There’s a saying in Aspen: “you come for the Winter, but stay for the Summer”. And when you experience it, you’ll know why. There’s an abundance of hiking and biking trails, spectacular scenery and nature for days. The fresh mountain air and consistently packed event schedule taking place in Aspen and Snowmass suits the entire family.
Aspen and Snowmass are separate locations (separated by about seven miles). It’s pretty much given that if someone chooses to stay in either Aspen or Snowmass, that they will visit the other one as well. And who wouldn’t want to?!
With so much to do, you are sure to want to stay for the entire summer. Check out the best things to do below and start planning your trip now!
Aspen Recreation Center
Locally known as the ARC, this state of the art facility offers a myriad of activities. From a super fun swimming pool complete with water slide and lazy river, to a gym, climbing wall, exercise classes, golf, tennis and daily children’s activities. Sign up for a mom-and-me ice skating class. You’ll definitely make some memories with this unique activity!
ACES (Aspen Center for Environmental Studies)
Nestled in the middle of Aspen at Hallam Lake, is a nature preserve and environmental learning center. Take a tour around Hallam Lake, meet the raptors, the indoor animals and maybe even participate in a pond dipping class (Yes, that’s really a thing!). Borrow some binoculars and search for local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for freely roaming mule deer, elk, foxes, coyotes, bear, beavers, golden eagles, hawks, songbirds, and more! Children can also borrow Adventure Backpacks, with all of the tools they need to complete the Junior Naturalist Activity Guide, where they’ll get to exercise their skills as a scientist, observer, explorer and earn an ACES Junior Naturalist Badge!
Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells are touted as the most photographed scene in North America, but the pictures just don’t do it justice. You absolutely must see them for yourself! A reflective lake and two snow-striped mountaintops, named Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, are located about 10 miles west of Aspen. The best way to get there is by taking the public bus service (tickets must be purchased prior to travel). Once there, take a look around the visitor center and walk around the lake.
You can also hike from Maroon Bells to Crater Lake—a 3.8 mile round trip hike to a spectacular glacial lake. The trail is classified as moderate and family friendly, but be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. If you are unsure if your child’s little legs can make it all the way, consider renting a baby/kid carrier or backpack to make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Maroon Bells Information Line: (970) 945-3319.
Rent Bikes and Bike to Woody Creek Tavern
Rent bikes from one of the local bike shops, and ride the Rio Grande Trail to the Woody Creek Tavern—a local favorite. Once there, grab a delicious meal (we recommend the fish tacos!) and rest up for the ride back. Don’t forget to take in the mountainous views, look for wildlife in the open spaces, and watch for white water rafters navigating sections of the river, such as the famous Slaughterhouse Falls.
Snowmass Village—The Collective Snowmass
The epicenter of Snowmass’ newest neighborhood, Snowmass Base Village, The Collective offers residents a place to gather, eat, drink, skate, play, learn and more. The Game Lounge is a fun, public play space where families can enjoy a variety of games including foosball, tube table tennis, a ball pit, interactive wall mural, intriguing games, board games, full-size pin art, air hockey, lounge area to chill, and more. Pair this with hot new restaurants and plenty of patio seating for fun family time!
Snowmass Visitor Center at Town Park
Once you get to Snowmass, the best place to get your bearings is the visitor center. Did you know that one of Colorado’s most significant treasure troves of Ice Age fossils was discovered in Snowmass? Today, families can learn about this remarkable find at the Snowmass Visitor Center at Town Park.
Dinner Adventures of a Lifetime in Aspen Snowmass
Book a family adventure with Blazing Adventures and experience the wild side of Aspen Snowmass. There are many different experiences to choose from, including white water rafting, jeeping, kayaking, horse riding, stand up paddleboarding, or customize your own trip. One of our personal favorites is their Sunset Dinner—voted the most “unique dining experience in Aspen Snowmass”. Experience a one-of-a-kind dinner—the way nature intended. Dine beneath the stars with family and friends on a Sunset Dinner. You’ll start your evening climbing Snowmass Mountain in a four wheel drive jeep as you make your way to the rustic Burlingame Cabin for dinner. The BBQ, s’mores, musician, and breathtaking sunset are sure to make for a memorable evening.
Snowmass Rodeo
Snowmass Rodeo is one of the longest continuously running rodeos in Colorado. This authentic western event takes place every Wednesday evening in the summers through mid-August. Visitors can check out exciting competitions like saddle bronc and bull riding, team roping, and barrel racing. Children can participate in the Calf Scramble and Mutton Busting. Arrive early and enjoy a BBQ dinner and cocktails from the full bar or stroll around vendor booths and watch the live entertainment such as roping demonstrations. After the rodeo, a campfire sing-a-long and marshmallow roast complete a perfect Colorado evening. It’s Western Wednesday in Snowmass, rain or shine!
