Browsing Aspen
Take a ride in a hot air balloon, and experience the spectacular panoramas of the Rockies while sipping champagne or just breathing in the fresh mountain air. It's not often you'll have such a stunning view of Snowmass Mountain and Mt. Daly without having to climb them first! Sit back and enjoy the one hour ride as you experience the tranquility and beauty that only a hot air balloon ride can offer at 13,000 feet "above it all."
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A former sheep ranch owned by the Anderson Family, the Anderson Ranch Arts Center is a collection of historic log barns and the family's home in the Brush Creek Valley. It has evolved into a nationally recognized visual arts center with a focus on crafts and fine arts. Aspen resident Paul Soldner was searching for a pottery studio for his volunteer cooperative in the mid-1960s. At that time the Snowmass ski area developers had bought all the buildings in the area and told Soldner he could use the empty buildings as studio space. The arts center was incorporated in 1974 as a nonprofit organization. During the summer, more than 100 workshops are offered and taught by well-known national and international artists in residence who come here to work, teach and chat with visitors. Classes are intentionally kept small and there are one, two, and three-week courses on ceramics, book arts, digital imaging, drawing, painting, printmaking, woodworking, photography, and more, including children's programs.
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With its humble beginnings as a mining town established in the late 1800s, Ashcroft is a unique and historic (if not a bit eerie!) place to visit that's only a short drive from Aspen. The town was set up by two miners, Charles B. Culver and W.F. Foxhead in 1880, initially serving as their mining camp, but people kept pouring in and by 1883, Ashcroft was home to about 2,000 residents. Two years later though, thanks to the discovery that the silver mines were shallow and the lure of striking it rich somewhere else, Ashcroft had dwindled to 100 people. In the 1930s, the town once again became popular, with the construction of the Highland-Bavarian Lodge, but plans to expand were squashed with the onset of World War II. In the 1950s, a television series,
Sgt. Preston of the Yukon was filmed in Ashcroft, and the small town was outfitted with false building fronts to create the show's set. Today, Ashcroft is a National Historic Register site and is open from June through September for visitors to tour its preserved streets and buildings.
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This quaint local museum specializes in showcasing contemporary art from artists around the world. You'll find the museum housed in an old, restored brick building near the Rio Grande Trail, close to downtown Aspen. The museum features rotating exhibits, so check before you visit if you want to find out what's on display when you'll be in town. In addition to great exhibitions, the museum also provides great community programming and events throughout the year, including artist lectures and elegant charity benefits.
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The mission of the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies ("ACES") is to educate the public about environmental conservation and responsibility. The Center puts on over 180 great programs and classes for kids and adults throughout the year, which include nature hikes, a Naturalist Field School, campground programs, classroom visits to local schools, and more. The Center's Hallam Lake location sits on a riparian nature preserve near Aspen and offers an interpretive trail that winds through various ecosystems, as well as on-site naturalists that give tours of the preserve and lead a variety of programs. ACES also operates two other facilities, Rock Bottom Ranch and Toklat Lodge, where they conduct additional classes, events, and programs.
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For those looking to relax and be pampered, or work on overall fitness, the Aspen Club & Spa is for you. This elegantly-appointed 77,000 square-foot facility features a state-of-the-art fitness facility, where patrons can use exercise equipment and/or participate in classes (ranging from yoga to Kung Fu) to get a whole body workout. You'll also want to check out the popular SpaAspen, a spa that features the latest treatments in massage, waxing, skin care, and body treatments. The whole facility was designed to maximize its stunning natural backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, so you'll find design elements such as skylights and large windows used in abundance throughout the building to create a peaceful, nature-inspired experience.
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The Aspen Fine Art Gallery is one of a family of galleries, with other branches located in nearby mountain towns including Vail, Breckenridge, and Beaver Creek. The galleries specialize in Impressionist and master painters from Russia and other eastern European countries, although there are artists from different countries around the globe represented here. You'll find a great deal of fine art pieces in the gallery to choose from, and the knowledgeable staff can help with questions about the artwork, as well as locate art from around the world to suit your tastes.
