Ever since we first traveled to Colorado almost 20 years ago, it’s been our favorite destination in the Mountain West region. And when we’re seeking outdoor fun in the Centennial State, we look no further than all the amazing things to do in Aspen. From its ski resorts to its hiking trails, this Colorado mountain town is a (literal) peak of natural beauty and a haven for winter sports lovers.
While Aspen is most famous for winter activities, we always find plenty to explore among its top tourist attractions, whether the snow is falling or the summer sun is shining. From water parks to nearby ghost towns to carving your way down the Rocky Mountains on some of the finest ski slopes in the country, there’s something for every style and season here.
Can’t decide what to do in this world-famous alpine vacation town? Let us help you plan the ultimate trip with our complete guide to the best places to visit in Aspen, Colorado, including our favorite ski resorts, museums, trails, restaurants, craft breweries, and more!
Our tips for what to see & do in Aspen
Aspen Snowmass
We challenge you to ever get bored at Aspen Snowmass. As it’s the biggest mountain in the Aspen area by a long shot, there’s a reason Snowmass is the favorite spot of so many skiers country-wide, and why it’s one of our favorites in Colorado. The endless variety of multicolored slopes here is as challenging for expert skiers as they are for novice skiers.
(For the record, we firmly place ourselves in that latter category!)
Get first dibs on fresh powder at Aspen Snowmass on the first run of the day with a staff-led run before the mountain opens. The Hanging Valley offers high-alpine skiable terrain for the more experienced skiers in your travel group.
Looking for something to do on your days off from your skis or board? We’ve found ways to hit the slopes in other ways.
Take a lesson in snow biking or speed down multiple snow tubing lanes in the winter. In summer, paintball and pedaling the 25 miles of mountain biking trails in the Aspen Snowmass Bike Park are the activities of choice.
For the full Colorado ski town experience, head into Snowmass Village. When we visit on a ski vacation, we love the interactive Luminescence light displays. Walking around the village for some stellar shopping—and, of course, make time to enjoy some s’mores by the fire!
John Denver Sanctuary
One look at the natural beauty of the John Denver Sanctuary, and it’s easy to tell where the longtime Aspen local got the inspiration for “Rocky Mountain High.” Located between the Rio Grande Park and Theatre Aspen, the park offers a relaxed atmosphere that lends itself well to meeting fellow nature lovers.
On our last visit to Aspen, we loved visiting the serene Song Garden, where a circle of river rocks etched with John Denver’s lyrics mimics the circle of life set to music. The lone Colorado Blue Spruce in the center of the John Denver Sanctuary symbolizes the songwriter’s spirit and his love of the outdoors.
When we need a break from the bustle of town, we think this quiet refuge is a wonderful spot for a picnic or a thoughtful walk. Although we’ve yet to catch it, locals have recommended taking time to peruse the perennial flower gardens when they bloom in spring.
Ashcroft Ghost Town
Want to escape from the slopes? We recommend taking a day trip from Aspen to the Ashcroft Ghost Town for an immersive historical experience. Drive down Castle Creek Road to this old silver mining hub that was once even bigger than Aspen.
Like many old metal mining towns, Ashcroft was built quickly and dissipated almost as fast. The bountiful silver mines ran low, and the allure of Aspen beckoned.
At times planned as a European-style ski resort, Ashcroft Ghost Town was used for soldier mountaineering training during the Second World War and later a dog-sledding program before it became a National Register Historic Site.
When we first visited years ago, we loved walking through “town” to see restored buildings, including the former Blue Mirror Saloon (which was at one point one of many saloons in town), as well as a hotel and a post office.
Take a self-led tour or chat with the docent who’s available during opening hours between June and September to discover the storied past of this boom town.
Admission to the ghost town is just $5 per adult and free for children under 18. (The admission works on an honor system.)
Aspen Highlands
The lesser-known of the Aspen mountains, Aspen Highlands is another Colorado hotspot for more intermediate and advanced winter sports enthusiasts. With fewer crowds than at nearby Snowmass, you can enjoy more wilderness all to yourself.
