The leaves start to change in Aspen in September. This makes it the most beautiful time of year to visit and enjoy outdoor activities, the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Experience, and seasonal restaurant menus.  

IS ASPEN WORTH VISITING IN THE FALL?

The fall is a great time to visit Aspen, Colorado, because it is relatively quiet with lighter crowds. The trees start to change color in mid to late September, making the month an ideal time to go leaf peeping, hiking, horseback riding, and fly fishing. The autumn weather is also more moderate than the summer temperatures, while still being sunny with clear blue skies. When visitors come to Aspen in the fall, they can expect smaller crowds and better deals on hotels and activities. 

• When you visit Aspen in the winter, you go skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. 
• When you visit Aspen in the summer, you go hiking, mountain biking, and swimming. 

But what activities are open in Aspen in the fall? If you’re visiting during the month of September, keep reading to learn all about your activity options. 

WHAT TO DO IN ASPEN IN SEPTEMBER: 12 EXCLUSIVE ACTIVITIES 

Leaf peeping is by far one of the most popular September activities. 

However, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the great outdoors, experience the best Aspen has to offer, and unwind. Here are 12 fall activities that are suitable for visitors of all ages:

1. HOST A SPECIAL EVENT

When fall comes to Aspen, the searing summer heat has dissipated, so the air feels crisp. The moderate weather is ideal for hosting events, such as weddings, engagement parties, and bachelorette events. 

Autumn colors like hazy purples, yellow-oranges, rich burgundies, and deep greens make for unique, elegant wedding color palettes. If you have an outdoor wedding or an Aspen picnic engagement party, the fall colors will make a beautiful backdrop for your special day. 

Another benefit of visiting Aspen, Colorado, in September is the availability of reservations, tickets, hotel rooms, vacation rentals, and activities. While there is no off-season in the valley, things get a little quieter during the fall and spring. 

Compared to the winter and summer, September sees less competition for booking group accommodations, shorter waits for restaurant tables, greater availability for activities, and easier access to exclusive events. 

2. WORLD-CLASS JAZZ AT THE JAZZ ASPEN SNOWMASS LABOR DAY EXPERIENCE 

Jazz Aspen Snowmass is an annual music festival that brings open-air concerts, lounge performances, and hard-hitting headliners to town. While JAS performances take place year round, the best time to visit Aspen in September is over Labor Day. 

The entire weekend is an extravaganza of dancing and music in the open air. Headliners perform at Snowmass Town Park with the backdrop of the Elk Mountain Range behind them. 

In previous years, headliners have been world-famous performers like:

• Billy Idol
• The Lumineers
• Grace Potter
• OneRepublic
• Sting
• Tim McGraw

A ticket to the show also includes special perks and opportunities for you to enjoy, such as access to JAS Village and the JAS Music Lounge. The Lounge is the best hangout for families with kids because it offers crafts, children’s games, and an opportunity for kids to learn about the history of jazz through play. 

3. GOURMET MEALS WITH A PRIVATE CHEF EXPERIENCE

There is no point in having a vacation if you are not going to pull out all the stops to relax and unwind. You work so hard in your daily life that you deserve to be pampered when you visit Aspen. 

There is no greater pampering than having all your meals cooked by a private chef. 

Of course, Aspen has many fantastic restaurants, but sometimes you just want to have a night in. 

The team at Aspen Luxury Concierge routinely books private chefs for their clients. There are a few major benefits to choosing the customized, private dinner experience:

• Privacy
• High quality ingredients 
• Meals at your preferred pace
• You have complete control over the menu
• More convenient than going to a restaurant
• Private chefs are pros at navigating food allergens 
• Meals can be tailored to your dietary needs

4. BREATHTAKING GONDOLA RIDE WITH PANORAMIC VISTAS

You think you have a good view of the fall colors from the ground, just wait until you can see them from the air. 

When you are swept into the air in a cool, calm gondola, the entire valley fans out beneath you. It feels like floating up the mountain; first-time gondola riders usually describe it as meditative. 

The experience doesn’t end when you get to the top of the mountain. 