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This local course is operated by Aspen Parks & Recreation and is a great place to play if you're looking for a casual, low-cost (compared to other local courses!) game of golf. The 18-hole, par 72 course features rolling greens and tight fairways, and water comes into play on almost every hole. The whole course measures 7165 yards, making it a challenging course for both experienced and non-experienced golfers. One of the most striking features of the Aspen Golf Course is the breathtaking views it offers from any spot on the course. You'll be treated to gorgeous panoramas of the snow-capped peaks and mountain forests of the Continental Divide, Independence Peak, Aspen Mountain, and other surrounding landscapes no matter where you are standing on the golf course.
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The Aspen Historical Society, at 620 W. Bleeker St., includes a museum ($3-$6 depending on age) and offers walking tours through the historic "West End" of Aspen. Here is your chance to learn about landmark buildings and Victorian architecture, as well as hear fascinating stories of Aspen's past.
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When it's cold and blustery outside, and skiing isn't on the itinerary, head indoors to the Aspen Ice Garden for an ice skating adventure that's fun for the whole family. The rink is very well-maintained, and there are skate rentals, vending machines, and locker rooms as added amenities. Aspen Ice Garden offers a variety of programs, including many public skating times throughout the week, figure skating lessons, and adult and child hockey leagues. The facility is also available to rent, which is a great option for private birthday parties or other functions.
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This beautiful mountain towers over the town of Aspen, giving city-dwellers and visitors a convenient option for skiing, hiking, and sledding. Most people head up the mountain to ski at Aspen Mountain ski area, which encompasses about 673 acres and features mostly intermediate and advanced terrain. You can take the gondola or the Little Nell lift up the mountain right from downtown Aspen, and ski back into town on the Little Nell run, making Aspen Mountain a popular skiing area for those staying downtown. During the summertime, Aspen Mountain is a great place to go mountain biking and hiking as there are many trails to choose from, including short strolling paths, longer more strenuous routes, and everything in between. Stop at the gondola ticket booth at the base of the mountain for information about the trails as well as great route maps.
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Located halfway between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, this full-service campground is within easy walking distance of the Roaring Forks River Gold Medal Fishing area. Nice restrooms, a heated pool, spa, game room, cable TV connections, laundry facilities, and high-speed internet make this facility ideal for those who want a few amenities with their camping. The RV sites have 50amp service, so hooking up that TV won't be a problem. This also makes a nice base for exploring the environs, whether you enjoy hiking, biking, and Nordic adventure, or you prefer the nearby golf courses and hot springs.
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Battlement Mesa, located northwest of Aspen near the town of Glenwood Springs, is an upscale residential community that boasts a gorgeous golf course. The course is an 18-hole championship course that stretches for about 7,309 yards from the longest tees, and features varying terrain with trees and water hazards. Golfers will love the beautiful views that abound from all points on the course, and will also like the varying landscapes they'll play through, including a high desert mesa and a tree-studded valley. In addition to a great course, you'll also find a fully-stocked clubhouse at Battlement Mesa, as well as ample practice space which includes a natural grass driving range, putting green, and a chipping and sand area.
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This convenient chair lift makes it easy to get up the mountain from the base of Snowmass Village. The lift features a double chair (so you and your friend can ride comfortably) that cruises from Snowmass Village Mall to mid-mountain, where you'll find a plethora of activities waiting. Mountain bikers love to strap their bikes onto the Burlingame Lift for easy transportation to the great mountain trails, and hikers love the easy access that the lift gives to mid-mountain hiking routes--there's even a free disc golf course and an outdoor paintball course located at the top of the lift! Aspen visitors should definitely buy a lift ticket and ride to the mid-mountain area, as it offers not only fun activities, but also gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and the town of Aspen.
