Aspen Vacations
Overview
Aspen lies within the White River National Forest in Colorado, surrounded by majestic mountain ranges. The place was originally home to the Ute Indians. When miners found silver in 1859 at Pike's Peak, they flooded into the area and settled down, calling the place Ute City. It was later renamed as Aspen, because of the abundant aspen trees in that area. The late 19th century saw Aspen become the nation's bigger silver supplier. Aspen was the first town in the state that supplied electricity to all its occupants. In winter, skiing was a necessary mode of transportation but it quickly changed from a necessity to recreation. When the value of silver dropped, many miners left, but the popularity of skiing remained. Aspen is now the top destination for skiing and wintertime sports.
Activities & Attractions
Aspen is known for its year-round resorts, and winter sports like skiing, skating, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. The Bowl is the ultimate destination for hardcore skiers. Take a 20 minute walk up the 45 degree terrain where you can find so much powder that you will enjoy the skiing experience. For history buffs, there are some miner shacks that you would love visiting. Learn the history of this place by going on the tours and visiting the museums. The Aspen Center of Environmental Studies offers daily programs for the nature enthusiasts.
If skiing is not your thing, then you can try numerous other activities that Aspen offers. Hot air balloon rides, camping, hiking, fly fishing, golf, paragliding, and rock climbing are just a few of the activities you can enjoy. If you enjoy hiking, you can hike up the mountain on the American Lake Trail.
Lodging
In Aspen, sleeping in an RV or any vehicle is against the law, but you can travel to Aspen on an RV and find convenient parking for the vehicle. There are budget hotel and motel for inexpensive accommodations. Bed and breakfast inns are a popular way to stay in Aspen. There are a variety of stately homes available for stays from one night to a month. For those who want luxurious accommodations and top notch amenities there are high-end vacations homes, condominiums, resort luxury hotels, and spas, for you to choose from. Of course, you can also choose to stay in the ski lodges that offer the best amenities. Aspen Square, Aspen Meadows, the Gant, Snowflakes Inn, and Limelight lodge are some popular hotels in Aspen.
Transportation
The Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is only about three miles from Aspen, making air travel an ideal way to come to the city. Most hotels, shops and restaurants are within walking distance in the city of Aspen. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority offers transportation between Aspen and the Snowmass Village in Pitkin County. You can also travel to the nearby towns in these buses.