If you want to see the trees from a different angle, you could hike down the mountain. Down is a lot easier and more enjoyable than hiking up the mountain. Mountain bike enthusiasts may choose to take the gondola up Snowmass Mountain and then ride down. Mountain biking is a popular activity for people who visit Aspen in September. 

Alternatively, there are plenty of kids activities, restaurant options, and rides at the summit for you to enjoy before you ride back down. 

5. PRIVATE TANDEM PARAGLIDING TOUR

Have you ever wanted to feel like you’re in a James Bond or John Wick movie? Do you dream of adrenaline rushes and next-level views? This is your chance!

Aspen Luxury Concierge has the connections to arrange private tandem paragliding tours. You get strapped in with an expert guide, then you both walk off the mountain. When the canopy expands and catches the wind, you’ll feel like you are floating. Paragliders do not use motors, so you will get a beautiful, peaceful experience.  

A paragliding tour takes leaf peeping to the next level. You’ll see the sprawling view of the valley that usually only the birds get to witness. 

6. LUXURY SHOPPING ON ASPEN’S BOUTIQUE STREETS

Shopping in Aspen is a year-round, never ending activity. 

When you visit Aspen, Colorado, in September, you can find the latest fall fashion from designer houses like Dior, Balenciaga, Valentino, and Ralph Lauren. 

You never know, the stylish designer jeans that you pick out could end up being the look of the season, which you wore first. 

Aspen is also home to some unique stores that are part of the fabric of Aspen. You’ve probably heard of Kemo Sabe: the store where all the celebrities shop. This is the place to get custom cowboy hats, boots, belts, and more. 

Aspen hats have become the latest luxury item for elite shoppers, making Kemo Sabe a necessary addition to your itinerary.

7. LUXURY SPA TREATMENTS

Taking care of one’s mind, body, and energy is a priority for everyone in Aspen. 

Whether you’re visiting for a week or spending an entire season here, it’s always a good time for a spa day. All the major hotels have luxury spas that offer a blend of eastern and western practices. Some of the most popular treatments at the major Aspen spas include: 

• Full body massages 
• Energy healing
• Herbal remedies
• Skin care facials
• Full body wraps
• Exfoliating treatments
• Hot and cold pool soaks
• Ayurveda and acupuncture
• Hot oil massages
• Guided yoga and meditation
• IV boosters
• Oxygen therapy

For all your wellness needs, there is a spa that offers that service. 

For more information about the local spa offerings, check out the Aspen spa complete guide. If you would like a recommendation and session bookings, get in touch with Aspen Luxury Concierge. 

8. FINE DINING EXPERIENCES

When September in Aspen rolls around, it becomes time for all the world-class restaurants to break out the seasonal menus. 

Element 47, located inside The Little Nell, has exceptional offerings year round. In September, their signature wagyu beef dish gets joined on your table by autumn cheese pairings, roasted potatoes and parsnips, pumpkin pasta dishes, foie gras with butternut squash, and apple cider donuts with seasonal jam. 

Locals recommend swinging by PARC Aspen for a taste of farm-to-table fall flavors Popular courses on the establishment’s menu include the cinnamon smoked elk loin, butternut squash soup, and dover sole with roasted hazelnuts and sunchokes. 

9. HORSEBACK RIDING ADVENTURE

Horseback riding is one of the most commonly recommended things to do in Aspen in September, especially for families. 

When you book a horse tour, you get to learn proper form, balance, technique, and handling for your horse. All the horses used for tours are gentle giants who are used to being around humans. Visitors usually describe their trips as calming adventures. There’s something a little meditative about sitting atop a majestic creature while staring out over the valley. 

The ideal way to go leaf peeping is on horseback. Not only do you get a better view, the horses can take you farther into the forest that you would normally be able to hike on your own. This gives you the opportunity for better views and unique routes. 

10. FLY FISH THE ROARING FORK RIVER

Aspen is world-class at a lot of things, from skiing to shopping to dining. 

But Aspen is also home to world-class fly fishing. When September rolls around, the Roaring Fork River becomes full of round, fat trout. 

It can take a convincing caddisfly or midge lure to get a bite. Compared to summer fly fishing, autumn is pretty calm. You won’t have much competition for the bite or the best spots. The fall is also the best time to take up fly fishing as a beginner angler because the water levels are the lowest and safest. 

