Aspen Activities

Aspen is a town where there’s always someone out doing something fun. Locals and visitors alike are attracted to Aspen for its endless outdoor activities.  From fishing, hiking and rock climbing to skiing and snowmobiling, there are a vast number of activities in the surrounding mountains year round.  Most of these activities will be available right out your back door with your piece of Aspen real estate.

Summer activities in Aspen include fly fishing, rock climbing, hiking, biking, and rafting.  Come winter trade your bike in for skis and hit the slopes at one of the four world renown Aspen ski areas.  Other popular winter sports include cross country skiing, hiking (or “up hilling” as it is commonly called in the winter), ice skating, snowmobiling and more. 

 Fly Fishing
The rivers around Aspen are some of the best in the country for fly fishing. The Roaring Fork, which starts high on Independence Pass, offers everything from slow, clear sections to the massive winding river closer to Glenwood. Find out more about Aspen fly fishing.

Rock Climbing
Drive up the road to Independence Pass in the summer and you’ll likely see climbers scaling the many cliffs scattered on either side of the valley. The Pass offers a great variety of climbing, from traditional multi-pitch routes to cutting edge sport climbs.  More information.

Hiking
When the snow recedes up into the highest reaches of the mountains for the summer, an endless array of hiking trails opens up. From short day trips like Crater Lake, to multi-day adventures like the 4 Pass Loop, there’s something for everyone. The wildflowers in July are often incredible, with more colors than you could imagine. More Aspen hiking information.

Biking
Whether you prefer mountain or road biking, you won’t run out of options in Aspen. Road warriors can test their skills on the windy mountain roads of Independence Pass, Castle Creek, and Maroon Creek. For the mountain bikers, Sunnyside, the Rim Trail and Government Trails offer some of the best riding in the Valley. Find out more about Aspen biking.

Horseback Riding
Access the Aspen backcountry by horseback. You'll find incredible views from alpine meadows with summer wildflowers to high mountain peaks still capped by snow.  Enjoy an afternoon trailride or plan an overnight, multi-day trip trip.  More Aspen horseback riding.

Rafting
The Aspen area is home to several great rivers for rafting including the Roaring Fork, Colorado and Arkansas.  Roaring Fork River is home to several excellent rapids, as it winds its way down from the top of Independence Pass to join the Colorado River. Slaughter House is one of the most popular, with non stop action only 5 minutes from town. Find out more about Aspen rafting.

Hot Air Balloon Rides
Experience the thrill of a hot air balloon ride over the Roaring Fork Valley.  With flights launching in the morning, the adventure of hot air ballooning will be a highlight of your time in Aspen.  Be sure to bring a jacket as temperatures can be chilly.  More information on hot air ballon rides.  

Snowshoeing
Experience the peace and serenity of snowshoeing in the Aspen area. Take a trip into the backcountry for some beautiful mountain scenery and amazing fresh mountain air. Guides can be hired for a snowshoeing adventure or travel one of the many well marked routes with family and friends. More snowshoeing.

When your days activities are complete go soak in the Glenwood Hot Springs. Help those with with cognitive or physical challenges experience the activities that Aspen has to offer through Challenge Aspen.