by Tamara Iannello

Created on: June 22, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

While best known as a top notch skiing and snowboarding haven, Aspen, Colorado, has much to offer once the snow melts. The scenic mountain landscape and temperate climate, with summer highs averaging in the 70's, create the perfect environment to enjoy a myriad of summer activities.

Adventure sports abound in the Aspen region. From hiking and mountain biking, kayaking and whitewater rafting, to mountain climbing and paragliding, Aspen offers the best in extreme sports. There are numerous outfitters in Aspen that rent gear and offer guided tours for all experience levels.

There are three golf courses in the area, the Aspen Golf Club, the Snowmass Golf Club, and the four star River Valley Golf Club. There's also a public tennis court, as well as courts at numerous resorts, that offer lessons if needed. Many of the resorts in Aspen have swimming pools, or you can swim in Sylvan Lake though the water may be slightly chilly.
Sightseeing in Aspen and the surrounding area is exceptional. The picturesque landscape of the Rocky Mountains is a nature lover's paradise. The town itself has a Victorian atmosphere, with many restored homes and historic landmarks. Ashcroft and Independence are restored ghost towns that highlight the area's mining history, and are only a short drive away.

Glenwood Adventure Park, a 45 minute drive from Aspen, offers thrill rides, a climbing wall, and a kids mining adventure. There's also a gondola ride up Iron Mountain, with a scenic mountain top restaurant. Enjoy a guided tour through the Glenwood Caverns and Fairy caves. There are three different tours available, each varying in intensity.

There are plenty of educational and cultural festivities happening during the warm months in Aspen. The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, right in town, offers an ideal introduction to the Rocky Mountain environment. There are many hands-on natural science programs for children and adults alike. Enjoy the Jazz Festival in June, offering free concerts downtown. The Aspen Arts Festival, held in July, is a fabulous showcase of paintings, sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. The Aspen Filmfest, which celebrates independent films and filmmakers, takes place in September. There are also many museums and art galleries in town, as well as plenty of boutiques and stores for quality shopping.

There truly is something for everyone in Aspen. Whatever type of activity you desire from the extreme to the serene can be found here.

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