Get ready for amazing adventures on the trails this summer in Aspen Snowmass
It’s official: Summer is here! And with the arrival of the summer solstice comes the start of peak hiking season in Aspen Snowmass. There’s no better way to take in the full experience of all the spectacular scenery and serenity that Snowmass has to offer than being out on the trails, and with more than 80 miles of trail to explore in Snowmass Village alone, this is truly a hiker’s paradise.
With options for every skill level, desired distance or type of terrain, every hiker can find a trail that suits their tastes and makes for the perfect day of adventuring outside in the Colorado mountains. Not sure where to start? Here’s our short list of the best hiking trails in Snowmass – all of which are easily accessible from our Woodrun V vacation rentals in the heart of Snowmass Village – plus some bonus trails in the broader Aspen and Roaring Fork Valley area, which are some of our favorites too!
- Rim Trail South: This roughly 4-mile section of trail (8 miles out-and-back) offers stunning panoramic views of Snowmass Village and the surrounding Elk Mountains. With about 1,500 feet of climbing, it will get your heart pumping and legs burning, but its many switchbacks keep the climbing at a moderate grade – and offer many different perspectives to take in all the views! In July and August, wildflowers of all kinds can be found lining the trail, and aspen groves provide a beautiful backdrop and some nice shade along the way.
- Ditch Trail: For something with less elevation gain (but still plenty of scenery!), check out the Ditch Trail at the top of Snowmass Village. This 3.9-mile out-and-back trail features just under 500 feet of climbing, and is a good beginner-friendly hiking option. That said, hikers of all levels can enjoy this versatile and easily accessible trail, which showcases valley, river and mountain views, with no shortage of foliage and wildflowers along the way. The Ditch Trail also offers good shade thanks to its many trees. To note, it does have a few rockier sections, so be prepared to watch your footing.
- Government Trail: With multiple aspen groves, open meadows, pine forests, and plenty of mountain views, Government Trail is a true gem of Aspen Snowmass. This trail features rocky terrain and some steeper climbs, so it’s a good option for intermediate hikers. Stream crossings may also be a factor depending on water levels. The trail is 6.8 miles across, connecting from Snowmass all the way across Buttermilk at the edge of Aspen, as it traverses some of the most beautiful and peaceful terrain you can imagine. This trail features roughly 480 feet of elevation gain, with some short but steep ups-and-downs along the way. To note, portions of this trail are closed until June 28th for elk calving season.
- Sky Mountain Park Traverse: This point-to-point hike is a great way to combine several of Snowmass’ most beloved trails in the Sky Mountain Park zone (Viewline, Skyline and Cozyline singletracks), and get a great aerobic challenge with 7 miles of distance and roughly 1,100 feet of climbing. Hikers can travel any direction on these trails, but if you want to start right from the heart of Snowmass, you can hit the trail from the roundabout just across from the Rodeo Lot and Town Station, head out Viewline, top out on Skyline for incredible 360-degree views all the way across the ridge, and then hike down Cozyline trail to the Intercept Lot, where you can catch a free bus back up to Snowmass Village. With its gentle grades and smooth terrain, this is a good option for intermediate hikers. Those who want a true aerobic challenge can head back across to double their distance!
- Crater Lake / Maroon Bells: This iconic hike ends at the famed Maroon Bells, one of the most picturesque destinations in the world, located just outside of Aspen. At 3.5 miles long with roughly 690 feet of ascent, this must-do hike is a great option for everyone in the family, and offers a truly unforgettable experience. Hikers will enjoy aspen groves, wildflowers and lake views across the gentle uphill grade, though the stunning backdrop of the Maroon Bells peaks will ultimately steal the show. We recommend packing a lunch to spend some time enjoying Crater Lake and your well-earned prime Maroon Bells views (just be sure to pack out all of your trash!). To note, visitors should plan on taking the bus from Aspen Highlands, as parking is restricted in the Maroon Bells area.
- Cathedral Lake: If you love high alpine lakes and mountain landscapes (and who doesn’t…?!), this hike must be on your bucket list! This 5.4-mile out-and-back route packs a punch with more than 2,000 feet of ascent. Starting near the historic ghost town of Ashcroft up the Castle Creek drainage above Aspen, this trail delivers plenty of altitude and steep climbs, but offers incredible beauty amid the challenge, with lots of shade as you climb through the remote forests and listen to the sounds of the flowing creek. Reward yourself with some hang time at the water or take a (very chilly!) dip in the stunning Cathedral Lake if you need a true cool-off at the top.
While these are a few of our favorite hiking trails in the Aspen Snowmass area, ultimately you can’t go wrong with any trail you choose. For more general information and recommendations on hiking trails in Snowmass, visit Hike Snowmass. For Woodrun V guests who are looking for specific recommendations during their stay (and right from the door!), feel free to reach out to our concierge team.
