Cemetery Tour

If you’re someone who enjoys uncovering local stories and stepping outside the usual tourist spots, the Cemetery Tour in Aspen might just be your next interesting outing. It’s a brief, one-hour walk through the abandoned Ute Cemetery, led by a knowledgeable local guide who brings history alive. While it’s not a long or flashy tour, it offers a unique glimpse into Aspen’s earliest days, far removed from the glitz of the ski resorts.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it blends history with a touch of local color. The stories shared are engaging and personal, and the setting—an old pioneer graveyard—adds a quiet, reflective atmosphere. Plus, the tour’s small group size (max 20 travelers) keeps things intimate and friendly. One possible downside is that the hike involves uneven trails and some elevation gain, so it’s best suited for visitors comfortable with moderate walking on uneven surfaces.

This tour feels like a great choice if you’re curious about Aspen’s roots, appreciate guided storytelling, or just want a different way to spend an hour in town. It tends to attract history lovers and those interested in Colorado’s pioneer era, but it’s also accessible enough for anyone with a moderate fitness level who’s open to a relaxed, informative walk.

Key Points

• Authentic stories from a local guide make the history of Aspen come alive.
• Short, manageable duration – perfect if you’re tight on time or want a quick, meaningful experience.
• Accessible setting with uneven trails and slight elevation gain, suitable for travelers with moderate fitness.
• Small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience.
• Affordable price point of $45 per person delivers good value for a guided, story-rich walk.
• Slightly removed from the tourist hustle, offering a peaceful reflection on Aspen’s early days.

What to Expect on the Cemetery Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at 1282 Ute Ave, a convenient central starting point. From there, you’ll head on foot toward the Ute Cemetery, which is quite literally Aspen’s original burial ground. This area, now abandoned, is a haunting yet fascinating place filled with stories waiting to be uncovered.

Ute Cemetery isn’t a manicured park—think rugged, uneven trails, and a modest amount of elevation gain. This means you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some light hiking. The guide will take you through the cemetery’s layout, pointing out notable graves and sharing tales about the pioneers buried there.

Stories and Local Color

What makes this tour stand out is the way stories are woven into the visit. One reviewer, Laura B, described it as “a perfect timeslot and very interesting,” noting the personal touches like flags, whiskey shots, and flowers among the graves, which added a heartfelt and quirky vibe. These touches hint that the guide isn’t just reciting dry facts but genuinely engaging with the history and bringing personality into the storytelling.

Expect to hear about Aspen’s early residents, discover how they lived, and maybe even learn about the circumstances that led to some of the graves. These stories help paint a picture of Aspen’s pioneering days—an era far removed from the glitz of today’s resort scene.

The Experience and Atmosphere

The small group size (max 20) makes the experience more intimate. You’ll get plenty of chances to ask questions and listen to personalized stories from your guide. The setting—an old, somewhat eerie cemetery—adds a reflective tone to the tour. It’s a quiet, contemplative space that encourages you to think about those who came before.

Practical Details

The tour starts at 4:00 pm, which is a good time to avoid the heat and enjoy the softer light as the sun begins to set. It lasts about an hour, making it easy to slot into a day of sightseeing or relaxation. Since the activity is near public transportation, getting there isn’t a hassle, and the meeting point is straightforward.

While the tour doesn’t include transportation or meals, it’s a budget-friendly way to deepen your understanding of Aspen’s history. The price of $45 per person feels fair considering the guided storytelling and the chance to explore a historic site that’s not open to the general public.

Is It Kid-Friendly?

There’s no specific mention of children, but given the uneven trail surfaces and moderate physical activity, it’s probably best suited for older kids or teenagers comfortable with walking and uneven terrain. The personal touches—like flowers and flags—might appeal to families interested in local culture, but it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

This cemetery walk offers a distinctive slice of Aspen’s early history, told in a personable and engaging way. For $45, you get a guided walk through an authentic historic site with stories that stick with you long after. It’s especially valuable for those who enjoy history, storytelling, or quiet reflection, and who don’t mind a bit of uneven footing.

If you’re visiting Aspen and want a change of pace from outdoor adventures or high-end shopping, this tour provides a meaningful, low-key experience. It’s perfect for solo travelers, history buffs, or curious couples wanting to learn more about the town’s roots without committing to a lengthy tour.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer fully paved sidewalks, this might not be the best fit. Also, do keep in mind that weather can impact the experience—bad weather could lead to cancellations, but you can cancel for free up to 24 hours beforehand.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is generally suitable for those comfortable with walking on uneven trails and moderate elevation. Young children might find the terrain challenging, and there’s no specific mention of family-friendly features, so consider your kids’ comfort with outdoor walking.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven surfaces. Since the trail has slight elevation gain, bring layers in case it gets cool in the late afternoon.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about one hour, making it a quick but engaging experience that can fit into a larger day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, the meeting point is near public transportation, and travelers are expected to make their way there on their own.

What is included in the cost?
The price covers the guided tour with a professional local guide. No additional fees are mentioned.

Final Thoughts

The Cemetery Tour in Aspen is a thoughtful way to connect with the town’s past beyond the usual sights. It’s a chance to walk through history, listen to stories that breathe life into old graves, and gain a new appreciation for Aspen’s pioneer era. The personal touches and knowledgeable guides turn what could be a simple walk into a memorable experience.

If you enjoy history, storytelling, and exploring places with a quiet, reflective mood, this tour will resonate. It’s a fantastic option for travelers looking to add a meaningful, off-the-beaten-path experience to their Aspen visit. Just be prepared for some uneven terrain and bring your curiosity—this isn’t a typical sightseeing tour, but it’s definitely a memorable one.