Ashcroft Ghost Town
Ashcroft became a bustling mining town after silver was discovered in 1880. Today, Ashcroft is home to several relocated and restored buildings and is an important part of Aspen's history. Guests can visit Ashcroft Ghost Town year-round; interpretive signage and seasonal Aspen Historical Society guides share intriguing stories. Nestled in the beautiful Castle Creek Valley, Ashcroft is an ideal location to experience the spectacular fall colors. Castle Creek Road is lined with golden aspen trees, making for a scenic drive to the Ghost Town.
John Denver Sanctuary
Located along the Roaring Fork River next to Rio Grande Park, the John Denver Sanctuary pays tribute to the singer-songwriter and former Aspen resident. A song garden features large stone sculptures engraved with lyrics from his most beloved songs. During fall, the John Denver Sanctuary is filled with shades of yellow, orange, and red, making it a serene spot to enjoy the season's beauty.
Continental Divide- Independence Pass
Head east of Aspen along Highway 82 towards Independence Pass to take in the stunning scenery and incredible views. At a high elevation of 12,095 feet, dustings of snow combined with pops of color make Independence Pass one of the most beautiful places to enjoy the fall foliage. On the way to the summit, explore scenic lookouts, nearby hikes, and even a historic ghost town.
Smuggler Overlook and Hunter Creek
Located minutes from downtown Aspen, Smuggler Mountain Road is a moderately difficult, 3 mile out-and-back hike. Take in panoramic fall views of the city and Aspen Mountain as you climb the trail. You can also overlook the colorful views while mountain biking the Smuggler - Hunter Creek loop. Hunter Creek Valley is filled with golden stands of aspen, historic buildings, and mountain views, making it a scenic loop. The trails near Aspen are covered in colors; discover more fall favorites.
Downtown Aspen
In downtown Aspen, there are colorful views at every turn. Explore exceptional restaurants, local shops, and rich history alongside the fall foliage. Covered in hues of gold, Aspen Mountain offers stunning views from the streets.
Take a virtual tour and discover these iconic spots and more here.
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