Grottos Trail: Aspen's Natural Playground
Explore Aspen's Grottos Trail: A short, scenic hike with ice caves, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. Perfect for families and nature lovers!
The Grottos Trail, located near Aspen, Colorado, is a short, easy hike featuring geological wonders like unusual boulders (erratics), ice caves, and cascading waterfalls. This popular spot offers a family-friendly outdoor experience with opportunities for exploration and picnicking.
A brief summary to Grottos Trail
- 26692 CO-82, Aspen, Colorado, 81611, US
- +1970-925-3445
- Monday 8 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9 pm
- Friday 8 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
- Wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to explore the ice caves, as they can be slippery.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities along the trail.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, and be aware of potential hazards such as high water during spring runoff or after heavy thunderstorms.
- Be sure to follow the cairns and path markers to avoid getting lost, especially near the ice caves.
Getting There
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Driving
From Aspen, drive east on Highway 82 (Independence Pass) for approximately 9 miles. The Grottos Trail parking area is on the right side of the road, just past the Weller Campground. The sign can be easy to miss, so keep an eye out. Parking is free, but limited, so arrive early.
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Public Transport
Take the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus from the Aspen bus station towards Glenwood Springs. Request a stop at the Grottos Picnic Area, approximately 3.5 miles from Aspen. From there, walk a short distance back towards the road to find the Grottos Trailhead entrance. A one-way fare on the RFTA bus within the Aspen zone is typically around $3.
Discover more about Grottos Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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New Smuggler Mine Corporation
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Elk Mountain Expeditions
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Aspen Love Story
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Aspen, Co.
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The Little Nell
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The Little Nell Boutique
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Unmissable attractions to see
Grottos Day Use Area
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Independence Ghost Town
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Independence Pass
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Smuggler Mine tours
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Glory Hole Park
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Aspen Mountain Ski Resort
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Essential places to dine
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Ajax Tavern
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Big Wrap
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Silverpeak Grill
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CP Burger
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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ASPENX
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MAX Women’s Clothing
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Nuages
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Gorsuch
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