Grottos Trail

Dragged a 3 and 5 year old out for this trail- they are not natural hikers but this was exceptional and they quickly became so taken with the rocks, waterfalls and trails that we made it through without whining. Not too rough of a trail but not paved and does require balance in a few spots. Would do this hike again and again given the chance

The Grotto Trail is a short circular trail (about 1-1.5 km). Suitable for most hikers. Stunning views of the Roaring Fork River Canyon and the "Ice Caves", natural rock openings created by strong water flow. The parking lot in front of the trail is not large and can fill up quickly at busy times. In summary, a very charming and interesting place.

Great short hike! Decent amount of parking - look for the day use sign, maps takes you past it. Beautiful cascades and fun to explore along the river and cave.

Grottos Trail is a short and easy hike that’s perfect for a quick stop or a longer visit if you’re in the mood to explore. The trail offers easy access to both the stunning ice caves and the scenic cascades. While the hike itself is beginner-friendly, be cautious inside the ice caves—they can be extremely slippery, especially in the summer weather. A great spot for a peaceful nature break just off the road.

During my June visit, I found this to be a spectacular spot which features a beautiful waterfall and a super neat ice cave. Both features are just a short walk away from the parking lot. This trail is only a short ~20 minute scenic drive away from the heart of Aspen! A visit will be well worth your time (depending on the season)!

Great spot to get off rhe road, stretch your legs and see some lovely views. This trail features great rock structures that are fun to climb and explore. It's a loop that takes you to the White river and you can see some rapids. We came after a big rainstorm the day before the water level was high and moving fast. Great trail for kids, not a lot of elevation gain and lots to climb, jump and play on.

This is a trail that leads you to a beautiful cascade and ice cave. If you are into hiking it's not really even a trail, but if you are into interesting geology features or want to see cool things without much hiking effort then this is the place. While I saw kids and even a dog get lowered into the ice cave, it is a bit of a sketchy down climb. The cave is really fascinating and the ice is quite slippery. The cascade is beautiful but do be careful and respect the power and force of water. There is a less turbulent section of the creek right at the parking area for a safer dip.

Such a fun place to visit. I had my crampons in early June and the ice was still packed in the caves. It was so much fun. Beautiful cascades as well! A great stop!

I absolutely loved this hike soooo much . I have a bad foot with so many medical issues . I chose this trail because is so short . When we reached the ice cave I Decided not to risk lowering myself into the cave only because of my foot. There was another guy who had just had foot surgery and also decided against going down into the ice cave only. But he had made it too all the way down the trail . My husband did and showed me amazing pictures. This hike was just beyond words. I took it slow and was careful . There was a breathtaking waterfall . Of all the things we have done on this trip THIS is my favorite.

You have to stop here during fall. Thé color of the water is so gorgeous! The trail is easily short and accessible, pet friendly and not long at all. Wonderful views and one of my favorite places around this area. Just listening to the water was so relaxing. A beautiful place to visit.

Yelp has the directions all wrong on this trailhead. It's actually way east of what it says, close to mile marker 51. Park your car in the upper or lower lot. There are rest rooms in the lower lot and more parking room. Head out over the bridge over the stream and follow up to your left. You'll arrive at the ice cave a short way up the trail. There are signs but still not easy to find. When you see the fissure in the rock, they are down below. You may be able to find your way in on the downstream side. The cascade is further up the trail and features several layers of short waterfalls. Total hike in is less then a half mile. Picnic tables are available for lunch. There are plenty of places to just sit on the rocks and enjoy the scenery and sound of the river

One of the best things I did when I was visiting Aspen! To find the trail, travel 9 miles up Independence Pass Road (Highway 82) from Aspen. The trail is located on the right side of the road - there will be a sign for "Grottos Day Use Area." There is a small parking area! Great trail for fly fishing, rock climbing, exploring Ice Caves, picnics, and hiking the Cascades. We were there in mid-summer. So the Ice Caves were no longer Ice Caves. But even in this hot summer weather, the Cascades alone are worth the trip! Wander along the Roaring Fork River (ice cold even in summer) and hike along the Cascades. Simply a gorgeous hike! Definitely an off-path, get a hold of rocks kind of hike! But so fun, so worth it!

One of my favorite short hike is the grottos and surrounding area. This is our routine, go to ice cave and it's a bit steep to climb down but it's worth to see. Come up and follow the rock crack above the ice cave then you'll see the sign it's called terraces and keep going. You'll see mini Bridge and just keep going straight and you'll see small narrow path and just follow the path. You will climb some rocks ups and downs and eventually will take you to the end of the path. Follow the water falls down the grottos and it's so beautiful! Don't forget to pack lunch and water because it's so pretty to have picnic here. Happy adventure!