to multi-day adventures.

Where to Stay in Aspen: Difficult Camping Ground , The Gant , or Tyrolean Lodge. For vacation rentals, stay at this newly remodeled studio condo or this similar studio – both in the heart of Aspen.

Where to Eat in Aspen: White House Tavern for premium sandwiches, snacks, and craft cocktails in a 19th Century Miner’s cottage, Grateful Deli for lovers of sandwiches and The Grateful Dead.

Where to Drink in Aspen: Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar for elevated cocktails, Aspen Brewing Co for local craft beer and pizza.

Optional: Backpacking Trip in Maroon Bells 2-3 days

If you are looking to add a multi-day hike to your Colorado road trip itinerary, I highly recommend doing one in Maroon Bells.

Two of the most popular hikes are the Four Pass Loop which takes three or four days to complete, and the two-day return hike to remote Conundrum Hot Springs.

But I recommend doing the Aspen to Crested Butte hike over West Maroon Pass and back on East Maroon Pass with a night in Crested Butte. If you do this you could cut the big detour to Crested Butte earlier in the road trip out.  

This was one of the best hikes I have ever done with incredible mountain scenery, wildflowers and wild berries everywhere, and you get to spend an afternoon and evening exploring the beautiful Crested Butte.

I wrote a detailed guide to this hike here . You can do this in two days or take your time as we did.

Leadville 1-2 days

Drive Time to Leadville: 2 hours 40 minutes/129miles

At this point of your Colorado road trip, you have been to a lot of mountain towns that were former mining towns and are full of history – but Leadville is one of the best.

Like Silverton, the buildings in Leadville’s historic downtown have been somewhat restored, but it still retains a real Wild West vibe and has a rough and readiness to it that I love.

Leadville sits at over 10,000 feet and the winters here are especially harsh, this attracts a special type of person and there sure are some colorful characters that call Leadville home.

If you are a fan of spending hours browsing through cavernous antique stores with old stuff piled everywhere (who doesn’t?!) then don’t miss Western Hardware Antiques, and the Old West memorabilia at the Legendary Silver Dollar Saloon has to be seen to be believed.

If you are interested in the history of Leadville, make sure to visit the Matchless Mine and Baby Doe’s cabin, do a tour of the Healy House Museum and Dexter Cabin, and visit the National Mining Museum and Hall of Fame.

The second-highest mountain in the lower 48 states, Mount Elbert, is right by Leadville too so if you want to bag a 14’er this one is a great choice. 

Where to Stay in Leadville: For camping, stay at the Molly Brown Campground by Turquoise Lake, or Elbert Creek Campground if you are looking at summiting Mount Elbert. Another great budget option is to rent an ensuite room at The Mountain Hideaway Lodge , this is where we stay when we are in Leadville and we love the jacuzzi and sauna, the shared kitchen, and how close it is to town.

Hotel options include Inn the Clouds Hostel & Inn  and The Abbey. For vacation rentals, stay in one of Leadville’s tiny houses – my top picks are this one , this one , and this one . 

Where to Eat in Leadville: Treeline Kitchen for classic American plates done really, really well, and inventive cocktails. High Mountain Pies for great pizza.

Where to Drink in Leadville: The Legendary Silver Dollar Saloon for drinks in an Old West watering hole, and Two Mile Brewing Company for local brews.

Vail 1-2 days

Drive Time to Vail: 1 hour/38 miles

Drive Highway 24 via the cute town of Minturn to perhaps the most famous Ski Resort in the U.S. – Vail.

Vail is picture-perfect, but really – it’s more a ski resort than a real town. It doesn’t have the mining history of so many of Colorado’s mountain towns, and it shows. Rather than being full of historic buildings, it has been modeled to look like Switzerland or Austria, and although it is pretty, it’s all a bit fake if you ask me.

But – it’s still worth visiting as the setting is STUNNING and there are some great hiking and biking trails, including a lovely easy path that follows the river.

If you have ever wanted to hike with alpacas, you can do that in Vail, as well as horse riding, climbing, tubing, zip-lining, and riding an alpine coaster. And don’t miss the pretty Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.

Where to Stay in Vail: The Bunkhouse Hostel in Minturn, or Gravity Haus Vail or Tivoli Lodge in Vail. For vacation rentals, stay in the Birch luxury studio , or the Streamside Douglas one-bedroom villa .

Where to Eat in Vail: Up the Creek for relaxed dining by the river, Yeti’s Grind for coffee and breakfast burritos, Swiss Chalet Restaurant for fondue and Swiss eats.

