Free Things to Do in Aspen

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:

A festival for pre-professional musicians, the Aspen Music Festival & School presents performances that are far worthy of being called world-class. The nine-week festival is presided over by music director David Zinman. More than 200 events are included- orchestral concerts, chamber music, opera, contemporary music, master classes, lectures, special invitational performances by world-renowned artists, and children's programs. Concerts take place in the 2,050-seat Benedict Music Tent as well as in Harris Hall and other locations around town. Seasonal passes and youth passes are available. Group discounts are available as well. Phone the numbers or visit the website for more information and book early.

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:

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:

If time and stamina are lacking, yet you still crave to wander into Aspen's famed backcountry, give this 4.5-mile hike some consideration. Rated moderate, the trail wanders through stands of shimmering aspens and towering lodgepole pines providing rare viewing access to mule deer and elk. Bring your pole and fish for cutthroat trout in Maroon Creek, or the many beaver ponds. The trail culminates by spilling out on Maroon Lake and its spectacular views of the famed Maroon Bells. Bus service at the lake spares you the time and energy of having to hike back. This trail offers a less crowded alternative for viewing the Maroon Valley. There are good views of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. This is a good day hike and is also a popular trail for horseback riding. The best views occur as you travel up the valley. For a more relaxing hike, start at Maroon Lake and hike down valley. During the summer, plan on taking the shuttle bus from Aspen which includes a very informative guided tour.

From the East Maroon Portal (8,709 ft), cross the bridge and bare right up the valley. At the trail junction with the East Maroon Trail, bare right and continue on to Maroon Lake (9,580 ft). An easy 3 1/2...

Our Local Expert Says:

Access behind the music tent or at Aspen Meadows, too. A local's delight at any time of year!

Description:

If you are in search of a leisurely walk that does not require hiking boots, wander down this scenic paved path. It follows the twisting Roaring Fork River and is remarkably full of dense forest. Besides the occasional backyards of several homes, the path offers little indication of Aspen's presence. Benches provide perfect perches to absorb the river/forest serenity. The 16-mile (26-kilometer) path leads all the way to Woody Creek. Most tourists, however, favor it for an easy summer stroll when staying in town. The trailhead is right behind the Aspen Post Office.

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.