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Aspen Attractions and Activities

These Aspen attractions and activities are the perfect way to make lots of memories together. Your whole family will be asking for more!

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Aspen Attractions and Activities

Hiking Trails In Aspen

Hiking trails in Aspen, are some of the best in Colorado. The City of Aspen’s trail system provides both summer and winter use making it one of the largest trails systems in the state. The Parks Department manages over 22 miles of hard surface, soft surface and single-track trails through one of the most scenic mountain backdrops in the world. Perfect for road riding, mountain biking, hiking and cross country skiing or whatever suits your mood that day!

If you have questions about the hiking trails in Aspen, please give our team a call at Aspen Signature Properties. We’re here to make sure your Aspen experience is everything you’ve been dreaming of and more.

Fly Fishing in Aspen

Fisher Wading in River. Fly Fishing in Aspen

Fly fishing in Aspen is world-renowned for its gold medal rivers and streams. Experience guided trips to suit every angler’s needs, from half-day wade trips (a great introduction to the sport), to float trips that are perfect for more experienced anglers looking to spend a bit more time on the water.t 

If you have additional questions, please give our team a call at Aspen Signature Properties. We’re here to make sure your Aspen experience is everything you’ve been dreaming of and more.

Aspen Fly Fishing

601 E. Dean St., Aspen, Colorado | (970) 920-6886

Aspen Trout Guides

520 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611 | (970) 379-7963

Taylor Creek Fly Shops

183 Basalt Center Cir, Basalt, CO 81621 | (970) 927-4374

Buttermilk Ski Resort

Winter X Games at Buttermilk Resort

Ski Buttermilk – Home of the Winter X-Games

Home to the Winter X-Games, perfect beginner skiing, and spectacular views, Buttermilk is a ski resort with many sides.During the end of January each year when the X-games comes to town, Buttermilk becomes a massive world-wide event. The 2018 X-Games are scheduled for January 25th to January 28th. It’s definitely an eventful time to visit with impressive events and concerts throughout the 4 days. Aspen and the towns down-valley do fill up quite a bit, so plan accordingly.

Buttermilk also has mellow glade skiing and perfect uphill skiing options. Because of its family-friendly atmosphere, Buttermilk is a favorite with all generations of skiers. The ski area is right off Highway 82, close to the airport and right of the bus line. There is also some free parking available for skiers at the base and the Tiehack lot. Skiers can also enjoy some ski-in/ski-out lodging options at Buttermilk for the ultimate in skiing comfort and convenience. Head to Buttermilk for a sweet Aspen skiing experience!

Morning on skiing slopes in Aspen

BUTTERMILK SKI AREA FACTS

Vertical Rise: 2,030 ft./619 m
Terrain: 470 acres/190 hectares
Number of trails: 44
Miles/km of trails: 21 miles/34 km
Longest run: 3 miles/4.8 km
Lifts: 8, 3 hi speed quads, 1 double, 4 S3 lifts
Park & pipe: Buttermilk has two terrain parks – Buttermilk Park and S3 Park. Buttermilk Park has over 100 features, including the X Games 22-foot Superpipe and X Games Slopestyle Course. S3 Park is for the beginners and Ski & Snowboard Schools.

BUTTERMILK RESTAURANTS

  • Bumps at Buttermilk Mountain Lodge (base of the ski area)
  • The Cliffhouse (great views from the top)

Image Credit to Zach Dischner.

Aspen Hiking: Aspen to Crested Butte

Aspen to Crested Butte Hike

Looking for a true Aspen hiking experience, complete with mountain passes, wildflowers, and some serious elevation gain? Consider the nearly 11-mile thru-hike from Aspen to Crested Butte. The views are incredible. Contrasting red rock, Colorado blue skies, and beautiful flora along the hike, it’s a summertime Aspen Signature Properties staff favorite.

The Trail from Maroon Lake

Start in front of the towering Maroon Bells at Maroon Lake (elevation 9,580’). This is just outside of Aspen. The trail climbs and winds for nearly 6.5 miles to the top of West Maroon Pass (elevation 12,465’). You’ll hike through thick aspen trees, across rock fields and past scenic Crater Lake. This is a classic Colorado photo op. Overlooking both the Aspen and Crested Butte trail sides at the top of West Maroon Pass is your place.

