Smuggler Mountain Trailhead — Attraction in Four Corners States

The best views of Aspen mountain and the downtown core are from the Gondola. But I'd wager the second best views are from the Smuggler Mountain Trail. First you see the Aspen ski runs, green grass swatches in the summer. Then, the higher you go, the city comes into view. The trail has look out points so it's easy to stop, catch your breath and enjoy the astonishing view. Don't forget to look down and enjoy the mountain flowers. Mother Nature has colors I've never seen in crayons. In the first half of the hike, you pass the gates of some of the priciest homes in Aspen. I always wonder who lives in these magnificent mansions. The trail is paved so it's easy walking. However, it's 2.7 miles straight up. We navigated the switchbacks, one by by one, slowly. This is a really popular trail so it's pretty crowded. The day we were there young kids in summer camp were there with their teacher. Seniors older than me were passing me by. Not much parking at the trail head, but there's a city park near by with lots of parking. Hey, you're walkin' anyway. (We walked from home.) The best part: you can take your dog off leash the minute you hit the trail head. However, make sure the dog knows what "come" means because there's lots to smell. You pass the Smuggler's Mine store in the beginning if you are interested in the mine that used to operate in the mountain. A great hike even...

An easy/intermediate hike, about 1.4 miles to the Observation Deck. If you are in very good shape - this hike will be a walk in the park. After no exercise the whole winter, and 1 month vacation of overeating and drinking abroad, it felt yesterday as if I was climbing Everest 😂 Still, the easiest uphill hike in the area. The views from the Deck are amazing. One advice: hike either early (before 10am), or after 5-6pm summer time for a more pleasant experience. There is zero shade on the trail and it’s super hot during the summer. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Smuggler connects to Hunter Creek and you can continue hiking to complete the loop. The total duration of the Smuggler-Hunter Creek Loop is about 2.5 hours. Smuggler is also a popular trail for uphill biking. Highly recommended to ease you into the altitude before you do some more strenuous...

While visiting Aspen for a week, a friend told us about this area. Hiked about halfway to the observation area getting many great pictures of the fresh heavy snow. We were dressed appropriately for a child hike but spiked shoes are apparently best. Definitely slippery in some areas along the road due to snow and ice. A great workout considering the elevation we're used to at...