When the lifts stop spinning and the powder melts into lush green valleys, Aspen unveils a different kind of magic. The town’s alpine charm doesn’t fade with winter—it transforms. If you’re wondering what to do in Aspen this summer, the answer isn’t just one thing. It’s everything.
Take to the Trails: Hiking, Biking, and Beyond
Summer in Aspen starts with the great outdoors. The kind of outdoors that makes you pause and just take it all in.
Begin with the Maroon Bells. These iconic peaks aren’t just for postcards—they’re the centerpiece of Aspen’s summer hiking scene. The Crater Lake Trail is a favorite for good reason: it’s a moderate 3.6-mile round-trip hike that rewards you with mirror-like alpine lakes, fields of wildflowers, and that unmistakable silence you only get in high-altitude wilderness.
Prefer wheels over hiking boots? Aspen’s network of mountain biking trails spans all skill levels, from gentle forest rides to thrilling technical descents. Sky Mountain Park, just outside town, has flowy trails and sweeping views that keep locals coming back. For a smoother ride, rent a cruiser and hit the Rio Grande Trail. It follows the Roaring Fork River through shaded groves and wide-open meadows—all the way to Glenwood Springs if you’re feeling ambitious.
If you want big views without the uphill grind, hop on the Silver Queen Gondola. In minutes, you’ll be 11,000 feet above sea level, with access to scenic trails, disc golf, and mountaintop yoga. It’s one of the few places where you can stretch into downward dog while staring out at the Elk Mountains.
Make a Splash: Aspen’s Best Water Adventures
Not all of Aspen’s outdoor thrills happen on land. When summer temperatures climb, the rivers, lakes, and streams around town offer plenty of ways to cool down while soaking up the scenery.
The Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers are prime territory for whitewater rafting. Whether you’re navigating beginner-friendly Class II rapids or taking on more adventurous stretches, local outfitters offer half- and full-day guided trips that balance adrenaline with awe-inspiring views. It's one of the best ways to see Aspen’s rugged beauty from a new angle.
Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in Gold Medal waters just minutes from town. The Fryingpan River is a fly-fishing favorite, known for its crystal-clear currents and abundant trout. Book a guide for insider tips on secret spots, or head out solo and enjoy the quiet rhythm of the water.
If a more laid-back day is calling, paddleboarding and kayaking on the North Star Nature Preserve delivers pure tranquility. This calm section of the Roaring Fork winds through protected wetlands just east of downtown Aspen. With the Elk Mountains as your backdrop and herons overhead, it’s the ultimate summer escape.
Immerse Yourself in Aspen’s Cultural Scene
Aspen might be known for its peaks, but its culture runs just as deep as its powder. The town has long been a magnet for creatives, musicians, and thinkers, and summer is when it all comes to life.
The Aspen Music Festival and School is a cornerstone of the season. With nearly 200 public performances between June and August, the town echoes with symphonies, operas, and chamber concerts. Whether you're sitting under the tent at the Benedict Music Center or catching a pop-up concert downtown, it’s hard not to be swept up in the sound of summer.
The Aspen Art Museum offers a sleek, contemporary contrast to the rustic surroundings. Designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban, the building is worth a visit on its own. Inside, rotating exhibits feature contemporary artists from around the world. Admission is free, and the rooftop café gives you one more reason to linger.
And don’t overlook the Anderson Ranch Arts Center in nearby Snowmass Village. It’s a haven for artists, offering workshops in everything from ceramics to photography. Even if you’re not signing up for a class, stop by and explore the galleries or attend a lecture—it's a window into Aspen’s creative spirit.
Eat, Sip, and Savor: Aspen’s Summer Flavors
Aspen, Colorado is a wonderful place to enjoy a summer bite!
New on the radar is Wayan Aspen, a French-Indonesian restaurant that blends bold flavors with fine-dining finesse. Over on Main Street, Sant Ambroeus offers fine Italian dining with a luxurious Milanese ambiance set within a storied downtown structure dating to 1889. For something more casual, grab a table on the patio at White House Tavern or order tacos from Mi Chola and people-watch as cyclists and hikers stream through town.
Aspen’s restaurants strike a balance between sophisticated and unpretentious, just like the town itself.
Family-Friendly Fun for All Ages
Aspen isn’t just for adults—there’s plenty here for families, too. The Snowmass Free Concert Series (Thursday nights, June 12–August 21) is a local favorite, where kids dance on the lawn and parents unwind with local brews and mountain views.
Smuggler Mountain Trail is a great intro hike for kids with energy to burn—it leads to a scenic overlook with unbeatable views of downtown Aspen. For a calmer pace, the John Denver Sanctuary features winding pathways, engraved song lyrics, and riverside picnic spots.
If your crew includes young adventurers, the Lost Forest at Snowmass is packed with ropes courses, an alpine coaster, and zip lines. It’s an all-in-one summer playground tucked into the pines.
Ready to Explore Aspen Living?
There’s no one way to “do” Aspen in the summer. You might spend a morning hiking to a glacial lake, an afternoon browsing galleries, and an evening under the stars at an open-air concert. That’s the beauty of this city—it invites you to build your perfect version of summer.
If you’re considering making Aspen part of your long-term lifestyle, reach out to
Steven Shane. As a trusted local expert, Steven combines deep market knowledge with a tailored approach to help clients discover not just a property, but a lifestyle. Whether you're drawn by the summer activities or the year-round mountain charm, Steven Shane is your go-to guide to finding your home in the Rockies.
