Explore Aspen
An Afternoon At Your Leisure
Tuesday afternoon from 12:00 to 5:00 PM is yours to enjoy. You’re invited to join one of our curated, hosted activities, or spend the time at your own pace.
Hosted Activities
Fly Fishing the Roaring Fork
The Roaring Fork River runs just outside Aspen and holds some of the best wild trout fishing in North America. Designated Gold Medal water, it is known for healthy populations of wild rainbow and brown trout. July is one of the best times to be on it, when summer hatches bring fish to the surface.
Wild Willow Outfitters will guide your group to the river, about 15 minutes from the hotel. Guides meet you wherever you are, and no prior experience is necessary. All rods, reels, flies, waders, and wading boots are provided.
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Transportation:
Car service to and from the river is included.
Timing:
Exact timing will be confirmed in the coming weeks. Plan to be out for approximately four hours.
Cost:
$284.50 per person ($262.50 guide fee + $22 fishing license), at guest expense. A 20% gratuity for your guides is customary and encouraged.
What to wear:
Comfortable, layerable clothing. Waders and wading boots are provided, so athletic or casual attire works well underneath. A hat and sunglasses are strongly recommended, along with sunscreen, since you will be on open water.
Group size:
This experience is open to a group of three to fifteen. Spots are limited, and advance booking is required to secure your place.
Hunter Creek Trail
One of Aspen's most beloved local loops, Hunter Creek winds through aspen groves and open meadows just minutes from downtown.
The trail runs approximately 5 miles and takes around two hours at a comfortable pace. This is an intermediate hike with some elevation gain. Good walking fitness is helpful, though no technical experience is required.
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Transportation:
Car service to and from the trailhead is included.
Timing:
The group departs at 1:00 pm and returns by 3:00 pm. Plan to have lunch on your own in town beforehand.
Cost: Complimentary. There is no charge for this excursion.
What to bring:
Hiking shoes or trail runners (strongly preferred over sneakers or sandals), a hat, and a water bottle or hydration pack. Aspen sits at 8,000 feet, so hydration matters more than it might at home. We recommend drinking water well before the hike and bringing more than you think you will need.
Group size:
This experience is open to those who wish to join. Advance booking is not required, but helps with transportation coordination.
On the Trail
Smuggler Trail: a local favorite, a moderate climb with views over downtown Aspen.
Ute Trail: short and steep, strong cardio, rewarding views at the top.
Aspen Mountain (Ajax): about 3 miles straight up and difficult. Ride the gondola down.
Independence Pass: about a 30-minute drive, with several scenic trailheads.
Rio Grande Trail: easy and scenic, lovely to walk or bike through town.
Maroon Bells: advance reservation required, since personal vehicles need a booking. Shuttle access is available for groups. Two options once you arrive:
Crater Lake (about 3.5 miles, moderately challenging)
The lakeside trail (easy and just as beautiful)
On the Water
Gondola and Mountain Bike: take the gondola up Aspen Mountain, then hike or bike down.
White-Water Rafting:
Paddleboarding at North Star Nature Preserve: calm water and a chance to see wildlife when levels allow.
Rest and Wellness
RAKxa Wellness Spa at The St. Regis Aspen Resort: one of Aspen's finest. Ask for Trish Sparks (Monday and Wednesday mornings).
Yarrow Spa at Hotel Jerome: on property, but limited availability.
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES): a nature preserve within walking distance of town.
At Your Own Pace
In Town
Downtown Aspen: walkable, with high-end boutiques and local shops.
Kemo Sabe: Aspen's iconic hat shop.
Paradise Bakery and Cafe: worth the stop for a sweet treat.
John Denver Sanctuary: a peaceful, scenic walk near town.
Ashcroft: a relaxed walk-out, with horseback riding available for a longer outing.
Art and Culture
Aspen Art Museum: free admission, striking architecture, and a rooftop café.
Downtown Galleries: many are walkable and open in the afternoon.
Sport
Cascades Tennis Center: tennis and pickleball.
Aspen Meadows Resort: pickleball. Reserve well ahead.
Aspen Golf Club: a public course. Contact directly for tee times.
Bike Rentals
Wild Willow Outfitters: on-site at Hotel Jerome, on the Mill Street side. E-bikes are available, including a self-guided ride out to Woody Creek Tavern for lunch, about three hours round trip with helmets and directions provided.