The Best Hikes in Aspen: A Guide
Aspen is home to some of Colorado’s most iconic hiking trails, many just minutes from MOLLIE Aspen. From easy half-day adventures, to full-day alpine summits, there’s a trail for every type of hiker.
Here are some of the must-do hikes to add to your list while visiting Aspen.
The Grottos
Located along Independence Pass, The Grottos are an easy hiking option for all ages and those looking for a shorter outdoor adventure.
A few short trails lead through unique rock formations, ice caves and waterfalls. To make a day of it, we recommend packing a picnic and spending some time exploring the area before continuing your drive up Independence Pass.
Smuggler Hike
Located just outside downtown Aspen, Smuggler Mountain is an easy-to-moderate hike and a local favorite. The steady climb leads to an observation deck with panoramic views over downtown Aspen and across to Aspen Mountain.
The hike to the overlook is approximately 1.5 miles each way. For a longer adventure, continue onto the trails connecting Smuggler Mountain with Hunter Creek Valley, winding through aspen groves and open meadows.
Crater Lake
Sitting behind the iconic Maroon Bells, Crater Lake offers one of Aspen’s quintessential hiking experiences. The moderate hike begins at Maroon Lake and continues approximately 1.75 miles each way through aspen groves and rocky terrain before reaching Crater Lake.
Plan some extra time before or after your hike to take in the views of the Maroon Bells from Maroon Lake. Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area during the reservation season.
Sunnyside Trail
True to its name, Sunnyside Trail follows the sunny side of Red Mountain and offers panoramic views of Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk and even glimpses of the Maroon Bells.
The trail is a short drive from MOLLIE and can be accessed from Cemetery Lane. It is especially beautiful during fall, when the surrounding aspen trees turn gold. This hike is considered moderate-to-difficult.
Ute Trail
For a more challenging climb right in town, take on the difficult Ute Trail. The trailhead sits approximately one mile from the Silver Queen Gondola and begins with a steep ascent above Aspen.
Hike to Ute Rock for sweeping views over town, or continue all the way to the top of Aspen Mountain at 11,212 feet. Once at the summit, stop for lunch and take in the views before riding the Silver Queen Gondola back into town during its operating season.
American Lake
Tucked into Castle Creek Valley, American Lake is a moderate-to-difficult hike that rewards a challenging climb with a pristine alpine lake.
The trail is approximately 6.4 miles round trip and ends at an elevation of around 11,400 feet. The hike begins with a steep series of switchbacks through aspen groves before continuing through forests and open meadows. We recommend giving yourself several hours to complete the hike.
Cathedral Lake
Also located in Castle Creek Valley, Cathedral Lake is another moderate-to-difficult hike with plenty of reward. The approximately 5.3-mile round-trip trail climbs through aspen groves, crosses a stream and winds through rocky alpine terrain before arriving to the crystal clear blue waters of Cathedral Lake.
Experienced hikers looking for an even greater challenge can continue toward Electric Pass, which sits at 13K feet.
Lost Man Lake
For high-alpine scenery, drive toward Independence Pass and stop at the moderate-to-difficult Lost Man Trail. The full route stretches approximately 8.9 miles one way and reaches elevations around 12,800 feet, passing lakes and expansive mountain scenery along the way.
Buckskin Pass
Beginning from the Maroon Bells area, Buckskin Pass is a difficult hike for those seeking a more serious adventure in the mountains.
The route leads uphill 4.6 miles one way toward Buckskin Pass, eventually rising above the tree line before reaching the pass at approximately 12,462 feet. Once you summit, hikers are rewarded with expansive views across the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.
Conundrum Hot Springs
One of Aspen’s most recognizable backcountry adventures, Conundrum Hot Springs combines a long hike through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness with natural hot springs.
The trail travels approximately 8.5–8.8 miles each way, and is typically either a long day hike or an overnight backpacking trip. If you plan to stay overnight, an advance permit is required for camping.
Aspen to Crested Butte Hike
For the ultimate Aspen hiking experience, hike from Aspen to the mountain town, Crested Butte.
The popular West Maroon Pass route is approximately 12 miles and typically takes around 6 – 8 hours to complete. The trail begins at Maroon Bells and winds through West Maroon Pass before descending toward Crested Butte. This hike is especially popular in July and August when Crested Butte’s wildflowers are at their peak.
This hike requires advance planning, including Maroon Bells access and transportation from the trailhead on the Crested Butte side.
Before You Hit the Trail
These are just a few of the hikes worth adding to your bucket list for your next stay at MOLLIE Aspen. If you’re visiting from a lower elevation, keep in mind that exercising in altitude may feel more difficult that you’d expect.
Before heading out, be sure to check weather and trail conditions and always bring plenty of water, sun protection and extra layers. For hikes that have significant elevation gain, start early to help avoid Colorado’s afternoon thunderstorms.
For those hike-lovers, Aspen’s best scenery is waiting for you.