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Buttermilk Mountain is among Aspen's four ski mountains, and is known for having great beginner/intermediate trails. Families and groups love this mountain, as it offers varied terrain for skiers and snowboarders, and many of its runs are wide and easy to navigate. The ski resort features a vertical drop of about 2,030 feet and encompasses over 470 acres of rolling terrain with 44 different ski runs. Buttermilk is also well-known for hosting the annual winter X-Games, an extreme sports competition that attracts some of the best professional winter athletes to compete for medals and prize money.
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This short trail offers a great way to see Aspen's beautiful storied scenery without investing too much time. It stretches for 1.8 miles through aspen groves and rock formations and ends at Crater Lake, a beautiful alpine water source. The trail is popular with locals and visitors alike, and is a good place to start on a backpacking or longer hiking excursion in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. Since the trail is so convenient and beautiful, it can be very crowded on warm days, so be prepared to deal with the crowds during peak tourist months.
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Although a bit cluttered, Curious George Collectibles is a fun shop to visit. You'll find a large assortment of collectibles, antiques, jewelry, and knick-knacks here--especially those that are western themed. If you're looking for turquoise jewelry, silver-hued cutlery, or unique belt buckles, Curious George Collectibles is the place to go.
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This charming bookstore is situated in a beautiful old Victorian house, and features a delicious vegetarian bistro upstairs. The friendly staff will help you find whatever it is you're looking for; or let you be, if you prefer, to just soak up the laid-back atmosphere and browse. When you start getting a bit peckish, head upstairs and peruse the mostly vegan menu for lunch, dinner, or a snack. The cafe also provides wi-fi internet access for its customers, and offers catering, take-out, and delivery.
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This popular Aspen gallery showcases art from the 19th and 20th centuries, including pieces from such famous artists as Picasso, Matisse, and others. The team at Galerie Maximillian has over 40 years of experience in the art market, and can provide educated and knowledgeable information about art purchases. Galerie Maximillian features a variety of rotating exhibits throughout the year, including shows such as
Masters of the 20th Century and
Contemporary British Works on Paper. This gallery is definitely one of the best places to go in Aspen to procure fine works of art from American and British artists, as well as other artists from around the globe.
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If you're planning on taking a day trip outside of Aspen, make sure to put Glenwood Caverns on your itinerary. While you might be used to hiking up mountains around Aspen, Glenwood Caverns gives you the opportunity to head underneath the ground and explore the breathtaking caverns via a guided walking tour. The caves feature amazing rock formations that make visitors feel as if they're in another world--definitely a neat experience for all ages. In addition to cave tours, Glenwood Caverns also offers a variety of additional fun activities that will keep the kids entertained, including the Canyon Flyer roller coaster, a bungee trampoline, laser tag, a wild west maze, and more.
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This trail stretches for about 10 miles through scenic aspen groves, mountain streams, and flowering meadows. It features rolling terrain that is great for those looking for a good hike, or for a great mountain bike route; in the winters it is also a popular place to go cross-country skiing. The trail starts west of Aspen near the local recreation center, and winds its way all the way to its end at Snowmass Village. The elevation gain is about 1,400 feet from beginning to end, making a moderate-level hike. Note that the trail is closed from the middle of May through the middle of June for migrating elk.
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This is a nice trail for those looking to see flowering meadows and alpine lakes. The Grizzly Lake Trail starts near town and follows a creek for a while, then crosses a rocky area where there are large and small rocks that require some navigation to get around. Next, the trail winds through alpine terrain and ends on a small hillside overlooking Grizzly Lake. The trail is about 3.6 miles in length, with an elevation gain of about 1,300 feet. Off-road vehicles are allowed to access the trail/road, so hikers should be aware that they might have to deal with vehicle traffic en route to the lake.
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The Grottos Day Use Area provides a nice spot for those looking to have a picnic or take a short hike with scenic views. The Grottos Trail splits into three separate branches starting at the western edge of the parking lot. The first trail heads left and is a very short route, stretching for about 30 yards and crossing a stream before ending at a gorgeous picnic area with a waterfall and boulders. The second trail leads off to the right and winds along a rocky pathway through forest, and ends at ice caves. The third trail is the longest, and also leads off to the right, but continues along a path for about 1/2 mile to end at the shores of Lincoln Creek.
