Aspen in the fall is awe-inspiring! The vibrant fall foliage against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and clear blue skies is simply breathtaking. Furthermore, September and October are especially exceptional months to visit this mountain town because of the cooler weather, fewer visitors, and lower lodging rates.
As you might expect, the best things to do in Aspen are usually outside. This is true both in the winter and in the summer. Aspen is surrounded by four skiable mountains, all of which are protected by the White River National Forest. In any season, you can catch a picturesque gondola from the center of downtown that will take you to the top of Ajax Mountain for some of the best skiing and hiking in the world.
Read on to learn our top 9 recommendations for arranging an autumn holiday in Aspen so you can get the most out of your trip. Still, confused? Without any doubt, book united airlines reservations in any class and save up to 40% off on one-way & round trips on every flight. Scroll down to know more.
Aspen is usually at the top of the list when it comes to fantastic Colorado ski towns. It’s easy to understand why. The historic old mining town has grown into one of America’s most upscale, attractive, and visually stunning small towns, as well as one of Colorado’s top locations to visit.
Drive Castle Creek Road
If you’d rather stay closer to the base camp, Aspen has a rich mining history. The story is told through the architecture of the buildings. High-end restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries now occupy these old façade. Aspen is also home to some of Colorado’s best hotels. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll in the park or one of the world’s most challenging ski runs, Aspen has something for everyone.
Explore Ashcroft Ghost Town
Travelers can journey back in time from modern-day Aspen to the historic and creepy Ashcroft Ghost Town by driving up Castle Creek Road. The historic silver mining town, created in the 1880s, was a successful mining hamlet until it quickly went down and become abandoned, thus freezing the area in time. Ashcroft had a population of two-thousand people and numerous enterprises and facilities by 1883. However, the mines ran out faster than the town could be created, and by 1885, only 100 summer residents remained.
Hike the Many Trails
Winter skiing isn’t complete without a mention of hiking. We’ve previously explored the Maroon bells, but there are so many other paths to discover in Aspen. As the winter beauty fades, Aspen’s forests and meadows burst out with lush greenery and colorful wildflowers, all against the spectacular colorado Rockies as a backdrop.
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are undoubtedly the most well-known image of Aspen. A mirror-like lake that reflects the images of two snowcapped summits named Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, you’ll recognize it when you see it. The Maroon Bells are a Colorado and Aspen landmark, located approximately 10 miles up Maroon Creek Road from the little ski community.
Ski Aspen Snowmass
Aspen packs a punch in the winter sports department, particularly skiing, for such a little Colorado town. This is due to the fact that Aspen is close to not one, but four skiable mountains. In the winter, you’ll be sharing the lift queue with some of the most passionate and discriminating skiers on the planet. There are four ski areas in the Aspen Snowmass area, with more than 5,300 acres of mountain terrain to explore.
Adventure at the T-Lazy-7 Ranch
The T-Lazy-7 Ranch, located near the Maroon Bells in the Maroon Creek Valley, is a veritable outdoor playground for all types of adventure activities. T-Lazy-7 is a great way to spend a day in Aspen, whether it’s snowmobiling in the winter, horseback riding, fly fishing, or visiting a real-life working ranch. The ranch, which has been in operation for eighty years, raises beef, eggs, and honey. If you are looking for a change of peace, they also have cabin rentals and long-term housing but it is the ranch’s activities that have made it famous.
Drive Independence Pass
If you want to take the scenic way, though, you should drive over independence pass. It’s a historic mountain pass that goes right into Aspen, and it’s one of Colorado’s best drives. Independence Pass, which is part of Colorado State Highway 82, runs up and over the Continental Divide, via Leadville, and into Aspen. The top is more than 12,000 feet above sea level, and the entire trek is 32 miles long. The switchback trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains, aspen groves, and the Roaring Fork River.
Maroon Lake Scenic Trail
The Maroon bells or Maroon Lake, you don’t have to be a mountaineering champion. One of the best things to do in Aspen is climb the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, which is suitable for hikers of all levels. The two-mile track, which starts off Maroon Creek Road and loops back, is one of the most beautiful ways to see this section of Colorado. The year-round path is without a doubt one of Colorado’s best.
John Denver Sanctuary
This green sanctuary in the heart of Aspen’s city serves as a tranquil respite from the bustling activities surrounding it. The John Denver Sanctuary, named after the American musician who wrote Rocky Mountain High, is located near the Roaring Fork River, next to Rio Grande Park. It is a popular spot for travelers and locals to take a break and catch their breath. The famous Song Garden is located within the park and features several of John Denver’s most famous songs carved onto boulders and set to reflect the circle of life.
Conclusion
If you’d rather know, Aspen has a rich mining history. The story is told through the architecture of the buildings. Aspen is also home to some of Colorado’s best hotels. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll in the park or one of the world’s most challenging ski runs. Aspen has something for everyone. So, plan your trip with AirlinesMap and enjoy Colorado Packages that will make your trip extra special for you. Just go and get ready to discover the greatest attractions and activities to do in Aspen!