It’s true that you could take a hike in Aspen everyday during the fall and not be disappointed in your experience. The scenery any day of the year can take your breath away, and the bright warm, golden hues of autumn simply increase the drama of an already spectacular landscape.
It’s even difficult to choose the “best” fall hikes, because “best” means something different to everyone. Maybe an easy hike is more your speed. Or maybe you won’t be satisfied without some rock scrambling. The main reason we’ve chosen the following three hikes for this “best fall hiking in Aspen” article is because they’re easily accessible to anyone staying in downtown Aspen.
Hiking the Ute Trail
The Ute isn’t easy. It’ll require leg strength and lung capacity. But the rewarding views from the overlook are stunning. You’ll see a colorful panorama of speckled hillsides in every direction, and you’ll even find a wooden tree swing to indulge your playful side while you recover from the climb. Note that this trail is dog-friendly, so you may have furry friends smiling and scrambling past throughout your hike.
Anyone staying in downtown Aspen can easily walk to the Ute trailhead, just a short walk south of the Silver Queen Gondola. You’ll be climbing (and then descending) about 1,100 feet up the east flank of Aspen Mountain, for a hike of roughly three miles, roundtrip. Once you arrive at the rocky outcropping, you’ll be surrounded by incredible views of the town and the valley below.
If you’re not yet ready to turn around, you can continue on to reach the summit of Aspen Mountain (the Ute Trail only takes you ⅓ of the way to the top). You’ll cross ski runs and pass the Gentleman’s Ridge chairlift, and finally arrive at the Sundeck (which is closed between early October and Thanksgiving weekend).
Hiking the Smuggler Mountain Trail
Smuggler is by far a local favorite. About three miles roundtrip, it’s do-able for hikers of most ages and fitness/skill levels.
The trailhead is a relatively short walk from downtown, and the trail (a well-maintained dirt county road) is wide, accessible, and a low-risk endeavor for valley visitors. You’ll hike and switchback up to the overlook for about a mile and a half while passing historic mining claims. From the overlook, you have the option to connect with the Hunter Creek Trail and continue on, though most day-hikers take a photo or two and return the way they came.
Hiking the Maroon Bells Lake Trail and Crater Lake
While not directly walkable from downtown Aspen, the free local RFTA bus will drop you off at Aspen Highlands, where you can make a reservation to be bused to the Maroon Bells. These internationally-photographed local gems are a must-visit when fall colors creep into the Aspen valley. They’re especially famous for the brightness of the surrounding foliage in the fall.
We’re including these trails together as one because they’re both accessible, and we highly recommend making a day of your Maroon Bells excursion. Why not take a stroll around one lake, then embark on a slightly longer trail to the other?
Once the bus drops you off in the parking lot, you won’t need to walk far before you’ll see the Bells themselves reflected in the water of Maroon Lake. The Maroon Lake Trail and Scenic Loop allow you to explore the landscape around the lake itself for about a mile and a half, and the path is wheelchair/ stroller accessible.The Maroon Lake Trail leads you from the trailhead to the northeast side of Maroon Lake. The Scenic Loop creates a lollipop hike when paired with the out-and-back Lake Trail, and it begins at a footbridge on the far end of the lake.
If you’re ready for an additional four-mile round trip adventure, you can follow the Maroon/Snowmass trail to the right of Maroon Lake and branch off on the West Maroon/Crater Lake Trail. Proper footwear is recommended, since the terrain on this hike varies. You’ll walk through meadows and golden aspen forests, and over some rock. The trail eventually dips into an open area where Crater Lake sits and you’ll have an even more impressive view of the Bells than you did before.
Choosing the Best Aspen Rental for Fall Hiking Opportunities
If you’re thinking about visiting Aspen this fall so you can enjoy the endless hiking trails in our grand little valley, contact Aspen Luxury Rentals today. We have extensive experience in the Aspen vacation rentals market and exquisite properties from which you can choose. We’ll help make your stay in Aspen everything you hope it will be.