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This luxurious hotel adds both elegance and history to downtown Aspen. The hotel opened in 1889 and has been a city landmark since its inaugural gala. Jerome B. Wheeler, a co-owner of Macy's department stores, opened the hotel when the city was bustling with the buzz of the great silver boom. He decided the mining town needed a refined, cosmopolitan feeling, and the Hotel Jerome was born. Today, the hotel features 94 guestrooms, each appointed with antique furnishings, luxuriant bedding, and marble-accented bathrooms. There are many things to see and do while staying at the Hotel Jerome, including dining at the hotel's fine restaurants and lounges, which include Jacob's, the Garden Terrace, the J-Bar, and the Library lounge. Guests can also take advantage of the hotel's other services and amenities, such as SUV chauffeur service, the fitness center and pools, concierge service, pet-friendly accommodations, and childcare.
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This popular gallery serves as a studio and display space for artist Don Huntsman, a local bronze sculptor. His works, as well as the works from over 40 other artists, are showcased here; most of the artwork represents western themes, such as landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor sporting. There are a variety of mediums represented here as well, including oil, acrylic, bronze, marble, and watercolor, so art lovers will definitely have options at this gallery. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Don working away on his own art creations.
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For a look back at the area's storied history, head to this easily-accessible ghost town. It got its name because, as the story goes, gold was found in the area on Independence Day in 1879, and soon thereafter a tent city, full of miners and prospectors, sprung up. By 1882, the town featured houses, a sawmill, grocery stores, boarding houses, saloons, and even three post offices--not to mention a population of about 1,500 people. It didn't take long for the mining boom to turn into a bust, and many of Independence's residents moved away to other area towns to try to make a living. By 1888 only 100 people remained in Independence. In 1899, a horrible winter storm struck the town, stranding its residents and causing them to decide to move elsewhere, so they dismantled their homes and made skis out of the material so they could escape to nearby Aspen. Today only a few old buildings remain, and visitors can tour the area and learn about the stories and history of the mining legacy of Independence.
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This breathtaking road is one of the highest paved roads in the United States, as it sits at an elevation of about 12,095 feet. The road provides access to Aspen from the east, and winds through alpine tundra, rock outcroppings, and cliffs with sheer drops (if you're afraid of heights, this might not be the best road for you!). There are amazing views available from all angles as you're driving over the pass, and there's a scenic pull-off at the summit so travelers can get out and take photographs of the surrounding mountain ranges. Since the roads sits at such a high altitude, it is only open from mid-spring through early fall, as the rest of the year it's usually covered with snow!
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To find fabulous photography in Aspen, look no further than the Joel Soroka Gallery. The gallery offers a comfortable, cozy atmosphere, and specializes in displaying pieces that are highly sought-after by art collectors, such as the evocative images of Lynn Bianchi and the award-winning simplicity of Cig Harvey's pictures. The photos on display here are hand-picked by Soroka himself, and come from artists around the globe, both those that are experienced and those that are new to the photography scene. The gallery also hosts various shows and exhibitions throughout the year, which are good events to attend for those interested in photography.
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This art gallery is the perfect place for those who love traditional landscapes and wildlife paintings. Many of the paintings and prints here are inspired by the Colorado landscape and lifestyle, with themes such as cowboys, western animals, Native Americans, and mountains. Although located outside of Aspen in the town of Basalt, Keating Fine Art is worth the trip, especially if you're in the market for art that represents the local area.
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This unpaved road that cuts through the backcountry near Aspen is a favorite pathway for hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, fishermen, (and during the wintertime) cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers. It starts at an elevation of 9,785 feet and gains about 1,200 feet over its course, climbing up some steep grades that will entice any off-road vehicle or bicycle. There are various campsites along the road, as well as crystal-clear fishing lakes that are both easily accessible and beautiful.