Where to Drink in Vail: Vail Brewing Company and 7 Hermits Brewing Company for local craft beer, Shakedown Bar for drinks served with live music.

Frisco – Half Day

Drive Time to Frisco: 30 minutes/26 miles

On the way between Vail and Breckenridge, stop for a look around the lovely town of Frisco with its historic Main Street.

If you are into history, check out the free self-guided Frisco Historic Park and Museum which includes the Old Schoolhouse and Jail.

There are a number of hiking trails that start right in town, so stretch your legs on one of these before hitting the road again.

Where to Stay in Frisco: If you do decide to stay in Frisco, the Snowshoe Motel or Frisco Lodge are great choices. For vacation rentals, stay at Cedars Lodge studio condo , or this chic duplex – both downtown.

Where to Eat in Frisco: Butterhorn Bakery for the best breakfast in town, 5th Avenue Grille for delicious New American cuisine, Ein Prosit for German beer and sausages. The Mint Steakhouse in nearby Silverthorne is also a great choice – you cook your own protein and it is in the oldest building in Summit County.

Where to Drink in Frisco: Outer Range Brewing Company and Highside Brewing for great local craft beer.

Breckenridge 1-2 days

Drive Time to Breckenridge: 20 minutes/10 miles

Breckenridge is one of the big ski resorts in winter, but in summer it is host to a whole lot of fun warm-weather activities like world-class mountain biking, hiking, scenic drives, summer dog sledding, zip-lining, paddle-boarding, and river rafting, to name a few.

If you are looking for a party, then Breckenridge is great for that too. With over 100 restaurants and bars in Breckenridge and a young and lively population, Breck knows how to party.

And like Vail, Breckenridge is also home to a large number of festivals throughout the year – there is always something going on.

If you are visiting in the fall, don’t miss driving at least some of Boreas Pass, and do some of the fall hikes in the area including Aspen Alley for golden aspens and mining history.

And whatever time of year you are visiting, make sure to add a visit to the Breckenridge troll  to your Colorado road trip!

Where to Stay in Breckenridge: The Bivvi Boutique Hostel , Gravity Haus , or Mountain Thunder Lodge . For vacation rentals, stay at Peak 9 studio condo or this cute studio – both in downtown Breck.

Where to Eat in Breckenridge: Amazing Grace for killer breakfasts in a homey environment, American comfort food on the sun-soaked patio at The Canteen Tap House & Tavern.

Where to Drink in Breckenridge: Breckenridge Brewery & Pub for inventive beer and pub food, Broken Compass Brewery for their inventive and delicious craft beers – try their Ginger Pale Ale and Coconut Porter, and The Absinthe Bar for a wide selection of absinthe.

Georgetown 1-2 Days

Drive Time to Georgetown: 45 minutes/37 miles

Georgetown is a cute little town right off the I-70 near Idaho Springs, and is definitely worth a visit if you are into mining history or want to hike the closest 14’er to Denver – Mount Bierstadt.

The main street of Georgetown is full of historic buildings, and if you are interested in mining history – there are tours of the historic Capital Prize Gold Mine.

Drive the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway for stunning fall colors in September and gorgeous views all year round, and ride the Georgetown loop railroad on an old steam engine past several gold and silver mines from the past.

Where to Stay in Georgetown: Rose Street Bed & Breakfast or Georgetown Mountain Inn . For vacation rentals, stay at this cozy cottage downtown , or in this super affordable and cozy one-bedroom condo .

Where to Eat & Drink in Georgetown: Cooper’s on the Creek for elevated Colorado fare,   Guanella Pass Brewing Company for awesome local brews.

Idaho Springs – Half Day

Drive Time to Idaho Springs: 15 minutes/13 miles

Idaho Springs is yet another lovely historic mountain town and was founded during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush in 1859. It is also one of the closest mountain towns to Denver .

As well as visiting the town itself, don’t miss hiking to nearby St Mary’s Glacier, and take a historic gold mine tour at Phoenix Gold Mine.

You can also drive to the summit of 14,270ft Mount Evans from Idaho Springs on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway.

Make sure to time your visit to have lunch at the excellent BeauJo’s for Colorado-style pizza. What is Colorado-style pizza you ask? You should find out for yourself, but I will say that it involves honey. Wash it down with a beer from popular Tommy Knocker Brewery.

And then from Idaho Springs, it is only half an hour back to Denver!

Phew, so that’s it for now! I still haven’t been everywhere in Colorado so the more places I go, the more I can add on to this giant Colorado Itinerary.

I hope this helps in planning your own Colorado road trip Itinerary, and that you come away loving Colorado just as much as I do.

