Elevated Living Blog

Ski season is just around the corner. We love autumn in all its glory, but it’s never too early to plan your winter vacation! We’ve rounded up some of our best rentals for the winter season so you’re in prime position to enjoy the mountains. Whether your itinerary is packed with ski boots and snowy peaks or relaxing by the fire in a fur coat, we’re here to help you enjoy your next mountain getaway. See why our short-term renters become lifelong clients with these top picks for your winter 2023 excursion– while they’re still available!

Whether the Aspen groves shimmer with a summertime green, autumnal shades of yellow and orange, or boast a fresh dusting of ski-ready powder, the Roaring Fork Valley is a highly coveted vacation spot. Often frequented by second homeowners and tourists, this valley’s busy nature requires proactive planning to guarantee a seamless trip, from start to finish. That’s where we come in! Below, find a selection of rental options for your 2023 ski trip, offering the level of elegance, convenience, and privacy only Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty can provide, as the consistently #1-ranked vacation rental agency in the valley. 

550 S. Spring Street #392, Aspen – The McLendon Team

This rare Sky Residence at the W Hotel has been beautifully remodeled, making it one-of-its-kind. The W is located steps from the gondola and walking distance to every shop and restaurant in town. Be welcomed home to a spacious three-bedroom condo with high end furnishings and Aspen Mountain views, and enjoy the Sky Residence’s private roof deck with hot tub, or wander to the hotel’s rooftop pool and bar. On-site amenities include: concierge service, in-room dining, daily housekeeping, a restaurant, fitness center and Aspen Airport transfers.

508 E Cooper Ave, Aspen – Jamay Shook

Located one block from the Aspen Gondola, this newly remodeled luxury penthouse sits in the heart of downtown Aspen with amenities and convenience unlike anywhere else within the core. Entering into the home, you are greeted with custom European hardwood flooring by Arrigoni Woods. Each of the 5 baths contain meticulous floor to ceiling tile and slab work, Shinnoki collection vanities and millwork by Vonmod, and Tara collection Dornbracht finishes. All bedrooms contain automated Lutron blackout shades for privacy, heated floors and individually zoned Air Conditioning. The home is controlled by Crestron Automation, Sonos Sound, and Ring video doorbell system. The 2nd level contains two sprawling bedrooms, a convenient laundry room with your own dry-cleaning appliance, and a cozy media room populated with colorful modern interiors selected by the Owners and Karen White Interior Design.

198 Bridge Lane, Snowmass Village – The Team 

This unique location rests on the slope of Guggenheim Hill with gorgeous east to west views of Snowmass Village. It is secluded and nestled among the Aspen groves, providing a private retreat experience. Refreshing mountain contemporary design mixes with classic ski chalet style to form a rare combination of elegance and history. Adjacent to the home, enjoy direct ski in/out access to Guggenheim Private Ski Trail, or for those who prefer a gentler way down, take a leisurely walk down Bridge Lane to Adams Avenue.

381 Ridge Road Unit A5, Snowmass Village – The Burggraf Group

Ski access for all! This beautiful Deerbrook townhome offers a seamless vacation experience. With ski-in/out access and a short stroll into restaurants and shops in Base Village, this property lives with ease. There are four spacious bedroom suites for comfort and privacy. The master suite, living area, and lower guest suite offer stunning views of the Snowmass Ski Area. Additionally, there is a slopeside outdoor spa for a relaxing soak after a full day of skiing.

938 S Mill Street, Aspen – Andrew Myatt

Experience peak living at Aspen’s Top of Mill home, offering seven bedrooms, seven bathrooms with rare ski-in access from Aspen Mountain. With grand architecture and luxurious mountain-chic décor, this home is perfect for a large family or group stay. It features an ideal layout with expansive gathering spaces, five bedrooms in the main house, and a detached two-bedroom apartment that is perfect for guests. The Top of Mill home is centered around a magnificent Great Room, featuring a towering stone fireplace, dramatic log beams, oversized sofas, and stunning views from two opposing walls of windows. 

