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Dec 20 2019

The Best Spots for Snowmobiling in Aspen, Colorado

Every winter, Aspen buzzes with energy. The freshly fallen snow makes for incredible skiing, and visitors bring a fun, festive vibe to our mountain town. Hot chocolate flows endlessly, and there are plenty of winter activities to keep you busy! One of our favorites is snowmobiling in Aspen, Colorado. Speed through the snow as you take in the surrounding scenery! 

Start planning your winter getaway today when you access our Aspen Travel Guide! Inside, you’ll find a list of all our favorite things to see and do in the area. 

Get the Travel Guide

The Best Companies to Go Snowmobiling in Aspen, Colorado

1. T-Lazy-7 Ranch and Snowmobiles

You’ll be in good hands with T-Lazy-7 Ranch and Snowmobiles! Their snowmobile tours are all guided by experts, and they’ll make sure you’re comfortable on the equipment before heading out. They offer three different tours: 

  • The Klondike Lunch Tour lasts anywhere from two and a half to three hours. You’ll explore the White River National Forest before getting to a gorgeous Klondike cabin situated perfectly on a mountaintop. You’ll head inside to warm up by the fire and enjoy a delicious, all-natural beef cheeseburger for lunch!
  • The Maroon Bells Tour is the most scenic tour. You’ll make it all the way to the iconic Maroon Lake before stopping for a hot chocolate break. This tour lasts for two hours. 
  • The Independence Pass Lunch Tour brings you to the historic mining ghost town of Independence on the famous Independence Pass. At three and a half hours, this is the longest tour offered. Grass-fed burgers are included for lunch, too!

2. Western Adventures Inc.

Western Adventures Inc. has been giving tours of Aspen for more than 35 years! What started as Snowcat rides has transformed into so much more. Now, you can tour the stunning mountains on a snowmobile with one of their guides, or you can opt for a snowmobile rental to explore at your own pace. They groom about 70 miles of trails for the winter, so you’ll have plenty to ride on. 

Let Us Help You Plan

When you stay with Aspen Signature Properties, you’ll have access to our incredible concierge services. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sleigh ride or to go snowmobiling in Aspen, Colorado, we can help! We take all of the stress out of vacation planning so you can have the getaway of a lifetime. 

Book Your Winter Getaway Today

winter is one of the best times to visit aspenExperience the magic of Aspen in the winter when you stay with Aspen Signature Properties. Our exclusive homes are located all over Aspen and Snowmass– we even have ski in, ski out rentals for your convenience! Whether you’re looking to stay in the center of the action in a downtown penthouse or would rather be away from it all in a mountainside retreat, we have a property for you. From skiing to snowmobiling in Aspen, Colorado, there’s always something to do here. Let us help you plan a vacation you will never forget. 

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Outdoor Recreation, Things to Do in Aspen, CO, Uncategorized · Tagged: Colorado, Things to Do in Aspen in Winter Besides Skiing, winter

Dec 09 2019

Should I Vacation in Aspen or Vail?

During your search for the perfect mountain getaway, you may be deciding between Aspen or Vail. Both of these Colorado towns have a lot to offer, but there are a few differences to keep in mind when planning your vacation. Of course, we are partial to Aspen! At Aspen Signature Vacation Rentals, we make sure you have everything you need for the getaway of a lifetime. 

Take a look at our complimentary Aspen Travel Guide for a peek into all that Aspen can offer. Once you make your decision, you can use it to plan your stay!

Get the Aspen Travel Guide

What Is the Difference Between Vail and Aspen?

While Vail and Aspen are generally similar, there are a few differences that set them apart from each other. Both mountain towns have great views, an amazing culinary scene, and lots of things to do, but there are a few things to keep in mind during the planning process. 

One Mountain Versus Four Mountains

The main difference between Vail and Aspen is the number of mountains. Vail has one large mountain while Aspen has four smaller mountains. 

