Top 6 Things to Do in Aspen in the Summertime
While Aspen, Colorado, is typically known for winters full of world-class skiing, it’s also a destination you can’t afford to miss in summer. Whether you are looking for a family trip, relaxation or an adventure, Aspen has it all for you. Here are only a few of the numerous ways you should explore this lovely mountain town in warmer months.
1. Trek along One of the Several Trails of Roaring Fork Valley
If you are a nature lover, adventure lover and love to explore mountains, the Roaring Fork Valley of Aspen has numerous trails suitable to trekkers of various skill levels, with its Rio Grande Trail comfortable for beginners starting from behind the post office on Puppy Smith Road featuring a paved path along the Roaring Fork River and the 1.5 mile Smuggler Mountain Trail which is an intermediate option and takes you to a vantage point with striking views of Aspen. Or you have also a rigorous option of the 8.5 mile excursion towards the secluded Conundrum Hot Springs. Plus there are so many trailheads of a variety of difficulty levels in and around the adjacent Maroon Bells. Summer fills out all these trails with wildflowers of various colors, giving you an unmatched vista. Don’t miss American Lake and Cathedral Lake for amazing colors.
2. Catch up a Live Performance of Music Show at Belly Up Aspen
The amazing Belly Up is known for live music concerts and it also has a unique elegant atmosphere you will want for your private event. See a concert here in the world-class setting. They have a state of the art sound and lighting system, high definition video projection system with a 16’ screen, 4 permanently installed 42” plasma TVs across the venue, full kitchen with in-house chef, 2 full bars with premium brands, and much more.
3. Silver Queen Gondola Ride
Breathtaking views will greet you when you will make an ascent when you will book a gondola ticket for a ride up Aspen Mountain. To double the enjoyment, you can get many free activities to do, like yoga class held on select days from June to August, live music on summer weekends with classical on Saturdays and bluegrass on Sundays as well as picnicking. What’s more, you can also enjoy golf on an 18-hole disc golf course which is one of the highest courses in the world. The course also has a casual restaurant serving Asian, American and Mediterranean dishes.
4. Enjoy Delicious Cuisine
Aspen has a colorful restaurant scene and fine dining is one of the must-do activities here. You can get seasonally inspired dishes complemented by premium wines. Aspen maintains a farm-to-table approach and the food you get is made from the best Colorado-grown produce. If you are there in June, don’t miss the FOOD & WINE Classic where you will get a chance to rub shoulders with celebrity chefs, watch amazing cooking demos and sample numerous great bites.
5. Biking
If you enjoy pushing pedals through scenic settings, Aspen has numerous great expeditions to select from, including the 22-mile round-trip on Maroon Creek Road where you can see the celebrated striped peaks of the Maroon Bells, an exhausting 40-mile ride along Independence Pass or the 24-mile Castle Creek Road round trip to Ashcroft ghost town. You can also have cruiser bikes on rent at Four Mountain Sports that offer even one-way rentals.
6. Relax in the Quiet Aspen
Take some time to view the quiet side of Aspen, especially if you are honeymooners. You can start your day with morning meditation at the John Denver Sanctuary. Next, book spa treatments for various pampering procedures including oxygen facial and aromatherapy massage. If you are staying in one of the many Aspen hotels that feature outdoor pools, you can peacefully unwind in the pool in the afternoon. Or try a camping trip in the White River National Forest to explore the incredible nature of Aspen.
These are just a few attractions of Aspen. For exploring the city in detail, you have to visit it in person and you will be awe-struck with the experience. Plan your next vacation to Aspen and enjoy!