The gourmet kitchen is fully stocked and beautifully designed with high end appliances and stone countertops. The master bedroom features another impressive fireplace with a sitting area, a dramatic four-poster bed, and luxurious en-suite bathroom. Downstairs, the family room has a wet bar and is adjacent to the lower-level bedrooms, making it a great space for watching sports or hanging out with the kids. The separate apartment has two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a kitchenette. The home features two beautiful outdoor spaces: a front deck overlooking town with views of Red Mountain and the back patio that offers ski-in access from Aspen Mountain, a hot tub, and luxurious lounge furniture. The two-car garage simplifies parking. However, most guests rarely touch their car once they arrive. The home is within walking distance of everything Aspen offers, and a free shuttle – the Downtowner – services this neighborhood. For discerning travelers looking for a remarkable Aspen vacation home with easy skiing access, Top of Mill checks all the boxes and then some. 

18 Edgewood Lane, Snowmass Village – The McLendon Team 

18 Edgewood Lane is a classic spot for the whole family with prime ski access on Snowmass ski area—just steps from Adam’s Avenue. Five generous bedrooms and a separate guest apartment make this a convenient yet private, spacious six bedroom retreat. Vaulted ceilings in the living room frame views of the valley below and with dining for ten, an outdoor grill and hot tub, this home lives and entertains well. An exercise room, elevator and two-car garage add to the convenience of this year-round mountain house. 

712 S Galena Street, Aspen – The Team

This townhome is the perfect place to call home during your next vacation. Just one block from Aspen Mountain and minutes to Aspen’s first class shopping and dining, it offers four bedrooms, all with private bathrooms. This home is stocked with a gourmet kitchen, media room, wet bar, and a rooftop deck with a hot tub. These deluxe amenities coupled with an ideal location make this rental an excellent place to relax and enjoy your next Aspen vacation!

237 Gilbert Street, Aspen – The McLendon Team

For the powder day lover, 237 Gilbert Street is a skier’s paradise in the heart of Aspen. This nearly 5,000 square foot ski-in duplex is located one block from the St. Regis Hotel and just steps from Lift 1A. The five-story private home is serviced by an elevator. Each bedroom suite features a Samsung LED flat screen and sitting area, and two have their own private decks. Watch the sunset from Shadow to Red Mountain from the top floor living room terrace. Utilize the home office with high speed WiFi, or stroll to all of Aspen’s conveniences and cultural attractions.

140 Forest Lane, Snowmass Village – The Team

This welcoming home in the exclusive Wood Run subdivision offers a private setting with excellent ski-in/ski-out access to Alpine Springs ski lift and Funnel ski run. After a day on the slopes, enjoy time with family or friends in the game room— complete with a wet bar, pool table, and pinball machine; or kick back in front of the flat screen TV next to a roaring fire in the den. During the warmer months, fire up the barbecue and grill in the beautiful weather. After a long day of skiing, soak in the outdoor hot tub. With six bedrooms, there’s room for a party of 16 (including your pets!). 

Offering rentals as brief as a few nights and as long as a few months, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty have every one of your needs covered for this year’s skiing excursion. No matter what kind of rental you’re looking for– a remote lodge for the whole family or a condo in the core–when you rent with us, you have access to a plethora of options. We have more exclusive luxury vacation rentals in Aspen and Snowmass Village than any other agency in the Roaring Fork Valley. Efficient access to the mountains and to Aspen’s core grants access to limitless opportunity–whether you choose to explore the double black diamond runs or explore the menu at Ajax Tavern, you can do it with ease. Explore our entire vacation rentals portfolio at this link and book today! 

As August temperatures begin to decline and summer comes to a close in the Roaring Fork Valley, restaurants and businesses finally experience a break in the surge of visitors and locals in town. The hiking trails, mountain biking paths, rivers, and wildlife reassume their peaceful status. Below, find the best ways to experience fall in the valley with an action-packed week of activities to enjoy! We have curated the most iconic week in the Roaring Fork Valley, including events in arts, culture, food and music. No matter which day or night of the week it is, you can find an amazing experience to enjoy with friends, family, and even pets!