The moderate Aspen weather in September also makes it an enjoyable time to be in the great outdoors. 

11. AWE-INSPIRING SNOWMASS BALLOON FESTIVAL

Every year more than 30 hot air balloons come to Aspen in September for the Snowmass Balloon Festival. 

The dates of the festival change year to year, but it usually takes place the second week of the month. If you’ve never seen a hot air balloon in person before, you’ll be amazed at the engineering of the basket and just how big they are. Ballooners will often hang around to answer questions about their balloons and allow for photo opportunities before launch.

After the morning festivities, you might enjoy strolling through Snowmass parks or getting brunch. Please note that hot air balloons can only launch in the morning, between 7:30 and 9:00 am due to the weather conditions and air pressure. If the conditions are not suitable, the balloons may not launch that day. 

12. GALLERY HOPPING AND A MUSEUM VISIT

Aspen is one of the only mountain towns with a robust art scene; the centerpiece of which is the Aspen Art Museum. The frequently changing exhibits feature everything from thought-provoking contemporary sculpture to classically beautiful oil paintings. 

The art is not confined to just the museum. When you explore downtown Aspen, you’ll discover that there is art everywhere: colorful murals climbing up buildings, sculptures, fountains, stunning architecture, and smaller galleries that showcase local artists. You should also swing by the Aspen Saturday Market where artists sell their jewelry, pottery, handbags, and hats alongside local farmers selling their seasonal produce.

If you would like a gallery recommendation or local transportation for your art walk, please contact Aspen Luxury Concierge. 

ASPEN LUXURY CONCIERGE SERVICES AND ACCOMMODATIONS 

ALC is the premiere concierge service in the Aspen-Snowmass area. We provide seamless bookings with a single point of contact so that you can have the best vacation of your life. 

When you work with Aspen Luxury Concierge, we provide the following services: 

• Luxury event planning for weddings, engagements, bachelorette parties, and family gatherings. 
• Access to beautiful luxury vacation rentals that can only be booked through ALC.
• Lifestyle management services, which includes booking and coordinating private chefs, personal chauffeurs, and private planes. 
• Personal shopping, running your errands, and fetching you anything that you need.
• Personalized itinerary management and activity planning.
• Obtaining VIP treatment for you to live the luxe life.
• Facilitating exclusive access to Aspen nightlife, luxury events, and private shopping experiences. 

TIPS FOR VISITING ASPEN IN SEPTEMBER

When you visit Aspen in the fall, it’s important to be prepared. Before you arrive, here are 3 things that you should consider: 

BE PREPARED FOR THE WEATHER

In Colorado, people often joke that if you don’t like the weather, just wait 10 minutes. While Aspen weather in September is far more predictable than the rest of the state, it is important to be prepared. 

The daily high temperature is usually between 59 and 68 degrees fahrenheit. The daily low ranges from 32 degrees to 40 degrees. 

Light showers are possible, but snow is unlikely. 

WHAT TO WEAR IN AUTUMN

The key to staying warm is to dress in layers that can be easily added and removed. 

The team at ALC recommends a base layer with a light sweater or jacket over the top. If it’s going to be a cool day, you may want to break out your winter coat. 

Denim, faux fur, and anything vintage is always going to be in style in Aspen. 

WHAT TO PACK

When you pack for Aspen, be sure to bring:

• Hiking boots with performance socks
• Comfortable shoes for walking around town
• A few options for jackets 
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect your skin
• A formal outfit for fine dining
• Jeans for horseback riding
• A gym or yoga outfit
• An umbrella in case it rains

If you forget anything, your concierge can pick it up for you!

SECURE YOUR UNFORGETTABLE SEPTEMBER IN ASPEN!

Aspen in autumn is a beautiful experience as the trees turn golden and notes of cinnamon float on the crisp breeze. 

When you visit Aspen in September, you can enjoy smaller crowds and a more laid back atmosphere. Of course, all the best parts of Aspen are open for business, including the vibrant nightlife scene, music festivals, and art galleries. 

Aspen is waiting for you! Make your trip exceptional by booking with Aspen Luxury Concierge. Contact ALC today to begin your trip consultation.