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Located in downtown Aspen, next to Explore Booksellers, this independently owned bakery specializes in fresh pastries, breads, cakes, and croissants. This is the place to go if you've got a birthday or another occasion that calls for something special. While it's a great place to satisfy that persistent sweet-tooth, the cafe also serves sandwiches and salads. And if it's been a long day of sightseeing, you can also enjoy a glass of beer or wine.
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The picture-perfect Maroon Bells are an absolute must-see for any visit to Aspen. The stunning set of mountain peaks are said to be the most photographed peaks in the country, and once you see them in person, you can understand why. Hiking trails abound in the surrounding National Forest land, and a popular trail is the Maroon Creek Trail, which extends to the Maroon Lake that is circled in flowering meadows and its clear water captures the reflection of the peaks beautifully. Shuttle buses run to this area during the summer months, otherwise hiking, biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling are the best way to catch a glimpse of the famous peaks which soar up to 14,000 feet into the bright and clear Colorado sky.
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The Maroon Creek Trail is a nice and moderate 3.5-mile one-way hike that offers stellar views of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak. This trail is a great hiking choice as the terrain is easy to navigate and is an easy enough trail for beginning hikers with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the view along the way. The trail can be accessed from the east side of Maroon Lake or at the opposite end of the trail at the East Maroon Portal. Season shuttle service is also available.
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As one of Colorado's legendary 14,000-foot mountain peaks, Maroon Peak is a towering 14,163 feet high. The peak soars above Aspen and is part of the famous Maroon Bells, a set of picturesque peaks. The peak can be accessed from Maroon Creek parking area along Maroon Creek Road. Experienced mountain climbers take on the challenging hike, but those without mountaineering experience can take in the beauty of the peak and its neighboring Maroon Bells from a number of the local hiking trails in this beautiful area southwest of Aspen.
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The Maroon-Snowmass Trail is a popular mountain trail in the Aspen area and is a favorite for hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. The one-way trail stretches for about 8.5 miles and gains 2,500 in elevation. With unbeatable alpine vistas, classic Colorado mountain scenery, clear lakes, it's no wonder why the trail is so heavily used in the fall and summer seasons, which is when it is advised to traverse. Camping is available at Crater Lake and Snowmass Lake. To access the trail, head west from Aspen following Brush Creek Road and Divide Road to the Krabloonik Restaurant, after descending down the steep road, steer left at the fork and you'll find parking available.
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The Midway Creek Trail is a difficult and challenging mountain path located in the mountains near Aspen. The trail itself covers 8.8 miles of terrain and is recommended in the summer and fall seasons only. The trail begins at the Lostman Trailhead on Independence Pass and ends in Aspen itself, making for a journey that is best done one way. Pass through expansive meadows, dense alpine forests, spring run-off creeks, and beautiful scenery including Midway Lake, which is also accessible from the Midway Creek Trail.
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This public fountain in Aspen's central Wagner Park and historic square is a dream for kids in the warmer summer season. The Mill Street Fountain has geyser-like streams of water that shoots from the ground, making for a very interactive and fun place for kids to don their bathing suits and enjoy the cool water on hot days. The fountain is very popular with local children and especially for families traveling to Aspen with the little ones.
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North America's highest golf course is set in the natural surroundings of the Arkansas River Valley and features stunning views of over half of Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks--including Mt. Elbert, the highest in the state, and equally impressive Mt. Massive, the second highest. No condos, homes or highways crowd the fairways--the local residents are elk, deer, fox and squirrels. With affordable fees, a family friendly atmosphere, and a meticulously maintained, professionally operated course, it's no wonder Mt. Massive golf courses is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Located less than an hour from Vail and Summit County, less than two hours from Denver metro and Aspen, the drive to historic Leadville/Lake County affords guests the opportunity to cross the "Top-of-the-Rockies" scenic byway and enjoy the best of Colorado's high mountain vistas - all on the way to a memorable golf outing and pleasant stay in and around the quaint, authentic Victorian town of Leadville.