Vail is unique because of its back bowls, a seven-mile-wide ski slope. If you love untamed skiing, this is a great opportunity. Aspen gives you the choice of four different mountains, and each offers something different. They’re all connected by free shuttles, so getting around is easy. Plus, Snowmass Mountain is home to the Long Shot, the longest run in the state. 

Aspen Is Less Crowded During the Winter

Because Vail is so close to Denver, many Denver residents use Vail as their winter respite. Many Denverites travel the two and a half hours to Vail on the weekends, so the slopes are much more crowded. Because there are so many mountains and trails in Aspen, there are rarely any lines to start skiing. 

The Town

If you’re looking for a quaint downtown area, Aspen is the way to go. Vail doesn’t exactly have a downtown area, although there are a few boutiques, restaurants, and shops for you to stroll through. Aspen, however, has a bustling city center. The town was constructed in the 1870s, so the history adds to its charm. The opera house is one of the oldest buildings in town, and there are many things to do besides skiing here! 

Book Your Mountain Getaway Today

winter is one of the best times to visit aspenOnce you’ve decided to stay in Aspen or Vail, it’s time to book your getaway! If you chose Aspen, stay with us at Aspen Signature Vacation Rentals. Our exclusive vacation rentals will ensure you have the getaway of a lifetime. If you’re visiting in the winter, consider our ski in, ski out rentals for easy access to the slopes. We have properties located all over Aspen and Snowmass, and our concierge is here to help you plan the trip of your dreams. We can’t wait to host you!

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Travel Tips, Uncategorized · Tagged: family, skiing

Nov 26 2019

Here’s Why You Need to Attend Wintersköl™ in Aspen This Year

Winter is a special time of year in Aspen, Colorado. The slopes are open, the hot drinks never stop flowing, and holiday cheer exists throughout the entire season. If you love the winter season here, make sure you’re in town for Wintersköl™ in Aspen. Translated as “a toast to winter,” this festival has taken place every year since 1951. Accommodations sell out for this popular time of year, so book your stay as soon as possible! Start planning your getaway when you access our complimentary Travel Guide. 

Get the Travel Guide

About Wintersköl™ in Aspen

Both locals and visitors alike have been celebrating winter through Wintersköl™ in Aspen for more than 65 years. The festival lasts for four days and takes place across town and all four mountains. Come celebrate one of our most special seasons in Aspen!

The History

As you know, winter is a huge season in Aspen and Snowmass. We can’t wait until fresh powder covers every inch of our mountain town and we can hit the slopes! Wintersköl™ started all the way back in 1951 when locals decided that this season needed to be celebrated in typical Nordic fashion. Now, thousands of people join us each year for four days of fun! 

Wintersköl™ Events

There’s something for everyone during Wintersköl™ in Aspen! The whole family will love watching the fireworks and seeing the snow sculptures. If you’re here with a group of friends, there are plenty of après ski parties to enjoy. There is even a dog fashion show! You can check out the Aspen Chamber of Commerce website for the exact event lineup to plan your stay. Our concierge is always here to help, too! 

Planning Your Aspen Getaway

Wintersköl™ only lasts four days, so you’ll have to plan the rest of your getaway! Continue the fun with some winter activities. Our concierge service is a great start. Our concierge experts can plan anything you could ever dream of for your winter getaway. Take your sweetheart on a romantic sleigh ride complete with hot chocolate or plan a snowshoeing trip for the entire family. No matter what you want to do, our concierge will plan it for you. 

Book Your Winter Stay Today

winter is one of the best times to visit aspenWhen you stay with Aspen Signature Properties, you are sure to have the winter getaway of a lifetime. Our exclusive rentals are located all over Aspen and Snowmass. From penthouses in the middle of town to ski in, ski out properties on the mountainside, we have accommodations for everyone. Browse our properties to start planning your stay. Because winter is the most popular time of the year to visit Aspen, we recommend booking as soon as possible to get your desired travel dates. We can’t wait to host you for Wintersköl™ in Aspen!

