With summer warming up the Roaring Fork Valley and melting the snow, the hiking trails are becoming clear and ready for a busy hiking season. Aspen is the hotspot for outdoor activities followed by luxurious amenities. Where else can you go hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and adventuring all day to be met by fine dining by some of the best chefs and nightlife in the evening? There are so many reasons to explore Aspen, and that is just what I've been doing. I decided to jump right into the Ute Trail this morning because the whole town was "suffering" from an internet outage. I wasn't alone in my pursuit of a scenic workout as the trail was being well travelled and taken care of by locals as well as some out of town visitors.
This trail is easy to get to, simply turn onto Ute Ave from Original St and walk about .4 miles and there is a small parking area and trailhead on your right. Ute trail is a fitness challenge as 1,000 ft elevation is ascended in a mile. The trail is rocky and steep, considered difficult by all of the hiking books and AllTrails App, and should not be used when icy or snowy. The trail conditions were perfect for me and my hike to Ute Rock and back took about 2-2.5 hours to complete and you can most likely expect the same depending on how many breaks you take or how long you decide to SWING at the top of the trail.
Oh yes, there is a swing to greet and tempt you at the top of the trail. Swing at your own risk as the rope is slightly fraying... I definitely had my fun with it and enjoyed the incredible views from Ute Rock. There is plenty of room to get your instagram moment at the top of this hike and relax before heading back down to the parking lot or downtown area.
You can continue from the Ute Rock area up Aspen Mountain if you are feeling especially adventurous. From the top of the trail on Aspen Mountain, you can walk over to the Silver Queen Gondola and take a ride down as long as the gondola is running. The distance from the Gondola base to the trailhead is about a 10 minute walk so the gondola ride can save you some time and energy if you are feeling exhausted and spent after your ascent. No judgements here. In fact, pro local tip-ride the red gondola and connect your music via bluetooth from your phone and jam out to celebrate a hike well done.
I'll be here all Summer.
xo Kasey
