Aspen Attractions
By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Rockies.com
Aspen is an alpine wonderland and home to some of the best skiing in the world. Aspen lodging and hotels are the definition of luxury, and Aspen attractions reach much farther than the slopes.
In the middle of a trick during the Winter X-Games in Aspen. (Colorado Tourism Office)
Ski Aspen
Three Aspen ski areas await vacationers every winter. Aspen Ski Resort is famous for its steeps, bumps and views. It’s rated as intermediate to expert throughout, so families should head to the Buttermilk ski area, which has wide, rolling trails along with expert terrain, including a Superpipe. The Aspen Highlands ski area is known as the local’s favorite and features extreme terrain, groomed cruisers and breathtaking views of the Maroon Bells. Head to Aspen Highlands to compete in or watch the ESPN Winter X-games through 2010.
Hiking in Aspen
Hiking is a popular summer activity here in northwest Colorado. Nearby Maroon Bells offers beautiful meadows full of wildflowers and reflective mountain lakes. It is a wilderness area that has trails leading over nine passes about 12,000 feet in elevation, the relaxing hot springs of Conundrum Creek and shimmering alpine lakes at the feet of jagged peaks, six of which reach over 14,000 feet. The twin peaks of Maroon Bells are probably Colorado’s most photographed landscape. Come and see why!
Independence Pass
This is a high pass that allows access to Aspen for only about three months a year in the summer. This beautiful drive offers lookout views for those that aren’t too afraid of heights (some of the turns are down to one lane without guardrails)! The wonderful view at the top will impress, if not an occasional mountain bike rally, with true athletes cycling all the way to the top.
Shopping in Aspen
If you have money to spend, Aspen will be your best friend. Buy a blown-glass sculpture or oil painting in one of the many art galleries, or upgrade your wardrobe stopping by the Ralph Lauren, Dior, Louis Vitton, Prada, Gucci, Fendi and Bvlgari shops.
Adventure Tourism
Snowmobile, Cross-country ski, dog sled, or ice hike in the winter and mountain climb, 4×4 or raft in the summer months in Aspen. If you’re more into culinary adventuring, go wine tasting or stop by one of Aspen’s delectable five-star restaurants.
Wheeler Opera House
Get in touch with high culture while in Aspen at the Wheeler Opera House. It is a historic, restored theatre that is as impressive as the tenors and sopranos that grace its stage.
Colorado Rafting:This company offers rafting trips of all levels. They have seven outposts and rafting on five different Colorado rivers. Their expert guides have an average of eight years of experience, so relax, climb onboard and get ready to have some fun!
Incline Ski & Board Shop:This ski shop is a cut above the rest. With locations in Aspen and Snowmass, you’ll see the difference that professional service makes right away. And they have extended their hours so you can rent the night before. Rent your skis or board here and hit the slopes early!
Snowmobile Tours: This company offers fun winter tours around the area. The beautiful Maroon Bells, secluded Klondike Cabin and high Independence Pass are just a few of the destinations you have to choose from. Hot beverages included!
[...] or more economic accommodation, Aspen has a place for you. Mostly tending toward the high end, Aspen attractions include shopping at Gucci and Prada and the skiing is nothing if not exclusive. The outdoor pool at [...]
[...] postcard perfect. Luxury Aspen lodging will pamper even the most sophisticated and the local Aspen attractions will make sure you’re never bored in this northwest Colorado town. A shopper in Aspen walks [...]