Strenuous Hikes
The best way to experience the mountains around Aspen is to explore with an ACES Naturalist. Our guides not only know the area, but also have countless stories and information to share about the wildlife and history of the area. These Hire a Guide options are available for all ages and are perfect for individuals, families, or groups of any size. We can customize your tour to focus on birding, wildflowers, local wildlife, and many more interesting topics. Give us a call and we will help you figure out which hike is best for your group. ACES is a permitted outfitter guide through the US Forest Service White River National Forest.
- Guide: all hikes include one experienced ACES Naturalist
- Basic fee: $60 per hour per Naturalist (9 person limit per Naturalist)
- To make a reservation, please fill out our simple form. If you have questions, call Grayson Bauer at 970-925-5756.
Additional Options:
- Food: ACES can arrange lunch for an additional $20 per person
- Transportation: ACES can arrange transportation at an additional cost depending on the location.
![]() | Hunter-Smuggler Loop Just minutes from downtown Aspen, ascend along the rushing waters of Hunter Creek through cottonwood and aspen groves, scrambling over river rocks in this dynamic lower river valley. In the upper valley, nestled between Red Mountain & Smuggler Mountain, traverse meadows with vibrant wildflowers that delicately color the meadow landscape. At the summit, you're rewarded with great views of downtown Aspen and the area's four ski mountains. Descend on the historic mining road down Smuggler Mountain and back into the north side of town.
|
![]() | Maroon Creek Trail Explore the Maroon Creek Valley on a spectacular hike to Maroon Lake. The trail traverses meadows, aspen forests, and major avalanche paths where evidence of the destructive force of winter slides can be seen. Experience the breathtaking display of wildflowers along the rushing waters of Maroon Creek. A downhill option starting from Maroon Lake (easy to moderate hiking) is also available with shuttle/bus transportation.
|
![]() | American Lake
|
![]() | Cathedral Lake
|
![]() | Lost Man Loop
|