Aspen, Colorado, famend for its winter sports activities, infinite powder, uncrowded slopes, luxurious vogue and movie star sightings, transcends its extensively identified media portrayal. Winter is iconic, however summers are to not be missed on this storied mountain city in Colorado. There’s a motive that John Denver referred to as Aspen house and wrote many lyrics referencing his “candy Rocky Mountain Paradise.”
Should you’re planning a visit to Aspen Snowmass this summer season, you’re in for an unforgettable expertise. Summer time in Colorado will be all the things you need it to be – a quintessential household trip, a {couples} getaway, a climbing extravaganza or a soothing spa escape. The world is actually your oyster on this historic city. Since Aspen Snowmass has somewhat little bit of all the things, we spoke with our native Mountain Journey Specialists to spotlight a few of their favourite issues to do in Aspen in the summertime.
Right here’s your final Ski.com journey information, filled with itinerary concepts that can have you ever dwelling like a neighborhood in Aspen Snowmass this summer season.
Mountain Bike Lesson at Snowmass
Kick off your journey with a mountain bike lesson at Snowmass Bike Park with Aspen Snowmass’ famend coaches. Whether or not you’re a newbie or trying to hone your abilities, the paths right here provide one thing for each degree. Your bike coach will make some extent to personalize your expertise so you aren’t solely challenged and taking your abilities to the subsequent degree, however you’re having essentially the most enjoyable whereas doing it! You’ll discover well-maintained paths, gorgeous views and infinite downhill thrills.
Ski.com’s Director of Provider Relations Cat loves the Airline path in Snowmass. This can be a native favourite that gives panoramic views of the Elk Mountains and the picturesque panorama of the Snowmass space. It affords many circulate path components with many berm turns, dips and rollers.
Cat on the market getting it!
Snowmass Summer time Live performance Sequence
Don’t miss the Snowmass Summer time Live performance Sequence, a free native favourite! Pack a picnic, a blanket and your dancing sneakers (or go barefoot!) for a night of dwell music beneath the celebrities. “These free live shows are a memorable option to benefit from the native music scene, mingle with locals and guests and take within the lovely surroundings,” Mountain Journey Skilled Marcie advised us. For the newest schedule, take a look at the Snowmass Free Concert events.
Climbing Adventures
Aspen is a hiker’s paradise. In response to our native Skilled Sara, one of many must-do hikes is as much as the Solar Deck on AJAX (Aspen Mountain). Take the UTE path on to the Solar Deck. The ascent is rewarding, with panoramic views of the encompassing mountains. As soon as on the high, you possibly can take the gondola down for a soothing experience again. Discover extra trails with this Climbing Information.
Michelle, one other native Skilled, additionally loves climbing to the numerous alpine lakes. American Lake is a crowd favourite. This can be a 6.8-mile out-and-back path that gives glimpses of wildflowers, dense forests and towering Colorado peaks. You’ll be rewarded with a pristine mountain lake prime for plunging on the finish of the hike. Michelle and Sara’s recommendation? Don’t overlook the sunscreen at this excessive altitude!
Native Skilled Michelle Otero having fun with the crisp mountain air
Sarah Thomas on on of her favourite hikes
For the Youngsters: Camp Aspen
In search of the right leisure possibility on your children? Look no additional than Camp Aspen! Designed particularly for his or her adventurous hearts, Camp Aspen affords a variety of actions that promise to maintain your little ones engaged and delighted. From nature explorations with guided walks and scavenger hunts to unleashing their creativity in arts and crafts classes, your kids are assured to have a memorable day. In the meantime, seize the chance for some well-deserved grownup time. Embark on that difficult hike or sort out the demanding mountain bike path, and return to select up your joyful (and exhausted!) children on the finish of the day.
Ropes Course
Problem your self whereas having a blast with an exhilarating journey on the Misplaced Forest ropes course at Snowmass. Good for households and adventures of all ages, the Treeline Trial Problem Course combines rappels, zip traces, bridges and ladders for an exhilarating ropes course. “It’s a great way to face your concern of heights in a delicate, secure and enjoyable means!” stated Aspen native Katie.
Sundown Go to to Maroon Bells
A go to to Maroon Bells is a should. Go for a sundown picnic at this iconic spot. The reflection of the mountains on Maroon Lake at nightfall is spectacular. Keep in mind to test for reservation necessities prematurely.
Snowmass Rodeo (A Ski.com and locals’ favourite!)
Expertise a style of the Wild West on the Snowmass Rodeo. This family-friendly occasion options traditional rodeo occasions, a petting zoo and scrumptious BBQ. Make sure you guide your tickets early as these occasions promote out shortly. Get your tickets right here.
For the Adults: The W Aspen Pool Events
Should you’re in search of a vigorous ambiance, head to The W Aspen for his or her every day pool events that includes DJs. It’s an effective way to chill off, get pleasure from some tunes, and take in the epic summer season vibe. “The W Aspen pool is backdropped to Aspen Mountain, providing among the greatest 360-degree views,” native Skilled Michelle stated. “Make sure and take a look at the truffle parmesan fries or one in all their burgers, that are my favourite.”
