Breathtaking bliss: Discover the best sunrise and sunset hikes around the Aspen area

Sunrises and sunsets make our stunning landscapes even more dramatic. The Aspen area offers plenty of hiking trails, which lead to panoramic vistas where the interplay of light and terrain results in unforgettable moments.  

Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual adventurer, on the hunt for a meteor or a rainbow, or just eager to experience a breathtaking sunrise or sunset, exploring the area’s trails is an absolute must. Here are a few of our favorite hikes: 

Maroon Bells  

Undoubtedly one of the most iconic locations in Colorado, the Maroon Bells offer unparalleled beauty at both sunrise and sunset. The Maroon Lake, with its reflective surface mirroring the majestic Maroon peaks, provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for photographers and nature lovers alike. The Crater Lake Trail, a moderately challenging, 1.8-mile hike with an approximately 525 foot elevation gain, leads from Maroon Lake, at 9,580 feet, to stunning viewpoints where you can witness the first light of dawn illuminating the peaks or the vibrant hues of sunset casting a warm glow over the landscape. 

Smuggler Mountain Overlook Trail 

For a hike that’s easily accessible from downtown Aspen, Smuggler Mountain delivers stunning sunrise and sunset vistas without an arduous trek. The trail, located minutes from the town center, is just over 2.5 miles and offers panoramic views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains from an easily accessible observation deck. Whether you opt for an early morning ascent to catch the sunrise or an evening hike to witness the sunset, the ever-changing colors of the sky combined with the twinkling lights of Aspen below create a magical ambience. If you’re looking for an extra adventure, this trail offers the added bonus of continuing on for a 14-mile out-and-back trail, which ends at Warren Lakes.  

Cathedral Lake Trail 

Cathedral Lake Trail, located in the White River National Forest, is a challenging, yet rewarding, hike, which culminates in breathtaking views of Cathedral Peak and the surrounding wilderness. As the sun rises or sets behind the rugged peaks, the alpine glow bathes the landscape in a warm, ethereal light. At 8.2 to 9.2 miles round-trip, the hike requires stamina and proper preparation, but the opportunity to witness nature’s spectacle from such a remote and pristine location makes it an unforgettable experience. 

Independence Pass 

For a sunrise or sunset experience accessed by car, Independence Pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It provides a dramatic backdrop for watching the sun ascend or descend beyond the horizon. Whether you choose to park at one of the designated overlooks or venture onto one of the nearby trails, the spectacle of nature unfolding against the backdrop of the Continental Divide is nothing short of awe-inspiring. 

Hunter Creek Trail 

Located just outside of Aspen, Hunter Creek Trail provides a serene escape into the wilderness with the convenience of being close to town. The trail winds through lush forests and alongside babbling creeks, eventually leading to expansive meadows with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you embark on this hike at dawn to catch the first light filtering through the trees or at dusk to witness the mountains bathed in the golden hues of sunset, the tranquility of the wilderness will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.  

“My favorite place to hike to watch the sunset is actually right in Aspen, the Hunter Creek – Smuggler Loop,” says Andrea Aust, education director at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. “In the summer, I can leave after finishing work at ACES and still get a good hike in before checking out the sunset at the top and walking down. The whole loop is about 5 miles long. The trailhead is near the Hunter Creek Condominiums, and I love starting my hike along the creek where it’s cool and shady.

One of the best things about summer in the mountains are the wildflowers. There are wildflowers all along this trail, from the early-season fairy slipper orchids to lupine and columbine, to paintbrush and dozens of others. It’s a little over 3 miles up to the Smuggler Observation Deck with outstanding views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains. This is the place to be when the sky begins changing colors. Then it’s a quick walk down Smuggler Road with sunset views the whole way down. By the time it gets dark, I’m back in town.” 

Whether you prefer a challenging alpine hike or a leisurely stroll with stunning viewpoints, there’s a trail for every adventurer. So, lace up your boots, pack your camera, and embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the magic of the region’s spectacular wilderness. 

A version of this story appears in the latest Summer in Aspen Snowmass Magazine. To read more magazine stories, go to aspentimes.com/magazines.