Summer Adventures in Aspen

Aspen in the summertime has an allure that captivates visitors from around the world. During my recent 3-night girls’ trip, I discovered why this mountain town has captured so many hearts. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, dining delights, or just a relaxing escape, Aspen has it all. Enjoy this breakdown of our unforgettable experience!

Logistics:

I opted for a direct flight from Austin on American Airlines, and the convenience continued with round-trip airport transportation, graciously provided by my chosen lodging. Aspen-Pitkin County Airport is a mere four miles from downtown Aspen.

Accommodations:

Our group had the pleasure of staying at three different hotels in July. Please note, the Little Nell was not on our list because it was partially closed for renovations during our visit. Here’s a quick overview of where we stayed:

• Limelight Hotel: Locals will tell you that the Lounge Bar is the place to be in Aspen from 3–6pm each day. Outside of their famous happy hour, this hotel, owned by Aspen Skiing Co, has a great location across from a park (yes, it’s dog-friendly), and has free concierge service (arranged in advance) to and from the Aspen airport. And despite the aforementioned happy hour, it’s a comfortable, quiet hotel! Room service is only available for dinner, but a free continental breakfast is included.

• St. Regis: Did anyone say Marriott points? The St. Regis is centrally located, has a counter at the Aspen airport that will take your luggage upon arrival and deliver it to the hotel, and has a great spa.

• Hotel Jerome: This iconic Aspen hotel, part of the Auberge Resort Collection, wins for décor and ambiance! In addition to their spa and restaurants (hello, Prospect!), the hotel is right next door to the charming Felix Roasting Co. Please note, the hotel does have seasonal closures from mid-April until the end of May. For complimentary airport transportation, call the front desk upon arrival.

July/August Temperature:

• At an elevation of 8,000 feet, the average July/August high is 85 degrees and the average low is 50 degrees. Aspen is high and dry (almost 300 days of sunshine a year!), so hydration is key! It is not uncommon for active groups to schedule hydration IV’s at various establishments around town on Day 2 of the trip to ward off altitude sickness or to replenish lost fluids. Electrolyte packets and coconut water are a cheaper, more manageable option!

Activities Worth Exploring:

• Maroon Bells hike: This is the most photographed area in all of Colorado! Located in the Elk Mountains and spanning the White River and Gunnison National Forests, this site fills up quickly. If you want a little more challenge, add on the Crater Lake trail. Parking and/or shuttle reservations are required. If you have a shuttle pass to Maroon Bells, you will need to take an Uber or bus to Aspen Highlands Plaza. We missed our bus and went with an Uber!

• Mountain Biking: Rent bikes from Four Mountain Sports located within the Aspen Highlands Plaza. Its mountain bikes are not intended for use in Snowmass Bike Park and pads are NOT included in its rentals. If you’re planning a day at the bike park, you will need to look for a  Downhill Bike Rental instead. Post-ride, enjoy lunch or a beverage at the scenic Highlands Alehouse within Aspen Highlands Plaza.

• “Le Tour de Woody Creek”: Enjoy this Rio Grande trail by foot or bike as you make your way along the Roaring Fork River from Aspen to Glenwood Springs. What sells this place as a group activity is the proximity to Woody Creek Tavern for those who want to refuel before heading back out. Be careful biking if you overindulge in the tavern’s margaritas! No bike, no problem. Check out Blazing Adventures Outfitter for bike rentals.

• Silver Queen Gondola: Purchase a gondola ticket and take a ride to the top of Aspen Mountain for restaurants and hiking/biking trails with a view. There are miles and miles of trails to hike and bike.

• Ute Trail: This leg-burning trail contains a lot of switchbacks and is a 5.3-mile steep, out-and-back trail. It takes an average of 4 hrs and 54 minutes to complete and has an elevation gain of 3,200 feet. We hiked all the way up to the gondola but rode the gondola down to save our knees! A majority of hikers stop at the Ute Trail Overlook and turn back for a shorter, yet still heart-pumping hike.

• Little Nell Trail: This trail starts underneath the Aspen Mountain gondola and is a great alternative when the Ute Trail is too crowded. Hike up and ride down. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a celebratory drink on the plaza!

• Hunter Creek Loop: This trail is a favorite hiking trail amongst locals looking for a convenient nature fix (plan on 2 hours). Located in north Aspen, the trail hugs a mellow creek, taking you through dense aspen groves and meadows with blooming wildflowers. Make it an out-and-back or complete the loop by coming down Smuggler Mountain Road. 

• Paddleboard: Paddleboard the Stillwater section of the Roaring Fork River. Rent from any of the multiple sport equipment centers in town and enjoy the crystal-clear river with a view of the mountains just around the bend!

Packing Tips:

Outside of the basics (hiking and dinner outfits), consider a swimsuit if your hotel has a heated pool. Aspen has a pretentious stereotype, but I found everyone to be dressed in casual, functional clothes around town. My go-to was “fancy” Birkenstocks with a dress for dinner and athletic leisure clothes during the day.  It’s still a mountain town; cowboy boots and button-downs were also a popular look. As always, don’t forget your reusable water bottle and sunscreen.

In Conclusion:

Our group has varied interests, and Aspen had us all covered. We checked out fun restaurants, got in some shopping, hiked and explored throughout the day, and ensured that everyone still had time to unwind with a book, at the spa, or in the tavern! For additional explorations in the Rockies, visit my post on Boulder and Estes Park, Colorado.