It’s a perfect lunch break or post-workday hike. While it is a busy trail, people love Smuggler Mountain for its brevity and proximity to downtown. You’ll also find several observation points along the way, allowing you to take a break and admire the views. A waterfall provides a stunning backdrop for your journey about a third of the way along the trail. The trail follows the creek, and many bridges provide great views of the mountains while you listen to water babbling. You’ll find yourself surrounded by wildflowers and wildlife, amidst a variety of sounds and colors. The wide path and gentle grade on the lower part of the trail make the beginning of the hike suitable for anyone you can always turn back before the trail increases in difficulty. You’ll find the parking lot and trailhead by turning left after another quarter mile.Īs soon as you start your hike, you will be immersed in Aspen’s summertime sights, sounds, and smells. Head out of Aspen on Red Mountain Road and turn right after a mile onto Hunter Creek. The trail begins just a short walk or drive from downtown Aspen, taking a gentle climb up and away from town across stunning bridges and amazing natural surroundings. It’s easy to access, but can be challenging depending on your pace. The 5-mile Hunter Creek loop is easy to moderate and suitable for most hikers.
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Plan on taking 4 to 6 hours and at least 2 liters of water to complete the full hike. If you’re continuing to the top of Ajax, head on up through shaded forest, finally reaching the top of the mountain to reveal some of the finest local views. Ute Rock is the most popular turnaround point for this hike. Stop and take a break while you enjoy a snack or simply find awe in the beauty of nature. Soak up stunning views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains and valleys. You’ll see a decent sized outcropping of rocks and a wooden swing. The trail opens out at Ute Rock, just under a mile up the trail. You gain height quickly as you scramble up tight, often slick dirt switchbacks with dense foliage. The Ute Trail climbs over 1,000 feet in less than a mile, and over 3,000 feet over the full 3-mile length to the top of Aspen Mountain. (While the trailhead is walkable from downtown, there’s also parking across the street for those who drive.)
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This uphill excursion can take you from the trailhead on Ute Avenue to over 11,000 feet at the top of Aspen Mountain, where you can take a free gondola ride back down when your legs get tired.
If you’re ready for a challenge, the Ute Trail rewards you with stunning views after an extremely intense workout. Here’s our guide to the best trails to try. Start your mountain summer off right by exploring the scenery in and around the Aspen valley. Not only is Aspen spectacular in the summer (think explosions of wildflowers, vibrant red rocks, expansive blue skies, and lush greenery), its numerous local hiking trails will maximize your views of the valley and beyond. There are many trails around town that offer great views of the surrounding area.
Are you visiting Aspen this summer? Do you want to maximize your enjoyment of the fresh mountain air and expansive vistas? While Aspen is best known for its world-class skiing, five-star dining, and upscale downtown boutiques, Aspen’s true summer magnificence is best on display in nature.Īspen is located in the heart of the Rockies, surrounded by majestic mountains.
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