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Events & Festivals, Uncategorized · Tagged: nightlife, Things to Do in Aspen in Winter Besides Skiing, winter

Nov 13 2019

What Are the Four Mountains in Aspen?

There are countless things that make Aspen, Colorado, special, but many visit our town to answer the call of the mountain. There are four mountains in Aspen: Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. You can explore them all during your stay with Aspen Signature Vacation Rentals! Planning an Aspen getaway? Make sure you get a copy of our complimentary Travel Guide to start planning your stay!

Get the Travel Guide

What You Need to Know About the Four Mountains in Aspen

Aspen Mountain 

Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax by the locals, is famous for its ski scene. Experience steep glades, bumps, and incredible views. The terrain is pretty complex here, so we always recommend this mountain for intermediate and expert skiers. It’s a great place to be challenged! 

After a day out on the slopes, head to one of the many restaurants at the mountain. Bonnie’s is a classic, go-to spot, and Sundeck is perfect for après ski. 

Aspen Highlands

If you’re a local, you probably ski at Aspen Highlands. Here, you’ll find plenty of expert terrains, groomed cruisers, and stunning views of the famous Maroon Bells. If you prefer backcountry skiing, the Highland Bowl is for you! Hike about 30 minutes up to the summit for a 2,500-foot descent. It’s the perfect way to get away from it all– there are no lift lines, and barely anyone is on these nature-made slopes! 

Buttermilk Mountain

If you’re familiar with the Winter X Games, you have probably heard of Buttermilk Mountain. This mountain is perfect for beginners, families, and those that prefer a more leisurely ski experience. The gently rolling trails are easy enough for those just starting out, and you’ll love knowing you’re skiing exactly where some of the most famous athletes in winter sports have competed. Head to Cliffhouse for lunch to fuel up with some healthy eats before getting back out on the slopes!

Snowmass Mountain

If you want to explore Snowmass, make sure you plan for at least a few days! Snowmass has the most vertical feet in the entire country– there’s no way you can take advantage of all 4,406 vertical feet in just one day. Plus, there are 91 trails and 21 chairlifts! We love Snowmass Mountain because you’ll never run out of things to explore. Sam’s is conveniently located on top of Sam’s Knob on Snowmass, and it’s the perfect place for après ski drinks and bites. 

Book Your Ski Getaway Today

aspen homeAs Aspen locals, we know everything about hitting the slopes. Our concierge team is the key to making your winter vacation the getaway of a lifetime. From getting you lift tickets on our four mountains in Aspen to planning a magical day of winter activities, our concierge service will handle every request. Browse our exclusive properties to start planning your stay. We even have ski in, ski out rentals that put you right on the slopes. It’s time to pack your bags and experience our winter wonderland in luxury! 

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Outdoor Recreation, Aspen Travel Tips, Things to Do in Aspen, CO, Uncategorized · Tagged: apres ski, Best bars in Aspen, nightlife in Aspen, Ullr Nights

Oct 23 2019

Everything You Need to Know About Aspen X Games

Who will go home with the gold at the Aspen X Games this year? Be the first to know when you watch them live! Every year, Buttermilk Ski Area transforms for the competition. See some of the best names in winter sports compete for the win, and make sure you stick around for the incredible concerts! The X Games are more than just a sports competition– they’re an experience. Start planning your winter getaway today when you access our complimentary Travel Guide. 

Get the Travel Guide

About the Aspen X Games

More than 200 of the best winter athletes in the world come together to compete at the Aspen X Games. These games focus on three main categories: skiing, snowboarding, and motorsports. See everything from incredible tricks on the slopes to the Harley-Davidson Snow Hill Climb! Plus, this event isn’t all about the competitions. There are also concerts every night! 

Local tip: Choose whatever events you’d like to attend– you don’t have to go to them all! Admission into the X Games is free, so you can pick and choose which events you would like to go to. 