After a short break at the top, head down into the meadow toward Crested Butte. Be prepared for what may be the most incredible display of wildflowers in all of Colorado. From here, it’s nearly all downhill as the trail meanders for about 4 miles toward the East Fork of West Maroon Trailhead at 10,448’.

What to Know

This is not an easy Aspen hiking trail, but it is rewarding. At about 10.45 miles from trailhead to trailhead, it’s a solid hike with steep switchbacks and a lot of exposure, even below tree line. It averages about 8 hours to complete, depending on the fitness of your group.

Summer weather in the mountains around Aspen often features afternoon thunderstorms. It can quickly change from warm and sunny to downright cold and snowy at our high elevations. We highly recommend hitting the trailhead early in the day. If you’re bringing your furry friend, dogs must be kept on a leash. Don’t forget to practice “Leave no trace” guidelines. Pack out what you pack in. Read up on the full trail description or reach out to us before heading out on your adventure.

Trail from Aspen to Crested Butte

What to Bring

This hike is going to be a good workout. Bring snacks, plenty of water, sunscreen, layers, a rain jacket, first aid kit and a topographic map. You can pick up the map at the Ute Mountaineer. Don’t forget your dog bags and extra water for dogs.

Aspen to Crested Butte Trail Shuttle

Unless you’re planning on camping for a night during your stay in Aspen, we suggest one of the shuttle services that will pick you up at the East Fork of West Maroon Trailhead and bring you back the 3 hours by road to Aspen, such as Dolly’s Mountain Shuttle.

Have more questions about this hike or others? Just ask us! We’d be happy to give you more details and help in your planning.

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The Insider’s Guide to Aspen Gay Ski Week

Every January for almost four decades, giant rainbow flags fly from lampposts all along Aspen’s Main Street. This is to celebrate Gay Ski Week. The whole town comes out (so to speak) for the party and it is one hell of a party. Rainbow flags aside, it’s one of the most colorful weeks of the ski season by far. Now in its 41st year, this year’s event is bound to be great!

Gay Ski Week Banner

We caught up with our resident Aspen local for the inside line on the best parties, can’t-miss events, and how to pace yourself through a week of non-stop go-go-go (or just go-go if you want to jump on the tables and dance).

Here’s the lowdown

Hydrate or Die
Not only is the altitude a killer (warning: 2 drinks = 4) but you’ll be sweating it out at the parties so you have to drink something besides, well, drinks. I tell all the flatlander boys to drink at least one large bottle of Evian per day, and not a bad idea to chase down a couple Ibuprofen with that while you’re at it (or what we mountain men like to refer to as “Vitamin I”) to mitigate altitude sickness. (By the by, you can blame almost anything on the altitude, from your less-than-stellar workout to the severity of your hangover).

Instead of “Can’t Miss Thursday TV” check out …
The most overlooked party by far is Bianca Del Rio’s Comedy Cabaret & Dance Party on Thursday night. It’s always the most fun but lots of people miss out. Another little fun Aspen fact: Thursday nights are traditionally a big party nigh in Aspen. I’m not sure if it’s because of the “work hard/play hard mentality” or the fact that (let’s be honest) our little Tinsel Town is overrun with trust funders who don’t really have to work, but it’s a great vibe regardless so you don’t want to miss out on Thursday night’s event if for no other reason than to be out on the town.

Let’s go Drag

Don’t be a drag, go drag.
Hands down one of the best, can’t-miss events of the week is the Downhill Costume Party and Competition at the base of Aspen Mountain. The whole town comes out to celebrate and cheer on the competitors in this wild (and somewhat racy) race. I highly recommend buying a table for this. It’s always a blast and loads if fun, so you might as well have a front row seat. You’ll make loads of new friends and maybe even find your Friday night date!

Pool Party

Get wet and wild: saving the best for last.
The Saturday Night Pool Party is the big, er, climax of the week and should rquire a little primping. If you forgot your favorite Keihl’s or want to get a facial to look your finest, drop by the Cos Bar on Galena for all your beauty needs. The pool party is a must do but take as little as possible because locker space is at a minimum. Less is more: All you need is your swimsuit and a coat darling!

Can’t Miss Events

COMEDY SHOW
Thursday, January 18
Come for a very special night of comedy and raunchy entertainment at the Belly Ip Aspen. After the slopes, take in some comedy realness, with comedians and entertainers selected by Drag Queen royalty. Expect unexpected moments and some very special surprises. Comedians include Julie Goldman and Justin Sayre. Get your tickets now and be ahead of the game. $75 general admission and $95 for reserved seating for both shows, including a late-night dance party with DJ Guy Scheiman following the comedy show.