Mondays 

Start your week off with a bang at Belly Up Aspen! As one of Aspen’s most beloved nightlife locations which hosts various talent sets and live musical performances each year, it has become the tried and true location for a great night. September’s talent roster includes the likes of Milky Chance, Collective Soul and St. Paul and the Broken Bones. With a general admission ticket price around $55 for concerts, Belly Up is an affordable, entertaining opportunity to enjoy with friends, families and others! Other artists who will perform later in the year at Belly Up include Yacht Rock Revue, Charles Wesley Godwin and Three Dog Night. 

Zach Bryan performs at Belly Up in February of 2023 (Belly Up Aspen). 

If your Monday night calls for relaxation with family and friends, head to Ajax Tavern! On their dining patio with stunning mountain views, Ajax Tavern offers dinner and a movie every Monday evening. Films include something for everyone at every age, with choices ranging from Finding Nemo to Men in Black to Catch Me if You Can (Aspen Snowmass).

Patrons gather to enjoy dinner and watch a movie on the dining patio at Ajax Tavern. 

Tuesdays 

For more music and culture appreciation, attend the Composition Program Readings. The Aspen Conducting Academy orchestra, consisting of staff members Robert Spano, Alan Fletcher, Stephen Hartke, and Christopher Theofanidis, will perform works for students of the Aspen Music Festival and School (Aspen Music Festival and School). These students will provide commentary on the compositional structure of the pieces. Truly understanding the discipline and dedication of the students at the Aspen Music School allows for an even further appreciation of the music they create and offer to the public each summer. 

An orchestral performance at the Aspen Music Festival in 2017 (Aspen Sojourner). 

Wednesdays 

If you find yourself a little dreary halfway through the week and need a burst of energy this summer, the combination of comedy, live music, and artistic talent at Wednesday Night Live in Basalt is for you! Add a little spice to your hump days and observe the various street performances, ranging from musicians to magicians to jugglers to comedians. Distributed throughout Basalt’s two main business districts, this event is both convenient and entertaining! 

A performer in last summer’s Wednesday Night Live entertains the crowd while playing with fire (Aspen Daily News). 

Thursdays

Start your weekend and your summer off right with the free concert series in Snowmass Village on the Fanny Hill Concert Stage. Snowmass JAS will welcome artists to perform each Thursday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. These concerts are a tradition 29 years in the making, and this is a local favorite! During the season, each Thursday evening consists of a different musical performance with an incredible, mountainesque backdrop! (Go Snowmass).

Patrons enjoy live music at a Thursday evening concert in Snowmass Village (Aspen Daily News). 

Fridays 

Beginning July 5, head up the mountain for a yoga session with instructor Jayne Gottlieb. Stretch out on The Sundeck and learn new poses, sequences, and increase your overall flexibility and peace of mind. Following your workout, grab a prepared meal from the restaurant packaged especially for you. Classes will respect CDC guidelines for social distancing, and be sure to bring your own yoga mat! 

Participants enjoy an hour long yoga session atop Ajax Mountain with instructor Jayne Gottlieb (Aspen Snowmass). 

Saturdays 

After your weekend morning coffee at Paradise Bakery, support local farms and small businesses at the Aspen Saturday Market! Lasting through the summer into the fall season, the Aspen Saturday Market is in business until mid-October. This long-time tradition has held its own in Aspen since 1998, and empowers Colorado farmers by encouraging purchase of their locally-grown produce and artisan products. The market is open from 8:30 am to 2 pm, and includes fresh produce, breads and pastries, as well as an exhibit with llamas! 

The village of white tents that houses the products of local farms and small businesses on summer/fall Saturday mornings and afternoons (Aspen Daily News). 

When you’ve completed your rounds through the white tents and decided on a few delicious options to enjoy from the farmers market, head up toward the mountain with your snacks for Live Bluegrass Music at The Little Nell. 

Sundays

Head to the Aspen Art Museum to discover the full realm of your artistic abilities! At this family-friendly event, the workshop will focus on various forms of artistic expression and create opportunities for artists of all ages. Gallery tours will also be offered in American Sign Language, Spanish and English. This workshop occurs twice a month on the third level of the Aspen Art Museum. See the AAM website to register and learn more. (Aspen Art Museum). 

The Aspen Art Museum flaunts its unique architecture on a gorgeous Aspen summer day. 

No matter which events are up your alley, the Roaring Fork Valley is back in action and filled to the brim with options for a lively summer and fall season! For a full calendar of more events and activities to enjoy throughout the summer, visit the chamber websites for Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. 