If your skiing skills are a little stronger than ours, try the advanced slopes of Temerity or the other 84 miles of trails. Get tips and tricks from local pros with guided experiences, or take on the backcountry terrain of the Highland Bowl on your own. The hike to the peak is more than worth it, and its 270 acres of 35- to 48-degree runs are some of the steepest in Colorado.
On your visit to Aspen Highlands, we recommend taking a minute to wonder at the fantastic views of the Maroon Bells landscape from the top. The views here are absolutely epic!
Silver Queen Gondola
In our experience, the Silver Queen Gondola might be the best way to see Aspen Mountain—and maybe even the town itself. Rise over 11,000 feet up to witness spectacular vistas of the “Town Mountain” and the city below.
Take the Silver Queen Gondola to get to the 75-plus mountain ski trails, or just ride it for fun. After heading up on our last trip, we think it’s worth a trip in its own right, especially if you’re more into the Apres-Ski than actually strapping into boots yourself.
Get a “foot pass” gondola ticket and climb aboard. For a little extra activity, take a winter snowshoe trip once you’re sky high with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies.
Stop at the peak to take in the far-reaching views and indulge in a mountaintop lunch (maybe with a hot chocolate) before making your descent back into town.
Foot-only tickets for the Silven Queen Gondola range between $37 in summer and $52 in winter for adults.
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are some of the most recognized mountains on the continent. Named after their striking bell shape, the mountains don white strips of snow year-round. They’re some of the most beautiful peaks we’ve seen on our trips throughout North America, in both summer and winter.
The backcountry hiking at the Maroon Bells is next level. The paths make for an ideal locale to catch the changing leaves in fall or blooming summer flowers.
Pick from any of the numerous trails for views worth writing home about, like the easy Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail or the long and challenging West Maroon Trail. Fill your water bottle and rent a bike at Maroon Bells base camp before pedaling up Maroon Creek Road.
Bring your camera to Maroon Lake for a postcard-worthy shot of the twin peaks, standing 14,000 feet tall above the mirrored surface.
Want to take in the beauty and nature hikes a little longer? Camp out in the campgrounds just off the hiking trails.
Aspen Mountain
Jutting up straight from the town center, the iconic Aspen Mountain has it all. Powder stashes, Bell Mountain, the lively nearby neighborhood, and, of course, the Silver Queen Gondola are part of what makes this Colorado mountain town what it is.
Winter on Aspen Mountain brings steep slopes and an Apres-Ski scene rivaled by none. Take part in a first-track run or compare your skills to the national ski team with a race down the public NASTAR course.
For those really into a fresh snowfall, join a Powder Tour on the back of the mountain for track-free glades and a gourmet lunch.
Swing by the Sundeck on summer Sundays for some live Bluegrass or relax in a real mountain pose with mountaintop yoga. Follow it up with a round of disc golf or a leisurely walk through the fields of wildflowers and hiking trails.
Grottos Trail
Trek up the Grottos Trail to marvel at its unique ice caves and fantastic views. With stunning natural scenery and the sounds of the streams, this makes a great spot to exchange the resort town buzz for the serenity of nature.
Hike or run down the short half-mile Grottos Trail pathway. In our experience, it’s easy enough for almost any fitness level. (Dogs on leashes are allowed, so you can bring your pup, too, if you’d like.)
Walk by waterfalls and rapids in the White River National Forest on your way to the grottos. Their interior pools freeze with the frost, creating an icy wonderland in the winter and leaving turquoise water behind when the weather warms.
The Grottos Trail is one of the most interesting spots around Aspen. We were warned, however, that the trail can be difficult to get to during the winter months due to road closures. (Be sure to ask locals before embarking on your journey.)
Independence Ghost Town
For a spooky and educational sojourn, visit the nearby Independence Ghost Town and archaeological preserve. Take the scenic drive 16 miles out of Aspen, down Highway 82, and the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway.
