Aspen, CO Parks

The entire town of Aspen is so blessed with rich scenery and spectacular mountains that Aspen itself should be designated as a park. Although this is not formally the case, park lovers will be delighted by the area's full selection of parks, providing a wide range of outdoor activities.

The Maroon Bells. A must-see for every Aspen visitor is one of the nation's most photographed mountain peaks, the famed Maroon Bells. Located in White River National Forest in the Snowmass Wilderness area, the Maroon Bells offer opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing, camping, sightseeing, photography, backpacking, picnicking, biking and nature study. The park comprises 181,117 acres, with an elevation ranging between 7,500 feet on the valley floor, to 14,265 feet at the summit of the highest peak. Crater Lake Tail, 1.8 miles long, is one of the area's best hiking opportunities. It begins at Maroon Lake, and winds through aspen and pine, finally dropping down to Crater Lake at the foot of Maroon Bells.

City Parks. The City of Aspen Parks & Recreation Department maintains a wide range of public parks and facilities, including parks, athletic fields, pedestrian and bicycle trails, Nordic cross-country skiing trails, the downtown pedestrian mall, open space and recreation facilities. There are 28 public parks, with a wide range of amenities including BBQ grills, benches, picnic tables, playgrounds, trails, historic sites, outdoor sculptures, and gazebos. There are athletic areas, including a golf course, clay tennis courts, kayaking sites, a batting cage, volleyball, basketball and soccer facilities, and ice skating.

Rio Grande Skate Park. Open since 2001, this fairly new skate park automatically joined the ranks among North America's premiere skate destinations. The park offers features for all skill levels, as well as lessons and the nearby Othello Skate Shop. Features include: a clover bowl, pool structure with round side bowls and a square 9-foot-deep vertical bowl, a square bowl with a spine and a tear drop, an escalator, and a second spine connecting to a pee-wee bowl.

Rio Grande Trail. This 7.5-mile trail, with both paved and dirt sections, is a great place to hike, jog, walk, bicycle and cross-country ski. Traversing the terrain from Aspen to Woody Creek, the Rio Grande Trail is known for its nice mountain views and scenic river vistas.

Independence Pass. While not an outright park, Independence Pass offers a great scenic opportunity, as well as a beautiful drive from Aspen, winding through pines, past cliffs and streams, and past the Independence Ghost Town. At a height of 12,095 feet, this is one of North America's highest paved roads. The driving drama builds all the way to the top, with numerous hairpin turns and commanding views of the land below. At the top, there are breathtaking views, perfect for photo opportunities, as well as a sign marking the Continental Divide. There is parking at the Pass, as well as a handicap accessible paved hiking trail for exploration and more views.

Offering unparalleled scenic views and numerous recreational opportunities, Aspen is a park-lover's paradise. No matter what time of year you visit, be assured that the area has plenty of opportunities for outdoor enjoyment! So don't forget your camera, because you will want to document the most beautiful sights you've ever seen, and all the memories you have made, in Aspen's many parks!