Sightseeing In and Around Snowmass

Visiting Snowmass? Check Out These Iconic Sights Nearby

Looking to head out and take in some of the sights and attractions that make this region famous? Snowmass offers a convenient home base to explore everything from exquisite mountain vistas on the Continental Divide to historic ghost towns tucked up high into the mountains. Just ten miles from Aspen, Snowmass is centrally located for exploring the entire Roaring Fork Valley. Each historic town along this scenic corridor has a unique flavor and plenty of sights to explore in its own right, from hot springs to historic downtowns.

Maroon Bells

Renowned as one of the most photographed places in America, the Maroon Bells is a sight-seeing must-do when visiting Snowmass. Located about 16 miles from Snowmass up Maroon Creek Road, there are a few different ways to get up to Maroon Lake, where visitors can snap photos of the famous mountain-lake reflection, check out an interpretive center, stroll around the lake, or set out on a longer hike up to places like Crater Lake. Visitors looking for information on accessing the Maroon Bells can get more information here.

The Maroon Bells Guided Bus Tours started in 1977 after it was recognized that the beautiful roadside wildflowers were dying and that the overhanging Aspen trees were being choked to death. It was then that the problems of automobile air pollution, inconsiderate drivers, and very fragile high altitude mountain terrain had to be addressed. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority worked with the National Forest Service to prevent the complete closure of the road to the Maroon Bells. To this end, a bus service was initiated during the peak hours and months. Since the bus shuttles have been in use, the trees and flowers have substantially recovered from the damage the heavy car traffic created, and the valley is therefore still available for recreational use. We thank you for your cooperation.

Scenic Gondola Rides

Aspen Snowmass offers not one, but two scenic gondola rides up to spectacular mountaintop destinations with activities for the whole family, places to grab a snack, and breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Elk Mountains. In Aspen, the Silver Queen Gondola whisks riders up to 11,200 feet. In Snowmass, the Elk Camp Gondola and then a chairlift ride tops out at 11,325 feet with a different stunning perspective on the surrounding mountains. On-mountain activities in both locations range from biking and hiking trails to disc golf, paintball, an alpine coaster, climbing walls, restaurants, and more.

Independence Pass

Part of the Top of the Rockies Colorado Scenic Byway, this summer drive up to the Continental Divide is well worth the slightly harrowing, windy, and narrow road. Follow signs for Hwy 82 through Aspen and you'll pass several great pull-outs along the way, including The Grottos Ice Caves, the Devil's Punch Bowl, and Independence Ghost Town before you climb above tree line to what feels like the top of the world. Continue down the other side, and you'll hit picturesque Twin Lakes and eventually the historic town of Leadville.

Ashcroft Ghost Town

Approximately 15 miles from Snowmass is Ashcroft Ghost Town. From Snowmass, head towards Aspen on Hwy 82 and at the roundabout, take Castle Creek Road. This scenic road will lead you directly to Ashcroft, where you can stop and take the interpretive self-guided walking tour. Continue following the road, and you'll end up at the Pine Creek Cookhouse, an excellent restaurant stop for lunch.

Aspen

From its renowned shopping and dining scene to a gondola ride up to the top of Aspen Mountain, to its famous Saturday market and cultural activities like history and art museums, Aspen is a renowned Colorado town that's well worth the visit.

Basalt

Located approximately 16 miles down Hwy 82 from Snowmass, historic downtown Basalt offers a quaint main street with local shops and restaurants. With a Sunday farmers market, the town also serves as a gateway to a vast network of outdoor recreation opportunities including fly fishing, boating, and hiking up the Frying Pan River to Ruedi Reservoir, and beyond.

Carbondale

Twenty-seven miles from Snowmass is Carbondale, a star in its own right. From its cool local arts flavor to its charming historic downtown with its world-class dining scene, Carbondale is also a great jumping off point for outdoor recreation. Don't miss each month's First Friday celebration when the whole town turns out for evening festivities and gallery openings.

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is approximately an hour from Snowmass on Highway 82 and home to a vast array of activities. It has the largest man-made hot springs in the world, natural cave tours, an adventure park, and a historic downtown district.