As summer draws to an end, vibrant aspen trees are set to transform Colorado’s Rocky Mountains with a sweeping blanket of golden, orange and yellow leaves marking the beginning of a spectacular autumn season. Here are six ways that you can immerse yourself in these magnificent autumnal aspens in Aspen and Snowmass Village.
E-Bike to the Maroon Bells
Pick up an e-bike from Aspen Bikes in town and embark on an adventure up to the iconic Maroon Bells where the aspen trees line the winding road from Aspen Highlands all the way up to the majestic Crater Lake.
Take a walk through the wilderness
Take a stroll with family, friends or by yourself to experience the golden forests up close and personal. For the chance to learn more about this incredible species of trees head out on a free guided walk with Aspen Centre for Environmental Studies (ACES) departing daily from various locations across both Aspen and Snowmass Village.
Soar above the trees on a paragliding adventure
If you’re willing to go above and beyond, Aspen Paragliding offers a once-in-a-lifetime birds-eye-view experience where thrill meets tranquillity as you soar high above the leaf-lined streets of the charming town of Aspen with a professional pilot.
Take in the views from the Elk Camp Gondola
Departing from the centre of Snowmass Base Village, the Elk Camp Gondola takes you on a scenic ride to Elk Camp where you can take in breathtaking vistas and watch the colours change on the aspens as you reach higher altitudes. Venture further up the mountain on the Elk Camp chair when you reach the gondola’s summit.
Wind through the trees at Snowmass Bike Park
Featuring 25 miles of pristinely maintained downhill trails lined by golden aspen trees, Snowmass Bike Park has a trail for every ability from beginner-friendly singletrack to adrenaline-inducing downhill.
Reach new heights at Snowmass Balloon Festival
The Snowmass Balloon Festival is an annual event located in the heart of the Elk Mountain Range in Snowmass Village. Over three days (22-24 September) as the leaves start to turn, more than 30 brightly coloured balloons are launched at sunrise, towering above the shimmering aspen trees.
