Aspen Hike N' Bike Weekend

Our Local Expert Says:

Thrilling views of Colorado’s highest peaks are waiting at the top of Independence Pass. This fully paved mountain road is open to vehicles from early spring to mid-October.

Description:

Topping out at 12,095 ft, Independence Pass is one of the most spectacular mountain roads in America. Breathtaking scenery awaits on the myriad of switchbacks that wind from the Elk Range Mountains in Aspen over the enormous Sawatch Range, where Colorado's tallest peaks stand. There is a parking area at the summit for those who want to snap photographs of the amazing landscape or just take in the incredible panorama. Independence Pass is closed from mid-October to early spring due to heavy snowfall. When it is open, the well-maintained and fully paved road is accessible for all vehicles.

Description:

Located just four miles south from the famed Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in the United States, this campground is considered the prime place to camp in Aspen. Its backdrop of towering peaks and thick stands of aspen is staggering. And better yet, the campsite offers immediate access to hiking, horseback riding and fishing. The campground only offers a few sites so it is best to make advance reservations.

Description:

In a swanky area, this local favorite snubs its nose at the chic and proudly embraces its dive bar feel. Formerly known as "Cooper Street Pier", the dining room remains rich with a "what-you-see-is-what-you-get" character. Six overhead TV screens make the place the closest thing Aspen has to a legitimate sports bar. Pool, darts and shuffleboard provide good drinking diversions.Burgers are the king of the menu. There are sandwiches and a great offering of barbecued ribs.

Our Local Expert Says:

A true locals happy hour hideout!

Description:

This Aspen mainstay, located inside the Hotel Jerome, has been pouring cold drafts since the 1890s. It is a favorite of locals who affectionately refer to it as the J-Bar. A big wooden bar with a mirrored backdrop dominates the room and exudes an old-time feel that begs one to hunker down with a beer and a newspaper. An adjoining room with a large screen TV is a prime perch for sports watching and somehow does not detract from the bar's vintage feel. The menu is classic bar food fare and features burgers, sandwiches, salads and appetizers. The bar is full service and offers a great beer selection of imports, domestics and microbrews.

Our Local Expert Says:

Best milkshakes and malts this side of the Mississippi.

Description:

This novelty restaurant, which looks like something from the Eisenhower administration, is named after owner "Boogie" Weinglass, who was portrayed by Mickey Rourke in the film Diner. Old photographs and the obligatory Elvis Presley mementos line the walls. It is popular with tourists and is very kid friendly. If you are curious to know what a big burger looks like, order the Boogie Burger. Instead of a beef patty, it is a beef edifice, which weighs one whopping pound. For something lighter, opt for the Ahi sandwich or the Chicken Parmesan.

Our Local Expert Says:

Hunter Thompson's stomping ground. A truly colorful eatery!

Description:

The dining room at Woody Creek Tavern is always packed and the walls are papered with snapshots of regular patrons, including famed gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson. The menu features burgers, steaks and Mexican fare. Save room for real Key Lime pie. Expect a crowd as this restaurant is very popular with both tourists and locals, and groups of 8 people or more are encouraged to call ahead for a table; see the website or call for more information.

Our Local Expert Says:

Stream crossings in June and July can pose difficult crossings. Wildflowers in July/August are superb.

Description:

This is a moderate climb with a couple steep sections. This trail is good for hiking and backpacking. Fishing is fair in Independence Lake, Lost Man Lake, and Lost Man Reservoir. The trail is not a complete loop; it is a good idea to set up a shuttle. The narrative is from Lost Man Campground, follow in reverse if starting from the upper parking lot. The trail begins to the left of the bulletin board and quickly crosses a wooden bridge. At the 1/2 mile mark, the trail forks. Take the right (left goes to Midway Pass) and continue to Lost Man Reservoir and keep left around the reservoir. At approximately the 3-1/2 mile mark there is a junction, turn right (left goes to South Fork Pass). The trail gradually ascends to Lost Man Lake. From the lake the trail ascends steeply to the top of a pass and then descends steeply to Independence Lake. The trail descends gradually to Highway 82, about 4 miles to the trailhead. Directions: 1. Lost Man Campground: Drive 14 miles east of Aspen on Highway 82 to the parking lot directly across from Lost Man Campground. The trailhead begins on the left (north) side of the highway. 2. Last Switchback: Drive 18-1/2 miles east of Aspen on Highway 82 to the... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

Hiking or biking, it's delightful!

Description:

This is a wonderfully appropriate name for a trail, for like the government itself, there are some things you like and other things that will cause you to foam in the brain. It covers 13 miles (21 kilometers) and, depending on your ability, takes two to five hours to complete. Single tracks, fire roads, stream crossings, mud, steep descents and thigh-burning climbs all combine to make for a great ride. It spills out at Iselin Park on Maroon Creek Road. From Snowmass, take Woods Road to Pine Lane. Follow it to where it dead-ends, pass through the gate and begin pedaling.

Our Local Expert Says:

Nature's stairmaster! Don't attack if you want a leisurely hike or bike. It's uphill! Locals do it for exercise on a near-daily basis, but don't let 'em kid you!

Description:

If you are seeking a mountain bike trail that does not require driving out of town, pedal up to this old mining road. The opening two miles (3.2 kilometers) of loose-graveled switchbacks dominate the ride until you reach the Iowa mine. From there you can either bounce back down, or continue on for the Hunter Creek Loop, which covers just under eight miles (13 kilometers) and returns you to Aspen via Red Mountain Road. Follow residential Smugglers Mountain Road until you reach the well-marked trailhead.

Description:

A morning paper and patience are essential at this breakfast nook. It is always busy and some waiting is usually involved while trying to snare a table. During ski season it is especially busy, so plan accordingly if you are in a hurry to carve fresh tracks. The breakfast menu is jammed with options ranging from crepes and waffles, to lighter fare such as fresh fruit and bowls of granola. The lunch menu features great spinach salads, hearty soups and sandwiches.