Mention Aspen to almost anyone and thoughts turn to winter sports. But there’s also plenty of outdoor activities in the summer and fall in beautiful Aspen, Colorado. Here are five must-do activities that should be on top of your list:
1. Hiking trails galore
From the quite easy Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, with its spectacular photo opportunities, to the long and arduous East Snowmass Creek trail to Willow Creek, there are hiking trails for any experience level. For a chance to look like a local, try walking up the gravel access road to the top of Aspen Mountain. Have a latte downtown, then walk over to the access road; it’s right on the town’s edge. Many locals walk up and back down daily. The Aspen Chamber of Commerce has a good hiking trail guide.
2. Whitewater rafting
Two rivers run through or near the Aspen area. Both offer excellent rafting for all skill levels. The nearby Roaring Fork River offers a world class rafting experience and is a good choice for families with children because of its wider choice of intermediate rafting trips. The Arkansas River has faster, rougher whitewater and is a good choice for advanced rafters or those seeking more of an edge. Aspen Whitewater Rafting has a comprehensive selection of rafting trips. They are located in downtown Aspen.
3. Biking
The Aspen area has a huge selection of both on-road and mountain bike trails. You should check off-road trail conditions locally, especially in early and late summer as wintry weather can intrude at higher elevations. The Aspen Chamber has a good, basic bike trail guide. Bike rentals, all types, are available at Aspen Sports, located in Aspen village or Snowmass.
4. Horseback riding
Just because you can buy a quarter million dollar Rolex in an Aspen shop doesn’t mean you’re not in the American West. And what could be more traditionally western than horseback riding? So humble yourself (in a good way) and head out on a guided horseback riding trip. Snowmass Creek Outfitters offers a variety of trips in the gorgeous Snowmass area just north of town.
5. Paragliding
Jump off a cliff with a parachute, anyone? Actually, it can be quite safe — and exhilarating. You don’t need lessons, or experience. Some outfitters offer tandem paragliding, where you are paired with an instructor. Make a reservation, show up and off you go. Aspen Paragliding operates tandem flights four times a day from Aspen Mountain. Average trip lasts about two hours. Best to book early in the day, and early in your visit, in case you need to re-schedule due to weather.
Getting there
Denver International Airport (DEN) serves most domestic airlines. Rental cars available. Exit airport, follow signs to Interstate 70 West, exit at Glenwood Springs and proceed south on Route 82 to Aspen. The small Aspen / Pitkin County Airport offers a surprisingly large selection of flights. Rental cars available; located on Route 82, just north of town. The Eagle County Airport located near Interstate 70, and a two hour drive from Aspen, also offers several domestic flights daily.