Seth A.
Yelp
My review is for both Aspen Mountain and riding the Silver Queen Gondola to the summit.
My experience was just okay. I specifically returned to Aspen, CO back over the summer time to hopefully witness some incredible views from 11,200 feet high. Unfortunately...I never "got there". Ultimately, I left feeling partially disappointed. Let me explain and go into details...
I visited Aspen back in the middle of July, 2021. I happened to show up on a Sunday morning. When looking for parking, I found a spot on the side of the street and because it was Sunday, there was no fee to leave my car there all day.
The Silver Queen Gondola which I was excited to ride was situated right in the heart of downtown Aspen.
A ticket cost $31 roundtrip. Plus you can spend as much time at the top of Aspen Mountain as you'd like.
Before riding the gondola, I took a photo with the sign at the front entrance saying..."Welcome to Aspen Mountain. Silver Queen Gondola".
I believe this is a worthwhile photo opportunity to sort of officially announce that you have arrived and are ready to explore among the mountainous sights and surroundings of Aspen.
The cable car was rather small compared to others. I'd say at the most it fits 4 people. For being a quiet Sunday morning around 10am...I had my own pod to myself which was nice.
When riding to the top...I was able to snap pictures heading further up the mountain without being disturbed by strangers.
And this was surprising...it took about 15 minutes to make it to the peak. That's a long ride in terms of ski lifts/cable cars...IMO. So I'd suggest to sit back and enjoy the ride.
Upon arriving at the summit...honestly, there really weren't in your face kind of views. The mountains and backdrop was set so far away into the distance I briefly thought to myself..."what am I supposed to see now?"
One thing...there is a really cool little monument statue worthy of a picture. It's situated right beside the patio area near the lodge/restaurant. It states..."Aspen Mountain, 11,200 feet"...another fun moment to announce you have arrived, lol.
For me...I decided to do some hiking and exploring around the mountain. Now...some interesting views were from where you look out upon downtown Aspen where one of the ski lifts were located. So...I backtracked a little, maybe walking 3/4's of a mile back lower to distance myself from the crowds near the lodge. From my own little spot, I was able to capture some decent looking photo opportunities.
Here's the thing...the backdrop and looking down upon the panoramic backdrop were hard to enjoy. I'm saying this because during my visit...there wasn't a cloud in the sky. It was completely sunny out. Yet...there was this fog-like haze that hindered the setting. I couldn't understand what this haze was. It could have been simply the sun's reflections being strong and from this viewpoint atop Aspen Mountain, you're just situated too far away. I believe the layer of pollution/smog could have been possibly the wildfires from California had spread across to Colorado?
My point is...I never discovered a special moment as if being here at the pinnacle/apex of Aspen Mountain had me inspired. I just left with an "eh, whatever type of feeling".
Would I return to Aspen Mountain for another ride? No.
Would I suggest riding the gondola and exploring high above at this peak area? I guess if you're visiting for the first time.
Overall, I'd just mention to temper you're expectations. I don't know, maybe during winter times in ski season there are more worthwhile photogenic chances.
Some last notes...
The lodge does have a restaurant inside for sitting down, relaxing and dining. Outside on the patio there are a bunch of lounge chairs for hanging out. Off near the gondola station, there were lawn games for family activities like cornhole and shuffleboard including a playground for kids.
There is a gentleman who if you pay money, will take a family photo for you. I was attempting to take pictures near where his camera stand was set up and it became awkward with him staring at me.
There is a huge guide board to explain where all the ski trailheads are located. I'm not a skier, but it's incredible how many trails Aspen Mountain offers.
I spent about 2 - 3 hours casually strolling around and searching for the best picture opportunities. That's why I was here. Though I could see for a sunny, summer Sunday most families spending all day up at the top just taking it easy and letting their kids run around.
Alright well, this is my experience riding the Silver Queen Gondola to the peak of Aspen Mountain, Colorado.