Hiking
This is one of the most well known trails near Aspen, and for good reason. At 3 miles roundtrip and with an elevation gain of 800 feet, this trail is a good hike for beginners and experts alike. Take in breathtaking views of Aspen from the Smuggler Mountain Overlook.
Sunnyside Trail is a moderate hike with rewarding views of Aspen, the surrounding ski areas, and the many peaks of the Roaring Fork Valley. At 4.8 miles roundtrip and 1,700 feet of elevation gain, this hike requires some planning and commitment, but is extremely rewarding.
Photo: Smuggler Trail
Biking
If you’re ready to break out your road bike and take down some miles, then the Rio Grande Trail is just the trail to be on. Stretching 42 miles of paved path from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, this trail is not only a great ride, but a great way to see every part of the valley.
The Snowmass Bike Park was designed with every level of biker in mind. With over 3,000 vertical feet of designated downhill trails, this park is a mountain bikers’ dream. The Roaring Fork Valley was recently named an IMBA Gold-Level Ride Center, one of only seven in the world.
Photo: Snowmass Bike Park
Fishing
With Gold Medal Waters designation, easy access, stunning views and a wide variety of fish, the Frying Pan River is one of the premier fishing locations in the country. Located east of Aspen in the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness, it is easy to get to and its convenient location makes it easy to check out other nearby rivers and lakes.
Less than 2 miles from the town of Aspen, Maroon Creek is a great option for a short excursion or an all day affair. With a good variety of fish and stunning scenery, this spot is hard to beat.
Don’t forget to get your Colorado Fishing License before casting any lines in Colorado water.
Photo: Fishing on the Frying Pan River
Rafting/Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP)
For an adventurous, rapid-filled day or a lazy float down the river, The Roaring Fork River has it all. Hop on your SUP or strap into your raft, this river will not disappoint. A great way to take in the Roaring Fork Valley while adding some adventure to your day.
Just 14 miles from Basalt, this expansive reservoir offers plenty of water sport activities. From speed boats and jet skis, to SUPs and canoes, this reservoir is a great day activity for everyone.
Photo: Kayaking on the Roaring Fork River
Camping
Located just a short drive from Aspen, this campsite offers great scenery, sounds of the nearby Maroon Creek and great privacy. Hop on the nearby trails for a day of hiking or horseback riding or fish the Maroon Creek.
In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, White River National Forest offers endless serenity and adventure. With eight wilderness areas and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation, the lush forest is filled with scenic, winding rivers and beautiful wildlife.
Happy Friday from snowy Aspen Snowmass! It is dumping snow in the mountains, with no signs of stopping any time soon. Some locals are thrilled by the fresh powder in April, and others might be bummed by the weather forecast. There is plenty of good news coming from our tight knit community this week. Read on for inspiring stories about how our community is supporting one another during these strange and uncertain times.
The demand for food banks and food drives has skyrocketed since the economic collapse from the coronavirus epidemic. The Western Slope Food Bank for the Rockies and Aspen Skiing Company’s events team has partnered up to put on a weekly food drive. Together, these organizations are serving up to 250 families weekly. Each Thursday from 12pm to 2pm, families can collect food at Basalt Middle School directly from their cars. For more information, please visit www.foodbankrockies.org
Three locals have come together in a grassroots effort to raise over $3.5 million in relief funds for residents from Aspen to Parachute affected by coronavirus. 22 other locals have donated this 2020 Rescue Fund, which is a charitable fund with the Aspen Community Fund. In the coming weeks with the help of ACF, the rescue fund’s “advisory committee” trio will select nonprofits that are capable of addressing priority needs during the crisis, like economic assistance, food access, health care and other essential humanitarian support.
Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass Village is normally buzzing this time of year with resident artists and staff gearing up for their busy summer season. With the ranch being closed to the public, the on-site “Fab Lab” is creating personal protective equipment with 3D printers, in order to help with the shortage medical professionals are experiencing on the frontlines. If you’d like to help with this effort, please visit www.nocofaceshieldproject.org
We are so thankful to be a part of a community that supports one another during times like these. It is truly amazing to see the outpouring support and love throughout our valley.