Extra Highlights
Whitewater Rafting
For the adrenaline junkies, Aspen affords some unbelievable whitewater rafting alternatives. The Roaring Fork and Arkansas Rivers provide you with entry to roaring rapids and delightful surroundings. Guided excursions can be found for all ability ranges, making certain a secure and enjoyable journey. “Excursions can replenish shortly and it’s greatest to guide your river journey prematurely,” native Skilled Leslie advised us.
Cat & having fun with a pit cease on a river journey
Leslie Shor and her favourite climbing buddy
Fly Fishing
Aspen’s rivers and streams are a paradise for fly-fishing die-hards. Spend a tranquil day casting your line within the crystal-clear waters of the Roaring Fork River. Whether or not you’re a seasoned angler or a newbie, native guides can assist you discover one of the best spots and be taught correct methods and etiquette.
Ghost Cities & Scenic Drives
Take a scenic drive alongside Independence Cross, one of many highest paved roads in North America. Mountain Journey Skilled Leslie suggests visiting the ghost city of Independence up on the go. The views are spectacular, with loads of pull-offs the place you possibly can cease and take within the surroundings on the best way up. This drive is very lovely in late summer season and early fall when the aspen bushes flip golden, a sighting Colorado is known for.
For much more historical past, make certain and go to the ghost city of Ashcroft, situated 12 miles above Aspen within the spectacular Fortress Creek Valley. Leslie recommends setting apart time to soak up the surroundings and savor a relaxed lunch at Pine Creek Cookhouse.
Golf
Aspen and Snowmass have a number of world-class golf programs set in opposition to the gorgeous backdrop of the Rockies. Tee off on the Aspen Golf Membership or the Snowmass Membership, each providing difficult programs and spectacular views.
Aspen Artwork Museum
Should you’re within the temper for some tradition, go to the Aspen Artwork Museum. This modern artwork museum options revolutionary exhibitions and affords free admission. It’s an effective way to spend a couple of hours exploring trendy artwork. Do it like a neighborhood and spend the day pursuing the museum earlier than kicking again at their rooftop cafe overlooking downtown whereas sipping a espresso or Aperol spritz.
Aspen Artwork Museum | PC: Wikipedia
Inside Aspen Artwork Museum | PC: Arch Every day
Yoga and Wellness
Aspen is a superb place to rejuvenate your thoughts and physique. Many resorts and wellness facilities provide out of doors yoga courses with breathtaking mountain views. It’s the right option to calm down and unwind amidst nature. Native Skilled Marcie tell us each Monday-Friday June 17 – August 30, you’ll be able to get pleasure from open-air mountain-top yoga at Aspen Mountain. “Nothing actually says zen fairly like inhaling crisp mountain air whereas in youngster’s pose on the highest of a mountain in Colorado,” laughed Marcie. A gondola ticket is required to take part. “Nevertheless, if you happen to’re feeling significantly bold, hike up within the morning and take the gondola down at no cost.”
Meals Highlights
White Home Tavern: Don’t miss the well-known Rooster Sandwich at White Home Tavern. It’s a neighborhood favourite and ideal for an off-the-cuff but scrumptious meal. Take a look at their menu right here.
Meat and Cheese: This restaurant affords a unbelievable number of regionally sourced meats and cheeses, good for a hearty meal after a day of exploring.
Woody Creek Tavern: Identified for its quirky decor and laid-back ambiance, Woody Creek Tavern is a superb spot to unwind and luxuriate in some good meals in a historic watering gap.
Betula Aspen: For a extra upscale eating expertise, go to Betula Aspen. The restaurant combines French Pan-American delicacies with a classy ambiance, making it good for a particular evening out.
BOSQ: Celebrated for its inventive and seasonally impressed dishes that mix native Colorado elements with flavors and methods from world wide. The restaurant prides itself on a farm-to-table philosophy and is among the few Michelin star eating places within the space.
Westy’s Faucet & Tavern: Should you’re a craft beer fanatic, Westy’s (a summer season lengthy pop-up from Aspen Brewing Firm) affords a big selection of craft beers and contemporary pub fare with pizza and salads. It’s an incredible place to calm down and pattern native brews, such because the Westbound Premium, a rice lager. Don’t miss their stable joyful hour every single day from 12 – 3 pm!
When to Go to
Aspen’s summer season operations, bustling with exercise, normally span from mid-June to mid-September. The season formally begins with the famend Aspen Meals and Wine Basic, an occasion that pulls foodies and wine aficionados from across the globe, marking the beginning of an thrilling season. Nevertheless, the attract of Aspen extends into the autumn, significantly throughout September and October. These months, typically neglected, present an excellent alternative for guests to get pleasure from cooler climate, fewer crowds, and the breathtaking great thing about aspen bushes as their leaves transition by a kaleidoscope of colours, making a picturesque panorama distinctive to this time of 12 months.
Get Out There
Summer time in Aspen Snowmass is a mix of journey, rest and unforgettable experiences. From mountain biking and climbing to vigorous live shows and scrumptious meals, there’s one thing for everybody. Itching to go and need assistance planning you getaway? Our Mountain Journey Specialists at Ski.com have you ever lined – at no cost. So pack your luggage, and prepare for a summer season journey in one of the vital lovely locations on the planet. Join with a Mountain Journey Skilled to get began by calling 1-800-610-8911 or filling out a contact kind.
PC: Aspen Snowmass
PC: Aspen Snowmass
