Top Rated Attractions in Aspen

Located near Crested Butte, the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory is a famous biological field station. Established in 1928, the laboratory carries out high-altitude research around the region's climate, ecology, pollination biology, and a study of the yellow-bellied marmot, a large ground squirrel. Located in the abandoned ghost town of Gothic, it offers courses and conducts public programs related to its research. Drawing scientists from all over the world to carry out research in the region's pristine wilderness, the RMBL, as it is known, is also an important landmark in Crested Butte.

Nestled amid the verdant peaks on the Western Slope, this tapering reservoir on the Fryingpan River is a popular destination for a family excursion. Set within the White River National Forest, it is flanked by pine forests and flat campgrounds, enabling plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Experience a serene day out in the lap of nature as you explore the lake's beautiful surroundings and bask under a mellow sun. Try your luck with fishing, experiment with your nature photography skills, or simply relax by the waterside to soak in the pleasant atmosphere. You can even stay the night in a tent or an RV.

The prominent and sharply defined peaks of the Maroon Bells are some of the most picturesque and photographed mountains in North America. Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak are separated by just one third of a mile, creating the border between Pitkin and Gunnison Counties. Both peaks reach heights over 14,000 feet (4267.2 meters), placing them in the top 50 highest mountains in the Rocky Mountain state. Popular activities include hiking the trail around Maroon Lake, which is easy and offers spectacular views of the mountains reflecting off in the shimmering water.

This family-friendly environmental center is an ideal sojourn for those who are outdoor-curious, but backcountry shy. Located in the Hallam Lake Nature Preserve, which is right in town, it is a perfect introduction to the great outdoors. A self-guided nature trail snakes around the preserve's 25 acres and is a favorite with bird-watchers. You can also check out its resident birds of prey, which include golden eagles and screech owls. The visitor center features an indoor trout stream swarming with native cutthroats, as well as an environmental library and a gift shop full of books, gifts and toys. For a true outdoor education, look for its weekly lecture series, which varies from season to season.

At 12,095 feet (3687 meters), this pass ranks as one of the highest paved roads in North America. The views from up top are stunning and border on the kind normally only reserved for National Geographic photographers. The drive from Aspen is equally stunning as the highway zigzags past thick stands of pine, towering cliffs, streams and Independence Ghost Town. Hairpin turns with precarious drop-offs add to the driving drama. Take Highway 82 east out of Aspen and follow it for approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers). Parking, a handicapped paved hiking trail with viewing stand and a Continental Divide sign mark the summit. The road is closed during winter.

Deep-set in the wild lap of the Rockies, White River National Forest unfurls across the Colorado landscape to reveal jaw-dropping views and soul-stirring experiences. From amber-torched slopes overrun with unfettered grasslands, to towering sentinels like the Maroon Bells that watch over the park, this forest features an array of diverse landscapes. As many as ten peaks jut above the pristine terrain, while eight wilderness areas lay scattered across its seemingly boundless ambit. Within the forest's 2,285,970 acres (9,25,099 hectares), major ski-resorts, including Breckenridge and Copper Mountain appeal to a stripe of avid adventurers.