Originally named after Independence Day in 1879, a time when locals struck gold, the tent city soon turned into a real one, 1,500 strong. It wasn’t long, though, before Independence was abandoned due to the long winters and the lure of better jobs.
(Imagine trying to live 11,000 feet up in those days? Yikes!)
On our last Colorado trip, we loved visiting the buildings in Independence Ghost Town to learn about the people and businesses that once thrived there and to think about what life must have been like in those days.
A stable, a general store, a stamp mill, and some cabins are still standing, all part of the National Register of Historical Places.
Bring a donation for admission and prepare for a cool trip back in time.
Aspen Recreation Center (ARC)
Get physical at the Aspen Recreation Center (ARC). There will never be a dull moment here, with 80,000 square feet of activities to keep you busy.
Practice your swing in the batting cage or your spins while ice skating at the NHL-sized Lewis Ice Arena. Play an outdoor game of pickleball in summer or speed down the sledding hill when the temperature drops. Daredevils will delight at the 32-foot-high multi-level climbing tower.
Beeline to the Aspen Recreation Center‘s aquatic center on hot days for some splashy fun. The zero-entry pool and two-story water slide will be a hit with younger ones. The older crowd can cozy up in the whirlpool, sauna, and steam room or wind along the lazy river.
Head out to the Rotary Pavilion for fantastic views of Maroon Creek Valley and an electric grill perfect for whipping up a summer lunch.
Buttermilk Ski Resort
Not too confident in your skiing skills? Buttermilk Ski Resort is perhaps the easiest mountain we found in Aspen. With plenty of beginner-friendly slopes, we think this ski and snowboard area is the perfect place for a few days of skiing with the family in tow.
Diverse multiple terrain parks keep things interesting for more advanced skiers, including the X Park, host of the ESPN X Games Aspen. All types of skiers can rest assured that there’s something for them at Buttermilk Ski Resort. Uphillers with passes can ski, hike, or snowshoe to their heart’s content.
Get your rentals or sign up for lessons in the newly renovated base area, opened in 2023.
Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
Want a break from the slopes? The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster is a unique way to see Aspen Snowmass and the mountains up close and personal.
Thrill seekers can ride the roller coaster for a speedy view of over a mile of mountain forest. Zoom down the elevated track and whip through the pines above Elk Camp at up to 28 mph.
A little speed shy? Have no fear: You’re in control of your own car, including the brakes. Since the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster is part of mid-mountain Lost Forest park, there’s also a zipline, ropes course, hiking trails, rock climbing, disc golf, and even a high-mountain fishing pond if that’s more your thing. Bring the whole family for a fun group day trip for all ages!
For an even cooler experience, we recommend taking the lit-up ride at night on special winter Ullr Nights. These nights happen about half a dozen nights a winter, celebrating the Norse God of Snow. The festive event includes fun outdoor winter activities for the whole family, like tubing, along with hot chocolate and s’mores by the fire.
As Ullr Nights are popular, we recommend buying your tickets in advance. Tickets cost between $13 and $76 and are available for the current ski season, starting every October.
Aspen Brewing Company
The Aspen Brewing Company is a staple of the local craft beer scene. Nestled at the base of the Elk Mountains, Aspen’s sole licensed brewery is also the biggest in the Roaring Fork Valley—and as bona fide craft beer connoisseurs, it gets our stamp of approval!
Taste the crisp outdoor lifestyle Aspen is known for with the wide variety of beers at the Aspen Brewing Company, ranging from creative to classic. Grab a pint at their taproom downtown. Order a sourdough pizza along with it for a match made in heaven.
Keep an eye out for their beer van pouring draught at events around town.
Aspen Art Museum
The Aspen Art Museum is the place to go to add a little culture to your visit in the form of contemporary art. Works on display range from paintings to sculptures, all free to visit. View one of the international traveling exhibitions in town or the twice-a-year shows dedicated to local artists from the surrounding area.
For a little boost after an afternoon of art, we suggest recharging at the rooftop café at the Aspen Art Museum. Grab a coffee and croissant and catch up on the finer points of each masterpiece. Then check out some more art in the rooftop sculpture garden.
