August is a sweet-spot for visitors seeking a summer experience in Aspen, when the peak-season attractions are still open but the crowds begin to wane as schools head back in session. We've outlined some of the top experiences in Aspen this August. Read on for inspiration, and book your Aspen vacation rental today!
WATCH THIS VIDEO to get inspired and see why August in Aspen is so great! We show you the sights and sounds of the high country during late summer.
Hike in Aspen's High Country
August is a great time to access Aspen's high-alpine hikes. Even after big winters, the high-alpine snow has melted and river crossings are lower. Hopefully your summer fitness regimen has prepared you to tackle some of Aspen's bucket-list hikes, whether it's the Lost Man Loop or a Fourteener (a peak higher than 14,000 feet). See our Aspen hiking guide for more ideas.
Enjoy Aspen's Art Scene
While Aspen's art scene is happening year-round, the art world descends upon our destination during summer months. Two big events bring top artists as well as collectors and curators to town in August:
- July 31 - Aug. 4, 2022 | Intersect Aspen (formerly Art Aspen) is an annual art and cultural event with both public and invite-only events for top curators.
- Aug. 1 - 5, 2022 | Aspen ArtWeek includes three days of performances, talks, and celebrations of art, culminating in the annual Artcrush summer gala, a fundraiser for Aspen Art Museum on Aug. 5, 2022.
If you don't catch one of these splashy galas, Aspen's art galleries are always open and welcoming. We recommend popping into any of the galleries that around town; many of our guests enjoy this as an afternoon activity.
Ride Classic Road-Biking Routes
Aspen road-biking is world-renowned with the best cyclists flocking to our mountains to train and live. Aspen classic road rides offer excellent paved surfaces, stunning scenery and low traffic, especially the roads to Ashcroft and the Maroon Bells. For more information, read about our top four iconic Aspen road biking rides here.
Downhill Mountain Bike at Snowmass
Snowmass Bike Park goes off in August, and the lift-accessed downhill course has 3,000 vertical feet of trails for every level. Rent equipment and sign up for clinics at the base of Elk Camp. Tuesday nights (through Aug. 9, 2022) the downhill course is open late so bikers can take advantage of the Roaring Fork Valley’s summer weather and late sunsets.
Eat Colorado Fresh!
Some of the state's best produce peaks in August, including famous Palisade peaches, Olathe corn, and more. Visit the Aspen Saturday Market to enjoy our local bounty. Use your well-stocked vacation rental kitchen to whip up a home-cooked feast!
Enjoy locally sourced, a la carte dinner offerings at Sunset Tuesdays at Elk Camp (through Aug. 9, 2022). Ride the gondola for free up to Elk Camp and enjoy great food, plenty of outdoor family activities, and live music. Work up your appetite before dinner by spending time at the Snowmass Bike Park during Bike Park Nights.
If you are inspired to visit Aspen this August, book your vacation rental today. Start by searching our live inventory online or request some options from our Aspen-based reservations specialists.