Aspen holidays

How to reach Aspen

Flight time: Flights to Aspen from London Heathrow typically involve a connection, often in Denver. The total journey time, including a layover, ranges from 11 to 15 hours. Flights to Denver are available from London Heathrow Airport.

Transfer time: From Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, it takes about 10 minutes to reach the town centre by car or shuttle.

Price:

• RFTA Shuttle: The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers free shuttle services from the airport to various locations in Aspen.

• Taxi: A taxi will cost around $25–$30.

• Rideshare: Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft charge $15–$20.

Weather and best time to visit Aspen

The timing of your Aspen holidays depends largely on your to-do list; however, the town offers fun activities year-round.

December to February: Winter is the peak season in Aspen, renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. Average temperatures range from -12 to 4°C, with substantial snowfall creating perfect conditions for winter sports. Expect 5–7 hours of sunshine daily.

March to May: Spring brings milder weather and the end of the ski season. Average temperatures range from -3 to 12°C, with around 40–70mm of rainfall and 6–8 hours of sunshine.

June to August: Summer in Aspen is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking. Average temperatures range from 8 to 24°C, with 30–60mm of rainfall and up to 10 hours of sunshine daily.

September to November: Autumn is perfect for witnessing the stunning fall foliage. Average temperatures range from -1 to 16°C, with around 40–80mm of rainfall and 7–9 hours of sunshine.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language spoken in Aspen.

• Local habits and customs: Aspen is known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere. Respect for the natural environment is highly valued, and recycling is strongly encouraged.

• Currency: The United States uses the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available throughout Aspen.

• Getting around: Aspen has an excellent free shuttle bus service provided by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) that covers the town and nearby ski areas. For those wanting to explore further, car rentals are available, though parking can be limited in peak seasons.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 120V. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Aspen is in the Mountain Time Zone, 7 hours behind GMT.

Best things to do in Aspen

Aspen is a gem in the Rocky Mountains, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Maroon Bells: One of the most photographed places in Colorado, the Maroon Bells are two majestic peaks that are reflected (to dramatic effect) in Maroon Lake. The area has several hiking trails and breathtaking viewpoints.

• Aspen Mountain: Take the Silver Queen Gondola to the summit of Aspen Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

The best districts

• Downtown Aspen: This vibrant area is filled with chic boutiques, gourmet restaurants and lively bars. The pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore.

• Snowmass Village: A short drive from Aspen, Snowmass offers a variety of family-friendly activities, dining options and shops.

Parks and gardens

• John Denver Sanctuary: This serene park is dedicated to the singer-songwriter John Denver and features well-maintained gardens, sculptures and walking paths.

• Wagner Park: Situated in downtown Aspen, this park is perfect for a picnic or a casual stroll. It also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year.

Historic monuments

• Wheeler Opera House: This historic theatre in the heart of Aspen hosts a variety of performances, from concerts to film screenings. Built in 1889, it’s a beautiful example of Victorian architecture.

• Ashcroft Ghost Town: A short drive from Aspen, this well-preserved ghost town offers a glimpse into the area's mining history. Explore the old buildings and learn about life during the silver boom.

Day trips in the area

• Independence Pass: Drive along this scenic mountain pass for breathtaking views and photo opportunities. The route takes you over the Continental Divide and offers numerous hiking trails and picnic spots.

• Glenwood Springs: About 1 hour’s drive from Aspen, Glenwood Springs is known for its hot springs and adventure park. Visitors can enjoy a soak in the thermal waters or explore the caves and amusement rides at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

Activities for families in Aspen

Aspen is a fantastic destination for family holidays, offering a wide range of activities.

• Interactive museums: The Aspen Art Museum offers family-friendly exhibits and activities, including workshops and interactive displays. The museum’s rooftop café also has good mountain views.

• Aquarium and zoos: While Aspen doesn’t have a traditional zoo, families can visit the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) to learn about local wildlife and enjoy nature walks.

• Theme parks and adventure: Snowmass offers the Lost Forest adventure park, which includes an alpine coaster, ropes course and a climbing wall.

Free things to do in Aspen

You don’t have to spend a fortune during your Aspen holidays to see everything the town offers. There are a good number of free activities to help visitors stick to a travel budget.

• Free events: Aspen hosts various free events throughout the year, such as concerts at the Benedict Music Tent and outdoor film screenings in Wagner Park.

• Free museums: The Aspen Art Museum offers free admission and features contemporary art exhibitions.

• Free guided tours: The Aspen Historical Society offers free walking tours that cover the town’s rich history and architecture. These tours operate on a tips-only basis.

• Explore Aspen by public transport: The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) provides free shuttle services within Aspen and to nearby Snowmass Village. It’s an efficient and cost-effective way to get around and explore the area.

• Parks and nature: Aspen’s parks, such as the John Denver Sanctuary and Wagner Park, are free to visit. The many hiking and biking trails around the town are also free of charge and provide stunning views of the natural landscape.

Wellness in Aspen

• Spas and thermal baths: For an unforgettable experience, visit the Remède Spa at the St. Regis Aspen Resort. This luxurious spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials and body scrubs. There are also oxygen lounges and steam caves.

• Yoga and meditation centres: O2 Aspen is a wellness studio that offers yoga, Pilates and meditation sessions.

• Nature walks and outdoor activities: The Rio Grande Trail offers a scenic route for walking, running or cycling, allowing you to connect with nature while staying active.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Mountain biking: Aspen Snowmass boasts a vast network of mountain biking trails that range from beginner-friendly paths to advanced downhill courses. The Snowmass Bike Park offers lift-served biking with trails that wind through the mountain scenery.

• Zipline: The Lost Forest in Snowmass features a zipline course that takes you through the treetops and across scenic valleys.

• Rafting and kayaking: The Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers offer white-water rafting and kayaking experiences. Guided trips are available for all skill levels, from gentle float excursions to adrenaline-pumping rapid riding.

Local dishes in Aspen

One of the great delights of holidays to Aspen is indulging in all the culinary delicacies that make it one of Colorado’s top-rated foodie destinations. Whether you’re craving hearty mountain fare or gourmet cuisine, Aspen will have something to suit your fancy.

Some typical dishes

• Rocky Mountain oysters: These are actually deep-fried bull calf testicles, a regional speciality that adventurous eaters might want to try.

• Elk and bison burgers: These game meats are commonly found on the menu in Aspen, offering a unique and flavourful alternative to traditional beef burgers.

Meat dishes

• Colorado lamb: Known for its rich flavour, Colorado lamb is a popular dish in Aspen’s fine dining restaurants, often served with seasonal vegetables and rich sauces.

• Beef tenderloin: A staple in many upscale restaurants, this dish incorporates local herbs and spices.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Trout: Freshly caught from nearby rivers, trout is a common offering. It’s typically grilled or pan-fried and served.

• Bratwurst: Popular at outdoor festivals and markets, bratwurst sausages are grilled to perfection and served in a bun with mustard and sauerkraut.

Sweets and desserts

• Peach cobbler: This classic dessert features sweet and juicy peaches baked with a buttery crust. It’s often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Huckleberry pie: Made from the tart and sweet huckleberries found in the region, this pie is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Local drinks

• Colorado craft beer: Aspen is home to several microbreweries that produce a wide range of craft beers. Aspen Brewing Company is a popular spot to sample local creations.