If you liked this – check out some of my other Colorado posts:

• 15 Best Colorado Mountain Towns to Visit Any Time
• 15 Best Colorado Hot Springs For True Hot Springs Enthusiasts
• 10 Best Hidden Gems in Colorado
• Fun Things To Do in Buena Vista, CO: One of My Favorite Mountain Towns
• The Perfect 3 Days in Denver Itinerary
• 14 Best Denver Suburbs To Visit and What to Do, Eat, and See There
• 11 Best Mountain Towns Near Denver (1 Hour or Less)
• Absolute Best Hikes in Golden To Work Up a Sweat
• Visit Telluride: The Best Mountain Town in Colorado
• Hike from Aspen to Crested Butte: The Best Hike in Colorado
• 15 Fun Things To Do in Golden CO That Won’t Break the Bank
• Experiencing Cannabis Culture in Denver with a Cannabis Tour

59 Comments on Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary to See the Best of the State

This is an excellent itinerary! We’re planning to travel to Colorado this summer with my 14 and 17 year old for 9 days. We’d like to tour some of the colleges in the state. Do you have an itinerary for 9 days with teens? Thank you.

Hi Kate, I’m happy to put together a quick itinerary if you email me at [email protected] . Let me know dates and interests. Thanks.

I loved your information. We’re a group of 5 seniors going to Colorado for 2 weeks in September. We would like your help in making an itinerary for the trip. Given our ages we may not be able to do a lot of hiking

Hi Toni, I most offline hiking the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal for the next 2.5 weeks but send me an email at [email protected] letting me know what you like doing, places you definitely don’t want to miss and any other info and I can help you with an itinerary when I’m back on the grid properly.

Gosh, I’m so lucky that I have found your posts. It’s absolutely the best. Thank you so much for your great efforts! ❤️

Wonderful article with great suggestions for things to do/see in Colorado. I also really appreciate your dining/drinking recommendations. My husband & I will be visiting for the first time later this month. What would be your plan for a 6-day tour starting & ending in Denver? We love scenic drives, history, short hikes and good eats. Thanks!

Hi Dawn, it depends on how much driving you want to do. If you don’t mind a lot of driving, I would head straight down to the southwest corner of Colorado and visit Telluride, Silverton, Ouray, Durango, Pagosa Springs and Mesa Verde National Park. Visit Leadville on the way down and Great Sand Dunes National Park on the way back up.

This itinerary is so amazing, it’s so well-written along with your amazing pictures as well. enjoyed alot while reading this!

Thank you! I put a lot of time into it so I’m glad you enjoyed it

The mountain looks very amazing, all photos are so amazing! thanks for sharing your itinerary

No problem Toba 🙂

Coming from the view of a 31 year resident of Colorado I was a bit disappointed by the fact that this is a trip to tourist spots. I was hoping for a more off the beaten path trip. I live with the Colorado National Monument basically in my front yard. It is awesome to see,however, there are so many other great places to see when you get outside of the city.

These may be tourist spots for Coloradans but a lot of them aren’t as well known to people who aren’t from the state. I have written a hidden gems post about some of the less well-known spots.

I did a lot of research on my own, after driving around my first trip to CO in 2020. I planned a tour to go back, then discovered your article. I can tell you that it was very informative. I did have many of the stops that you described, but you gave names of places I didn’t know about and some of the smaller towns like Leadville, etc were interesting to read about. I am going again in Sept and want to do a lot of this but only in 10 days, so I will have to cut out some of the places I added to mine… too bad Steamboat Springs is up and out of the way, because I’d love to check it out. I was also thinking of going into Utah to see Arches National Park. I think I am always way too ambitious with my road trips! Thanks for sharing your journeys with us all!

Thanks for your feedback Crystal. I saw your email too and will reply in the next couple of days.

I am obsessed with this itinerary! Any ideas to shorten to 10 days for a summer trip with kids aged 9 and 13?

Thanks Marci! It depends on how much you want to drive and pack in. Send me an email at [email protected] with more details of what you are looking for and I would be happy to help.

Hello! Amazing post! Love all the hot spring you described! We are planning a trip to Colorado from California to meet up with family from Chicago. We have about 2 weeks together. Do you have suggestions as to what are the 3-4 places we should stay and have the greatest reach to nature, and activities? Thank you!!

Hi Siaumin – if you want to spend time in three places I would highly recommend basing yourself in Telluride, Crested Butte, Aspen/Carbondale and either Salida or Buena Vista. There is tons to do in these areas and they are my favorite places in Colorado.

Dear Katie!

I can’t believe you actually reply! THANK YOU!