We want to see you participating! Take a picture and tag us on social media (@aspensnowmassSIR) with the hashtag #BigBlueGoesGreen! 

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, residents of the Roaring Fork Valley are particularly in tune with the drastic effects carbon-fueled transportation has on the earth. As a physically active region of the country, the Roaring Fork Valley prides itself its easy accessibility to biking paths, hiking trails, ski runs and bodies of water for swimming, rafting and paddleboarding. The ideal climate during all seasons makes walking and biking to work the standard. For these reasons, most commuters either opt for public transportation or their personal bikes to travel into town each day. But how can we make environmentally-conscious transportation even easier on our residents? Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty’s sponsorship of the WE-Cycle Ride Share Program is here to save the day. 

An Aspen community member taking full advantage of the ride share program near the Wheeler Opera House.

Ernie Fyrwald, a part-owner of Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Real Estate and longtime Aspen community member, described WE-Cycle as the perfect transportation solution for a location like the Roaring Fork Valley. The concept of bike sharing in a smaller location came about after witnessing how effective it was in several larger cities and towns. “Aspen has a vehicle congestion and parking problem, so bikes are a logical solution,” Ernie said.

WE-Cycle director Mirte Mallory agreed, mentioning how ride share programs “thrive in communities with commercial, activity, and residential centers that are connected with relatively flat and safe bike routes. Aspen’s significant and well-defined bike lanes and routes indicate that bikes are welcome and encouraged. These clear definitions and delineations build confidence in riding.” Road safety and general sanitation are key principles to Mirte and her team. WE-Cycle places a massive emphasis on rider safety. “Our riders’ health and safety are WE-Cycle’s top priority. We are taking extra precautions and steps to keep the bikes and high touch surfaces clean as well as following best practices with our staff procedures. Please join us in following public health guidelines.” 

The global shift in lifestyle over the last few years “forced all of us to change our behaviors and adapt in new and unexpected ways. We’re discovering new ways to enjoy the outdoors and often spending more time outdoors,” Mirte continued. “Bikeshare is a great way to alternate how you get around town and is a healthy mode of travel.”

WE-Cycle’s dedicated staff installing equipment and assuring all procedures follow community guidelines and ensure rider safety. 

Ernie identified another positive byproduct of WE-Cycle’s existence: “For commuting to work, joy riding or hopping from place to place, this is a great solution. Imagine 50% fewer cars in town, and 50% of transportation occurring on bikes! Fantastic!” Locals are notoriously disturbed by personal vehicle use in the small towns of the Roaring Fork Valley, where resources are in close, walkable proximity. The use of this ride share program offers free, convenient access to those who do not truly need to be operating a vehicle. 

Mirte concurred, mentioning the included convenience of operating on your own schedule, “From a local and commuter perspective, WE-Cycle provides a fast, efficient, and often the most direct route from where one is to where one wants to be. It complements the bus routes and can be used on one’s own time, one’s own schedule, and one’s own route.”

Given the frequent tourism in the Roaring Fork Valley, Mirte believes the ride share program will be wildly successful among this crowd. “From a visitor’s perspective, we often hear that people have seen a ride sharing program in their city or in cities they have visited and have been intrigued to use it but hesitant given the traffic. Aspen offers a calmer environment to try riding a bike for travel rather than recreational purposes.”

WE-Cycle bikes are free, accessible and ideal for locals and visitors alike. 

While traffic and the lack of parking are certainly an annoyance that will be solved, the true mission of WE-Cycle is to alleviate the environmental impact of carbon-fueled transportation. “Wasteful, short trips in and out of town, fumes, and pollution are reasons this program is so vital to the Roaring Fork community,” Ernie said. “Once people start using bikes, they get hooked, and it becomes a mainstay for short distance transportation.” Mirte insightfully offered that “often, people discover a freedom and independence in getting around town by bike and using bikeshare in Aspen becomes a catalyst for using similar resources or even riding a bike more frequently, when they return home.” This reduces the environmental impact of carbon-fueled transportation in the cities where WE-Cycle is provided, as well as in the hometowns of visitors. 

