Aspen, Colorado, is famous for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. While many people associate Aspen with luxury ski resorts and high-end hotels, the truth is that you can experience the beauty of this region without spending a fortune. With a little planning and flexibility, you can experience everything that makes Aspen special. The hikes, the scenic drives, and the food are all unforgettable.
On our trip, we based ourselves just outside Aspen and explored nearby towns while focusing on activities that offered the most value. This guide shares exactly how we spent three incredible days in the Aspen area. It includes where we stayed, what we did, and how we kept costs low while still enjoying the best of the region.
A Budget-Friendly Base
Instead of staying in Aspen itself, we found a cozy Airbnb in Basalt, a charming town about 30 minutes away. Hotels and rentals in Aspen can get pricey, but Basalt offered a quiet, more affordable base with easy access to the mountains. It also gave us the chance to explore more local hiking trails and nearby towns like Carbondale.
I actually enjoyed staying in Basalt more than I expected. It felt relaxed and less crowded, and after long days of exploring, it was nice to unwind somewhere peaceful.
Day 1: Denver to Aspen
We started early, leaving Denver around 5 AM. Our first stop was Leadville, a historic mining town that makes the perfect breakfast stop before the mountain drive. After a quick coffee and bite to eat, we continued along Independence Pass, a scenic route with sweeping mountain and valley views. It is one of the most beautiful drives in Colorado and worth every twist and turn.
We arrived in Aspen around mid-morning and spent some time wandering through downtown. We popped into small shops and grabbed a snack at a local cafe. After that, we drove to Basalt to drop off our bags before heading back toward Aspen for the highlight of the day, Maroon Bells.
Once settled, we parked at the Brush Creek parking lot, which offers free parking. From this point, you can catch an RFTA bus to Aspen Highlands where you obtain your shuttle tickets, and from there the shuttle takes you to Maroon Bells. It’s important to book a shuttle reservation ahead of time, as it can be sold out. You can book your reservation here. Switching buses in Aspen was quite convenient. Alternatively, you can park in the Aspen Highlands parking structure, but it costs $8 per hour.
The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is one of the most photographed spots in Colorado, and once you see it in person, you’ll understand why. We spent about three hours hiking, taking photos, and simply sitting by the lake admiring the view. If you’re short on time, the main loop is short and accessible, but there are longer trails if you want more adventure.
After returning to Aspen, we had dinner at Mi Chola, a lively Mexican restaurant downtown, followed by a relaxed evening stroll through the charming streets before catching the bus back to Basalt.
Day 2: Basalt, Carbondale, and Snowmass
The next day, we spent the morning exploring Basalt. We started with a local hike near Basalt and then made our way to Carbondale, a small mountain town with a creative, laid-back feel. The trail we picked was rocky in parts, so good hiking shoes are a must, but the views were beautiful and well worth it.
For lunch, we stopped at Jaffa Middle Eastern Kitchen, which turned out to be one of our favorite meals of the trip. Fresh ingredients, great flavors, and generous portions — exactly what you want after a morning on the trails.
Later that afternoon, we drove to Snowmass, where we did another short hike before heading back into Aspen for drinks and dinner. The evening atmosphere in Aspen is lively but not overwhelming. Whether you want a cozy wine bar or a spot with live music, there’s something for everyone.
If you prefer a slower start to your trip, you could also switch things up and do the Maroon Bells hike on this day instead of the first. That way, you can settle into your accommodation before tackling one of the most popular spots in the area.
Day 3: Heading Home
Our final day began with the Basalt Sunday Farmers Market, a small but charming spot where you can grab coffee, fresh pastries, and local produce. It was the perfect low-key morning before the drive back to Denver.
If you have time, consider detouring through Aspen and Independence Pass again on your way home. The views look completely different in the morning light and are just as stunning. We skipped it this time to save time, but it’s absolutely worth it if you can fit it in.
Tips for Budget Travelers
- Stay in Nearby Towns: Basalt and Carbondale offer more affordable lodging without sacrificing convenience.
- Free Parking: Park for free at Brush Creek and take the RFTA buses into Aspen and to Maroon Bells.
- Pack Snacks and Water: You’ll save money and always have something handy for long hikes or drives.
- Plan Ahead: Book shuttle reservations to popular spots like Maroon Bells in advance to ensure availability and avoid last-minute expenses.
- Check Restaurant Prices: Aspen has incredible restaurants, but not all are budget-friendly. Mix in casual local spots or grab takeout for a picnic in the mountains.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Aspen doesn’t have to mean luxury hotels and pricey meals. With a bit of planning, you can explore its most beautiful spots, enjoy great food, and take in the mountain atmosphere without overspending. Staying in nearby towns, using public transportation, and prioritizing outdoor experiences can make a huge difference.
Aspen’s magic lies in its scenery, from the crisp mountain air and golden aspen trees to the winding alpine trails, all of which are completely free to enjoy. Whether you are hiking, wandering through downtown, or watching the sunset over Maroon Bells, Aspen proves that adventure does not have to come with a luxury price tag.