The Events

You’ve never seen talent like those competing in the Aspen X Games! There are many types of events, and the schedule of the upcoming year is released in the late fall. See skiers and snowboarders dodge obstacles as they race against each other, then watch athletes performing their best tricks and get the highest air. 

The Concerts

Some go to the Aspen X Games for the sports, others go for the concerts. Aspen is known for its excellent musical guests, and the X Games is no exception. In the past, some of the biggest names in music have been represented! 2025’s games brought Deadmau 5, Illeieum, Daily Bread, and  Gigantic to our mountain town. Tickets can be purchased online for a four-day concert pass, or you can choose individually. Our awesome concierge service can secure you tickets, too! 

X Lift Pass + Music

If you want to experience everything that the Aspen X Games has to offer, we recommend securing the special X Lift Pass + Music. Not only will you get admission into all four concerts, you’ll also get a two-day pass for skiing and riding on all four mountains. This way, you can experience our area to the fullest!

Aspen Mountain Vendor Village

Stop by the lower gondola plaza at Aspen Mountain to browse through the Aspen Mountain Vendor Village. Grab some free samples and watch product demos from some of the top brands in winter sports. This area is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It’s the perfect way to take a break from some of the action! Plus, you never know what cool gear you’ll find to wear on the slopes. 

Don’t Wait! Book Your Vacation Rental for the Aspen X Games

aspen homeStay in luxury during the Aspen X Games this year. Our exclusive vacation rentals at Aspen Signature Properties are located all over Aspen and Snowmass. Consider one of our ski in, ski out rentals for easy access to the slopes, or opt for one closer to town. Browse our properties to choose your favorite, and then our brokers will help you plan the winter getaway of a lifetime. 

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Events & Festivals, Uncategorized · Tagged: nightlife in Aspen, Things to Do in Aspen in Winter Besides Skiing, winter

Oct 09 2019

Deck the Halls! Here’s Why You Need to Spend Christmas in Aspen This Year

There’s no doubt that the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year. Even as adults, we feel the Christmas spirit as the holiday tunes make their way onto the radio and the kids start creating their lists of toys they’re hoping for. Experience the magic of Christmas in Aspen this year– you’ll want to make it a family tradition! Start planning your holiday getaway today when you get a copy of our complimentary Aspen Travel Guide. 

Get the Travel Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Spending Christmas in Aspen

Are You Dreaming of a White Christmas?

Perhaps the most magical part about Christmas in Aspen is that you’ll always experience a white Christmas. There’s nothing better than waking up on Christmas morning and looking out your window to a blanket of white snow. Plus, this means that you can fill the holiday with skiing and snowy activities! 

Experience the 12 Days of Aspen

The 12 Days of Aspen kicks off right before Christmas, and this 12-day festival is sure to get you into the holiday spirit! Each day is filled with activities like free ice skating, caroling, concerts, entertainment, and more. Even Santa and his reindeer will be there! 

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry

From gingerbread houses galore to exquisite holiday dining events, the food and beverage scene does not disappoint. Many of the events around town offer holiday delights such as hot chocolate and s’mores, and there are plenty of places that create a special menu just for the season. 

Attend Ullr Nights

Starting at the end of December, you can head to Elk Camp in Snowmass every Friday night for Ullr Nights. Go tubing under the stars, ride the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, and play in the snow before settling down with some s’mores and hot chocolate by the bonfire. 

Countless Winter Activities

Christmas in Aspen is more than just the festivities– there are so many great winter activities to enjoy! From ice skating at the Silver Circle Rink near the base of Ajax Mountain to speeding through the snow on a carriage ride, our concierge team will help you plan a winter getaway that’s unforgettable. 

Do You Celebrate Hanukkah?

Enjoy some latkes and watch daily public Menorah lightings at both the St. Regis Aspen and The Hotel Jerome. Let our concierge team help you make the holiday extra special for you and your family! 

