Saturday, August 1, 2015

Aspen Summer Bucket List: 20 Things to do Before Fall

Its august already and geez that came WAY too fast for my liking. But of course we say the same thing every year about how we wish there were just a few more months in summer...anyhow I've put together a short list of things to do before summer flies by and it is strictly ski and snowboarding time here in the valley.

SO here are 20 things I think everyone should do in Aspen before the end of summer (in no particular order).




20. Jump the Punch Bowl: A locals favorite, this cliff jump is a short ways up the pass and is great for adrenaline junkies...

19. Floating Stillwater: For the slightly more tame, grabbing a raft, tube or paddle board and floating Stillwater is a great way to spend the last hot days of August.

18. Get up Independence Pass and do STUFF: There is SO much to do up independence pass that is only open for the summer months. Enjoy it while you can with a hike, bike, or even just drive.




17. Camp up Lincoln Creek: Make sure you have a 4 wheel vehicle to get to what are probably the very best car camping spot in Aspen.




16. Bike to Ashcroft: For a bit of a challenge get a road bike and take the 11 mile ride to Ashcroft. The views are stunning the whole time and once you get there it is a really fun downhill back to Aspen.

From my brother site Aspenmap.net


15. Frisbee Golf Atop Ajax: Just riding the Gondola to the top of Ajax is a breathtaking experience, but why not play some disc golf while your up there? A gentle hike for a fairly tricky course, free disc rentals are offered at the top of the mountain.



14. Downhill Valhalla in Snowmass: Another thrilling experience, get ready to be a covered in dirt and dust!




13. Hike to Crested Butte: This full day hike offers insanely gorgeous views the entire way and is a great way to check out the incredible little town of Crested Butte. A bit of an advanced hike so make sure to be in decent shape for this one and bring plenty of water.



12. Rock Climb: Whether its your first time or  you are an experienced climber, Aspen has so many incredible climbing routes to explore. Make sure to hire a guide if you are a first timer!

11. Let the Kids Play in the Fountain: Grab a drink at Justice Snows while the kids have a free day at the water park AKA the fountain across the street. Its not summer in Aspen without it!

10. Dine Outdoors: There are tons of great patio dining options in Aspen, make sure to check out some of the best: Meat at Cheese, Justice Snows, Ajax Tavern, and White House Tavern are some of my faves.



9. Bike to Woody Creek Tavern: The way there is all down hill and offers a scenic and relaxing bike ride. Enjoy a cocktail and some lunch at the Woody Creek Tavern and then bike or take the bus back to town.

8. First Friday in Carbondale: Though they do First Friday through the winter, there is just something magical about the summer events. Explore galleries, bars and street performers all night long!

7. Aspen's Saturday Market: Get local produce, meat, goods, wine, etc all right in town from early morning Saturday to about 3pm.



6. Hike the Ute, Smuggler, Hunter Creek, or Sunnyside trails: Some of my favorite hikes right in town, don't miss doing at least one of these!



5. Maroon Bells to Crater Lake: Even just going to the Bells alone is worth the trip, but step it up a notch and make the hike up to Crater lake. It will only take about an hour and it is well worth it for the view.

4. Backpack to Conundrum Hot Springs: If you are up for a bit of an adventure backpacking to Conundrum hot springs is a great place to start.

3. Ruedi Reservoir: That ice cold water found elsewhere in Aspen can be rough to swim in. Take the short drive down to Ruedi reservoir for some warmer water to play in.



2. Penny Hot Springs: Although you can use these springs all winter long, the summers can be the best time to enjoy them. Right out of town in Carbondale, these springs are natural and free!

1. Fly Fishing: There is something magical about catching a fish! Learn the art of fly fishing form one of the many local guides here in Aspen and enjoy a day on the river.

Well, that should be more than enough activities to fill the rest of your summer days, don't go into fall regretting a single moment of summer!


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