Curator’s statement
Named after the aspen trees that blanket the region, Aspen began as a mining community founded in 1879 and has since evolved into one of the world’s most celebrated mountain destinations. Known for its premier ski resorts, luxury shopping, and cosmopolitan appeal, Aspen also offers a wealth of year-round activities, from hiking and horseback riding to mountaintop yoga and scenic drives. Its acclaimed culinary scene and breathtaking views of the Rockies create a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural sophistication.
The Fora Difference
Book with Richa to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Richa to book your trip.
Day 1: Maroon Bells
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Maroon Bells, a pair of bell-shaped peaks that rise over 14,000 feet above the Maroon Creek Valley. In addition to the breathtaking views, the area offers several trails, including the easy Maroon Lake Trail and the 3.8-mile Crater Lake Trail, which is slightly more challenging. The Crater Lake Trail is mostly uphill, and Aspen’s elevation can make the hike feel more strenuous, especially if you hike it on your first day. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for the rocky terrain, though many visitors manage with sneakers.
After exploring the Maroon Bells, make your way to Pine Creek Cookhouse in the Ashcroft Valley for a scenic lunch. This spot is a bit of a drive, but the views along the way are well worth it. Patio seating is in high demand during summer months, so advanced reservations are strongly encouraged.
In the afternoon, take time to relax before heading into downtown Aspen. Wander the charming streets, enjoy the mountain scenery, and get a feel for the town’s distinctive character.
For dinner, book a table at Betula, a rooftop restaurant offering Pan-American cuisine with French and Peruvian influences. The ambiance is lively yet refined, with upbeat music and chic, cozy decor. Standout dishes include the ceviche bonito, the lamb entrée, and the indulgent royal chocolate cake, all complemented by excellent cocktails. Reservations are highly recommended.
Day 2: Independence Pass
Begin your morning with an energizing outdoor yoga session or a bike ride in the Snowmass Village area. This is a great way to start the day with fresh mountain air and gentle exercise, while also placing you in the perfect spot to explore the village afterward. For a casual breakfast or lunch, Fuel Café is a local favorite, known for its hearty breakfast burritos, flavorful paninis, and refreshing smoothies.
In the afternoon, set out along Route 82 to Independence Pass, a stunning high mountain route that crosses the Continental Divide at 12,095 feet. The drive is both breathtaking and dramatic, with winding, narrow stretches that require careful navigation. Along the way, make time to stop at scenic pullouts and notable points of interest. Highlights include Lost Man’s Trail for hiking or horseback riding, the Grottos for a short hike and picnic, Devil’s Punchbowl for cliff jumping, and Independence Ghost Town—the first mining site in the Roaring Fork Valley and now a fascinating archaeological landmark.
Bring snacks or pack a picnic to enjoy as a scenic dinner, allowing you to savor the beauty of the pass at your own pace.
Day 3: Aspen Mountain
Start the day with breakfast pastries and coffee from Paradise Bakery, a downtown Aspen favorite known for its fresh-baked treats.
Next, head to Aspen Mountain and take the Silver Queen Gondola to the summit. Tickets are $29 for a single ride or $39 for a multi-day pass valid for three days within a seven day period. At the top, join a mountaintop yoga class hosted by Aspen Shakti, offered on summer weekdays from 10:30-11:30 am for $10. Practicing yoga surrounded by sweeping views and crisp alpine air is a truly unforgettable experience and a highlight of any Aspen trip.
After yoga, spend time exploring the trails at the summit. The Nature Trail and Richmond Ridge Trail both offer panoramic views of the Rockies and are relatively easy, though the elevation can make them feel a bit more challenging. Additional activities include disc golf, mountain biking, and dirt biking for those seeking variety and adventure.
In the evening, freshen up and enjoy dinner at Bosq, a stylish spot with an outdoor patio perfect for people-watching. Standout dishes include the smoked salmon crackers and sea bass, and advanced reservations are recommended. Pair your meal with one of their craft cocktails for the perfect close to the day.
Day 4: Ute Trail
By now, you should be more acclimated to Aspen’s elevation, making it the perfect time to tackle the Ute Trail to the Ute Rock overlook. This short but strenuous hike climbs nearly 1,100 feet in just 0.9 miles, making it both a great workout and a rewarding experience.
The trailhead is located just east of downtown, and the consistently steep switchbacks lead to sweeping views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains. If you’re up for more, continue an additional two miles to the top of Aspen Mountain. From there, you can take the Silver Queen Gondola back down to town for free (last ride at 4:30 pm), saving your knees from the steep descent. Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, and pace yourself as this trail is rated difficult.
Once back downtown, refuel with lunch and take some time to browse Aspen’s many shops and boutiques. If instead, you’re eager for more hiking, other great options include Smuggler Mountain Trail, Rim Trail South, and Sunnyside Trail. If you’d prefer a scenic drive, head west of Aspen to explore Basalt’s historic downtown or relax at Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs, where you can also visit the resident farm animals.
In the evening, freshen up and enjoy dinner at Sant Ambreous. Other great options include Angelos, White House Tavern, and Cache Cache. Advanced reservations are highly recommended.
Need to know
You can fly directly into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport or drive approximately 3.5 hours from Denver or Colorado Springs. Aspen is also accessible from Salt Lake City in about 6.5 hours by car, or 3.5-4 hours from Moab, making it an easy addition to a trip that includes Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
When choosing where to stay, Downtown Aspen, Aspen Highlands, and Snowmass Village all make excellent bases. Downtown Aspen is the most convenient and places you closest to the action, though it also tends to be the most expensive. Snowmass Village, located about 15–20 minutes from downtown, often offers better hotel values while still providing easy access to the area’s attractions.
If you plan to stay primarily in downtown Aspen and don’t expect to explore far beyond the town, you may be able to forgo a rental car. The free RFTA shuttle operates within Aspen and between Aspen and Snowmass Village, while RFTA regional buses make it possible to reach many nearby destinations without driving.
Travel Advisor
Richa Sharan
Get in touch with Richa
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Richa within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Aspen page.