Aspen Signature Properties

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Your Guide to the Most Romantic Things to Do in Aspen

With stunning mountain views and countless unique activities, it’s easy to get swept away by the romance of Aspen. Whether you’re looking to go on a one-on-one romantic getaway or are in need of a date night during your vacation, we have you covered. Here are some of the most romantic things to do in Aspen! 

Start planning your getaway today when you access our complimentary Travel Guide. Inside, you’ll find our list of the top things to do and see during your vacation. 

5 of the Most Romantic Things to Do in Aspen

Go Hot Air Ballooning 

Soar high in the sky and take in the beautiful sights of Aspen from a new perspective. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world with Above It All Balloon Company. These flights are always at sunrise, so you’ll get to watch the sky turn into a kaleidoscope of color. Plus, a champagne brunch is included! 

Take a Cooking Class

Spending time together in the kitchen is one of the easiest yet most intimate experiences you can have. Aspen Cooking School can give you and your sweetheart a private, hands-on cooking class, or you can opt to sip wine as you watch a cooking demonstration. Either way, you’ll learn some impressive new skills you can use when you’re back home. 

Get a Couple’s Massage

Aspen is full of incredible spas, and a couple’s massage will get you relaxed and ready for your vacation in no time. Remède Spa is always a great option– your massage starts with chocolates and champagne. Or, our concierge can set up a private couple’s massage in the comfort of your vacation rental. 

Have a Private Picnic With a View

Our mountain town is known for its stunning views, and there are plenty of spots to have a romantic picnic. Let us recommend one of our favorite scenic overlooks, and our concierge will pack you the picnic of your dreams. Imagine watching the sunset with your other half as you indulge in a delicious meal. 

Go on a Sleigh Ride

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Aspen in the winter, a sleigh ride is a great choice. Bundle up and snuggle next to your sweetheart as you ride through our winter wonderland! Aspen Carriage and Sleigh will take you on a private sleigh ride through the forest and even take you to some spots to take some photos! 

Book Your Romantic Getaway Today

Luxury vacation rental in Aspen at night

Experience the magic of Aspen and Snowmass when you stay in one of our exclusive vacation rentals. Whether you’re looking for a penthouse in the center of town or a ski-in, ski-out home with amazing views, we have it at Aspen Signature Properties. Now that you know all of the romantic things to do in Aspen, it’s time to book your stay! Browse our properties and book your getaway today.

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! 

This Is Why You Need to Experience Aspen in September

As locals of Aspen, Colorado, we know what each season holds. Every month offers something new and exciting, but we have to admit that Aspen in September is one of our favorites. We refer to this time of year as our magical secret season, and when you stay with Aspen Signature Vacation Rentals during September, you’ll see why. 

Start planning your September getaway today when you access our complimentary Travel Guide. 

Get the Travel Guide

5 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Aspen in September

1. The Fall Foliage 

Our fall foliage doesn’t last long, but it’s one of the most breathtaking sights you will ever see. Thousands of leaves transform from their usual green to brilliant shades of yellow and orange, and the mountain range looks as if it has been painted in gold. The leaves usually start changing during mid-September, and there are plenty of ways to see them. Hike through the mountains, go biking, or even take a leisurely drive. 

2. Perfect Weather 

September weather isn’t too cold or too hot– it’s just right. Temperatures average in the 60s and are even in the low 70s in the beginning of the month. This weather is perfect for exploring the town; all you need is a light jacket. Hop from restaurant to restaurant, go on a walk, or picnic amongst the picturesque views. 

3. Avoid the Crowds

Not many people think to come to Aspen during our secret season, so the town is quieter than it is during the peak months. This means that it is easier to get a reservation at restaurants, and our little piece of mountain paradise remains peaceful. Of course, we love the energy our peak season brings, too! 

4. So Many September Events

It’s always fun when an event comes to town! We keep our Upcoming Events page up to date so you always know what’s going on in Aspen and Snowmass. Some of our favorite September events to attend are: 

5. Outdoor Activities 

The weather paired with the gorgeous landscape make September one of the best times to enjoy the great outdoors in Aspen. You can enjoy nearly every outdoor adventure you can imagine in our area. Hike through the wilderness, go mountain biking, go offroading, and more. Our concierge can recommend and set you up with any outdoor activity you’d like! 

Book Your September Getaway Today

maroon creek eleganceYou don’t want to miss Aspen in September. Browse our exclusive rentals in Aspen and Snowmass to start planning your stay. We have everything from penthouses in the center of town to gorgeous estates set back amongst the mountains. Plus, we will be there every step of the way to help you plan your getaway. We can’t wait to host you!