Aspen is not only a beautiful mountain town but also a pioneer in sustainability—the town runs on 100 percent renewable energy. For the eco-conscious traveler seeking adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Aspen while preserving its natural beauty, check out our itinerary below. This comprehensive itinerary not only showcases the best sustainable vacation ideas but also helps you make a positive impact on the environment during your visit to Aspen.
8:00am
Arrive and start your day by signing our Aspen Pledge. Make your commitment to preserving Aspen's beauty by signing the Aspen Pledge. This initiative encourages visitors to respect the environment and follow sustainable practices during your stay. ACRA will be making a donation of $18.80 for each pledge signed, which honors the year Aspen was incorporated, 1880. Those signing the pledge can choose between the Independence Pass Foundation and Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers as the beneficiary organization. For the initial launch, ACRA has committed up to $50,000 in donations.
9:00am
Begin your day by exploring the 25-acre nature preserve at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. Hallam Lake offers a picturesque setting to learn about Aspen's unique ecosystem. At ACES visitors can journey through guided nature walks, interactive exhibits, and observe wildlife. Don't miss the chance to see local wildlife and learn about Aspen’s natural environment.
11:00am
Enjoy some of the best farm-to-table dining Aspen has to offer. On Saturdays from 8:30-2pm head over to the Aspen Saturday Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Utilize the Roaring Fork + Farm Map to discover various farms in the area. Learn about sustainable farming practices and enjoy farm-fresh produce straight from the source. Take a trip to Rock Bottom Ranch to see sustainable farming in action. This working ranch focuses on regenerative agriculture and sustainable food production practices.
1:00pm
Embrace an eco-friendly mode of transportation by renting a WE-Cycle bike and ride around town. This bike-sharing program is perfect for exploring Aspen at your own pace. Ride through scenic paths, discover hidden gems, and make the most of the numerous bike-friendly streets in Aspen. Stop by local cafes and landmarks as you pedal around town. With numerous stations strategically placed throughout Aspen and Basalt, WE-cycle makes it easy to pick up a bike for short trips. Best of all, the first 30 minutes of each ride are free, encouraging quick, eco-friendly commutes. For more ways to explore Aspen sans car, click here.
3:00pm
Hike with Care for Colorado Leave No Trace Principles and practice trail etiquette. Choose from numerous trails suitable for various fitness levels. As you hike, practice leave no trace principles such as staying on trails, packing out all trash, and respecting wildlife. Popular trails include Hunter Creek and Smuggler Mountain.
6:00pm
End your day by dining out at restaurants using locally sourced cuisine. Savor meals made with locally sourced ingredients at renowned Aspen restaurants like Prospect at the Hotel Jerome, Bosq (MICHELIN Star awarded), and Cache Cache. For more Aspen restaurants using locally sourced ingredients, click here.
Bonus ideas and tips:
Give back to nature by joining a trail cleanup organized by Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers. Take part in preserving Aspen's natural beauty for future generations. For a full list of regenerative tourism projects happening this summer, click here.
Stay in a Sustainably Minded Hotel: Rest and recharge in one of Aspen’s sustainably minded hotels such as Aspen Meadows, the Little Nell, or Limelight. These accommodations emphasize eco-friendly practices and offer a luxurious stay. For a full list of where to stay in Aspen, click here.
Pack comfortable walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, an eco-friendly bag for market purchases, and a camera for capturing stunning views.