Gates open at 5:00 p.m. for family activities, bbq, cash bar & shopping. The Rodeo takes place from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. FREE Parking is available and admission is FREE for children 10 and under.
The Lost Forest on Snowmass
The Lost Forest isn’t hard to find, it’s just hard to see. This forest is tucked in among the trees and rocks at Elk Camp on Snowmass with lots of exciting, family friendly activities. Zip along an elevated track through the forest above Elk Camp. The new Breathtaker Alpine Coaster will add a little adrenaline to your summer vacation. As part of the multi-feature Lost Forest park, the 7- to 9-minute thrill ride gives guests a unique way to experience the mountain. There are also zip lines, biking trails, ropes challenges and a climbing wall.
There are also ponds to fish in, creeks to hike along, places to enjoy nature, two disc golf courses and passionate guides to help you find your next adventure. Here, surrounded by wild beauty, you’ll find your next wild family adventure!
Canopy Run Zip Lines
Also in the Lost Forest, Canopy Run Zip Lines operates eight zip lines and three sky bridges that connect tree-top platforms. This is the only of its kind in Colorado where you’ll experience a 3-hour tour above the ground, reaching heights of 90 feet. The adventure is guided and participants tour the entire course, rather than pieces of it.
Please note the following height, weight & age restrictions:
- Age: 16+ years old or accompanied by an adult
- Height: Between 48-78 inches / 122-198cm
- Weight: Between 70–250 lbs / 32-113 kg
Pro tip: The course is progressive so it starts out easy and then ends with a 1,300-foot double-zipline so you can enjoy the forest canopy with a friend.
If you are traveling with little ones you are welcome to take young children with you. However, they can’t participate in everything. If you are looking for a reputable babysitter while the adults and older kids experience the zipline, we recommend booking with Aspen Nannies.
Downtown Aspen: Aspen Art Museum, Retail Therapy, Sweet Treats from Paradise Bakery and Playing in the Fountains
Tour the Aspen Art Museum and participate in the family programs and summer workshops that they put on for kids of all ages. Indulge in a little (or a lot) of retail therapy in the eclectic mix of shops that Aspen has to offer. Bring the kid’s swimsuits or a change of clothes, as they’ll want to run and play in the water fountain—a firm favorite for many! Then relax while you enjoy a sweet treat and beverage from Paradise Bakery (another local favorite)
Winter in Aspen Snowmass
Along with all the fair weather activities, Aspen Snowmass is an obvious choice for skiing. There are four mountains that make up Aspen Snowmass and they are all operated by Aspen Ski Company. When you purchase a lift ticket, it’s good for all four mountains. There is free transportation via RFTA Bus Service between all 4 mountains too! The mountains include:
1. Aspen Mountain
This breathtaking mountain is known for world renowned skiing and is located in the heart of Aspen. Stop for lunch at the Sundeck (at the top of the mountain) and then Apres-Ski at Chair 9 Lounge (Recognized as one of the best apres-ski lounges in the country) in the Little Nell Hotel.
2. Buttermilk Mountain
Home to the Winter X Games, this is a great beginner mountain located about 5 miles from downtown Aspen. Children’s ski lessons take place here at the Hideout. There is also child care available on-site!
3. Snowmass Mountain
The most family friendly mountain, with terrain and activities to suit the whole family. The brand new base village features many family-friendly restaurants and activities including ice skating and S’mores in the winter, and free concerts and activities in the summer. Ski lessons for the kiddos and child care are available at the Treehouse. This is a HUGE mountain with something for everyone. Not so much into skiing? You can also hike uphill in both winter and summer!
4. Aspen Highlands
Aspen Highlands is known for its extreme terrain and the infamous Highlands Bowl. We definitely suggest grabbing lunch at Cloud Nine Restaurant for the ultimate party experience (reservations required).
About the Author:
Clara Trujillo is a BabyQuip Quality Provider in Aspen Snowmass and the Roaring Fork Valley.
As mother of four young children, Clara has a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer about traveling with children, and, as a local for the last 17 years, Clara knows the best places to go and most fun, family friendly activities.
Clara is best known for her amazing toy packages—toy boxes stuffed to the brim with the most fun toys—and with four product testers at home, she’s sure to know how to keep your children amused.
Happy Travels!
This blog is brought you by a BabyQuip Quality Provider. QPs earn extra income by renting and delivering baby gear to families who don’t want to haul bulky gear while traveling…and sometimes also help write blogs about fun, family-friendly things to do in their cities! If you’re interested in learning more about starting a side gig with BabyQuip we would love to hear from you! Follow this link: www.babyquip.com/signup
Snowmass Rodeo sounds like a night full of fun. Maybe next summer we’ll plan a trip.