Estes Park - Aspen

Question

I am late to planning a trip the week of July 4th (up to 9 full days including travel time), so not even sure I can find hotels. That said, thinking of spending a few days in Estes Park and then a few days in Aspen. My family and I love to hike and are not afraid of hikes that can take all day and/or any other fun outdoor adventure. Before I start digging in on plans, looking for any advice for these two destinations. I realize this is a forum for Estes Park, so I will also be placing a question about Aspen in that forum as well but would love any comments and advice in both forums. Things like: Places to stay, hikes to do, how many days at each location? Does this combination make sense in terms of splitting our time, etc.

Thanks in advance and happy new year. Stacey

Answer

Visiting Estes Park and Aspen in a 9-day summer trip can be an incredible experience, especially for a family that loves hiking and outdoor adventure. Both destinations offer world-class scenery, trails, and activities, but the experience and pace differ, so planning your days carefully is key.

Estes Park / Rocky Mountain National Park:

Number of days: 3–4 days is ideal for hiking and exploring the park without feeling rushed. This allows for short hikes, full-day excursions, wildlife viewing, and some relaxed time in Estes Park itself.
Accommodation: Lodges, cabins, or vacation rentals in Estes Park are popular in early July, so book ASAP. Options with kitchens and easy access to the park can enhance convenience for a family.
Hikes & Outdoor Activities:
- Bear Lake Loop – easy, scenic introduction to RMNP.
- Emerald Lake Trail – moderate, full-day option if combined with other lakes like Dream Lake.
- Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge – challenging full-day hike with stunning alpine views.
- Trail Ridge Road – scenic drive with short hikes and lookout points.
- Optional activities: horseback riding, paddleboarding at Lake Estes, or wildlife tours.

Travel to Aspen:

Driving from Estes Park to Aspen is approximately 6–7 hours. You can break the drive with a stop in Vail or Glenwood Springs for a meal and short hike or hot springs visit.
Alternatively, if you want to minimize driving, consider flying into Denver, renting a car, and arranging the trip in Estes Park first, then drive to Aspen.

Aspen / Maroon Bells area:

Number of days: 3–4 days is reasonable, balancing long hikes with exploration of Aspen town.
Accommodation: Aspen hotels are expensive in July; consider vacation rentals, condos, or nearby towns like Snowmass for more space and potentially better rates.
Hikes & Outdoor Activities:
- Maroon Bells Scenic Area – moderate to strenuous hikes, including Crater Lake or Maroon Lake Scenic Trail.
- Hunter Creek or Smuggler Mountain – easier, local hikes with great views of Aspen.
- High-altitude hikes in the Elk Mountains – adventurous families can enjoy full-day alpine trails.
- Other outdoor activities: rafting on the Roaring Fork River, mountain biking, or scenic gondola rides in Snowmass.

Trip pacing & combination:

3–4 days in Estes Park + 3–4 days in Aspen + 1–2 travel/transition days fits well into a 9-day itinerary.
Keep in mind the long drive between Estes Park and Aspen; plan a relaxed day or stop mid-way to avoid overexertion after full-day hikes.
Both destinations complement each other: Estes Park offers rugged, classic Rocky Mountain scenery, while Aspen provides high-altitude alpine landscapes, luxury town amenities, and slightly more challenging trails.

Overall, this combination is excellent for an active family. Book accommodations as soon as possible due to July 4th week demand, plan your hiking days with a mix of moderate and full-day options, and allow buffer time for driving and recovery between destinations.

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