Pass on Aspen: A Family Trip to Colorado is Best Spent on the Road
As you begin to plan your family’s next great adventure, look no further than the sun-drenched peaks and crisp mountain air of Colorado. Renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, a trip through the Rocky Mountains is a journey that will captivate the hearts of young and old alike. One of the state’s most iconic destinations is Aspen, but the true magic of Colorado can best be experienced on the road – passing through Aspen and beyond.
A drive through Colorado is a feast for the senses. The roads wind through expanses of wilderness, over mountain passes, and alongside rivers teeming with life. Start your trip with a stop in Denver to acclimate and explore the vibrant capital city. Then, set out towards Aspen on I-70, heading into the mountains where adventure awaits.
Aspen itself is famed for its world-class ski resorts, luxury boutiques, and artsy vibe, but what makes Aspen such a perfect pivot point for family fun is its location amidst some of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes. Maroon Bells, just a short drive from downtown Aspen, offers hiking trails that are perfect for families looking to explore alpine lakes and meadows filled with wildflowers.
From there, venture out along Independence Pass – but only when it’s open in summer months – which will lead you through one of the highest paved roads in America. This journey provides breathtaking views of the Rockies and an unmatched sense of wonder at each turn.
Traveling further from Aspen can take your family to numerous other attractions within a reasonable driving radius. Venture into the Roaring Fork Valley where activities like rafting on Roaring Fork River can make for an exhilarating day out. Journey to Glenwood Springs to relax in therapeutic hot springs or fly down the mountain coaster.
As you wrap around mountain curves spilling into new valleys, undecided between dipping into yet another charming town or continuing on to find what views lay beyond the next pass, it becomes clear that in Colorado—the journey really is as delightful as any destination could possibly be.
A road trip through Colorado epitomizes what family trips are all about: discovery, connection, and shared experiences wrapped up in the grandeur of nature’s best backdrops. So as you mull over your holiday options this year—pass on simply staying in Aspen—and set off onto the open roads of Colorado for an unforgettable family experience.