Fall in Love with Aspen, Colorado
This post is about the 5 best things to do while visiting Aspen, Colorado in Fall.
Aspen, Colorado is the best place to be during this time of year: falling leaves on hiking trails, cooler temperatures, ghost towns, and the quintessential Colorado tree: aspen groves! The best way to experience Colorful Colorado’s miles of trails, mountain towns, and incredible views is when the scenery is lit up in bright yellow, orange, and red colors.
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Best Time to Visit Aspen, Colorado in the Fall
Seeing fall colors in Colorado can be unpredictable. It is a short window in the fall months when the rocky mountain range lights up with golden aspens and colorful leaves. Usually, the best time to see fall colors in Colorado is late September to early October. Higher elevations always change color first compared to lower elevations so keep that in mind. While the ideal time to visit is hard to predict, remember that Colorado is beautiful to visit any time of year!
Where to Stay in Aspen
The Inn at Aspen
The Inn at Aspen is one of the more affordable options in the area. There is a bar and restaurant here as well as ski-in / ski-out access with ski storage. Just a few steps from Buttermilk Mountain, spend your time inside relaxing in the spa tub or pool in the summer.
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Fasching Haus Condominiums by Frias
For a luxury option check out Fasching Haus Condos. These are full size units with separate bedrooms and bathrooms, living room, and kitchen. Spend the morning sipping your coffee on the balcony enjoying the mountain views. This establishment is also near to ski in/out access and the heart of Aspen. There is also a pool, hot tub and free wifi.
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5 Best Things to Do Visiting Aspen in Fall
Hike Maroon Bells
One of the most popular views in Colorado (and even the United States) the Maroon Lake area is an incredible sight to see. It is extremely popular, being some of the most photographed mountains in the US. This is one of those hikes I think everyone should do in their lifetime. There are a few different hikes for every skill level so everyone can enjoy this wonderful view. Reservations are required from May to October; for more information and booking your reservation check out this website here.
The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is probably our favorite for the fall season as its an easy two mile round trip hike giving you views of the mountains as well as golden aspens framing the peaks below it.
Visit a Ghost Town
Fall is the perfect time to visit the Ashcroft Ghost Town. What better way to experience the spooky season than exploring an old abandoned mining town? The former boom town now consists of decrepit old buildings like a motel, saloon, and post office. In the 1880s, Ashcroft was bigger than Aspen is now, bustling with people and activity. Located on Castle Creek Valley, seeing these old buildings contrasted against the beautiful aspens in the mountains is a wonderful sight to see.
Ride the Aspen Mountain Gondola
Check out the Aspen Snowmass Gondola for a different view of the rocky mountains at autumn. While I think its fun just to see the wonderful views on the way to the top of the mountains, with gorgeous golden Aspen trees as far as the eye can see, there is plenty to do once you actually reach the top. There’s delicious dining options, hiking, bike trails, unique events, ziplining, disc golf, and more. For tickets and sightseeing passes go to this website here. For those adventurous enough, you can also hike to the top of either mountain and get a free gondola ride back into town.
Try Tasty Craft Beers
There’s nothing like ending a full day of hiking and exploring with a cold brew. There’s a couple different breweries to choose from in Aspen and we recommend checking out our blog post of that linked below if you want a variety to pick from. One of our favorites is Westy’s Tap & Tavern, formerly known as the Aspen Brewing Company. They’ve since rebranded with a trendy, welcoming, modern style and a patio for sipping your beer with a mountain view. They also sell delicious pizza, salads, and appetizers.
Visit the Aspen Saturday Market
The Aspen Farmer’s Market is a real treat to Aspen locals and visitors from all over. Vendors from all over the town gather and sell delicious homegrown fruit and vegetables, baked goods, artisanal delights, craft items, flowers, and jewelry. In the fall, expect autumn goods like fresh apples, yummy cider, gourds, and pumpkins. The market is open from 9 am to 2 pm in downtown Aspen. For the most up to date information, check out the website here.
Related Links
- 4 Best Fall Hikes to do in Breckenridge, Colorado
- See Fall Colors in Rocky Mountain National Park
- 10 Best Fall Foliage Hikes in Colorado: Hiking Guide
