September
Classic: Horseback ride to Crested Butte
Let the horse watch the trail while taking in the golden fall foliage. Aspen-to-Crested-Butte hikers mostly avoid East Maroon Pass because of the added mileage. On horseback, however, take advantage of this lesser-used corridor and ride to Crested Butte for the night before returning home just like the silver miners once did. $1,250 per person, includes lodging
Alternative: Horseback ride to Maroon Bells
Ride horses through the majestic Maroon Creek Valley with Maroon Bells Outfitters based out of T-Lazy-7. The flower-filled meadows and spectacular rock formations surround the gem of the valley: the Maroon Bells. $225 per person
Upgrade: Overnight horseback pack trip to Snowmass Lake
Framed in a granite cirque by three large peaks, Snowmass Lake deserves an overnight stay, if only for the alpenglow. Either hike the 8 ½ miles carrying a heavy pack, or hire the help of a horse. $650 per person
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