Aspen's Favorite Leaf-Peeping Spots
As summer comes to a close, Aspen's lush green leaves will soon become golden fall hues.
With leaf peeping being a favorite autumn pastime of Aspen's visitors and locals alike, we decided to put together a list of our top 6 leaf-peeping spots around town:
- Maroon Bells - These peaks are some of the most photographed mountains in North America! Colorful reflections of the Bells off of Maroon Lake are absolutely gorgeous when the surrounding aspen tree leaves change. For the best pictures, we recommend getting up to the Maroon Bells in time for sunrise. Parking and shuttle reservations are required and can be made online here.
- Silver Queen Gondola - On weekends, take a ride to the top of Aspen Mountain to experience Aspen's fall foliage from a bird's-eye view. If you're up for the challenge, hike the Ute Trail for stunning views of the Elk Mountain Range. The last day for gondola operations is September 28, 2025.
- Hunter Creek Valley - Tucked away, yet easily accessible from town, Hunter Creek offers numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, so you can leaf-peep while enjoying your favorite fall activity. Trails will lead you to pristine creeks, peaceful meadows and mesmerizing aspen groves.
- Ashcroft/Castle Creek Valley - Get a great workout with even better scenery! Castle Creek provides the sound track for your bike ride through the golden aspen groves. Take a lunch break at Pine Creek Cookhouse, where you can take in colorful mountain views while enjoying an alpine-inspired, gourmet meal before riding back to town.
- Independence Pass - Independence Pass closes in the winter, so be sure to take advantage of sunny fall days with a scenic drive or bike ride to the summit. There are also several hiking trails and recreational areas to explore along the way.
- Rio Grande Trail - The Rio Grande Trail is a gradually sloped, mostly paved path that runs alongside the Roaring Fork River all the way from Aspen to Glenwood Springs. Walk, jog, or hop on your bike and cruise through the colors.
Click here for more ways to experience the season or visit our Fall in Love With Aspen Bucket List for additional fall activities.
7 Ways To See The Fall Foliage In Aspen
Leaf peeping is almost a sport in Aspen as the leaves turn a golden hue. Here are our top 7 ways to see the fall foliage in Aspen.
By foot: Leaf peeping is a favorite autumn pastime of Aspen’s visitors and locals alike. One of the easiest and most beautiful ways to leaf peep in Aspen is to lace up your hiking boots and go! Whether searching for a leisurely stroll along a meandering creek or a technical ascent of a 14er, Aspen has hiking trails for a range of abilities and fitness levels. A list of local hiking trails in and around Aspen, Woody Creek, Castle Creek Valley, Snowmass, and more can be found here.
By two wheels: As an epicenter for cycling, Aspen bikers can choose from the gently sloping Rio Grande Trail, a serene road ride up to the iconic Maroon Bells, a rewarding ride up Independence Pass and more. For bicycle rentals and trail recommendations, contact local experts at Aspen Velo or Bike Butlers. For more information on cycling in Aspen, click here.
By four wheels: Scenic drives offer a simple way for leaf-peepers to enjoy the golden aspen trees from the comfort of their own vehicle. The top three scenic roads for experiencing the spectacular colors include Maroon Creek Road, Castle Creek Road and Independence Pass. Additional scenic drives can be found here.
By water: Kayak the Roaring Fork and Colorado River with the Aspen Kayak and SUP Academy team. Alternatively, visitors are able to take in the autumn hues at a slower pace and get an incredible core workout with stand-up paddle boarding on the serene North Star Nature Preserve near town.
By air: Aspen Paragliding provides professional tandem instruction on paragliding adventures. Take in an aerial view of Aspen’s fall foliage and experience an adrenaline rush!
By appetite: Along with the stunning fall scenery, autumn brings discounts galore in Aspen, including specials at restaurants around town. Check out fall dining discounts and dine al fresco to enjoy the fall surroundings in the heart of downtown.
By gondola: Take a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain to experience the Aspen’s fall foliage from a bird’s eye view. If you prefer more of a work out, hike to the top of Ajax; you can always take the gondola back down for free. The Silver Queen Gondola runs on weekends through September 28 from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
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