Time to Book Your Christmas in Aspen

aspen homeWhether you’re looking to wake up in Aspen on Christmas morning or are coming another time during the holiday season, we assure you that you’ll feel the holiday spirit as soon as you step foot onto our mountain town. We have a variety of exclusive rentals located all over Aspen and Snowmass. Consider a ski in, ski out property for the winter getaway of a lifetime! We can’t wait to host you this holiday season.  

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Holidays & Special Occasions, Uncategorized · Tagged: cooking class, hot air balloon, Things to Do in Aspen in Winter Besides Skiing

Sep 17 2019

When Is the Best Time to Visit Aspen? Everything You Need to Know

Anyone that has fallen in love with Aspen, Colorado, will tell you that there’s no bad time to visit. With so much to offer during each changing season, you can’t go wrong! Choosing the best time to visit Aspen depends on what you’re looking to get out of your mountain getaway. Would you rather come during the off-season to avoid the crowds, or do you like the energy of the town when it’s at its peak months? It’s for you to decide, and we are here to help!

No matter what season you decide to visit Aspen during, our complimentary Travel Guide will help you plan your trip. Get yours today!

Get the Travel Guide

Deciding the Best Time to Visit Aspen

When deciding the best time to visit Aspen, there are a few factors to take into account. What are you looking to do, what would you like to see, and what weather do you prefer? Each season offers something new, so you might even want to stay with Aspen Signature Properties multiple times throughout the year. 

Aspen in the Winter

We will start with the most popular time to visit Aspen: the winter. Once the ski season starts, visitors come flooding in to hit the slopes! Nearly 200 inches of snowfall keep the powder fresh, and winter sport aficionados can’t stay away. Plus, there are tons of winter events you won’t want to miss! With our ski in, ski out rentals, you can have the winter getaway of a lifetime. 

You might have to combat some crowds, but we love the energy our mountain town gets when it’s full of visitors! Work around the crowds when you take advantage of our concierge service. Your expert concierge can help you secure ski passes, dinner reservations, event tickets, and more! 

Aspen in the Spring

Spring is the least crowded season in Aspen. If you’re looking to get away without any crowds, spring is the time to do it. Temperatures range from the 20s to 60s, so you never know what you’re going to get. However, if you bundle up, you can enjoy some outdoor activities such as biking or hiking. This is also a very rainy season, so you will need to check the weather before deciding on which activities you’d like to enjoy during your vacation. Aspen Signature Properties Tip: Some businesses close during the spring to enjoy some time off before summer. Feel free to ask us what is open! 

Aspen in the Summer

Aspen is full of life during the summer. The snow melts and brings bright, vibrant greenery back into our landscape. With weather averaging in the 70s, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. See our gorgeous scenery when you explore the area– there are so many things to do in the summer! If you talk to enough Aspen locals and regulars, you might just hear a common theme; they came for the winter skiing but stayed for the Colorado summer. 

Aspen in the Fall: The Off-Season

We like to think of fall as our magical secret season. Many people write this off as the off-season, but we disagree. Fall can be an amazing time of year with mild weather, beautiful foliage, and a dusting of snow on the high peaks. You can get better deals on airfare, lodging, and food with no summer crowds to have to share it with. Aspen regains its small-town feel in the off-season, a quieter time when the true essence of the town reveals itself. Here are four reasons why we love fall! 

  • No One Can Predict the Weather– No one can predict the weather, but fall usually has some beautiful days! There’s an old saying, “If you don’t like the weather in Colorado, wait five minutes.” That’s especially true in the fall! Warm, sunny days can give way to blistering cold nights and the occasional snowstorm. However, you can usually find plenty of nice days to enjoy the outdoors. 
  • Goodbye, Crowds!– Fewer people means Aspen retains the small-town feel that makes it special, and fall is the perfect time to experience it. It also means that you’re more likely to get a table at your favorite restaurant or a drink in a less crowded bar.
  • Fall Foliage, of Course– There are few things more beautiful than seeing Aspen during peak foliage season. Our fall colors transform the mountains into brilliant shades of gold, so make sure you bring a camera! 
  • The Party Never Stops– Summer is packed full of events, so it’s nice to take a break for a little while. In October, it all starts right back up! The Aspen Art Museum remains open, the Harvest Party fundraising event for the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies is the go-to event for the season, and The Belly Up continues to offer live music all month long.

