Aspen's impressive landscape offers something for residents and visitors to enjoy year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and biking in the summer. If you’re looking into Aspen real estate, you have so much in store. You can explore nature on foot or horseback, fly fish in the nearby rivers, or take on a thrilling paragliding adventure. Whether you enjoy a peaceful stroll or an adrenaline-pumping experience, tackle Aspen's great outdoors with these 16 ways to entertain yourself throughout the year.
Warm weather
1: Biking
Biking in Aspen is a fantastic way to explore the area. For those looking for a challenging ride, the Aspen to Snowmass Base Village route via Owl Creek or Brush Creek provides stunning mountain views and steady downhill descents. Alternatively, heading to Woody Creek Tavern is an excellent option for a more laid-back downhill ride, though the trip back is an 8-mile uphill challenge. This scenic route is perfect for those who want to enjoy the breathtaking views and indulge in a delicious meal. And for the ultimate outdoor experience, the ride to the Maroon Bells is a must. This iconic destination offers picturesque views of the mountains, making it an unforgettable biking adventure.
2: Camping
Camping and stargazing in Aspen offer a perfect summer evening for nature enthusiasts. Lincoln Creek, Pearl Pass, and Independence Pass offer picture-perfect hiking or mountain biking trails during the day. However, the real magic happens at night when the stars shine brightly overhead. The crisp mountain air and lack of light pollution provide the perfect conditions for stargazing. Whether you're an amateur astronomer or enjoy the beauty of the night sky, make time to enjoy camping and stargazing.
3: Fishing
Fishing in Aspen offers unparalleled opportunities for anglers seeking a peaceful yet fulfilling outdoor experience. The Roaring Fork River boasts a variety of fish, including Brown Trout, Mountain Whitefish, and Rainbow Trout. There are endless chances to cast a line in the glorious lakes and rivers while enjoying Aspen's beautiful landscape.
4: Golf
The Aspen Golf Club offers stunning views of the mountains just a few minutes from downtown Aspen. The Maroon Creek Club and Snowmass Club are other terrific options in town. Ironbridge Golf Club and River Valley Ranch are popular courses under an hour away for those willing to venture further. With so many options, golf enthusiasts are sure to find a course that suits their preferences and provides a challenging yet enjoyable game.
5: Hiking
If you enjoy hiking, you are sure to enjoy several trails in this magnificent area. One of the most popular treks is the Four Pass Loop, which provides incredible views of pristine wilderness and snow-capped peaks. Those looking for a shorter hike will enjoy the Smuggler Mountain Trail, a popular path to tackle during a midday lunch break. Another short but challenging trek is the out-and-back Hunter Creek Trail. Adrenaline-seekers can challenge themselves by hiking the Ute Trail, which is steep and demanding but rewards hikers with a 360-degree view of Aspen from the summit.
6: Horseback riding
Whether you are a professional rider or just starting out, Aspen's backcountry provides numerous trails with breathtaking views and an unforgettable ride. Capitol Creek Trail and Maroon Bells are just a few trails for horseback riding in Aspen. Consider a guided tour for a unique experience you will remember. Additionally, one of the highlights of Aspen's equine offerings is the rodeo, where you can see riders showcasing their skills and the performances of seasoned professionals.
7: Hunting
The Aspen Outfitting Company offers guided hunts for elk during hunting season. Whether you're an experienced hunter or a beginner looking to try something new, the outfitting team will tailor your hunting experience to fit your needs and skill level. With over 50 years of experience, the Aspen Outfitting Company provides an enjoyable excursion.
8: Paragliding
Paragliding in Aspen is an exhilarating adventure that every thrill-seeker should experience. Take a break from touring Aspen homes to go on a true adventure. Paragliding tours from Aspen Mountain and Snowmass Mountain allow you to take in stunning aerial views of the surrounding mountain ranges and verdant valleys. Strap in with a guide for a tandem flight and let the wind carry you on an unforgettable journey. The flight experiences last approximately two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the rush of soaring high above the ground.
9: Tennis
Avid tennis players can have plenty of fun on the courts at the Aspen Meadows. Players can practice their serves and returns for hours with a fully functional ball machine. It's not just adults who can enjoy playing tennis here, either — the club offers camps for youth. For those feeling competitive, there are tournaments for adult players as well.
10: Watersports
With Aspen's crystal-clear waters, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities, with calm waters perfect for a leisurely paddle surrounded by alpine scenery. Whitewater rafting provides an adrenaline-packed experience for the more adventurous, offering heart-pounding rapids and breathtaking views. If you want a full-body workout, consider standup paddleboarding (SUP).
11: Yoga on Aspen Mountain
Are you looking for a restorative yoga practice in the tranquil setting of Aspen? Join a Hatha yoga class on Aspen Mountain Wedding Deck from mid-June through early September. Whether you've been practicing for years or are a complete beginner, this class offers a challenge suitable for all levels of strength and flexibility. Surrounded by the alpine scenery, let the gentle breeze and warm sunshine help you center and ground yourself.
Cold weather
12: Ice skating
If you enjoy ice skating, take the chance to enjoy the outdoor rink at the Silver Circle Ice Rink from December through February. You can rent skates on-site and join in on the wintertime fun.
13: Skiing and snowboarding
With four ski resorts, residents and visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding to their heart's content. Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands each offer unique terrain and challenges, from groomed runs to black diamond courses. If you’re ready for a challenge and a fun time, this is your chance!
14: Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster in Snowmass Village offers a fast-paced outdoor experience just outside Aspen. Each sled accommodates one or two riders, offering a smooth, controlled descent through turns and drops that showcase the beauty of the Rockies. As part of the resort’s broader adventure area, it complements nearby outdoor activities like tubing, zip-lining, and trail exploration.
15: Snowshoeing
If you want to explore Aspen's trails in the winter, a snowshoeing tour is a great way to spot winter animals, learn how to track, and learn about the mountain's history.
16: Snowmobiling
Popular mid-November through March annually, snowmobiling tours are a fun way to spend an afternoon. Get your adrenaline pumping as you zip through the gorgeous Aspen terrain and view spectacular wildlife. An experienced guide will take you along marked trails for snowmobiling, ensuring an exciting experience.
Aspen is the perfect destination for any season, with exciting outdoor activities for all ages. During winter, residents and visitors enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or ice skating, while warmer seasons offer hot air balloon rides, watersports, hiking, and more. Whatever your preference, Aspen has something to offer everyone looking for an unforgettable experience. If Aspen is calling you home, reach out to the experienced Aspen real estate agents at Saslove & Warwick to discuss your dream home wishlist and get started on your search.
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash
Aspen is the perfect destination for any season, with exciting outdoor activities for all ages. During winter, residents and visitors enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or ice skating, while warmer seasons offer hot air balloon rides, watersports, hiking, and more. Whatever your preference, Aspen has something to offer everyone looking for an unforgettable experience. If Aspen is calling you home, reach out to the experienced Aspen real estate agents at Saslove & Warwick to discuss your dream home wishlist and get started on your search.
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash
