When the alpine air grows crisp, you know that Aspen in August is right around the corner. Aspen, Colorado, is well-known as a beautiful fall destination. However, August is the perfect time of year to visit. Right on the cusp between summer and fall, visitors can enjoy fall outdoor activities in the temperate summer weather.
What is the Weather Like in Aspen, Colorado in August?
Aspen in August offers a perfect mix of alpine sunshine and crisp mountain air, making it ideal for outdoor adventure and upscale leisure. With daytime highs averaging 68–72°F and cool evenings dipping to 40–44°F, visitors can enjoy everything from hiking and patio dining to art festivals and spa escapes. Expect light rainfall and moderate cloud cover, with just about an inch of total precipitation throughout the month — enough to keep the Roaring Fork Valley lush without disrupting your plans.
What are the Best Things to Do in Aspen in August?
- Enjoy a Luxury Picnic
- Play a Round of Golf
- Horseback Riding in the Aspen Area
- Attend the Aspen Music Festival
- Enjoy the Nightlife
- Go on a Hike to See Breathtaking Landscapes
- Go Fly Fishing
- Bike the Rio Grande Trail
- Relax in a Luxury Hotel with a Spa
- Rafting on the Roaring Fork River
- Jeep Tours Around the Roaring Fork Valley
- Luxury Shopping
- Rooftop Deck Parties
- Gondola Ride to the Top of the Mountain
- Outdoor Yoga with a View
Read on for a closer look at each experience and how Aspen Luxury Concierge can elevate your summer stay.
1. Enjoy a Luxury Picnic
There is no better way to enjoy Aspen’s natural beauty than with a picnic. Why waste a beautiful day when you can dine in the fresh air with a view of the mountains? A luxury picnic can be customized to your aesthetic, desires, and dietary requirements.
An Aspen picnic is one of the services offered by Aspen Luxury Concierge. When you book an outdoor dining experience, your concierge will:
- Pick up locally sourced dishes from the Aspen Saturday Market
- Pack the picnic or arrange for catering
- Set up furniture, seating, and shade
- Obtain permits and reserve space if needed
- Arrange transportation to the outdoor venue
- Recommend a suitable picnic location
- Personally shop for any necessary hiking gear
- And more!
If the Aspen weather in August decides not to cooperate, there’s always a backup plan! Aspen has some of the best restaurants in the world, including several Michelin starred and reccomended establishments. It is common for such eateries to host exclusive events with specialty menu options. Please refer to this guide for a full overview of the best restaurants in Aspen. Alternatively, your concierge can hire a personal chef for intimate dining or coordinate a takeout order.
2. Play a Round of Golf
Unique among mountain towns, Aspen is home to several full-sized, award-winning golf courses. The largest public course is The Aspen Golf Course, which was designed by renowned golf course architect Frank Hummel. Both visitors and locals enjoy the challenge of undulating greens and water elements, and you may even spot a moose out on the course! Maroon Creek Club is one of the most well-known golf courses in Aspen; if the name sounds familiar, that’s because the private club attracts high-profile professional golfers and celebrity visitors.
Whether you’re a novice or a pro, you’ll love the local golf scene. And if traditional golfing isn’t your thing, Aspen also has plenty of disc golfing areas, including one at the top of Aspen mountain.
3. Horseback Riding in the Aspen Area
Horseback riding is one of the best things to do in Aspen in August for families. It is an all-ages activity that lets everyone see the majestic sights without the strenuousness of a hike. Children will love spending time with the gentle giants. Horseback riding can also be a romantic date activity for partners who need some quality time together.
Aspen, Colorado, is home to several ranches and horseback tour services. Offerings range from short lesson rides, half day tours, and full day tours. The Aspen weather in August is ideal for longer horseback riding tours. Additionally, leaf peeping season doesn’t begin until September, so August visitors will get relatively less crowded trails.
4. Attend the Aspen Music Festival
The annual Aspen Music Festival is a must-attend for anyone who loves classical live music. The festivities begin in late-June and run through mid-August.
There are over 400 performances put on by AMFS faculty, alums, current students, and summer program students. While the compositions change year to year, you can expect to hear:
- Choral and acapella performances
- Orchestral arrangements
- Soloist performances, both vocal and instrumental
- Chamber music concerts
- Operas
- Master class lectures
- Children’s music classes
- And more!
While the main festivities take place in covered, outdoor venues, the music permeates every corner of Aspen. Restaurants, bars, and hotels will host intimate, exclusive performances each night. The music festival is the biggest event in Aspen in August. Tickets for the Aspen Music Festival can go fast, so contact Aspen Luxury Concierge to get yours!
5. Enjoy the Nightlife
You may not expect a small mountain town to have a vibrant club scene, but Aspen has it all! The Aspen nightlife is often compared to New York, L.A., and Miami. In fact, many venues are at-altitude outposts of well-known clubs in other cities. But in true Aspen fashion, the venues here take partying to a whole new level. You can expect clubs to have a dress code to maintain the atmosphere. All the major nightclubs also offer signature handcrafted cocktails that exemplify their role in Aspen.
If you’re ready to unwind, here are your options for party venues:
- Escobar – EDM dance club
- The Sterling – Party lounge
- Gala – Miami-like nightclub
- Belly Up – Concert venue
- Bad Harriet – Swanky speakeasy
- Silver City – Down-to-earth billiards bar and western saloon
- Hooch – Cozy vibes with an extensive cocktail menu
- Caribou Club – Exclusive private club with members-only events
Some clubs have VIP areas or may be rented out for a celebrity’s exclusive event. If you want to access the high-end side of nightlife, that may take some string-pulling. It’s a good thing that Aspen Luxury Concierge is well-connected. Simply plan your trip with ALC to experience the finest things that Aspen has to offer.
6. Hike the Maroon Bells
In August, the Maroon Bells offer some of the most spectacular hiking in the Rockies — wildflower-filled meadows, crystal-clear alpine lakes, and crisp mountain air at its best. This is the perfect time to visit, with dry trails, thinner crowds than peak July, and comfortable daytime temps ideal for exploring.
The Maroon Bells Scenic Area, just 10 miles from downtown Aspen, features a variety of hiking routes surrounded by dramatic, photo-famous peaks. The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is an easy 1-mile loop great for relaxed morning walks with unbeatable sunrise views. For more adventure, the Crater Lake Trail (3.6 miles roundtrip) winds through aspen groves to a secluded alpine lake beneath the twin peaks.
Pro tip: Advance reservations are required for Maroon Bells access in summer months, whether by shuttle or private car. For a luxurious touch, some visitors book a private hiking guide or sunrise picnic through their hotel concierge.
7. Go Fly Fishing
Amid Aspen’s other natural gems, the streams and rivers have some of the best fly fishing in the world. Like hiking, it can be a year-round activity in certain areas. Aspen, Colorado, in August is an ideal time to learn or perfect your cast. Since August is right on the cusp of fall and summer, anglers can take advantage of the overlapping hatching season.
If you’re in the mood to clear your mind, Aspen fly fishing is the perfect sport for you. The best way to have a good experience is to get a fishing guide. They can help you with your fly selection, your technique, and finding the perfect spot. Contact Aspen Luxury Concierge to book an inclusive fly-fishing vacation package.
8. Bike the Rio Grande Trail
The Rio Grande Trail is a paved 42.2 mile bike path that runs between Glenwood Springs and Aspen.
There are a few different ways that visitors can tackle this trail:
- The Challenging Way: Start in Glenwood Springs and ride uphill to Aspen. It is a net gain of 2,732 feet and usually takes several hours.
- The Fun Way: Start in Aspen and ride downhill to Glenwood Springs, then take the shuttle back to Aspen. This is a less strenuous option that allows you to enjoy the scenery.
- The Family Friendly Way: Do a small section of the trail, then stop for lunch. The RFTA public transportation bus runs between Aspen and Glenwood Springs; it can drop you off at different points along the trail.
- The Combo Way: Start in either Aspen or Glenwood Springs, then do an out-and-back ride. This way, you get a workout in and you have a breather while enjoying the views.
If mountain biking is more your speed, check out the Snowmass Bike Park. Located at the top of the Elk Camp Chairlift, this area covers 25 miles and 3,000 vertical feet of bike trails. Both the trail and bike park can get busy, so it’s best to visit Aspen in August to beat the crowds. Bike rentals, lessons, and lift tickets can be sourced through your ALC concierge.
9. Relax in a Luxury Hotel with a Spa
The Aspen ethos is all about playing hard, working hard, and relaxing thoroughly. This is represented in the many options for luxury hotels in and around Aspen. One of the most well-known of the Aspen luxury hotels is The St. Regis, which has the opulent RAKxa Wellness Spa. RAKxa specializes in cleansing treatments that banish toxins and rejuvenate your skin.
Another spa option is Yarrow at Hotel Jerome, which is open to all visitors no matter where they are staying. Widely regarded as one of the best spas in Aspen, Yarrow practitioners use herbal remedies to soothe the body and the mind. If you are interested in a different wellness practice, contact Aspen Luxury Concierge for all your spa booking needs.
10. Rafting on the Roaring Fork River
In Colorado, river rafting is a state pastime. There is no better water than in Aspen’s own backyard on the Roaring Fork River. Thanks to Aspen weather in August, you can have a warm, comfortable trip with minimal chance of sunburns.
When you go on a rafting trip, you get a helmet, a life vest, and an oar. Your guide will steer the raft, tell you when to row, and discuss the nearby geological features. River rafting combines exercise – you’ll feel sore in muscles you didn’t know you had – with sightseeing and nature-based education. River rafting trips can be booked in full day or half day. If you are a newbie, start slow, then work your way up to whitewater rafting trips.
11. Jeep Tours Around the Roaring Fork Valley
There are pros and cons to booking a Jeep tour in Aspen in August. The trees don’t start changing color until late September. In August, you won’t get to see the legendary fall colors. However, there are other stunning sights that make the adventure worth it. One of the most popular Jeep tours goes to Taylor Pass with a stop at the Ashcroft ghost town. This area is a time capsule of what life was like during the gold rush.
12. Luxury Shopping
Downtown Aspen features over 200 retailers, including international fashion houses, high-end jewelers, and specialty outfitters. Brands such as Prada, Chanel, Gucci, Moncler, and Loro Piana are located along East Hyman Avenue, South Mill Street, and East Cooper Avenue. In addition to apparel and accessories, visitors can shop for contemporary art, custom skis, and handcrafted Western wear.
August is a key time for luxury shoppers, as stores debut early fall collections and often host invitation-only trunk shows or designer previews. Local galleries, like Baldwin Gallery and Casterline|Goodman, feature rotating exhibitions from nationally recognized artists. Betteridge and Meridian Jewelers specialize in fine jewelry and offer private viewings of both contemporary pieces and curated estate collections.
Aspen Luxury Concierge can coordinate personal shopping experiences, arrange private store access, or schedule fittings with stylists for curated wardrobe consultations.
13. Rooftop Deck Parties
Aspen’s rooftop venues host some of the most popular summer social events in the city. In August, clear skies and mild evening temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor gatherings. Many rooftop spaces offer live music, specialty cocktails, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
The W Hotel Aspen rooftop, known as Wet Deck, features a pool, cabanas, and a full-service bar with mountain views. Weekly events include sunset DJ sets and themed parties open to the public or through reservation. The Aspen Art Museum rooftop café regularly holds evening receptions, exhibition previews, and private gatherings. Other venues, like Ajax Tavern and RoofDeck at AspenX, provide lounge seating and curated wine or cocktail menus.
Guests working with Aspen Luxury Concierge can reserve VIP seating, book bottle service, or coordinate private celebrations with custom menus and entertainment.
14. Gondola Ride to the Top of the Mountain
The Silver Queen Gondola runs daily until Labor Day, carrying guests from the base of Aspen Mountain to its 11,212-foot summit. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes and offers views of the Roaring Fork Valley, forested slopes, and nearby peaks.
At the summit, visitors can access hiking trails, disc golf, a kids’ play area, and the Sundeck Restaurant, which serves lunch and drinks with a view. The mountaintop also hosts weekly events such as Bluegrass Sundays, where live acoustic bands perform from noon to 3 p.m. Seating is available on the deck or picnic-style on the lawn.
Tickets are available for purchase at the base or online through Aspen Snowmass. Aspen Luxury Concierge can arrange lift tickets, private guides, or transportation to and from the gondola station.
15. Outdoor Yoga with a View
Aspen offers several outdoor yoga classes throughout August, many set against alpine backdrops with panoramic views. Morning sessions take advantage of cooler temperatures and quiet mountain surroundings, ideal for both relaxation and flexibility work at altitude.
The Aspen Shakti studio hosts weekly outdoor classes at parks and private estates, while Snowmass Yoga on the Mountain offers mountaintop sessions accessed via the Elk Camp Gondola. These high-elevation classes run on weekends and include instructor-led flows suitable for all levels.
