7 Secrets on Springtime in Aspen

While people flock to Aspen during the summer and winter seasons, few people have discovered spring. During spring, winter is melting into summer and the pace is slow, giving you the chance to reconnect with the mind, body and spirit philosophy that Aspen is built upon. This short and sweet season runs from mid-May to mid-June, and we’re letting you in on 7 secrets that make spring a great time to visit Aspen:

Get the town to yourself
As people leave after the lifts close, Aspen becomes your personal backyard paradise. Spring is a quiet time to relax and recharge with friends and family while enjoying Aspen’s serene beauty.

The ultimate whitewater rafting ride
With the springtime runoff from the winter season’s snowmelt, rivers are high and moving fast, providing rafters with a thrilling, wild course. Water can be dangerous, particularly as rivers rise, making it important to be prepared with river safety tips. Local whitewater rafting tours cover different classes of rapids and sections of the river, offering a diverse range of experiences to choose from.

3. Car-free bike rides

Car-free road biking on Independence Pass allows riders to take in the scenery without worrying about sharing the road. If you’re looking for some company, hundreds of cyclists ride up Independence Pass at the end of May for the annual Ride for the Pass. The event offers a timed competition, family-friendly ride, and pedal assist option, offering a variety of difficulty levels. The road is expected to open to cars on Memorial Day Weekend, which brings plenty of other ways to explore Independence Pass.

4. The iconic Maroon Bells

This year, reservations to the Maroon Bells open as early as May 15, allowing you to get an early season view of these glorious peaks before summer hits. Beneath the snow-covered peaks, Maroon Lake reflects the scenery, making for a spectacular view.

5. Fly Fishing

With insect hatches, hungry trout, and 45 miles of Gold Medal waters, fly fishing is on fire during the spring season. If you’re planning on picking up a new sport after ski season or you’re already an experienced angler, Aspen is home to some of the best fly fishing in Colorado. A day of fly fishing promises a scenic day on the river and the chance to spot wildlife that roam the banks.

6. Lower lodging rates, discounts and deals

As you peruse local shops, look out for spring deals or end of winter sales. From clothing boutiques to art galleries to outdoor outfitters, Aspen offers a unique shopping experience. You may even find dining deals, and while some restaurants close for off-season, there are still plenty of delicious dining spots to enjoy this spring.

7. Bonus- local events!

While spring is a quieter time, there are still a few arts and culture events to experience. Many of the events focus on showcasing local talent. The Wheeler Opera House is set to host Roaring Fork Rising, giving the community a chance to celebrate local artists. The Aspen Art Museum and Red Brick Center for the Arts are featuring exhibitions highlighting the works of local and regional artists.