Book Your Getaway Today

fall aspen homeHave you decided on the best time to visit Aspen? Come experience each of our beautiful seasons when you stay with Aspen Signature Properties. We have exclusive properties located all over Aspen and Snowmass, so we know we have the perfect one for you no matter when you stay. Browse our properties today! 

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Travel Tips, Uncategorized · Tagged: Aspen summer events, California to Aspen, concierge, nightlife, Things to Do in Aspen in Winter Besides Skiing

Sep 11 2019

The Best Things to Do in Aspen in November

Many overlook November when planning a stay in Aspen, Colorado, but we don’t! We love our mountain town at any time of the year, and November is no exception. This particular month is the final countdown to ski season; it teeters on the cusp of fall and winter. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Aspen in November so you can start planning your getaway!

Ready to plan your November getaway? Get a copy of our complimentary Travel Guide for a list of things to do and see in Aspen. 

Get the Travel Guide

5 of the Best Things to Do in Aspen in November

1. Get Outside

November is known for a few flurries throughout the month, but you can still find time to get outside! As long as you bundle up and make sure it’s not going to snow, you can still hit the trails in the beginning of the month. The Rio Grande Trail is always fun, and Maroon Creek Road closes to vehicles during this time. You can take a fat bike ride to Maroon Lake on it!

2. Time to Dine

If you’re looking to get out of the chilly November weather, head to one of the many restaurants in town to enjoy a delicious meal and a drink or two. Aspen is known for its incredible chefs and mixologists, and dining around town is a favorite pastime of locals and visitors alike. 

3. Visit the Aspen Art Museum

Spend some time at the Aspen Art Museum this November. This museum focuses on contemporary pieces that rotate throughout the year. See exhibitions of drawings, paintings, sculptures, multimedia installations, and electronic media.

4. Head to the Belly Up Aspen

Belly Up Aspen is one of Aspen’s most popular music venues and stays open all year round. Even though the venue is small, some very popular artists have played here in the past such as Passion Pit, Steve Aoki, and the Flaming Lips. See who is playing this November and get your tickets! 

5. Thanksgiving in Aspen

Start a new tradition this year and spend Thanksgiving in Aspen. Working with our concierge will make your holiday effortless– you can have your kitchen fully stocked with groceries upon arrival, reservations made at one of the restaurants offering Thanksgiving dinner, or even have our concierge help you set up your dream Thanksgiving party. Plus, the slopes officially open Thanksgiving weekend! 

Book Your November Getaway Today

aspen homeExperience all the things to do in Aspen in November this year when you book your getaway with Aspen Signature Vacation Rentals. We offer a variety of exclusive rentals that are sure to take your November getaway to the next level. Browse our properties to pick your favorite, then book your stay! Then, our brokers and concierge team will work with you to make sure your vacation is extraordinary. 

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Things to Do in Aspen, CO, Uncategorized · Tagged: Aspen Spring Break, Beer

Aug 30 2019

The Insider’s Guide to Aspen Fall Colors and Foliage

Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.”
– Albert Camus

There’s no feeling like waking up and realizing that fall has settled on Aspen. Our warm summer air transforms into a crisp breeze, and the mountaintops come alive with brilliant shades of gold as the leaves change colors. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or driving, the Aspen fall colors will not disappoint.

Start planning your autumn getaway when you access our complimentary Aspen Travel Guide!

Maroon Bells with Snow - Hike
View of Snowmass, CO in Fall

What Is the Best Time for Fall Colors in Colorado?

The best time to see our gorgeous Aspen fall colors is typically during the third or fourth week of September. We recommend consulting a fall foliage map to get the exact time of peak season. 

