Top Things to do and Places to Visit in Aspen Snowmass in the Summer

Looking for Things to do and places to visit in the Summer in Aspen Snowmass?

When the snow melts from the mountain tops, the Colorado mountain towns of Aspen and Snowmass Village turn into an unforgettable picture-perfect oasis. With abundant hiking and biking trails, nature paths and charming downtown areas, discover eight of the most picturesque places to put on your list for this summer holiday. 

Visit the Smuggler Mountain Trail Aspen

The Smuggler Mountain Trail is one of the best hikes in Aspen that will take visitors up the mountainside for beautiful views of the town and surrounding area. Hikers will make their way along Smuggler Mountain Road as it winds uphill towards the observation deck, where stunning views of the surrounding Elk Mountains can be enjoyed. The views from there are breathtaking and absolutely worth an afternoon of exploring in the summer months.

Discover Downtown Aspen

At the base of Aspen Mountain surrounded by picturesque hills is the chic town of Aspen. It is especially charming when the days are longer, and its streets and parks come to life. The town is full of art galleries, boutique shops and historic performance venues which add to the unique character of the town. Visitors can explore the world-class exhibits at Aspen Art Museum and enjoy dining at one of the more than 80 restaurants in downtown, with many offering al fresco seating during the warmer months.

Maroon Bells

One of the most iconic natural landscapes in Colorado, the Maroon Bells twin peaks lie just south of Aspen, towering 14,000 feet above the pristine, glacial Maroon Creek Valley. Providing spectacular views at every time of the year, during the summer months, blue skies, greenery and wildflowers make it truly picture-perfect. Hiking is one of the best ways to experience their beauty and visitors can enjoy camping at one of the many campgrounds lining the hiking trails beyond the lake. Reservations are required (unless accessing via e-bike).

North Star Nature Preserve

The Roaring Fork River, a 70-mile long tributary of the Colorado River upstream of Aspen, meanders through the scenic North Star Nature Preserve. This section of the mighty river is known as the section "where the Roaring Fork whispers", due to its gentle and calming waters. Electric blue skies and the greenery surrounding the preserve offer the perfect summer escape, which is the best time of the year for visitors wanting to try SUP. Paddlers can also spot beavers and other wildlife that call the North Star home. 

Snowmass Village

A cosy resort town tucked into the mountains, Snowmass Village consists of over 90 miles of hiking and biking trails that become lively during the summer. Visitors can hike and bike, enjoy al fresco dining or attend one of the many summer events to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Snowmass Village whilst soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Snowmass Mountain

Snowmass Mountain, located in the Elk Mountains, lies west of Aspen and southwest of the town of Snowmass Village. Expansive green slopes blanketed with wildflowers and miles of trails on the mountain provide the ultimate escape for nature-lovers when the weather is warmer.

Rim Trail 

The Rim Trail is a popular hiking and biking trail in Snowmass as it provides incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys along the entire trail, traversing the west and north rims of Snowmass Village. This trail is especially pleasant in the summer, and while it can be hiked in either direction, the recommended direction of travel is clockwise. 

Hot air ballooning in Snowmass

For three days in September (22nd-24th), the skies of Snowmass Village are filled with bursts of colour for the Snowmass Balloon Festival. Launching from 7.30am, over 30 balloons take to the skies, providing one of the most iconic scenic sights in Colorado. During the summer, visitors to Snowmass Village can also enjoy hot air ballooning at sunrise to witness expansive views of Mount Daly, Capitol Peak and the Elk Mountains, as well as local wildlife including elk, deer and fox, from above. 

 

For more information please visit www.aspenchamber.org  / www.gosnowmass.com