Of course – I’m happy to help. Let me know if you have any more questions.

Wow! Great information here. I am planning a 9 day family trip starting in June 20 from Denver. Possibly, Denver, Estes Park, Rocky Mountains, Grand Lake, Vail, Aspen and C Butte to Denver. I know there are lots to see and do but any specific recommendations on my route? Am I missing another close by place to visit ?

Thanks Ed, sounds like a great trip! I would add Buena Vista/Salida as they are on the way back to Denver to Crested Butte, there are a couple of great hot springs here as well as one of the best ghost towns in the west (St Elmo). Enjoy!

Need advice on the best 4 day road trip starting & ending in Denver. Know Denver well So don’t need to spend much time in Denver.

Hi Pat, you could do a road trip to Denver – Boulder – Rocky Mountain National Park – Frisco – Leadville – Buena Vista – Manitou Springs/Colorado Springs – Denver over four action-packed days.

Thanks for the marvelous posting! I truly enjoyed reading it, you might be a great author. I will remember to bookmark your blog and will eventually come back someday. I want to encourage you continue your great job, have a nice day!

I’m coming into Colorado for just a week and want to see as much as possible!! Could you help me out? Flying into Denver!!

Hi Bethany, send me an email at [email protected] with places with your current travel plans/ideas for Colorado and I would love to give you suggestions and help you to plan a route.

What a great Guide to beautiful Colorado! I live in Pagosa Springs and your guide makes me want to start a 3-6 week road trip! Thank you for including Pagosa Springs and Mountain Pizza & Taproom!!

Thanks so much Bob! It means so much more coming from a Coloradan. Can’t wait till next time I can grab pizza at Mountain Pizza and Taproom again 🙂

This is a great post! My husband and I are both Colorado natives and we agree that this list absolutely nails it. You even mentioned the restaurant I work at 😉

Thanks so much, that means a lot! What restaurant do you work at?

Hi there! Would you mind if I share your blog with my twitter group? There’s a lot of people that I think would really appreciate your content. Please let me know. Cheers

Sure, feel free to share it 🙂

Yay! I roadtripped through Colorado last summer and it’s definitely one of my favorite states! <3! I'd love to go back to explore more!

Glad you loved it too Farrah! There is always more to see – I have a big bucket list of new places in Colorado to explore this year (and lots of favorites to go back to!)

I love how detailed and informative it is! I definitely miss going on road trips and this one looks so much fun 🙂

Colorado is one of my favorite places in the world to road trip – I love a good road trip too

This post really spoke to me because I had to cancel my road trip through Colorado. I planned to go to a concert at Red Rocks. I will make a trip when things open up, though, and I’ll put your stops on my list! Thanks for this!

No problem, glad it is helpful

Such a great post and very helpful especially as I find myself waiting out current events in the state. I’ve been trying to find places to hike but it’s always difficult as I get altitude sickness at 9k. But, thanks to this post, I’ve found some places that I can’t wait to explore! Thanks

Happy to help! Enjoy

This is the ultimate guide! It makes we want to go there right now! I’ve booked for August, but is is looking less likely by the day. When I do – I’m headed straight for the giant sand dunes! Thank you for all the information I will need!

Thanks, I hope you make it there – if not this year then next.

Wow! What a thorough guide! Colorado has so many gems but the National Sand Dunes NP is my favorite. Such a random thing to find there. Now I have new spots to check out – thank you!

I went there for the first time last year and couldn’t believe I hadn’t been there before – so cool!

This makes me want to get off my ass and start hiking! You’re so lucky to live in such a wonderful state, thank you for sharing.

Thanks Rachael, I am very lucky!

This guide is so informative and comprehensive! Can’t wait to do a road trip in the US – looks like I need to consider Colorado as well 🙂

You definitely should! I have been to 42 states and Colorado is my favorite (of the lower 48 at least)

Wow Colorado is in my bucketlist and this guide is the best way to cover all the lovely places thanks so much for sharing

No problem! I hope you make it there

Love this! All of my best friends live in Denver so will have to check some of these places out when I go to visit!

You definitely should Kelli! Even if you only have time to do day trips from Denver – there are still so many options

This looks like an amazing road trip. One I definitely want to be a part of. I’ve been to Denver a couple times now and got out of the city too to explore Golden and some mountain towns on the way to a friend’s cabin. But I really love this state and can’t wait to go back and visit again. You’ve just given me some great ideas

Thanks Emma, there is so much to see in Colorado and you can easily make a shorter road trip using some of these places.

That is a very informative post and some areas are just mindblowing.