How and Where to See Aspen Fall Colors

On Foot

Recommendation: Cathedral Lake

We love hiking in the fall because it means that you can take in our gorgeous foliage at your own pace. Take a moment to gaze up at the treetops or take a water break at a scenic overlook. 

We recommend hiking a trail like Cathedral Lake. The first mile of the trail meanders through deep Aspen groves that feel especially magical when littered with soft, gold leaves. Within the first hour, you’ll 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. From there, it’s a steep climb up a series of switchbacks to the final traverse across open tundra to the alpine lake. Take in the view at 11,888 feet with cathedral-like towers of rock and a lake of deep turquoise blue.

Other Hikes to See Aspen Fall Colors: 

Smuggler Mountain Overlook – Hike 1.44 miles up Smuggler Mountain Road and take in the views of downtown Aspen, Aspen Mountain, Independence Pass, and the Roaring Fork Valley.

South Rim Trail / Yin Yang – This 2.6-mile hike is located right in Snowmass Village. Trek to the gorgeous viewing area to see Old Snowmass, Mount Daly, and Capitol Peak.

Crater Lake – Drive up to the Maroon Bells and hike up to Crater Lake.  This 1.8-mile hike brings you to the majestic Crater Lake that is surrounded by Aspen’s fourteeners.

East of Aspen Trail – Walk or bike up towards Independence Pass on the East of Aspen Trail along the Roaring Fork River. Stop by the North Star Preserve beach, also known as Stillwater Beach, and take in the views with friends and family.

Aspen Mountain – Every Saturday and Sunday, hike up Aspen Mountain via the Ute Trail to the Sundeck. Enjoy the view of the Castle Creek Valley and the Maroon Creek Valley while you have lunch.

By Bike

Recommendation: The Two Valleys (Also Known as “the Sisters”) 

The Aspen area has many great biking trails, but road cyclists from all over the world come to Aspen to test their legs and lungs on this classic ride that affords some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the Roaring Fork Valley. Maroon Creek Road and Castle Creek Road are the crown jewels of Aspen’s repertoire of world-class road rides. Both offer unparalleled scenery and very few cars—the hallmark of a perfect ride.

By Car 

Recommendation: Independence Pass to Twin Lakes

Even when the leaves aren’t turning, Independence Pass is one of the most scenic mountain passes in Colorado. In the fall, it’s especially stunning. 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– just before the summit, a panoramic view of the entire valley lets you gaze out over the patchwork quilt of color. Head over to the other side for more jaw-dropping beauty as the road descends on steep, heart-stopping switchbacks before landing in the lush valley.

Our Favorite Leaf Peeping Patios

Pine Creek Cookhouse – Drive or bike up Castle Creek Valley, a beautiful spot known for one of the biggest Aspen groves in Pitkin County. Enjoy high-end American cuisine that features local ingredients while you take in the beautiful views of the Elk Mountain Range on the patio. 

Home Team BBQ – Not only is this BBQ joint a local favorite, it has the best wings in town. Take a moment with the menu and order one of their famous frozen drinks like the “Game Changer.” Then, enjoy the views while sipping a frozen concoction on the patio at the base of Buttermilk Ski Mountain.

Book Your Fall Getaway 

fall aspen home

Are you ready to experience Aspen fall colors? Book your getaway with Aspen Signature Vacation Rentals. Many of our homes are set back amongst the foliage so you’ll get to experience the beauty of autumn firsthand. Browse our exclusive properties and start planning your getaway today! 

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Uncategorized

Aug 22 2019

The Insider’s Guide to Aspen Fall Colors and Foliage

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.”
– Albert Camus

There’s no feeling like waking up and realizing that fall has settled on Aspen. Our warm summer air transforms into a crisp breeze, and the mountaintops come alive with brilliant shades of gold as the leaves change colors. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or driving, the Aspen fall colors will not disappoint.

Start planning your autumn getaway when you access our complimentary Aspen Travel Guide!

