Aspen Snowmass is world-famous for its snow-capped peaks, exhilarating ski slopes, and cozy yet dreamy apres moments; but the locals will tell you, September has a magic all its own. The summer rush winds down, crowds thin out, restaurant reservations suddenly open up, and the energy of downtown softens into something calmer and more peaceful. It’s the sweet spot between the buzz of summer and the excitement of an impending ski season, and it might be the most underrated time to visit.
In September, the mountains transform. Leaves change into a bright golden hue, the mountain air turns crisp, and the mild temperatures are perfect for venturing outdoors. Whether you are exploring downtown, heading out for a beautiful fall hike, or going for a scenic gondola ride, the golden fall landscapes in Aspen Snowmass make every moment unforgettable.
Check out some of our favorite ways to spend a beautiful September day in Aspen Snowmass:
Leaf Peeping
Aspen’s namesake trees put on their best show in September, as mountainsides shift their color from summer greens into deep yellows and golds. Cool crisp mountain air makes for invigorating fall hikes and eye-catching drives, while bluebird skies share warmth yet hint of the upcoming shift in weather.
Leaf peeping is a favorite activity for visitors and locals alike, with peak season running from late September to early October. Head out on foot, bike, or take a long drive to check out some awe-inspiring fall beauty. Popular spots around the area include the Maroon Bells area, Independence Pass, and Ashcroft/Castle Creek Valley.
Lost Forest
Open on weekends through September, the Lost Forest in Snowmass combines a series of unique challenges for guests. Hidden in the mountainous terrain around Elk Camp, you’ll find zip lines, biking trails, ropes challenges, climbing walls, and the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster!
If you are looking for a more low-key experience while taking in the beautiful autumn scenery, enjoy miles of hiking trails, a disc golf course, and even a high-alpine fishing pond.
Hiking
One of the best ways to experience Aspen’s eye-catching fall foliage is by trekking through the glowing golden mountainside on foot. Curious leaf peepers can take in the brisk alpine air and stunning autumn skies while hiking one of the many trails that Aspen Snowmass has to offer. Smaller crowds and cooler weather make for a truly incredible outdoor hiking experience that is sure to make an impression.
Biking
Mountain biking in Aspen is a favorite pastime, and exploring the hundreds of miles of trails in September adds another layer of beauty. The undulating terrain of Aspen Snowmass was made for mountain biking, and the Roaring Fork region has hundreds of miles of trails. You will find turn after turn of breathtaking scenery of forests that are a mosaic of yellows, oranges, and reds.
Singletrack trails like the Tom Blake Trail offer a bit of a climb as well as a beautiful ride through golden aspen groves and open ridgelines. If climbing isn’t your thing, the Snowmass Bike Park offers nearly 3,000 feet of downhill terrain. Cruise downhill on swooping trails with amazing features like berms, tabletops, obstacles, and drops, all set in stunning fall alpine scenery that’s difficult to match.
Fly Fishing
With the upcoming winter weather, the rainbow and brown trout are very active on the waters of the Roaring Fork and Fryingpan Rivers. Fishing in September is a treat, and the crowds are generally much smaller than in the busy summer months. Stop by one of the local fly fishing shops for tips on fishing these waters, or to hire one of the local guides to customize a fishing trip.
Aspen Saturday Market
From early September to early October, the Aspen Saturday Market is open from 9:00AM to 2:00PM. The market offers Colorado-grown fruits, vegetables, bread, meats, jams, crafts, live music, and even a food truck for lunch or a snack! Peruse the market while shopping for unique gifts or fresh fall fruits and veggies.
Snowmass Balloon Festival
A beloved Rocky Mountain tradition, the three-day Snowmass Balloon Festival features 30+ hot air balloons launching into the picturesque skies above Snowmass Village. Watch the skies fill with the colorful sight of hot air balloons as pilots lift off for high-altitude adventures! The sight of dozens of balloons drifting over the treetops is pure mountain magic, particularly in September when those trees are glowing with the amber of autumn.
Soaring Panoramic Views Via Gondola
One of our favorite ways to soak up September in Aspen Snowmass is from the top of the mountains. During ski season, gondolas take skiers and riders to the top of the slopes; but in the fall, they become a way to enjoy the sweeping views of the glowing mountainside. Both the Silver Queen and Elk Camp Gondola offer a front seat to the season’s vibrant colors, plus there’s the opportunity to continue to enjoy the views through some amazing on-mountain dining.
Fall Dining
Off-season dining is still remarkable in the Aspen Snowmass area, with several restaurants and attractions open until October. Popular choices include Ajax Tavern which offers casual fare and a lively outdoor deck, or Pine Creek Cookhouse with its stunning mountain scenery and fine mountain cuisine. Menus in the area typically incorporate more seasonal ingredients and dishes making for a truly autumn-inspired experience.
Aspen Snowmass in September
There’s really no bad time to visit Aspen Snowmass, but September has a magic all its own. The air turns crisp, the mountainsides glow in shades of gold, and the slower pace of the season makes it easy to soak it in. With fewer crowds and plenty of things to do, autumn is the perfect time to enjoy Aspen Snowmass just like a local.
At Alpine Property, we love helping guests find the perfect vacation rental. Whether you are dreaming of ski-in/ski-out access for winter, a cozy fireplace for chilly evenings, or a private hot tub with mountain views, our rentals deliver both comfort and style. From spacious homes perfect for families to cozy retreats for two, we have properties to fit every kind of stay.
Browse our rentals in Aspen and Snowmass to find your perfect home away from home. When you are ready to book a stay with us, call 1-866-209-1540.
