Travel Guide: Aspen - Colorado - United States

The town of Aspen
photo by: skern

Aspen is very much the winter playground of the rich and with its amazing surrounds and exceptional ski slopes, its no wonder. From the town of Aspen you have the choice of four different ski resorts: the most central being Aspen Mountain, however there are regular and convenient free skiier busses heading to Buttermilk, Snowmass and Aspen Highlands.

If you're in it for the terrain and not afraid of a few vertical drops then do as the locals do and tackle the hike up to the top of the Aspen Highlands bowl. It takes the average person about an hour to reach the peak and is no easy task, with one third less oxygen than is avaliable at sea level. However, the view from the top is breathtaking and the run is sensational, its not necessarily open all season though. Dont expect it to be open initally in the season, since all ski patrol members spend the first two weeks hiking up and down the massive bowl, stomping the snow to form a secure base.  If extreme terrain is not what your necessarily looking for Buttermilk is the mildest resort and a favourite with boarders and is home to the "X Games" which has rejuvenated the town. Snowmass is vast and has terrain for all levels with a new gondola opening in 2006. It is probably the best place to take lessons and a good alternative for accomodations, especially for families. It is only 15 minutes to Aspen by free shuttle for the famous night life.

There are also a great number of cross country trails surrounding Aspen and provide a beautiful option for checking out the scenery and wildlife. With its often mild weather Aspen is an excellent location for cross country skiiers, and snowshoers.

The town itself is definatley a shopping mecca with something for everyone. Wandering the beautiful street under the fairy lights you'll pass by names such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, Christian Dior, Ralph Lauren, Fendi and Bulgari. These names set the tone for the town but there are plenty of more reasonable shops catering to locals and visitors alike. You will not find better sport shops anywhere. There is a wide range of restaurants and bars and  Aspen can been seen on a slightly smaller budget than most people expect. Accomodations are also plentiful and prices vary according to the time of year, Xmas being the most expensive.

Summer brings a different feel to Aspen as the outstanding scenery changes from white to green and campers, hikers and lovers of culture fill the town.  The world famous music festival is the big draw and free concerts on the lawn are a favorite of the locals. There is an endless list of year round activities other than the skiing which can be found at http://www.aspensnowmass.com. or http://www.aspenchamber.org/

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