Wow this guide is massive! I can see how much work went into this, so thank you! I think my favorite would be Mesa Verde National Park, the cliff dwellings are so cool! But also, a ghost town!

Thanks, it was definitely a lot of work but I enjoyed it! Mesa Verde is amazing and so underrated

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10 Best Things To Do In Colorado

W ith its breathtaking mountains, stunning national parks, scenic drives, historic sites, and toasty hot springs, Colorado offers visitors a bevy of things to do all year round. I’ve been fortunate to live in this beautiful state for 29 years. While I can’t say I’ve traversed every nook and cranny, I’ve certainly road-tripped to the most beloved attractions that continually wow visitors. Here’s my take on the 10 best things to do in Colorado.

1. Maroon Bells

Among the most photographed mountains in North America are the Maroon Bells . Located just a 10-mile drive from downtown Aspen, these 14,000-foot peaks — so named for their color and shape — loom over a pristine lake. Viewing these magnificent mountains is a must-do when visiting Aspen . If you’re game for a high-altitude hike, traipse around base trails. The scene is especially alluring in the fall when area aspen trees turn gold. 

Pro Tip: Between mid-May and the end of October, you’ll need to make a parking reservation to drive your own car to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Or you can book a shuttle ride.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes park and grand lake.

Having visited 35 of 63 national parks in the United States, Rocky Mountain National Park is easily among my top five. It showcases Colorado’s quintessential jagged mountain peaks and evergreen wilderness, but it also offers glacial lakes for fishing, horseback riding trails, and opportunities for viewing wildlife, including elk, marmots, bighorn sheep, and moose. 

Be sure to drive Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States at 12,183 feet in elevation. Snowdrifts close it in the winter, but it’s typically open between the end of May through October. Pull off at the Alpine Visitor Center for vast views from what feels like the top of the world. 

Pro Tip: The mountain town of Estes Park is the popular gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and can get quite congested in the summer and fall. To avoid crowds, enter from the western side of the park near Grand Lake . 

3. Pikes Peak

Colorado springs.

In 1893, Katharine Lee Bates ascended Pikes Peak by prairie wagon and mule. She gazed out into the vast wilderness, inspiring her to write “America the Beautiful.” Today, traveling to the top of this 14,115-foot mountain in Colorado Springs isn’t quite so primitive. Instead, you can drive a 19-mile winding paved road to the summit. If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, hop aboard the historic Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway . Train conductors deliver entertaining and educational commentary along the way.

Pro Tip: The temperature can vary by 30–40 degrees Fahrenheit from the base to the summit. Be sure to wear layers. Also, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help avoid altitude sickness as you ascend the mountain.

4. The Springs Resort

Pagosa springs.

A visit to Colorado is not complete without a soak in its world-renowned hot springs. A stint in mineral waters not only soothes sore muscles after a day of adventuring outdoors, it’s said to enhance sleep and reduce inflammation. The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs is a great way to get introduced to hot springs, as you can choose from among 25 different riverside pools of varying temperatures. Feeling bold? Take a dip in the chilly San Juan River then warm up in the toasty Lobster Pot!

Pro Tip: If your trip to Colorado doesn’t take you to Pagosa Springs, there are plenty of other hot springs to choose from. Check out the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop website for ideas. 

5. Denver Museum Of Nature And Science

I’ve been taking my children to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science since they were toddlers, and now my biology-loving 23-year-old daughter often visits on her own when she’s in the state capital. Dinosaur fossils, Egyptian mummies, planetarium shows, spaceships, and a new Infinity Theater showing big-screen 3D films are among the permanent attractions that wow all ages.

Pro Tip: Check out the website to learn about any temporary exhibits before you visit. Sometimes, special traveling exhibits require additional admission .

6. Vail Scenic Gondola

You don’t have to be a skier or snowboarder to ascend to the top of Vail Mountain and enjoy the jaw-dropping vistas of the Gore Range. In the winter months, you can purchase tickets solely to ride the enclosed Eagle Bahn Gondola or Gondola One to the top and then back down again. 

However, my favorite time of year to visit mountain towns is the summer, when blue skies and moderate, dry temperatures prevail. Ride the Vail Summer Scenic Gondola to the top and then hike through aspen trees, across green meadows, and amid wildflowers. 

Pro Tip: Multiple statewide ski resorts transform into summer playgrounds in the warm-weather months with not only gondola rides but alpine slides and ziplines. Other options are Snowmass , Breckenridge , and Steamboat Springs for fun, high-altitude adventures.

7. Million Dollar Highway

Silverton and ouray.