Interested in learning more about the art museum’s unique collection? Attend one of the chats in their lecture series for the lowdown from experts and artists alike.
Rio Grande Trail
For breathtaking views and a breath of fresh air, head down the Rio Grande Trail. The rail trail runs along what was once a line from the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad.
Follow the Roaring Fork River and Highway 82 to make your way between Aspen and Glenwood Springs. Take advantage of some or all of the 42 miles of multi-use paved hiking trail, whether you’re into fishing, biking, or cross-country skiing. Stop for a snack break at one of the many picnic tables or benches and take in the scenic natural surroundings.
Dogs and even horses are allowed on parts of the Rio Grande Trail, so feel free to bring your pet along for the ride. If you’re looking for biking trails, hitch a ride on the RFTA bus up to one of the trailheads between Aspen and Rifle.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
Looking for the ideal spot for a little apres-ski? You don’t even need to take yours off on the way to Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. At this Swiss-style restaurant, it’s actually required that you roll in via skis or snowcat!
Not only do we think the spectacular summit views of the Maroon Bells are worth making a (mandatory) reservation for, but the location of Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro couldn’t be any more convenient. Glide into this modern European lodge in the Aspen Highlands, perched at the peak of the Cloud Nine Lift.
Kick back and relax with some of the finest Alps-infused cuisine here between December and April, one of our favorite times of the year to visit Aspen. Dip into warming fondue or raclette and finish it off with an apple strudel.
Crater Lake Trail
If it’s breathtaking views you’re looking for, then the Crater Lake Trail is one of the most popular things to do in Aspen, CO. The trail is only about 30 minutes away from town, and we even found the drive here quite beautiful.
Head down the Maroon Creek Road to travel through the White River National Forest and past the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.
PRO TIP: Plan this trip in advance. If you’re coming in by car in summer, you’ll need to book a parking reservation here. The reservations open up in mid-February for the late spring/early summer season and in mid-June for the late summer/fall season. You’ll also need to book a permit here if you want to stay overnight.
Start at Maroon Lake and wander between the picturesque mountains and lots of wildflowers to end up at Crater Lake. The 5.6 km hike down Crater Lake Trail will likely take you around 2 hours to finish, depending on your speed. Keeners can extend it with an extra loop around Maroon Lake.
The path can be rocky in places, so we would recommend a good pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes. The low incline is suitable for all skill levels—even the kiddos can come along. Dogs are also welcome to walk the trail as long as they’re on a leash.
Recommended places to stay
For travelers, the most popular places to stay in Aspen include the areas around downtown and close to the slopes, like Snowmass Village. With the alpine town’s popularity, there’s a mix of accommodations, from chain hotels and resorts to vacation rentals.
If you plan to visit during the tourist high season, we recommend booking your lodgings well in advance; in our experience in planning trips here in high season, they tend to fill up fast!
Tyrolean Lodge
With Aspen’s reputation for sky-high accommodation prices, the Tyrolean Lodge was a pleasant surprise for us. This small family-owned boutique offers 16 rooms with unique vintage decor at affordable prices. With the hotel’s superb location and excellent value, we’d advise booking well in advance to score a booking here in the tourist high season.
W Aspen
With 360-degree views of the Rocky Mountains, this contemporary checks all our boxes, whatever time of year we’re visiting. Relax in the contemporary rooms, fitted with comfortable and eye-popping modern furnishings. After a day on the slopes or roaming around art galleries, we love the chance to enjoy a cocktail in the hotel’s on-site Wet Bar and watch the sun dip below the Rockies by a roaring fire.
St. Regis Aspen Resort
With its classic resort feel, we’ve hardly found a better spot in Aspen for luxury travelers than the St. Regis. The rooms charm guests with rustic decor and beautiful views over the town from the balcony. Take time to explore the estate-like grounds, where we can find plenty of luxurious amenities, including an outdoor pool. Our favorite experience here is warming up in the on-site restaurant & bar with a gooey chocolate fondue and elevated cocktails.
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