(and a Lot More Than Just Skiing)
Tucked high in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a destination that seems almost too perfect to be real. With its charming town center, snow-capped peaks, and reputation for attracting celebrities and billionaires, Aspen might give off the vibe of an exclusive alpine getaway. But here’s the secret: Aspen is for everyone—not just the ultra-rich, not just skiers, and not just for winter.
In fact, Aspen is one of the rare places that can surprise you in every season. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, there’s always more to uncover in this high-altitude paradise.
The Magic of Aspen’s Location and Altitude
Aspen sits at an elevation of about 8,000 feet above sea level, giving it a unique climate and landscape. The high altitude means thinner air and cooler temperatures, even in the summer. The scenery is dramatic, with towering mountain ranges, dense aspen forests (yes, the town is named after the trees), and bright blue skies that seem to go on forever.
Because of its location, Aspen enjoys four distinct seasons, each offering its own version of magic. In winter, the town becomes a snow globe, with world-class skiing and snowboarding. In summer, it transforms into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and outdoor adventurers.
A Historic Town with a Silver Lining
Before Aspen was the ski capital of North America, it was a booming silver mining town. Founded in the late 1800s during the Colorado Silver Boom, the town quickly grew into one of the wealthiest in the state. By 1893, Aspen was producing more silver than nearly any other town in the country.
The silver boom eventually fizzled out, but Aspen never really lost its shine. In the 1940s, it began reinventing itself as a ski destination, and by the 1950s, it had become the go-to winter escape for America’s elite. Today, echoes of that rich past still live in the town’s Victorian buildings and historical landmarks.
The Skiing (Of Course), But Also So Much More
When people think of Aspen, the first thing that comes to mind is skiing—and for good reason. Aspen is home to four major ski areas—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands—collectively known as Aspen Snowmass.
Each mountain has its own personality. Aspen Mountain (also called Ajax) is steep and advanced, with no beginner terrain. Snowmass is the largest and most family-friendly. Buttermilk is known for hosting the X Games and offering gentle slopes perfect for beginners. Aspen Highlands is more rugged and beloved by locals for its epic bowls and hike-to terrain.
But here’s what many visitors don’t realize: Aspen is just as incredible in the off-season. In the summer and fall, the ski runs give way to hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and wildflower meadows. If you’ve only seen Aspen under a blanket of snow, you haven’t really seen Aspen.
Maroon Bells: A Bucket List View
Just a short drive (or bike ride) from downtown Aspen lies one of the most photographed natural landscapes in the United States: the Maroon Bells. These twin peaks, reflected in the still waters of Maroon Lake, are pure Colorado eye-candy. They’re so iconic, they’ve appeared on postcards, calendars, and countless Instagram posts.
Visiting Maroon Bells in the early morning, especially during fall when the aspen trees turn gold, is a must. The area offers a range of hiking trails, from easy strolls to strenuous climbs, and the crisp alpine air makes every step feel invigorating.
Fun fact: Despite their beauty, the Maroon Bells are nicknamed the “Deadly Bells” by climbers due to their loose, crumbly rock. Luckily, you can enjoy the view without ever needing to scale them.
Year-Round Adventure in Every Form
Aspen isn’t just for skiers or hikers—it’s for anyone who loves the outdoors. In warmer months, you can go whitewater rafting down the Roaring Fork River, ride horses through wildflower-covered meadows, or take a hot air balloon ride over the valleys below.
The Rio Grande Trail, which stretches from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, offers a scenic path for bikers and walkers. Golfers can tee off at the Aspen Golf Club, while fly-fishing enthusiasts can cast a line in the area’s pristine rivers.
And if you’re into the arts, you’ll love Aspen’s cultural side. The Aspen Music Festival and School draws talent from around the globe, offering live classical music in stunning outdoor venues. Meanwhile, the Aspen Art Museum showcases contemporary works in a striking Shigeru Ban-designed building.
Eating Your Way Through Aspen
For such a small town, Aspen has a shockingly good food scene. From high-end dining to casual bites, there’s something here for every craving and every budget.
Want fine dining? Reserve a table at Element 47, known for its locally sourced ingredients and top-tier wine list. Craving something cozy? Head to Meat & Cheese, a hybrid market and restaurant with incredible charcuterie boards and farm-fresh dishes. And for those late-night cravings, New York Pizza has been serving giant slices to hungry skiers and partygoers since forever.
One culinary hidden gem? Pine Creek Cookhouse, located deep in the Castle Creek Valley. In the winter, you can arrive by horse-drawn sleigh; in the summer, you can hike or bike in. Either way, the journey is half the fun—and the views are unbeatable.
Après-Ski, Aspen Style
No visit to Aspen is complete without enjoying a little après-ski, even if you didn’t ski that day. The town is filled with cozy lounges, buzzing bars, and rooftop spots where you can unwind with a drink and swap stories from the slopes.
Ajax Tavern, right at the base of Aspen Mountain, is a classic go-to with an unbeatable view and legendary truffle fries. For something a bit more upscale, check out the Living Room at the Hotel Jerome, a historic hotel that oozes old-school glamour. And if you’re up for a bit of a quirky adventure, drive out to Woody Creek Tavern, a funky local favorite and former hangout of writer Hunter S. Thompson.
Aspen’s Quirky, Creative Soul
Despite its polished image, Aspen has always had a rebellious, artsy edge. During the 1960s and ‘70s, it became a haven for free thinkers, writers, and musicians. That creative spirit is still alive today, from the spoken word performances at Aspen Words to the immersive exhibits at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in nearby Snowmass.
And yes, you read that right—Hunter S. Thompson, the king of gonzo journalism, actually ran for sheriff here in the 1970s. He lost (barely), but his legacy remains. You can even visit the bar where he used to write, drink, and rant.
A Town that Cares: Sustainability in Action
Aspen isn’t just beautiful—it’s also forward-thinking. It was the first city in America to run all of its city buildings on renewable energy, and it’s committed to maintaining its natural environment for generations to come.
Locals take sustainability seriously, and visitors are encouraged to do the same. You’ll find compost bins, electric buses, and eco-conscious businesses throughout town. The John Denver Sanctuary, located right next to the Roaring Fork River, is a beautiful example of Aspen’s green efforts, combining nature with poetry and peaceful reflection.
Final Thoughts: Why Aspen Belongs on Your Bucket List
Aspen isn’t just a ski resort. It’s a living, breathing mountain town with heart, history, and personality. Whether you’re chasing powder, hiking wild trails, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or soaking up the creative vibe, Aspen has a way of surprising you at every turn.
So yes, pack your snowboard or hiking boots. Bring your appetite. And definitely don’t forget your camera. But more than anything, come to Aspen with an open mind—because this little mountain town might just end up being your new favorite place.