One of the most spectacular drives in Colorado — perhaps in the United States — is a 25-mile stretch of Highway 550 between the towns of Silverton and Ouray . The “ Million Dollar Highway ” is not for the faint of heart. In sections, steep drop-offs and twisty switchbacks can freak out inexperienced mountain-pass drivers (and passengers). Just take it slow and stop at the pull-outs to fully enjoy the panoramic vistas that unfold around every corner. 

Pro Tip: Ouray is one of my favorite Colorado small towns and worth an overnight. While the Ouray Hot Springs Pool is especially fun for kids with its climbing wall, inflatable obstacle course, and water slides, also consider a Wiesbaden Hot Springs day pass (or sleep at the lodge) to steam in the vapor caves.

8. Mesa Verde National Park

Montezuma county.

Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to walk through cliff dwellings that the Ancestral Puebloans built more than 700 years ago. Entering the stone and earth dwellings built under rock overhangs does involve climbing ladders. If your mobility allows, the ranger-led tours of the cliff homes provide excellent insight into how this ancient culture once lived on the mesa. 

The park also has self-guided itineraries that allow you to view and learn about ceremonial and living structures, plus myriad hiking trails . 

Pro Tip: Ticketed time slots for tours of the cliff dwellings are available online 14 days in advance from mid-May to October. Be sure to book your reservation to avoid disappointment.

9. Colorado National Monument

Colorado may be known for its towering, jagged mountain peaks that remain snow-covered much of the year. But the far-western part of the state is composed of desert-like cliffs, mesas, and towers. A great place to take in this sandstone and red-rock landscape is Colorado National Monument in Fruita, about 25 miles from the Utah border. 

For the most impressive views, take the 23-mile Red Rock Rim Drive all the way through the park. Like the state’s other iconic drives, it does take a winding route with some sheer drop-offs — a warning if you’re not a fan of heights. 

Pro Tip: Fruita is about 25 miles from Palisade in Colorado’s wine country — worth the trip if you like to sip and savor surrounded by scenic mesas. Rent an e-bike to cycle along the Fruit & Wine Byway , not only to check out vineyards and tasting rooms but to visit fruit orchards and lavender farms.

10. Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine

Cripple creek.

The Colorado Gold Rush in 1859 and Colorado Silver Boom in 1879 lured thousands of fortune-seekers to Colorado — the large majority of them men. The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine was one of the few strikes claimed by a woman.

Today, visitors can learn all about this Cripple Creek gold discovery on an hour-long tour that includes descending 1,000 feet underground on a mine shaft. Also see gold veins in their natural state and ride an underground tram locomotive. Wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and strollers aren’t allowed.

Pro Tip: Cripple Creek legalized gambling in 1991 to encourage tourism in the area. If you’re a fan of the slots or blackjack tables, you can walk between nine different casinos in the historic downtown.

For more Colorado travel inspiration, check out these articles:

• 9 Amazing Outdoor Activities To Experience In Boulder, Colorado
• Colorado’s New Mountaintop Coaster Not For The Faint Of Heart
• 16 Fantastic Things To Do In Snowmass, Colorado, This Summer
• 13 Best Things To See And Do In Glenwood Springs, Colorado

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

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Colorado’s Most Charming Towns for a Summer Escape

Whether you’re looking to relax fireside under the stars at a luxury mountain resort or experience some of the best hiking in the Rockies, here’s where to explore in Colorado this summer.

Despite being one of the most popular skiing and snowboarding destinations in the country , Colorado provides a picturesque escape for travelers seeking a summer in the mountains . The pine-covered peaks, crystal clear lakes and charming villages come to life in the summer, allowing you to enjoy crisp mountain air and temperate weather. Though scattered thunderstorms are common throughout the warmest time of year, skies are predominantly sunny, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors and all of Colorado’s adventurous activities.

From mountain biking to hiking, taking in the vibrant greenery and wild blooms in the summer is a stark but stunning contrast to the snow-covered landscape that draws so many visitors in the winter. While high-end towns like Aspen and Vail boast breathtaking surroundings and high-end restaurants and accommodations, smaller locales like Telluride offer a truly immersive and small-town mountain retreat. If you’re hoping to experience the more artsy side of Colorado, Cherry Creek is a special community in Denver that is home to unique art galleries and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival . Whether you’re looking to relax fireside under the stars at a luxury mountain resort or experience some of the best hiking in the Rockies, follow this guide to Colorado’s most charming towns for a summer escape.

