Under the Gaydar | Summer Series: Aspen

Jul 01, 2022

Summertime and the trip plannin’ ain't easy. Though when asked to define travel, many are inclined to share stories of dreamy trips to faraway places or sunny days spent island hopping, we often fail to remember that long plane rides and passports don’t have to be a factor when traveling. Summer break is the perfect time to kick back and relax, but taking the stress out of planning a vacation is easier said than done when the list of potential destinations seems never-ending. If only there was somewhere close to home that embodies a cool, mountain town vibe chic enough to draw a regular crowd of glamourous jet setters…

If you’re looking to escape the heat this Summer, look no further than Aspen, Colorado!

Part 7: Aspen, Colorado

In most cases, visions of Aspen include winters packed with world-class skiing - but did you know the Centennial city is a top-tier summer destination as well? "I came for the winter, but stayed for the summer" is a phrase you'll often hear around town - par for the course once you take in natural wonders like the crisp mountain air that carries a fresh sweetness from the wildflowers in bloom or the Rocky Mountain peaks, unburdened from heavy snow, exuding their full majestic glory. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing retreat or an all-out adventure, there are plenty of ways to explore this picturesque mountain town in the warmer months. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing retreat or an all-out adventure, there are plenty of ways to explore this picturesque mountain town in the warmer months.

Photo Credit: Visit Aspen

With nearly endless summer sun, averaging around 300 days of sunshine per year, options to hike in Aspen are limitless. That being said, if you’re after that quintessentially rustic trek, the Maroon Bells Scenic Trail is a great place to start. Also known as the “Aspen Alps”, the area is considered one of the best hiking spots in all of Colorado and for good reason: it’s home to 38 miles of trails that meander through dense forests and high alpine meadows leading to beautiful views that serve as picture-perfect backdrops for voyages of all fitness levels.

Photo Credit: Sierra Lara

If you are on the hunt for some good times during your trip out West, the team behind Montauk’s endlessly buzzy Surf Lodge has debuted an equally as chic sister property at The St. Regis Aspen Resort. The space, known during the ski season as the Snow Lodge, transforms into the aptly named Summer Lodge in the warmer months and features a live music series, wellness component, and fine dining, with an emphasis on an exquisite brunch menu. Make sure to check out this summer’s concert series lineup which is set to include notable artists such as Mojave Grey, Shallou, and Poolside.

Photo Credit: The Snow Lodge

Summer Events:

Snowmass Free Concert Series: June 16 - August 27

A Snowmass summer tradition 29 years in the making, the Snowmass Free Concert Series is a must-do music event. Every Thursday evening, locals and visitors alike gather on Fanny Hill to enjoy some of the country’s best live bands in a relaxed atmosphere with a spectacular mountain backdrop.

Snowmass Rodeo: June 22 - August 17

Celebrating its 48th year of Western tradition in 2022, the Snowmass Rodeo is one of the longest-running rodeos in Colorado. This event is an Aspen Snowmass summer staple, complete with music, cowboys and cowgirls, horses, livestock, and family fun.

Hotel Recommendations in Aspen:

Perched at the base of the world-renowned Aspen Mountain, the GayTravel Approved® W Aspen is a beacon of style: bringing a new era of luxury to the Rockies through sleek design touches that mirror those of a sleek Swiss chalet. Only a 4-mile drive from the airport, this heavenly hotspot offers convenient city-center accessibility to the city’s bustling downtown scene.

A modern Aspen landmark and the town’s top social hub since its 1889 inception during the silver boom era, Hotel Jerome is the place where all great stories are born. Be the star of your own story at this classically contemporary hotel where world-class backcountry adventures and amenities fit for a king set the scene for memories that will last a lifetime.

Directly across from the iconic Aspen Mountain Gondola in the heart of downtown, the Aspen Square Condominium Hotel offers contemporary yet comfortable condominium lodging paired with unrivaled hospitality. With easy access to the best of Aspen just outside of its doors, this apart-hotel gives you the best of both worlds - the condo-style living delivers a homey vibe while out-of-this-world amenities like concierge assistance and daily housekeeping will leave you feeling like royalty.