FAQs

Question

How will the altitude affect me?

Answer

At 8,000 feet in the air, Aspen, Colorado, is breathtaking. Literally! It is normal to feel light headed, more easily fatigued and a shortness of breath at this elevation. It is crucial to stay hydrated and take it a bit slower on the caffeine and alcohol - though altitude does not in fact increase the potency of alcohol, the decreased oxygen at altitude can exacerbate the feeling of light-headedness. I find a natural supplement called Altitude Adjustment to be really helpful in mitigating the effects... http://www.altitude-adjustment.com/

Question

What is the temperature like?

Answer

Aspen's climate is generally moderate and dry during the summer (with the exception of frequent and fast afternoon thunderstorms), with high temperatures averaging 77 degrees in August. However, Aspen's weather is highly variable hour to hour. Mornings can start out with temperatures in the low 40s and as soon as the sun goes down, the temperatures will drop sharply. Packing some warmer layers is encouraged for the evenings. The sun is much stronger at the higher elevation, so make sure to wear lots of sunscreen! If you plan on doing any hiking or biking make sure to bring a variety of layers as temperatures can change drastically the higher you climb (light windbreakers, vests and hiking shoes are recommended).

Question

Where should I stay?

Answer

Whether renting a house or staying in one of the many hotel options listed under the 'Travel' section, we highly recommend staying in Downtown Aspen (not to be confused with neighboring Snowmass). The town is very walk-able with plenty of shopping, restaurants and easily accessible hikes/trails.

Question

Should I rent a car?

Answer

This is totally up to you. There are a number of hikes accessible via downtown and all of the shops and hotels listed are within walking distance. Transportation will be provided from downtown Aspen and the Gant to the wedding venue which is roughly 10-15 mins away. The majority of hotels provide shuttle service to and from Aspen airport. DIA offers shuttle service up to Aspen, you can book your trip in advance via Epic Mountain Express. However, if you would like to have maximum flexibility during your stay or want to do any individual exploring – whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, we recommend renting a car (particularly one with 4 wheel drive).

Question

Where should I hike?

Answer

Beginners will be comfortable on the Rio Grande Trail, which starts behind the post office on Puppy Smith Road and follows a paved path most of the way along the Roaring Fork River. An intermediate option is a 1.5 mile trek up Smuggler Mountain Trail, leading to a lookout point with stunning views of Aspen below. Those ready for a challenge can take on the 8.5 mile rigorous excursion up to Conundrum Hot Springs, while the trail-heads in and around nearby Maroon Bells are a quintessential bucket-list item and encompass various difficulty levels. Cathedral Lake and American Lake trails are two amazing hikes to take in the wonderful, abundant wildflowers.