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The Pam Driscol Gallery is located in the Mall Square area in the heart of Aspen and has been a long-established local art gallery. Known for its impressive art collection, the gallery features life-size bronze sculptures, water fountains, and oil paintings, among other unique and acclaimed pieces. The gallery is open to the public and is a favorite among Aspen locals and visitors alike.
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This downtown Aspen gallery specializes in contemporary glass art from artists both worldwide as well as local emerging artists. The Pismo Fine Art Glass gallery features many unique pieces including bowls, vases, objects, and even chandeliers. This gallery's Aspen location is the most recent and Pismo Fine Art Glass can also be found in three other Colorado locations: Denver, Beaver Creek, and Vail.
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Aspen's Rio Grande Trail is a multi-use trail for walkers and joggers in the warmer seasons and also doubles as a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trail. The scenic path follows the old Denver and Rio Grande Railroad winding its way along the Raring Fork River through downtown Aspen and beyond. Stroll along the pathway for a relaxing walk to soak up the local scenery, or embark on a longer journey following the length of the trail, which is about 20 miles, to the town of Basalt.
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Established in 1982 by resource analysts, L. Hunter Lovins and Amory B. Lovins, this environmentally oriented and constructed think tank is the place to go to be inspired about future resource management, new technologies and ideas. One of the prototypes of "green building," the research center uses passive solar, earth-sheltering and superinsulation and doesn't need a conventional heating system despite the mountain climate. Stressing market-based solutions, the Institute demonstrates to individuals, businesses, communities, and even to governments, how to encourage job growth, protect human and natural capital, and increase profit and competition, mostly by simply boosting efficiency. Guided tours of the facilities are available on Fridays at 2pm, but you can guide yourself any other day of the week, during business hours.
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When visiting Aspen during the winter season, a great way to enjoy the cool weather while in town is by taking a spin around the Silver Circle Ice Rink. Located right downtown on Durant Avenue, this smaller outdoor rink is open from morning til night everyday during the winter season. The rink is popular with visiting families and makes a great place for the kids to have some fun at night in town. There is also a convenient, on-site shop where you can rent skates.
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You don't have to come to Aspen in the winter for skiing to really enjoy the mountain. For spectacular views and to ascend to the top of the mountain, take a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola. The gondola ride will have you climbing 3,000 vertical feet and over 2.5 miles of territory to Aspen Mountain's summit. From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy the panoramic views, have lunch at the Sundeck restaurant, and hike around the mountain. There are plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy during the summer on the mountain.
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Smuggler Mountain Road is an off-roading trail and is primarily used by mountain bikers, hikers, and runners. The trail was once an old mining road and features loose gravel and plenty of switchbacks climbs. The trail is just about one and a half miles long and offers great views of Aspen at the top. If you continue along the trail, it gets much steeper and leads to Warren Lakes.
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Nordic and cross country skiers will surely enjoy the Cross Country Center at the Snowmass Club. During the snowy winter months, the golf course at Snowmass Club converts into a great cross-country track, offering pleasant views and scenery. The local Ute Mountaineering company sets up shop with an on-site pro shop for rental equipment.
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This Irish links type course will challenge all golfers with stunning scenery and a challenging course. Located in the heart of Snowmass Village at the prestigious Snowmass Club, with amenities including this golf course, tennis, a spa and athletic club, and a nice restaurant. Though this is a private club, the golf course is open to the public for play after 1pm. Surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains, this 18-hole course was designed by Jim Engh and offers challenges with spectacular landscapes.
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Located just northwest of Aspen at Snowmass Village, Snowmass Mountain is one of Aspen's four ski mountains. Many consider the terrain at Snowmass Mountain as the most diverse of the other Aspen mountains. Sprawling out over 3,132 acres, the mountain offers 21 lifts, 91 trails, along with terrain parks and half-pipes. Snowmass is also a very family-friendly mountain with plenty of gentle cruiser trails and is a local and family favorite. Relax in one of the many restaurants, cafes, and lodges on the mountain and shuttles run from the free parking lot at Town Park Station to the slopes.