Located at the base of Vail Mountain, this quaint valley town is surrounded by the White River National Forest, providing the perfect blend of rural and luxury living. Walk through glimmering Aspen trees on the Upper Piney River Falls trail or hike the Lost Lake Trail for epic views of Beaver Creek and the Gore Range vistas. On the weekends, indulge in French fare at Vintage before catching a concert at Vail’s Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater . Matsuhisa is the perfect place to cure your craving for sushi, but if you’re in the mood for a post-hike cocktail at sunset, grab a bar stool at Root & Flower and sip on the unique Cadillac Desert, which is a sage & citrus infused tequila martini.

Where to Stay:

The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail is just steps away from Vail Mountain, placing guests in the heart of nature. Enjoy unparalleled access to beautiful hiking and biking trails or take advantage of the heated pool and hot tubs. The Hythe Vail , a Luxury Collection property, offers more modern accommodations and encourages guests to unwind by the retro fireplace in the lobby or indulge in a massage at the on-site Well & Being Spa.

With a population of less than 3,000, Telluride is a box canyon town with a unique history. Formerly a Victorian mining town, the tiny destination has everything from towering peaks to a charming Main Street where locals go to shop, eat, drink and mingle. The surrounding San Juan Mountains are a hotspot for hikers and mountain bikers looking to brave treacherous yet idyllic peaks, but there are also plenty of lakes and ponds where you can swim or paddle board. The panoramic, mountainous background from Main Street is out of this world, but nothing beats the views from Allred’s Restaurant. Stop by Historic Bar for a nightcap at Telluride’s oldest bar, which has remained untouched since 1895. 

Between the earthy interiors and show-stopping views, Auberge's Madeline Hotel & Residences offers a cozy respite from the outside world. The alpine-inspired rooms and suites boast five-star comfort, while the on-site Timber Room is home to one of the coolest cocktail programs in town. For more private accommodations, book one of the luxury log cabins at Mountain Lodge Telluride.

Cherry Creek

Though it is technically a neighborhood within Denver, Cherry Creek feels like its own destination entirely. In addition to its bustling shopping scene, it is also home to some of the best restaurants in Denver. Toro Latin Kitchen & Lounge is a Pan-Asian restaurant that serves innovative sushi rolls, Argentinian-style steaks, tasty tacos and more, while Blue Island Oyster Bar and Seafood serves some of the freshest seafood that you’ll find in this land-locked state. Art fanatics should pay a visit to Relévant Galleries , which showcases pieces by acclaimed photographer David Yarrow. If you visit during the first week of July, be sure to buy tickets to the Cherry Creek Arts Festival , which features over 250 juried artists. 

Hotel Clio features 193 guest rooms and six suites. Enjoy a zesty margarita in the chic lobby before walking to some of the best shopping in the area, including boutiques and big brand-name stores. Halcyon, a Hotel in Cherry Creek is another solid option that boasts a hip rooftop pool and 154 contemporary rooms and suites.

Aspen is a quintessential Colorado town known for its celebrity residents, renowned restaurants and luxurious accommodations. Though there is plenty to do in downtown Aspen, from shopping designer handbags at Prada to visiting the Aspen Art Museum , the outdoor activities are what make Aspen such a hotspot for travelers. Experience the crystal clear waters at the Stillwater section of the Roaring Fork River, which is perfect for swimming and paddle boarding. When it comes to hiking, Maroon Bells Scenic Trail lets you soak in a scene of wildflowers around Alpine Lake. Not sure where to dine? Prospect , White House Tavern and Las Montañas should all be at the top of your list. 

There’s no shortage of lavish hotels in Aspen, but in true Auberge fashion, Hotel Jerome is one of the best. This historic hotel is a local landmark and has been around since 1889, boasting vintage vibes and antique decor that creates an elevated and transportive ambiance. The Little Nell is another award-winning property that remains Aspen’s only Forbes Five-Star and Five-Diamond resort.

Colorado Springs

Trade in pine-covered mountains for red sandstone rocks when you visit Colorado Springs in the summer. The iconic Garden of the Gods is the most popular park in Colorado Springs, boasting more than 1,300 acres of public space. Nature lovers flock to this bucket-list sight every year, and though you can explore by foot at your leisure, you can also book a Jeep, Segway or e-bike tour. After a long day of hiking and adventuring, sit down for a dirty martini and shrimp cocktail at Bonny & Read Seafood before ending the night with stargazing. 

Between its grandiose, European-inspired exterior and its five-star service, the Broadmoor is the most lavish property in Colorado Springs. The crystal chandeliers, antique paintings and marble fireplaces in the guest rooms and suites curate a setting that is reminiscent of a palace, but with an endless array of on-property amenities like a spa, golf course and indoor and outdoor pools, you probably won’t find yourself in your room all that often. 

