Aspen isn't only a winter retreat. It is also a wonderful destination for the perfect summer getaway for those who love the outdoors. Here are a few activities that you take enjoy during a visit to Aspen during the summer.
Learn How to Mountain Bike
Mountain biking might seem like an intimidating sport, but it’s more approachable than you would think. Over the last 10 years, the sport has exploded in popularity owing to advancements in bike technology that make it easier to learn. The bike industry has also made improvements with purpose-built bike trails that more resemble flowing and buffed out paths versus the rock and root jumbled trail. The combination of these two factors have made mountain biking more accessible with the ability to learn on a curve just like many other sports. Snowmass, located near Aspen, Colo., offers a purpose built on mountain downhill bike park with trails that range from beginner to advanced. The perk to this experience is that newbies get to take the gondola and chairlift to the top and then ride your bike down the mountain without the huffing and puffing of going uphill. The best way to learn is to book an Intro to Downhill Bike Clinic where specially trained coaches introduce first-time downhill mountain bikers to the basics of the sport. The lesson is taught on fun, beginner-friendly terrain and includes an introduction to the equipment, as well as, the essential components for downhill biking – stance, braking, and bike control. The Roaring Fork Valley, where Snowmass is located, was recently designated as an International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) gold-level ride center. This is the first Gold-Level IMBA Ride Center in Colorado and the fifth in the United States. So rest assured, you are in the right spot to get after it on a mountain bike and learn. All there is left to do is buy a snazzy pair of biking gloves and you’re set!
Yoga on top of Aspen Mountain
With sweeping views of the Elk Mountain range while inhaling high-altitude fresh air, the popular yoga on top of Aspen Mountain is the perfect place to truly become grounded in nature and find your zen. Taught by the expert instructors from the local yoga studio Aspen Shakti, the one-hour hatha yoga class is for any level yogi. Classes take place at the top of Aspen Mountain Monday through Friday at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $10. Due to a construction project taking place this summer, yoga will begin in August.
Lost Forest
Tucked amongst the pine trees on Snowmass, the Lost Forest is an on-mountain summer adventure zone with offerings such as the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, the Treeline Trial Challenge Course and the Canopy Run Zipline Tour. Opening for the summer season Jun. 21, visitors can choose from three different ticket options for access to the offerings.
Farm to Table Dinners
Elk Camp restaurant, located mid-mountain on Snowmass, continues Farm to Table Dinners Tuesday evenings throughout the summer. The dinners will kicks-off Tuesday, Jun. 30 and run every Tuesday until Aug. 18. The culinary experience includes a free ride up the Elk Camp gondola to the restaurant where visitors can enjoy locally-sourced ingredients in a farm-to-table inspired à la carte dinner format with full cash bar, outdoor family activities and live music. Food and beverage options are sourced from local farmers and companies such as Delicious Orchards, Farm Runners, Erin’s Acres Farm, The Other Side Ranch, Rock Bottom Ranch and Colorado Pastured Pork.
Bluegrass Sundays on Aspen Mountain
Enjoy some of Colorado’s best bluegrass bands with a mountainous backdrop at the top of Aspen Mountain. Sip on a selection of beer and wine and take in the Rocky Mountain sunshine at over 11,000 ft. from noon to 3 p.m. August 16 through September 27. Concerts are free with the purchase of an Aspen Mountain sightseeing ticket.