Aspen Summer Travel Guide

Let’s just start off with this: ASPEN IS A DREAM! The entire town is like you’re living in a postcard, TBH. This is focused on the summer in Aspen, as I’m sure the winter is a whole other ballgame. We were in Aspen for a wedding, but highly recommend no matter the occasion!

Aspen Summer Travel Guide

• The Stay:
  • We stayed at The Gant, which was perfect for the 5 of us (we went with Nick’s family.) There was a full kitchen in our condo, a gym, pool, hot tub, etc.! The location was also UNREAL so close to town and walkable. I would recommend staying in ‘Aspen Core’ if you decide to go!

• The Activities: 
  • Maroon Bells Hike: Be sure that you have a reservation in advance, as there are a limited amount of spots on the buses that go up to the top each day. It’s absolutely stunning! Check out my reel here for some video clips as well!

• • The Grottos Trail: This hike is gorgeous as well and includes ice caves, waterfall, cascades, etc. It’s unreal and almost feels like another planet! Go early because it gets crowded!

• • White Water Rafting: We did this with Elk Mountain Expeditions and they were great! We did the level 1-2 but would recommend the level 3 if you’re wanting a bit more of a workout, otherwise the level 1-2 was still super scenic and fun!
    

• • Buttermilk Mountain: The gondola in Aspen Core was down during our trip, so we took the gondola at Buttermilk (which is the home of the X Games) up to the top of the mountain and grabbed lunch at the restaurant. It closes at 2:30pm and is only open on the weekends in the summer, FYI! You can also choose to hike up to the top of the mountain, but it is STEEP!

• • On The List for Next Time: We would love to do the paddle boarding as well as horseback riding next time we’re in Aspen – we didn’t have time but it looked AMAZE!

• The Food:
  • Ajax Tavern: We got lunch here on our first day, and it’s a beautiful view at the bottom of Snowmass. They had something for everyone – I loved the kale salad w/ salmon and the cauliflower gratin. We shared the truffle fries and they were TO DIE!
  • Spring Cafe: Amazing for breakfast, lunch and yummy sweets. It’s all organic, vegetarian and absolutely delish! The dirty chai, oatmeal PB cookie and the tempeh reuben were INSANE! It’s a casual spot.
  • Jus Aspen: This spot has amazing smoothies, juices and little snacks like vegan protein balls. All delish and healthy too!
  • The White House Tavern: This is truly a renovated house turned into a tavern and it was such a vibe! I loved the kale salad and the deviled eggs, as well as their Aperol Spritz with fresh grapefruit juice!
  • Hotel Jerome: This is one of the most historic establishments in Aspen – they will tell you all about it at the front desk. Great spot to grab a drink at!

• • On The List for Next Time: Cloud Nine, 7908 Aspen, Betula, Clark’s Oyster Bar and W Rooftop for a drink!

• Shopping:
  • Farmer’s Market: There was the cutest market in Aspen Core on Saturday with tons of fresh produce, local artisans and more! Great shopping spot.
  • Susie’s Consignment Shop: Of all the resale shops, this one was my fave! I found an amazing pair of Chanel sandals for such a great deal and would highly recommend checking it out!
  • Sugar Sweet Clothing: This shop was RIGHT up my alley. Such fun bright hippie-esque finds!

Long story short, I cannot WAIT to go back! Dying to go in the winter now too! If you want more travel guides, be sure to check out my Napa Valley Travel Guide and my California Coast Road Trip Recs! Xo