Aspen and surroundings has a walhalla of hiking, for each individual
There are some hikes that are are closeby to the Aspen Alps:
* Smuggler Mountain Hike; a 6.3 Mile dirt road is an intermediate / moderate road that you can hike, run and mountain bike that is dog friendly as well. At the top there are amazing views of Aspen and Aspen Mountain.
* Ute Trail ; a 3.1 Mile difficult trail that you can hike and run that is dog friendly. The trail is a steady uphill that goes to the Ute Rock.
EASY ASPEN HIKES FROM TOWN
East of Aspen Trail | 6.3 miles
This popular trail starts a few blocks east of downtown Aspen and meanders alongside the Roaring Fork River and through the Northstar Nature Preserve. There are viewpoints to spot wildlife and learn about the conservation efforts in the area. Watch for bikes, as they use the trail as well.
Trailhead directions: From downtown Aspen, walk east on Cooper Avenue toward Independence Pass. Follow the bike path until you reach Stillwater Lane. Take a right and continue on the dirt path beside the river for as long as you like!
Rio Grande Trail | 42 miles between Aspen and Glenwood Springs
This multi-use trail stretches from Aspen to Glenwood Springs and is a great bike route. For hikers we recommend a shorter there-and-back itinerary starting from downtown Aspen. With a gentle downhill slope, this trail follows the Roaring Fork River with some opportunities to split off and return via Aspen West End.
Trailhead directions: Start at Herron Park on the northeastern edge of downtown Aspen. Follow the paved path past John Denver Park and Rio Grande Park. Cross the bridge toward the Aspen Chamber Resort Association and continue along the river until you must cross another bridge to the right. From here, the Rio Grande Trail goes all the way to Glenwood Springs, so choose your turnaround point based on your endurance.
Check on a few of these itineraries:
Don't forget that when you go enjoy the outdoor you Leave No Trace. The seven principles of Leave No Trace are:
- Plan Ahead & Prepare
- Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Others
Interested in learning more, please read more here