Aspen offers a wide variety of parks for all ages to enjoy, including spaces perfect for your four-legged friends.
From peaceful reflection at the John Denver Sanctuary to the excitement of volleyball at Koch Park, rugby games at Wagner and Rio Grande Parks, and the joy of discovering hidden parks tucked into every corner of town, Aspen’s parks offer opportunities to explore, relax, and play. Pick up lunch from one of Aspen's many restaurants to picnic in your favorite park, or buy a book from Explore Booksellers to read under the shade of a tree.
Nestled in the heart of downtown Aspen next to the pedestrian mall, Wagner Park is a vibrant gathering spot year-round, complete with a playground for kids and plenty of space for dogs to play. In the summer, enjoy al fresco dining along the park while taking in the stunning views of Aspen Mountain.
The Pedestrian Mall is lined with shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s the ideal place for people-watching, indulging in a treat from Paradise Bakery, strolling with your dog, or admiring the dancing fountain.
Built in the memory of the great singer John Denver, the John Denver Sanctuary is nestled next to Rio Grande Park. This is a favorite spot among locals and visitors because of its scenic beauty and environmentally sound wetlands. The sanctuary is an ideal spot for a family picnic or for meditation.
Theatre Aspen's Hurst Theatre, located next to the John Denver Sanctuary, offers a blend of culture and natural beauty in Aspen. During the summer season, Theatre Aspen showcases performances by professional and Broadway artists, featuring musicals, plays, and comedies.
Rio Grande Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, featuring a skate park, rugby field, space for dogs to enjoy year-round and a children's play area. It’s adjacent to the John Denver Sanctuary making it a vibrant hub for locals and visitors to enjoy the surrounding views or a picnic at one of the many picnic tables in the shade.
Herron Park boasts a kid-friendly play area in the Roaring Fork River, a playground, and serves as the starting point of the scenic Rio Grande Trail. The Rio Grande Trail runs 42 miles from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, offering a continuous multi-use trail most popular with those biking.
Mollie Gibson Park offers the best sunset views in Aspen and is located at the base of the popular Smuggler Mountain Trailhead. From this spot, locals and visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of Aspen Mountain and the Roaring Fork Valley beyond.
Koch Park in Aspen features a multi-use field, three sand volleyball courts, benches and picnic tables making it a hub for recreational activities and dog-friendly outings. It’s also a convenient starting point for accessing the Ajax Trail or Midland Trail, perfect for exploring the outdoors.
Paepcke Park is situated on Main Street in downtown Aspen, featuring a large tree-lined green space surrounded by 360-degree mountain views. The park features a historic gazebo alongside benches and picnic tables.
Glory Hole Park, located in the heart of Aspen, is a serene green space known for its peaceful pond and mining history. It's a favorite spot for picnics, quiet reflection, or simply enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
Henry Stein Park, situated along the Rio Grande Bike Path and the Roaring Fork River, is two miles from downtown Aspen. This park serves as a gateway for thrill-seekers embarking on a white-water rafting adventure down Slaughterhouse Falls, as well as a escape for those seeking a peaceful retreat just outside downtown.
Begin planning your next adventure with Aspen itineraries designed to capture the best of each season. Explore curated experiences that highlight Aspen’s unique beauty, outdoor activities, and local culture all year round.
