Aspen is truly one of a kind when it comes to outdoor adventure. With its breathtaking mountain scenery, vibrant wildflowers, and crisp mountain air, it's the perfect place to get outside and explore. If you are looking for a peaceful stroll or hoping to catch some unforgettable views, there are plenty of trails to choose from. And the best part? Many of them are just a short walk from Aspen Square Hotel, your cozy home base right in the middle of it all.
Here is a list of our favorite easy hikes in Aspen that combine accessibility with unforgettable scenery.
Hunter Creek Trail: A Serene Escape
Distance and Difficulty: 6.5 miles round trip; easy to moderate
Highlights: Aspen groves, gentle waterfalls, wildflower meadows
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall
Family-Friendly: Suitable for families and leashed dogs
Just a short walk from Aspen Square Hotel, Hunter Creek Trail offers the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty. The trail winds through aspen forests, past alpine creeks and cascading falls, making it a favorite for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Higher parts of the trail offer stunning views of the Red Mountain and the Hunter Creek Valley below. In the fall, the aspen groves turn into a brilliant display of gold and yellow, creating a breathtaking contrast against the evergreen pines.
Maroon Bells Scenic Trail: Iconic Views
Distance and Difficulty: 1.5-mile loop; easy
Highlights: Crystal-clear reflections of the Maroon Bells in Maroon Lake
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for serenity and soft light
Family-Friendly: Ideal for all ages and abilities
Few destinations offer the majesty of Aspen’s iconic Maroon Bells, and one of the easiest ways to enjoy their splendor is by taking the Scenic Trail. This gentle loop around Maroon Lake offers picturesque views and is perfect for all ages.
Important Tips:
- Water services at Maroon Lake are minimal. Visitors must bring their own water, especially if planning to continue to Crater Lake, a moderate extension of the trail. Be sure to pack enough for the entire hike! Learn More!
John Denver Sanctuary: A Tribute in Nature
Distance and Difficulty: Short; easy
Highlights: Engraved lyrics, native gardens, peaceful creekside setting
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with lush beauty in spring and summer
Family-Friendly: Yes
Situated just minutes from Aspen Square Hotel, the John Denver Sanctuary offers one of the largest perennial flower gardens open to the public as well as winding paths with poetic inspiration, perfect for a tranquil walk.
Rio Grande Trail: A Riverside Stroll
Distance and Difficulty: ~2.5 miles one way (customizable); easy
Highlights: Flat, paved path along the Roaring Fork River
Best Time to Visit: Spring to fall
Family-Friendly: Yes; perfect for families seeking a leisurely walk
Beginning near the heart of Aspen, the Rio Grande Trail offers a navigable scenic route ideal for walking or biking. This trail is one of the most accessible Aspen hiking trails for beginners, offering beautiful riverside views as well as shady spots along its paved path.
East of Aspen Trail: Nature at Your Doorstep
Distance and Difficulty: 3.1 miles one way; easy
Highlights: Wildlife viewing, Roaring Fork River vistas, North Star Nature Preserve access
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall
Family-Friendly: Yes; great for families and outdoor enthusiasts
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back adventure, the East of Aspen Trail is a great pick. Just a short distance from the Aspen Square Hotel, it’s perfect for a peaceful morning stroll or a relaxed afternoon walk. The trail winds along the river and leads to the North Star Nature Preserve, one of the valley’s most tranquil spots, and a local favorite for spotting deer, beavers, and maybe even a bald eagle!
Tips for Enjoying Aspen’s Easy Trails
If you are going to head out on one of these trails, planning is still key to make sure your excursion is enjoyable. Here are a few tips to ensure you aren’t caught off guard:
Start early
For the best experience, it's always best to leave early. There will be fewer people on the trails as well as cooler temperatures (and likely less chance of thunderstorms). Bonus: you’ll have time in the day to fill with other adventures!
Bring water
Staying hydrated is key for any sort of exercise, and it’s very important in higher altitudes where altitude sickness can happen. Bringing your own water is especially critical at Maroon Bells and Crater Lake where water stations are no longer available.
Wear the Right Shoes
Even the easiest trails can have uneven footing. Avoid injury by wearing proper shoes.
Respect Nature
Anytime you are venturing out into nature, it’s important to leave the area the same (or better!) than you found it. This means staying on marked paths and carrying out your trash.
Check the Weather
Mountain conditions change quickly, so it’s important to stay on top of the forecast. Remember: layers are your friend! (So is sunscreen, even in cloudy conditions.)
Take the ASPEN PLEDGE!!
Your Gateway to Aspen’s Natural Wonders
Whether you are venturing into alpine meadows, or strolling alongside the river, Aspen’s easy hiking trails promise something wonderful for everyone. Get out and explore and learn why this area is a favorite amongst many!
With Aspen Square Hotel as your home base, adventure is just steps away. Located in the heart of downtown, Aspen Square puts you steps away from hiking trails, world-class dining, live music, art shows, and more.
Our condominium hotel includes luxury features such as well-equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and private balconies with the convenience of hotel services such as a front desk, concierge, bell staff, and daily housekeeping.
Book your stay today to enjoy a memorable Aspen hiking adventure!