Get the Travel Guide

What Is the Best Time for Fall Colors in Colorado?

The best time to see our gorgeous Aspen fall colors is typically during the third or fourth week of September. We recommend consulting a fall foliage map to get the exact time of peak season. 

How and Where to See Aspen Fall Colors

Maroon Bells with Snow - HikeOn Foot

Recommendation: Cathedral Lake

We love hiking in the fall because it means that you can take in our gorgeous foliage at your own pace. Take a moment to gaze up at the treetops or take a water break at a scenic overlook. 

We recommend hiking a trail like Cathedral Lake. The first mile of the trail meanders through deep Aspen groves that feel especially magical when littered with soft, gold leaves. Within the first hour, you’ll 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. From there, it’s a steep climb up a series of switchbacks to the final traverse across open tundra to the alpine lake. Take in the view at 11,888 feet with cathedral-like towers of rock and a lake of deep turquoise blue.

View of Snowmass, CO in FallOther Hikes to See Aspen Fall Colors: 

Smuggler Mountain Overlook – Hike 1.44 miles up Smuggler Mountain Road and take in the views of downtown Aspen, Aspen Mountain, Independence Pass, and the Roaring Fork Valley.

South Rim Trail / Yin Yang – This 2.6-mile hike is located right in Snowmass Village. Trek to the gorgeous viewing area to see Old Snowmass, Mount Daly, and Capitol Peak.

Crater Lake – Drive up to the Maroon Bells and hike up to Crater Lake.  This 1.8-mile hike brings you to the majestic Crater Lake that is surrounded by Aspen’s fourteeners.

East of Aspen Trail – Walk or bike up towards Independence Pass on the East of Aspen Trail along the Roaring Fork River. Stop by the North Star Preserve beach, also known as Stillwater Beach, and take in the views with friends and family.

Aspen Mountain – Every Saturday and Sunday, hike up Aspen Mountain via the Ute Trail to the Sundeck. Enjoy the view of the Castle Creek Valley and the Maroon Creek Valley while you have lunch.

By Bike

Recommendation: The Two Valleys (Also Known as “the Sisters”) 

The Aspen area has many great biking trails, but road cyclists from all over the world come to Aspen to test their legs and lungs on this classic ride that affords some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the Roaring Fork Valley. Maroon Creek Road and Castle Creek Road are the crown jewels of Aspen’s repertoire of world-class road rides. Both offer unparalleled scenery and very few cars—the hallmark of a perfect ride.

By Car 

Recommendation: Independence Pass to Twin Lakes

Even when the leaves aren’t turning, Independence Pass is one of the most scenic mountain passes in Colorado. In the fall, it’s especially stunning. 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– just before the summit, a panoramic view of the entire valley lets you gaze out over the patchwork quilt of color. Head over to the other side for more jaw-dropping beauty as the road descends on steep, heart-stopping switchbacks before landing in the lush valley.

Our Favorite Leaf Peeping Patios

Pine Creek Cookhouse – Drive or bike up Castle Creek Valley, a beautiful spot known for one of the biggest Aspen groves in Pitkin County. Enjoy high-end American cuisine that features local ingredients while you take in the beautiful views of the Elk Mountain Range on the patio. 

Home Team BBQ – Not only is this BBQ joint a local favorite, it has the best wings in town. Take a moment with the menu and order one of their famous frozen drinks like the “Game Changer.” Then, enjoy the views while sipping a frozen concoction on the patio at the base of Buttermilk Ski Mountain.

Book Your Fall Getaway 

fall aspen homeAre you ready to experience Aspen fall colors? Book your getaway with Aspen Signature Vacation Rentals. Many of our homes are set back amongst the foliage so you’ll get to experience the beauty of autumn firsthand. Browse our exclusive properties and start planning your getaway today! 

Written by aspensignature · Categorized: Aspen Travel Tips, Things to Do in Aspen, CO, Uncategorized · Tagged: bars, California to Aspen, Season, sleight ride

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