The Ultimate Adventure Weekend in Aspen: Rafting, Hiking & Hot Springs
Day 1: Arrive in Aspen and Settle into the Mountains
Your adventure begins the moment you arrive in the Roaring Fork Valley. Whether you’re flying into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport or driving over Independence Pass, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular.
Check into your hotel or lodge in Aspen or Snowmass Village, drop your bags, and get ready to explore. If you arrive early, take a leisurely walk through Aspen’s historic downtown — stop by Paradise Bakery for coffee and a pastry, or enjoy a quick bite from the Big Wrap and enjoy it one of the nearby parks.
By evening, fuel up with a hearty dinner in town — Aspen has no shortage of excellent restaurants. We always enjoy a meal at Meat and Cheese, or The White House Tavern.
Day 2: Hit the River with Thunder River Adventures
No Aspen adventure is complete without a day on the Roaring Fork River, and Thunder River Adventures has the perfect trip for every type of guest.
Choose Your Adventure
Slaughterhouse Section (Class IV): Six miles of nonstop whitewater, technical rapids, and a six-foot waterfall drop — perfect for thrill-seekers ready for action.
Canyon Cruise (Class III): Fun, splashy, and perfect for families or first-timers looking for excitement without intensity.
Scenic Float Trip (Class I–II): Gentle current, wildlife sightings, and mountain views — ideal for families with young kids or guests who prefer to sit back and relax.
All trips include top-quality Sotar rafts, helmets, wetsuits, splash jackets, booties, and fleece at no extra cost. Every guest is guided by seasoned professionals — some with decades of Class IV and V experience, and all with at least three years of professional guiding experience.
Your day starts with a comprehensive safety and paddle talk, followed by an unforgettable journey down the river. After your trip, enjoy a snack from the cooler while your guide shows off the action photos taken during your run — the perfect souvenir.
Post-Rafting: Relax and Refuel
After rafting, it’s time to recharge. Head down to Woody Creek Tavern, a local icon located along the Rio Grande Trail, for a well-earned lunch. If you prefer to stretch your legs, rent bikes from Silver City Cycles, which offers convenient drop-off service for an easy downhill ride from Aspen to Woody Creek.
For the evening, unwind in Glenwood Springs, where two of Colorado’s best hot springs await:
Iron Mountain Hot Springs: A collection of small, intimate pools with mountain views.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort: A classic destination with one of the largest natural mineral pools in the world.
If you’d rather stay closer to Aspen, try Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs near Carbondale — a peaceful, rustic retreat that requires reservations but is absolutely worth it.
Day 3: Explore the Mountains
No visit to Aspen is complete without seeing the Maroon Bells, often called the most photographed peaks in North America. Take the shuttle or bus to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, where you can hike to Crater Lake and enjoy breathtaking views of the twin peaks reflected in the water. Bring along a packed lunch from The Big Wrap or a local café, and take time to soak it all in.
If you prefer to stay closer to Snowmass, hike the Rim Trail for panoramic views of the entire valley. In the fall, the aspen trees light up the hillsides with golden color, creating an unforgettable backdrop.
Bonus Activities for Longer Stays
If you have more time, there’s no shortage of things to do in Aspen and the surrounding area:
Fly Fishing: The Roaring Fork River is a designated Gold Medal fishery. Book a trip with Wild Willow Outfitters for local expertise.
Paragliding: See the mountains from above with Aspen Paragliding — ask for Cat or Gabor, two of the valley’s most experienced pilots.
Scenic Drives: Take a drive to the town of Marble or along Independence Pass for some of the best mountain views in Colorado.
Each of these experiences pairs beautifully with a morning rafting trip or float — making every day of your stay feel full and rewarding.
Why Choose a Locally Owned Outfitter
At Thunder River Adventures, rafting isn’t just a business — it’s a way of life. Founded by guides who’ve spent decades on the Roaring Fork River, the company was built to provide personalized, professional, and safe experiences for every guest.
Our team lives and works in the valley year-round. We know the rivers, trails, and local businesses that make this place special — and we’re always happy to share recommendations that help you get the most out of your stay.
Plan Your Aspen Adventure Weekend
An adventure weekend in Aspen offers the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation — whether you’re tackling whitewater, soaking in a mountain hot spring, or hiking among golden aspens. With Thunder River Adventures as your local guide, you’ll experience the best of Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle from the people who know it best.
👉 Book your rafting trip today and let our team help you plan the perfect weekend on the Roaring Fork River.