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Whether it's skiing, mountain biking, hiking, or some other mountain pursuit, sports are the main reason people generally choose to visit the town of Snowmass. A quiet place to get away from Aspen's glitzy hustle bustle, Snowmass is a resort village composed mostly of condos and definitely geared towards the more adventurous and outdoorsy types. In summer it's a pleasant getaway only 12 miles from Aspen in which to enjoy the lovely mountain setting, while in winter the skiing at Snowmass Mountain is among the best in the state. Don't look for any unique lodgings, fancy nightspots, or historical landmarks here; rather, the spectacular mountain setting makes Snowmass a favorite with skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, and those looking to enjoy Colorado's spectacular mountain scenery.
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This historic ranch is located just outside of the town of Aspen at the foot of the famous Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed peaks in the Rocky Mountains. The T-Lazy-7 Ranch is considered Aspen's oldest working ranch and visitors come here for the ranch's unparalleled guided snowmobiling tours during the snowy winter months. The Klondike Lunch Tour will have you snowmobiling through the White River National Forrest for fantastic views of the famed 14,000-foot Pyramid Peak. this lunch ride includes a hearty cheeseburger meal from the ranch's own grass-fed beef. The two-hour Maroon Bells Tour are the most popular and feature a snowmobile trip to the best viewpoint of the stunning peaks at Maroon Lake. The Maroon Bells Outfitters offer horseback riding excursions from the ranch as well, including trail rides, dinner rides, overnight camp outs and more.
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Recalling days in the old west, when miners and cowboys bellied up to the bar looking for a cold one, the Jerome Bar, or J-Bar as the locals call it, has been a favorite in Aspen for over a hundred years. The pigskin covered stools, hand-carved maple bar, pressed tin ceiling, and silver inlaid marble floors all lend to the nineteenth-century frontier ambiance that will have you checking the calendar. The bar offers a full range of drinks including signature cocktails, and local and imported beers. Bottled water, juices, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and espresso drinks are also available to the weary traveler looking for something a little lighter, as well as appetizers, sandwiches, and burgers.
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This gallery of fine handcrafts is located in the small town of Basalt, north of Aspen and further north of Snowmass along Highway 82. Toklat Gallery features fine handcrafted art from the Colorado mountains and from artists world-wide. The collection includes great woodwork, unique jewelry, heirloom furniture, sculptures, and hand woven rugs from Mexico. Make the drive to this charming town for exceptional views and for a visit to this established gallery to purchase your a local handcrafted piece or to simply peruse the collection.
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Wagner Park is located in the heart of downtown Aspen. Spanning two city blocks, the park is bordered by Mill Street, Durant Avenue, Monarch Street, and Hyman Avenue. Here, you'll find sporting fields popular with locals looking to throw around a Frisbee and travelers to stretch out and enjoy the sun while exploring Aspen. It's also good to know that this park has one of the only public restrooms in the town.
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The Wheeler Opera House is a real cultural landmark in Aspen and hosts many of the city's concerts, festivals, events, movies, and of course opera. The historic building opened in 1889 and has been the go-to venue for Aspen's cultural events. The Wheeler has frequent and regular events throughout the year and makes for a fun night out. Settle into the historic theater for a movie night or to experience a big-name touring band and enjoy the interior, which has much historic charm with detailed woodwork and architectural features.
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The Aspen Historical Society purchased this Queen Anne style Victorian in 1969 to house the society's museum with exhibits on the history and people of Aspen. The house was originally built in 1988 by Jerome Wheeler, who never ended up living in the house after his wife refused to move to Aspen. In 1905, Edgar and Mary Ella Stallard moved in and later purchased the home in 1917, and the Stallard family occupied the home for forty years. Today, the beautiful house is home to many interesting exhibits and galleries displaying historic Aspen. The house was renovated in 2001 and includes a refurbished first floor that is reminiscent of how the home would have looked when it was first built in the late 1800s.
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