The summer in Aspen Colorado is fantastic. The sky is a brilliant electric blue, and the temperature stays between the upper 70s and low 80s. Aspen has 300 sunny days per year. The meadows are dotted with Indian paintbrushes and bluebells, and the air does seem to carry a certain fresh sweetness from all the flowers in bloom. Unburdened by thick snow, the peaks of the Rocky Mountains radiate their full majestic splendor. Trails for mountain biking and hiking are abundant, and the Roaring Fork River is a paradise for paddleboarders, kayakers, and flyfishers. With its remarkable gastronomic and cultural attractions (the Food and Wine Classic, held in June, attracts thousands of visitors) and its world-class shopping, Aspen is a summer destination well worth the journey.
Activities Available
Hit The Trails For Hiking
Maroon Bells Scenic Trail is likely the most popular hiking walk in Aspen, and with good reason: the trail offers a spectacular vista of a mountain lake bordered by wildflowers and the twin peaks of Maroon and North Maroon. Those seeking a more challenging climb should add the Crater Lake Trail, which leads to that lake's crystalline shoreline after just a scramble over a glacier granite deposit. Another well-trodden route? The Little Nell Trail begins in the town beneath the Aspen Mountain gondola. Hike up and ride down, then reward yourself with an Aperol spritz in the square.
The Summer Lodge
The crew behind Montauk's perpetually buzzing Surf Lodge—known for intimate waterfront performances where rosé and tequila flow as the sun sets—has now opened a neighboring Summer Lodge at St. Regis in the mountains. There will be performances by Zander Black, LP Giobbi, Feathered Son, and Serge Devant over the Fourth of July weekend.
Ride Your Bike To Woody Creek Tavern
Consider this a recommendation for both an exercise and a restaurant: cycle the Rio Grande Trail to Woody Creek Tavern, a rustic establishment decorated with Hunter S. Thompson memorabilia that serves a delicious burger margarita. It's not for the faint of heart because it's roughly seven kilometers each way if you're coming from the city, but the breathtaking vistas of rivers, meadows, and mountains make it well worth the effort.
Using A Paddleboard To Cross Still Water
As its name suggests, the Stillwater part of the Roaring Fork River has a mild current that is essentially a lazy river, making it ideal for a relaxing paddleboard ride. Rent a canoe or kayak from one of the many sporting goods stores in town, slap on some sunscreen, and float down the crystal-clear river, where mountain vistas are around every bend.
Fly Fishing
Request that Wild Willow Outfitters arrange a guided fly-fishing trip on the Raging Fork River. They will supply equipment, shaped transportation, and even instructions on how to catch a trout. For the genuinely daring, they will forgo the van in favor of an e-bike, allowing you to access different fishing places.
Shopping
Aspen is dotted with designer stores, and while they're fantastic, you should also visit some of the elegant shops that are exclusive to the area. Visit Kemo Sabe, Miron Crosby, and Nick Fouquet for high-end Western wear and handcrafted hats, whereas the Cheese and Bacon farm shop is ideal for gourmet treats. Pitkin County Dry Goods is a family-owned clothing store, whereas Little Bird is a vintage as well as consignment store with a unique selection.
Hotels, Resorts, And Rentals
Hotel Jerome
The interiors of the 1899-established Hotel Jerome represent its historic status as a harsh mountain retreat: the living room features plaid draperies, a candle-lit chandelier, and comfortable leather armchairs. The guest suites have cowhide furniture and western-inspired artwork. The hotel's particular drink program transforms the garden into a chic social center during summer.
The Little Nell
The Little Nell is likely the most well-known hotel in Aspen due to its lively après-ski culture. Regardless of whether the slopes are closed, the five-star hotel is the place to be: its own Holly Hunt-designed rooms are well-appointed, and there's no better spot to sip an Aperol Spritz than along the sun-drenched patio at Ajax Restaurant on Gondola Plaza. Jimmy Buffett's former property, the riverfront Mad Dog Ranch in Old Snowmass, will host al fresco meals this summer.
St. Regis Aspen
In the summer, the most incredible pool in town is located at the spacious and magnificent St. Regis resort, situated at the base of Aspen Mountain. Invest in a hotel with a balcony so you can sip iced coffee while admiring the mountain vistas, and schedule a spa treatment at their world-famous spa. A bonus? The sweet and fluffy Bernese Mountains dog named Kitty roams the hotel hallways.
Restaurants
Betula
The deck at Betula, from which one may view the town or Aspen Mountain, is incentive enough to book a table at this authentic hotspot. But still the mountain-meets-French-island food is undeniably a reason to stay: start with a ceviche and afterwards indulge in a bison beef steak.
Meat And Cheese
This famous Aspen restaurant does not accept reservations, but make sure you have a short wait to dine on the terrace. As suggested by the restaurant's name, the seasonal cuisine focuses on locally and sustainably sourced meat and cheese. However, as you may have guessed, you can always go right with a heart and cheese board.
Spring Café
Spring Café offers lunch options that are both healthy and enjoyable. Bright and airy, this restaurant specializes in vegan comfort cuisine and organic drinks. Our favorites are our tempeh Reuben, housemade lemonade, and any salad on the menu.
Conclusion
Aspen, Colorado, is a popular summer vacation destination due to its abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, as well as fishing. Several cultural events, such as the Aspen Music Festival and the Food & Wine Classic, are also held there. Beautiful alpine vistas and thriving nightlife are both available to visitors.
