Aspen's abundance of warm-weather pursuits pique nearly every passion, from extreme outdoor adventure to world class cultural pursuits, from Colorado's best fly fishing, to indulgent spa offerings. Whether experiencing the rapids of the Roaring Fork River (running directly through the center of Aspen), to scaling the rock walls up Independence Pass, or biking on picturesque trails, there is an activity for everyone to savor Aspen's stunning mountain scenery and experience "the good life."

Autumn is one of the finest times to experience the splendour of the mountains. And Aspen, as a world-class year-round destination, elevates autumn far beyond mere leaf-peeping with a whole host of festivals, cultural events, outdoor activities, accommodation specials and dining deals that make it the perfect choice for a Mountain getaway.

Like summer, autumn is filled with blue skies and warm days perfect for hikes and bike rides, raft trips and paragliding adventures, and even lazy mornings perusing the ever-expanding Saturday Market. And because autumn in Aspen is still a bit of a secret, favourite trails and stretches of river are even less populated than summer. For those looking for a slightly less adventurous escape, sunset alfresco dining with brilliant autumn foliage backdrops abound at dozens of restaurants on Aspen’s walking malls and famed Restaurant Row. Or gallery-hop at the nearly 40 galleries that call the downtown core home.  And Aspen’s shopping scene becomes even more accessible with shoulder-season deals that capture the imaginations of even the most discerning shopper.

The spectacular gold hues of aspen trees in and surrounding the town are one of autumn’s greatest draws. Explore the colours on two wheels with a road bike up to the Maroon Bells or an adrenaline-pumping mountain bike ride on one of the dozens of mountain biking trails designed for beginners to advanced; by car with a trek up and over 12,096-foot Independence Pass; by air with a hot air balloon ride or paragliding off the summit of Aspen Mountain; and by water while stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking along the Roaring Fork River.

Prices in autumn are considerably more reasonable than summer, with hotel options ranging from $89(approximately £57)  in one of Aspen’s more affordable lodges; two-bedroom suites (that sleeps up to six) starting at $329(approximately £210) ; up to more luxurious rooms in Aspen’s premier hotels. To reserve a room, visit Stay Aspen Snowmass, Aspen’s central reservations agency.

Below are 10 exceptional ways to experience Aspen in all its vibrant autumn glory:

1. Sneak Peek. A feast of film and autumn colour for film lovers of all ages, Aspen Film’s centerpiece event takes place Sept. 26 - Oct. 1. Filmfest presents filmmaking at its finest with an emphasis on independent productions from around the world in a uniquely intimate scale. Screenings include new releases, acclaimed documentaries, and favourites from the festival circuit. Special programmes include tributes to distinguished artists, with past honourees including Anton Yelchin, Julie Christie, Harrison Ford, Rob Reiner, Sydney Pollack, Bob Rafelson, Michael Douglas, Anjelica Huston and William H. Macy. (www.aspenfilm.org; 970.925.6882)

2. Cycle City. Aspen is a biking town. From meandering riverside trails and serene road riding up to the Maroon Bells (one of the world’s most photographed peaks) to some of the region’s most extreme mountain biking, Aspen has an adventure for every level or rider. Aspen’s bike shops can provide local knowledge, equipment and guided tours. (www.blazingadventures.com; 970-923-4544; www.utecitycycles.com; 970.920.3325).

3. Aspen by Air. Autumn colours will never look the same after paragliding over the town of Aspen. Aspen Expeditions’ tandem guides take you to the top of Aspen Mountain to take flight and enjoy the adrenaline rush. (www.aspenparagliding.com; 970.925.6975). Or experience the peace and serenity of a sunrise hot air balloon ride, followed by a celebratory champagne toast upon your descent with Above it All Balloon Company.
(www.aboveitallballoon.com; 970.963.6148)

4. Natural-ly Aspen. Visit the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) on the Hallam Lake Reserve. Take in the autumn hues with the family while learning more about the native trees, birds, and animals that thrive in the high-alpine environment. ACES also hosts affordable private guided hikes. (www.aspennature.org; 970.925.5756)

5. Race to the Finish. Named by Trail Runner as one of “America’s 14 most scenic races”, the Vasque Golden Leaf Half Marathon on Sept. 21 is a race like no other. It gains 970 feet in elevation on a narrow, winding single-track before peaking out at 9,400 feet above sea level. (www.goldenleafrace.com; (970.925.2849)

6. Reach the Peak. Favourite autumn hikes in Aspen include Grizzly Peak, Cathedral Lake, American Lake and the Hunter Creek Trail. If feeling ambitious, take a guided trek up one of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks. For gear, maps and guides visit the Ute Mountaineer or Aspen Expeditions. (www.utemountaineer.com; 970.925.2849; www.aspenexpeditions.com; 970.925.7625)

7. More Cheese, Please. The third annual Mac and Cheese Festival returns to Aspen’s famed “Restaurant Row” on Saturday, Sept. 7. The local competition serves up melt-in-your-mouth samples from top Aspen and Roaring Fork Valley restaurants. Last year’s competition served up samples with variations of duck confit, lobster, pork belly, truffle and more. (Aspen Mac and Cheese Fest, 970.429.2078)

8. Rugby Rumble. Hard hitting rugby players square off each autumn in Aspen competing in the annual Rugger Fest. The full-contact championship match features teams from around the country.  This year Rugger Fest celebrates its 46th year with the competition set for September 12-15. (aspenrugby.com; 970.948.0141)

9. Refresh. Running June 15 until October 12, the Aspen Saturday Market offers a bounty of Colorado’s produce, meats, artisan items and wares, as well as live entertainment and fun for the family. (Aspen Farmer’s Market; 970.429.2687)

10. Get Out There. Enjoy the autumn hues and views on the Roaring Fork and Colorado River with the Aspen Kayak Academy team. This family fun activity is available to participants ages 12 and up that are able to swim. Try the alternative and get an incredible core workout with stand up paddling. (www.aspenkayakacademy.com; 970.925.4433)

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ABOUT ASPEN

Aspen's abundance of warm-weather pursuits pique nearly every passion, from extreme outdoor adventure to world class cultural pursuits, from Colorado's best fly fishing, to indulgent spa offerings. Whether experiencing the rapids of the Roaring Fork River (running directly through the center of Aspen), to scaling the rock walls up Independence Pass, or biking on picturesque trails, there is an activity for everyone to savor Aspen's stunning mountain scenery and experience "the good life."

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For further information please contact:
Charlotte Fraser
Tel: 44 (0)7930 370175
Email: charlotte@pilot-pr.com