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Snow & ski conditions aspen snowmass, recent snowfall, forecasted snow, first hand report, resort overview.

Plan Your Trip

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8 Most Inviting Towns In Colorado

These super inviting Colorado towns are a breath of fresh air away from the state's popular big cities and tourist towns, like Denver and Aspen.

• Grand Lake: A charming village with mountain views and close to Rocky Mountain National Park. Perfect for a peaceful getaway.
• Snowmass Village: A quieter alternative to Aspen with stunning views and family-friendly activities. Great for winter sports or hiking.
• Carbondale: Laid-back town with silver mining history, perfect for outdoor recreation and close to Glenwood Springs and Aspen.

While people may tend to think of Denver and famous mountain towns in Colorado like Aspen when planning a trip to the state, there are plenty of under-the-radar smaller towns with fewer crowds and beautiful views, making them even more inviting.

From mountain towns to lakeside locales, these are some of the most inviting towns in Colorado and what to do while you're there, whether you're an avid skier or prefer a summertime hike.

10 Mountain Towns In Colorado To Retire

8 grand lake, colorado, this sparsely-populated town offers an intimate getaway just outside rocky mountain national park.

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Grand Lake is a charming village with sweeping mountain views against the backdrop of the town's namesake lake.

• Population: 410 people
• Attractions: The Beach at Grand Lake, Kauffman House Museum , Rocky Mountain National Park , and Grand Lake Nordic Center
• When to Visit: Winter and summer

If you're planning a trip to the park, don't forget that you'll need a timed entry permit when visiting between late May and mid-October.

7 Snowmass Village, Colorado

Skip aspen and head to the nearby mountain town of snowmass village.

If you're looking for quieter, small Colorado ski and snowboarding towns that are underrated alternatives to Aspen, nearby Snowmass Village offers gorgeous views and family-friendly activities, from winter sports to hiking.

• Population: 3,096 people
• Attractions: Aspen Snowmass and Maroon Bells Scenic Loop
• When to Visit: Fall

6 Carbondale, Colorado

This rocky mountain town has a laid-back feel.

About three hours from Denver, Carbondale is historically a silver mining town originally inhabited by the Ute Indian Tribe in a valley at the base of Mt. Sopris.

• Population: 6,434 people
• Attractions: Marble Distilling Co. & The Distillery Inn and West Elk Loop Scenic Byway

7 Best Hikes Near Denver

5 creede, colorado, enjoy the mountains and cliffs in this old mining town.

Famous for its almost 100-year history as a silver mining town, Creede has a population of about 300 people and sits in the midst of the San Juan mountains.

Formed by a volcanic caldera, the land features jutting cliffs for a truly unique landscape — especially enticing for avid hikers.

• Population: 312 people
• Attractions: Last Chance Mine , North Clear Creek Falls , and Creede Underground Mining Museum
• When to Visit: Late summer

4 Silverton, Colorado

From its charming downtown to its historic railroad, silverton has a lot to offer.

As you can probably tell by its name, Silverton was also once a mining town. Located in southwest Colorado, the town's small population sits on one of the best spots along the Million Dollar Highway, one of the most scenic yet dangerous roads in the country running from New Mexico to Colorado.

If you're looking for a less scary activity, take a scenic ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad .

• Population: 622 people
• Attractions: Million Dollar Highway , San Juan County Historical Society , and Ice Lakes Trail
• When to Visit: June through October

3 Crested Butte, Colorado

Enjoy outdoor recreation year-round in this beautiful ski town.

One of the best ski resort towns in Colorado, the fun town of Crested Butte is a great place to enjoy winter sports, hiking, biking, annual festivals, and more.

• Population: 1,639 people
• Attractions: Kebler Pass and Crested Butte Mountain Resort

12 Places For A Summer Vacation In Colorado

2 palisade, colorado, beautiful palisade is a bucket-list destination for colorado fruit and wine lovers.

While Colorado may largely be known for its beer scene, Palisade is a town for wine lovers, housing 25 of the 140 wineries in Colorado .

• Population: 2,565 people
• Attractions: Palisade Rim Trail and Carlson Vineyards
• When to Visit: May, June, and September

1 Telluride, Colorado

This beautiful mountain town is the ultimate colorado getaway in spring or summer.

One of Colorado's most picturesque mountain towns, Telluride offers plenty to do and see . It's located just northwest of Silverton and comes with a charming downtown nestled in the San Juan Mountains.

• Population: 2,607 people
• Attractions: Telluride Mountain Village Gondola , Bear Creek Falls , and Blue Lakes Trail
• When to Visit: June through August