Best Things to Do in Aspen in Summer: A Local Guide to the Perfect Mountain Getaway

Summer in Aspen Is About More Than Hiking

Ask someone to picture Aspen, and chances are they'll imagine snow-covered mountains, ski lifts, and cozy winter evenings.

But spend a few days here in summer and you'll understand why so many people consider this the best time of year to visit.

The snow disappears from the valley, wildflowers fill the mountainsides, restaurants open their patios, and the days become long enough to hike in the morning, bike in the afternoon, and still have time for dinner downtown.

Summer in Aspen isn't about doing one big activity.

It's about having the freedom to do a little bit of everything.

Hike Into the Mountains

Hiking is one of the quintessential Aspen summer experiences.

The area offers trails for virtually every ability, from relatively easy walks to challenging alpine adventures. You can spend a few hours exploring the trails around Aspen or commit to a full day in the mountains.

One of the best parts of hiking here is that you don't necessarily have to go far to find spectacular scenery.

The mountains begin almost at the edge of town.

For visitors who want a more ambitious adventure, the surrounding wilderness offers opportunities to explore high-alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and dramatic mountain passes.

Local tip: Start early. Not only will you beat the crowds, but you'll enjoy cooler temperatures and softer morning light.

Visit Maroon Bells

No summer trip to Aspen is complete without seeing Maroon Bells.

The view from Maroon Lake is spectacular, but give yourself more than five minutes for a photo. Walk along the lake, explore the surrounding trails, and spend some time simply taking in the scenery.

Because access can be regulated during busy periods, check current transportation and reservation requirements before you go.

Ride the Gondola

You don't have to hike to experience the mountains.

The Silver Queen Gondola provides a scenic ride from downtown Aspen to the summit of Aspen Mountain. At the top, enjoy panoramic views, walk the trails, have lunch, or simply relax above town.

It's particularly appealing for families or groups with different activity levels.

Some people can hike while others take the gondola—and everyone can meet at the top for lunch.

Explore Aspen by Bike

Summer is the perfect time to explore the valley on two wheels.

Rent an e-bike for an easier ride or a traditional bike for a workout, and explore the network of paved paths connecting Aspen and surrounding communities.

The Rio Grande Trail is a popular choice for a scenic, relatively relaxed ride.

For more experienced riders, the surrounding mountains offer significantly more challenging terrain.

Spend an Afternoon Downtown

One of the best things about Aspen is that adventure doesn't have to mean being outside all day.

After a morning on the mountain, head downtown.

Walk the pedestrian mall, browse boutiques and galleries, stop for coffee, or settle onto a patio for lunch.

Aspen's combination of outdoor adventure, art, shopping, and dining is what makes it different from many traditional mountain destinations.

Get on the Water

The Roaring Fork Valley offers plenty of opportunities to cool off during the summer.

Try fly fishing, book a rafting trip, or simply find a scenic spot along the river.

For visitors who spend most of their time in the mountains, an afternoon on the water provides a completely different perspective on the valley.

Make Time for a Great Meal

Summer dining is one of Aspen's pleasures.

Long lunches, outdoor patios, après drinks, and dinners that stretch into the evening are all part of the experience.

Don't schedule every meal around an activity. Leave some room to linger.

After all, you're on vacation.

Find Your Aspen Summer Home

After a full day outside, having a comfortable place to return to makes all the difference.

Whether you're traveling as a couple, bringing the whole family, or planning a trip with friends, the right vacation rental can become part of the experience.

Explore Aspen Snowmass vacation rentals and find your home base for summer in the mountains.

Plan Your Aspen Summer

The best summer days in Aspen aren't necessarily the ones packed with the most activities.

They're the days when you hike a little farther than planned, stay at lunch a little longer, discover a trail you didn't expect to find, and watch the mountains change color as the sun begins to set.

That's summer in Aspen.

And once you've experienced it, you'll understand why people come back year after year.