Participants should bring water, sunscreen, and a yoga mat. Aspen Luxury Concierge can book private instructors, reserve spots in public classes, or coordinate transportation to trailheads or gondola stations for mountaintop sessions.
Tips for Visiting Aspen in August
When planning your trip to Aspen in August, it’s essential to keep a few key tips in mind to ensure your vacation goes smoothly and is as enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or indulging in the luxury experiences Aspen is known for, these tips will help you make the most of your time in this stunning mountain town.
Be Prepared for Weather Variability
While August in Aspen typically brings pleasant summer weather, the mountain climate can be unpredictable. Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, so it’s important to layer your clothing. Mornings and evenings can be cooler, while afternoons might heat up. Make sure to bring a light jacket, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as the weather can change quickly at high elevations.
Stay Hydrated at High Altitudes
Aspen sits at an elevation of over 8,000 feet, and the thin mountain air can lead to quicker dehydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors or hiking. Dehydration can make the altitude feel even more challenging, so it’s always wise to carry a water bottle and take frequent hydration breaks.
Book Accommodations in Advance
Aspen is a popular destination, and the summer season can be just as busy as the winter months. If you’re planning to stay in one of Aspen’s luxury hotels or vacation rentals, it’s important to book your accommodations well in advance. Securing your spot early will ensure that you get the best options for location, amenities, and availability, especially during peak travel periods in August.
Luxury Accommodations Around Aspen, Colorado in August
After a long day of hiking, rafting, biking, and shopping you’ll want a relaxing homebase to return to. The only thing as important as booking your activities is booking accommodations.
During peak tourism season, vacation rentals and hotel rooms fill up fast. This is where Aspen Luxury Concierge comes in. Our team is connected in the Aspen community; we can use those connections to score you the best accommodations and amenities.
You have two options for luxury accommodations in Aspen: full-service hotel or a vacation rental.
Luxury Hotel vs. Vacation Rental
Hotels offer more amenities, such as a spa, on-site dining options, room service, and transportation. Guests at the hotel can also enjoy specialty events, gatherings, and menus as a perk of staying.
On the other hand, vacation rentals give you more space and more location options. ALC has connections to villas, chalets, downtown condos, penthouses, and vacation homes that our clients can rent. Vacation homes lend themselves to additional bespoke services like in-home yoga instruction, luxury car rental, or a personal chef.
FAQs About Visiting Aspen in August
If you’re planning a trip to Aspen in August, you probably have a few questions. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your visit and ensure you’re fully prepared for all that this stunning mountain destination has to offer.
Absolutely! August is one of the best times to visit Aspen. The weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fly fishing. Plus, you’ll experience fewer crowds than in the peak ski season, offering a more relaxed atmosphere while still enjoying the area’s natural beauty and vibrant summer events.
Yes, Aspen is definitely worth visiting in the summer. While it’s known for its ski resorts, Aspen offers a variety of activities during the warmer months, including world-class golf courses, stunning hiking trails, and the renowned Aspen Music Festival. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or a luxury retreat, Aspen in summer provides a unique experience.
In August, Aspen’s weather can vary throughout the day, so layering is key. During the day, pack light clothing such as T-shirts, shorts, or dresses, but bring a jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. Hiking boots or comfortable shoes are essential if you plan to explore the outdoors. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays at high altitudes.
Absolutely! While Aspen is famous for its ski slopes, it’s also a fantastic destination year-round for those who don’t ski. From luxurious spas and fine dining to scenic hikes and cultural events like the Aspen Music Festival, there’s something for everyone. The town’s vibrant arts scene, plus its outdoor activities, make it an ideal destination for non-skiers as well.
Yes, Aspen is a hotspot for celebrities, especially during the winter and summer months. Its upscale atmosphere, luxurious accommodations, and privacy make it a favorite destination for the rich and famous. While you might not always spot them out and about, many celebrities choose Aspen for its exclusivity, natural beauty, and lively social scene.
Experience the Premier Luxury Destination
Aspen in August has all the ingredients for an unrivaled vacation. From the outdoor athletic offerings to the nightlife to the cultural experiences, Aspen has something for everyone. The only way to have a trip that you’ll never forget is to explore Aspen with ALC.
The team at Aspen Luxury Concierge are more than just travel planners; they are experts at using connections to open doors for you. Acting as a single point of contact, your concierge will seamlessly handle every aspect of your visit. Schedule a consultation with Aspen Luxury Concierge to start experiencing Aspen through luxury.
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