Get Inspired | Travel Tips | Montecito Village Travel

Summer in Aspen

Written by Kenna Reyner | July 12, 2023

Take in views of the Rockies covered in rainbows of wildflowers and surrounded by bluebird skies.

While travelers flock to the Rockies all winter, summer, and autumn are filled with blue skies and warm days. Hillsides once covered in glistening snow bloom with local wildflowers soaking in Aspen's 300 days of annual sunshine. 

Ideal weather greets visitors ready to explore the rocky mountains. From world-class hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing to paragliding, the mountains are a mecca of outdoor adventure. At the heart of the town, the Roaring Fork River is a paradise for summer sports welcoming paddleboarders, kayakers, and flyfishers alike.

This epic summertime destination pairs engaging mountain sports with Aspen's impressive cuisine, world-class shopping, and cultural offerings for the summer adventure of a lifetime. 

Soak in the Natural Beauty

Aspen in the summer, is a picturesque and vibrant destination, known for its stunning natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor activities. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, Aspen offers a refreshing escape from the heat with its cooler temperatures and breathtaking landscapes.

The town of Aspen itself is charming and lively, with its streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and upscale restaurants. The warm and sunny weather creates a cheerful atmosphere as visitors and locals explore the vibrant downtown area. The architecture in Aspen is reminiscent of its rich history, with Victorian-style buildings and beautifully restored landmarks.

Things to Do On the Mountain 

Mountain Biking

Aspen offers a variety of cycling options for all skill levels with its beautiful mountain trails and backcountry roads. From downhill tours to overnight hut trips, as well as half and full-day trips, you'll experience various terrains.

Rock Climbing

Get ready to experience rock climbing! You'll start by learning movement on rock, including bouldering techniques and exercises. The time-proven philosophy of "learn by doing" will help build your self-confidence as you engage in extensive top-rope belay climbing on the magnificent granite crags of Independence Pass.

Off-road Jeep Tours

Explore the backcountry surrounding Aspen with a guided 4X4 excursion. This journey will take you through the same path taken by the pioneers who used supply wagons pulled by mules and oxen to travel to Aspen.

Hiking

Embark on hiking excursions that last two to four hours and take you along winding rivers, through meadows filled with wildflowers, and groves of Aspen trees. Experienced guides will lead you and provide insights into the area's rich historical and geological backgrounds and the diverse flora and fauna.

Horseback Riding

Aspen, Colorado offers horseback riding through breathtaking Aspen groves and the Snowmass Wilderness area. Enjoy the beautiful views surrounding you as you embark on a relaxing ride through the mountains. From beginning to experienced riders, there are several horseback riding excursions available to suit your needs.

Things To Do On the Water

Whitewater Rafting

The Roaring Fork Valley has an exceptional location that provides an array of whitewater trips with different levels of remoteness, difficulty, and scenery. During summer, there are plenty of whitewater options available near the St. Regis Aspen Resort and the W Aspen.

Fishing & Game

Aspen Outfitting Company offers a wide range of guided activities to both residents and travelers. These activities include fly fishing, clay target shooting, pistol shooting, and upland bird hunting. Their professionally certified instructors are knowledgeable and friendly about local areas and activities, and they welcome people of all skill levels.

Where to Stay

W Aspen

W Aspen is a unique Alpine Escape destination located in North America. This hotel is situated at the bottom of the world's most fabled mountains, providing access to popular slopes and trails. You can enjoy stunning 360° mountain views and impressive architectural and interior designs during your stay. This iconic town offers a bold perspective, and you can have a thrilling adventure all year round. Slope-side access enables you to go for morning runs, and the hotel bike shop adjacent to the street can outfit you for any riding experience.

Looking for a more residential experience? Consider The Sky Residences at W Aspen, which offer an exclusive shared ownership opportunity with access to a private 4th-floor roof deck and all of W Aspen's signature amenities. The boutique hotel is located just minutes away from a variety of outdoor activities, adventure experiences, museums, art galleries, music venues, and high-fashion boutiques. Come immerse yourself in all that W Aspen has to offer.

St. Regis Aspen

Come experience the extraordinary at The St. Regis Aspen Resort, a luxurious five-star hotel situated at the base of Aspen Mountain in Colorado. Guests enjoy world-class skiing and easy access to the historic town of Aspen, home to luxury boutiques and charming restaurants. The Spa at St. Regis Aspen Resort is a celebrated wellness destination renowned as one of the world's premier hotel spas. The heated outdoor pool and hot tubs offer breathtaking views of Aspen Mountain. St. Regis Aspen is a proud host hotel of the FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen, and exceptional culinary experiences define this resort. Velvet Buck offers modern mountain cuisine, while Mountain Social is the perfect spot for après-ski handcrafted cocktails. Luxury rooms, suites, and residences feature sumptuous Frette linens, spacious marble bathrooms, and custom furnishings by Ralph Lauren. Throughout your stay, the St. Regis Butler Service is available 24/7 to assist you.

 

Travel Tip: Stop by the Aspen Farmer's Market

Visit the local farmers market to support small businesses and discover local produce. Stroll through the Aspen Saturday Market, now in its 23rd year, to support 35 Colorado vendors offering agricultural items and fresh baked goods. Access to the market is at the intersections of Galena & Hyman or Galena & Hopkins. The seasonal market is open from June to October, every Saturday morning.