Summer Information For Aspen In Colorado






May 16, 08

Aspen
Colorado

Ah, Aspen

Aspen, said to be the ultimate year-round resort, offers the perfect mix of cultural and recreational activities during the summer season.

A Cultural Mecca

Founded in 1879, the town has a rich heritage. Aspen's music, dance, theater and art offerings are unsurpassed. The annual Aspen Filmfest, the Aspen Music Festival and Jazz Aspen Snowmass are just a sampling of what the area has to offer true lovers of the arts. A diverse array of galleries show works by some of the finest artists in the nation.

Since it's easy to be torn between Aspen's cultural and recreational activities, find time to fit in some of each. At 7,908 feet, the region's breathtaking beauty and perfect climate lend it readily to any number of outdoor activities.

A Recreational Paradise

Whether you wish to travel on foot, bicycle or horseback, trails are plentiful both inside and outside of town. Guided jeep tours are available to get a good look at the backcountry. And for thrill-seekers wishing to get a unique view of the area, try a hot air balloon ride or a rafting trip on the Colorado, Roaring Fork or Arkansas rivers.

A trip up to Independence Pass (12,095 feet) on Colorado State Highway 82, is an unforgettable testament to the states natural beauty. The magnificent views of sparkling streams and snowcapped peaks will be etched in your memory.

If fishing is what you're looking for, this is the place. Picturesque settings and miles of streams offer some of the best in the state. The Frying Pan and the Roaring Fork rivers boast some of the states Gold Medal waters.

The area also could be called a golfer's paradise, with several lush, green courses. The spectacular weather almost assures that you won't miss a day of play and the view can't be beat.

Snowmass Village

Snowmass, a short drive down valley, draws visitors year-round to its magical place in the Colorado Rockies. An abundance of outdoor and cultural activities makes this a destination everyone will enjoy. Numerous hiking and mountain biking trails add to the region's great variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Guided nature hikes are available, and chairlifts can transport hikers and bikers to challenging trails on Snowmass Mountain.

Shopping and dining also are popular pastimes here. The unique boutiques and international cuisine provide a special flavor to the area.

Weekend festivals from June to September and free slope-side concerts under the stars offer visitors a wide variety of music and entertainment. A summer lineup, including jazz, pop, rock, blues and Cajun music has led Snowmass to be called a "Mecca for music in the Rockies."

The Snowmass Hot Air Balloon Festival, Jazz Aspen Snowmass and the Labor Day Music Festival are just a few of the spectacular events this area has to offer a summer visitor.

Maroon Bells

A trip to the much-photographed Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area is a must. Buses take sightseers into the area from Aspen during the summer season. This helps reduce the impact of vehicles on the fragile environment. Individual vehicles are allowed before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m.

The historic ghost town of Ashcroft, located off Highway 82 between Aspen and Snowmass, is a wonderful trip into the past. The Aspen Historical Society runs the site and offers tours for a small fee. The guides provide a wealth of information about the history of the town and the region. (No pets please.)

Mammoth Mountain