ASPEN, COLORADO…NOT JUST A WINTER DESTINATION      (Check out Photo Gallery for more Photographs of ASPEN)

You hear the city name of Aspen and what do you think?

Snowy ski slopes, skiing, snowboarding, warm jackets, hats, mittens, scarves, headbands, heavy socks and ski boots. How about hot chocolate, bonfires, iced eyebrows, red cheeks, dry lips, facial sunscreen and ‘anything’ that will keep you warm!

Well, Summer and Fall is a different scene. Warm, comfortable days for walking and shopping has an array of name brand and designer labels (exclusive, luxury) to consignment shops and thrift stores. sitting on patios in the sun with a glass of wine or beer, shorts, sandals, short sleeve shirts, maybe an umbrella and riding up the Silver Queen Gondola and not having to wait in lines! Hiking, biking, golf, tennis, horseback riding, rafting, kayaking are the fresh air outdoor activities.  There are 7 popular hiking trails and 3 classic road bike rides.

Aspen in the ‘off season’ is quiet, ‘sale signs’ appear on store windows, reservations are not needed at most os the 100 restaurants which offer choices from haute cuisine to pub grub. The Spa’s offer a variety of massage packages, treatments ranging from oxygen rooms to yoga. The street pathways are not crowded. Rental units are reduced and the quantity of available accommodations are abundant.

What is Aspen? The scenery is magnificent with majestic high peaks of the Rocky Mountains and the lush green grass in the valley with streams running through. The homes (many 3 or 4 stories high) sit on the cliffs. Luxurious condos and cabins are located ‘in the action of the city’ and on the roads leading  to the downtown. A historical hotel is located on Main Street and there are museums and some historical sights to visit but the main emphasis is built around the concept of sport activities, specifically Winter Season. The John Denver Santuary is located by the Rio Grande Park. The John Denver Memorial includes many of his songs etched into the rocks. Nestled along the river, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the serenity and tranquility of the area.

www.aspenchamber.org