WHITE PARTY AT THE SUNDECK (TOP OF ASPEN MOUNTAIN)
Friday January 19
We are returning to the top of Aspen Mountain for our Friday Night Dance Party with DJ Dylan! Dress in your winter white, and enjoy complimentary cocktails starting at 9 p.m. from Budweiser and Woody Creek Vodka. Tickets are $150 in advance, and there is a special VIP section for Patrons and PatronsXL passholders.

DOWNHILL COSTUME CONTEST & PARTY
Saturday, January 20
The costume content will be hosted by Sister Helen Holy (Paul J. Williams) and will be judged by a “roster of personalities.” Tables for this event are sold out, but contestants are still needed! If you are interested in competing, please email info@gayskiweek.com for more information and to register. Prizes are First Place ($1000), Second Place ($500), and Third Place ($250).

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Official Aspen Gay Ski Week web site.

Romancing the Fall: The Aspen Insider’s Guide to Leaf Peeping

Leaf Peeping In Aspen

Fall in Aspen is kind of like a romantic fling. The beauty leaves you awe-inspired and wanting for more, all the while knowing the moment can’t last. Unlike the heartier oak and spruce trees that turn colors in locales to the east, the Aspen tree’s foliage cycle is brilliant but painfully short. The entire cycle lasts only a few weeks. Turning first at the higher elevations and then gradually making its way down the valley, where yellow leaves can still be found on the trees in late October.

Here’s your local’s guide to the best leaf peeping by car, bike, and foot. Enjoy it while it lasts, and love it before it “leafs” you!

ASPEN FALL FOLIAGE BY CAR: INDEPENDENCE PASS TO TWIN LAKES

Aspen Leaf Peeping Independence Pass - Romancing The Fall in Aspen

Even when the leaves aren’t turning, Independence Pass has to be one of the most scenic mountain passes in Colorado. But when the yellow leaves are firing, this road is magical. Begin in downtown Aspen and head up Highway 82 East. Make your way through several Aspen groves that canopy the road between Weller Lake and Lincoln Creek. Save the best for last. Before the summit, a panoramic view of the entire valley affords patchwork-quilt like bursts of color. Drop on over the other side for more jaw-dropping beauty as the road descends via steep, heart-stopping switchbacks before landing in the lush valley. Grab lunch at the Twin Lakes Inn where views of the colors reflecting in the lake are postcard perfect.

Get the full scoop on driving Independence Pass in the fall.

ASPEN FALL FOLIAGE BY BIKE: THE TWO VALLEYS AKA “THE SISTERS”

Road cyclists from all over the world come to Aspen to test their legs and their lungs on this classic ride that affords some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the Roaring Fork Valley. Affectionately known as “the sisters” because of the two valley’s resemblance as striking beauties that require some serious effort.

Aspen Leaf Peeping Two Sisters - Romancing The Fall in AspenThese routes can be ridden separately but to tackle them both at once is the standard for anyone who takes their time in the saddle seriously. The spectacular scenery meter goes up a few notches during fall foliage, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the colors just after a dusting of snow on the high peaks. Just when you think the Maroon Bells can’t get any more spectacular, they do. And the Castle Creek Valley offers similar rewards for the 14-mile climb (and on the flip side, epic 14-mile downhill), especially in the last two miles when the high peaks of the Elk Range reveal themselves at the top of the valley.

ASPEN FALL FOLIAGE BY FOOT: CATHEDRAL LAKE

This local’s favorite offers a lot of reward for the effort from the trailhead to the top with awesome scenery pretty much the whole way up.This is especially true during the fall season, when the first mile of the trail meanders through deep Aspen groves that feel especially magical when littered with a ground cover of soft, gold medallions and a canopy of brilliant yellow against a majestic blue sky. Within the first hour, you pop out of the trees and get your first glimpse of the high alpine valley with its open meadows and the cascading waterfalls of Castle Creek. WHY VISIT ASPEN IN THE FALL

Fall really is the best time to visit Aspen. Need more reasons to visit Aspen for the changing leaves and all things fall? Here are our five reasons to visit Aspen in the off season.