The value of our relationships with our families, friends, pets, hobbies, the outdoors, and even ourselves is more evident now than ever before. The mountain community of Aspen, Colorado is the perfect, picturesque setting to disconnect from the noise, while still finding connection with what matters most. This summer might just be the perfect time to try out a work-from-home balance in Aspen, and take advantage of flexible work and school schedules. Finally, an opportunity to visit a bustling area mid-week? Shoot, you should do it.
This article was created in partnership with the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, Colorado. All photos provided by the Aspen Chamber Resort Association.
Disconnect in Aspen
Take to the trails
Cell phones, computer screens, news, social media… it’s certainly a lot to take in. Hiking out of cell range might just be the best thing you can do! The legendary Four Pass Loop is not for the faint of heart, but backpacking is one of the best ways to escape the noise and hit refresh. Mellower trails, and even paved paths, are highly accessible from downtown Aspen and offer the simplest recharge possible. One of the best aspects of Aspen is the network of trails for all abilities. Distance runners and mountain bikers also relish the trail scene, winding through high desert mountain bliss. For those who wish to try out mountain biking, or simply feel more comfortable not recreating alone, Aspen has multiple guiding services that cater to visitors.
Flow with the river
The fishy water around Aspen is legendary. Many of the alpine lakes take a little more effort to reach, but the payoff is always there. Serenity and beautiful vistas match the excitement of catching trout from an alpine lake. Closer, just outside of Aspen, work your way up the Roaring Fork River and try your hand at landing fish from the prized water. Fishing around Aspen can be a meditative way to disconnect.
On the water, take a paddleboard downstream at North Star Nature Preserve, or find an adrenaline rush in class V rapids on the Roaring Fork River. The choice is yours! Again, guides are highly recommended for activities on the water, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Put the chef hat away
Disconnect from the kitchen. For better or worse, the pandemic has turned endless pages of recipes and burned too many loaves of bread. The dining scene in Aspen is elegant, diverse, and approachable. Enjoy the variety of restaurants around town, and enjoy not having to cook every meal! Snag a picnic to-go from many of the local restaurants and eat it trailside, where you’ve not only earned the views, but also that extra brownie you bought.
Connect in Aspen
More family time
Many families found quality time together in 2020, but is that ever enough? With flexible work and school schedules, especially this year, consider visiting Aspen during the week. Aspen boasts such a variety of outdoor activities, that it’s easy to try something new every day: from a new trail to a new hobby. There are plenty of camps for kiddos as well, focusing on ecology, environmental studies, and the arts.
Quality time with Fido
Aspen is quite welcoming to your furry pal. From pet-friendly hotels to the mountain gondola, Aspen welcomes travelers with pets. Not to mention, you can really spend some quality trail time with your dog, since many hiking areas are dog-friendly. Just make sure to double check the rules before you head out.
Share the perfect view
It would be a shame to spend time in one of Colorado’s most photographed regions and miss an opportunity to see the beloved Maroon Bells. The shuttle to Maroon Bells will be back in service in June, 2021, with an advance reservation system. Planning ahead for your visit there will give you and your loved ones the best experience possible (regardless of whether your ‘loved one’ is a friend or family member, or your camera and tripod).
Aspen is the perfect destination to live, work and play like a local—even on vacation. Disconnect with what ails, and spend more time connecting with what brings you joy this summer. For even more space, consider visiting Aspen during the “Secret Season” or midweek to avoid additional crowds.
