Be sure to try these one-of-a-kind experiences.
Dining can be an adventure
Winter Experiences
Cross-country ski, snowshoe, or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the historic ghost town of Ashcroft to Pine Creek Cookhouse for a memorable meal in the mountains.
Sundeck Restaurant on Aspen Mountain
Easily reached by a 15 minute gondola ride, and especially enjoyed after a few laps on the slopes, The Sundeck offers cafeteria style dining alongside panoramic mountain views.
Cliffhouse Restaurant on Buttermilk
Whether you're new to the sport or a regular, uphilling is a rewarding way to experience the slopes. Uphill to the top of Buttermilk (uphill pass required) and refuel with a mountaintop meal at the Cliffhouse before a enjoying a well-earned run to the bottom. Looking for some company? Check out the Friday Morning Uphill Breakfast Club and Full Moon Dinners, complete with live music.
Red Mountain Grill at the Aspen Cross Country Center
The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System offers over 90km of free cross-country and snowshoe trails between Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt. Demo gear, head out on a guided tour, or sign up for a cross-country ski lesson at the Aspen Cross Country Center. After gliding along the snowy trails, grab a hot cocoa or a delicious meal at Red Mountain Grill, located inside the Aspen Cross Country Center.
After a day on the slopes, enjoy our version of happy hour with a cozy, fireside cocktail or a lively, outdoor dance party.
Summer Experiences
Sunset Dinners with Blazing Adventures
Supper the way nature intended it beneath the stars with family and friends. Start your evening climbing Snowmass Mountain in our four wheel drive jeeps as we make our way to the Burlingame Cabin. This historic sheep herder’s cabin tucked in the aspens is the perfect place to sit back and unwind. Take an extended Jeep tour to a scenic overlook, try your hand at calf roping, toss some horseshoes, or just relax and enjoy a cold beverage around the campfire before your guides ring the dinner bell. As the sun sets behind Mt. Daly and the glow of the campfire lights up the surrounding woods, you will be entertained by live music while you roast S’mores. This is more than a meal. This is an experience.
Mine N' Dine with Elk Mountain Expeditions
Head over to the Smuggler Mine and enjoy an adventure-filled dinner in one of Aspen's most scenic locations. Upon arrival you'll tour the historic Smuggler Mine, the oldest operating mine in Aspen, and learn the history as an experienced guide takes you 1,250 ft inside the mountain- hard hats provided! After the tour, you'll be greeted with drinks, a BBQ buffet, lawn games, and s'mores by the fire as you enjoy sunset views sweeping over the Roaring Fork Valley. This dinner is available only upon private request, with reservations made at least one week in advanced.
Pine Creek Cookhouse
Road bike up Castle Creek Road from downtown Aspen to this rustic mountain dining experience (approx. 13 miles). Dine with incredible mountain views then coast down the valley returning to downtown Aspen.
Sundeck Restaurant on Aspen Mountain
Ride the gondola or for more of an adventure, hike up Aspen Mountain. There are a variety of hiking routes, some more difficult than others, from switchbacks up a road to rocky vertical climbing. Reward yourself with a meal at the sundeck and a cold beer while soaking in the 360 degree views. The gondola ride back down into Aspen is free.
Bike down the Rio Grande Trail from Aspen to Woody Creek. Take a break at the Woody Creek Tavern, a former hangout of the late Hunter S. Thompson, to enjoy their famous margaritas and delicious Mexican food. This local's favorite is eclectic, with walls covered in photos, original art and other "stuff". Either ride the slight incline back to Aspen or catch a ride back with your bike on a car rack from one of our local transportation companies.
With over 80 restaurants to choose from, you won't go hungry while you visit Aspen.
Photo Courtesy Aspen Skiing Company