Raising awareness about unsustainable resources and their impact on the environment is another important role WE-Cycle plays in the community. Sponsoring broker Lex Tarumianz spoke highly of the civic duties of the program: “WE-Cycle continues to educate locals and visitors about carbon emissions, responsible mobility, and changing behaviors to improve our environment and slow down the effects of global warming.”

WE-Cycle offers traditional, pedal-powered bikes, as well as a new addition of electric powered E-bikes. Whether you’re seeking a good old-fashioned, calorie-burning ride or some technologically-engineered assistance in the altitude, WE-Cycle has you covered. Ernie had some insights regarding the new addition of E-bikes: “biking in the Roaring Fork Valley is seeing a huge increase recently in part due to E-bikes.” Residents and visitors are more apt to use a WE-Cycle bike now since they have options in their form of transportation. “Locals love WE-Cycle for convenience, no parking fees and tremendous cost savings.”

A Roaring Fork Valley resident takes an E-bike for a joy ride; a less physically-taxing, equally enjoyable option to pedal-powered bikes. 

For those concerned about the competition WE-Cycle could provide to the local small businesses which offer bike rentals and cycling paraphernalia, Mirte assures that “WE-Cycle is designed to complement not compete with the bike rental shops. The pricing structure is designed to incentivize short in and around trips and to discourage longer recreational type rides. WE-cycle promotes the local bike shops on system maps and encourages anyone interested in extended rides to rent a bike!” 

A commuter utilizes WE-Cycle for a short ride into town, perfectly executing the mission of a ride share program.

As there are seemingly endless reasons to use this ride sharing system, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty is incredibly proud to be a local sponsor. With the fate of our precious valley in mind, we hope everyone sees and capitalizes upon the benefit of environmental protection, cost savings, convenience and the pure joy of riding a bike! WE-Cycle bikes are available in multiple locations around Aspen and Basalt through the fall and now year-round Carbondale! Do your mental health, your physical fitness, and your planet earth a favor — burn carbs, not carbon! 

When riding your WE-Cycle bike, document your trip on social media and tag us @aspensnowmassSIR with the hashtag #BigBlueGoesGreen! 

Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty employees enjoy great conversation while assembling the roof structure of a Wapiti Commons home.

Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty has an expert reputation in facilitating the process of buying, selling, and renting homes, and with the recent involvement in Habitat for Humanity, the team boasted their skills in the construction of homes, too! The project, in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity of the Roaring Fork Valley, consisted of developing the affordable housing community Wapiti Commons in Rifle, Colorado. This community is made up of 20 for-sale homes that will enable working families to live close to where they work and to provide stable homes for older adults.

The typical floor plan of a Wapiti Commons home includes three floors of living space and a garage, pictured above.

Prior to beginning a “build day” with Roaring Fork Habitat for Humanity, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty employees set out to understand the specific mission of the endeavor. After all, Habitat for Humanity’s commitment to developing a thriving residential community in South Rifle includes much more than meets than eye. In addition to the emotional and empathetic element of providing a better situation and quality of life for those less fortunate, HFH prioritizes minimizing infrastructure costs through efficient site planning, keeping monthly bills low for residents by affordable HOA dues and maximizing energy efficiency. This team keeps accessibility, adaptability, and longevity at top of mind when designing. Ultimately, offering affordable long-term homeownership for Rifle older-adults and working families through deed-restriction (and prioritizing those who live and work locally) is the goal.

The Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty and Roaring Fork Habitat for Humanity teams coming together to bring housing to those in need!

Located in South Rifle, this housing community falls in a convenient and efficient location for its residents. Wapiti Commons lies within an Enterprise Zone: a program dedicated to the encouragement of housing development in economically challenged areas of Colorado. Wapiti Commons has been awarded Enterprise Zone status as an economic driver for workforce recruitment and retention in the region. Located in close enough proximity to walk to amenities like Walmart, Alpine Bank, Starbucks, and several restaurants, this location is truly ideal.

Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty’s Direct of Sales, Jennifer Irwin, commented on the company’s ultimate mission, stating “it’s important we work to continue building and growing [our community]. One of the core values of Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty is to show up prominently and support our community through philanthropic work, and we do it – in a BIG way. We have nearly a hundred local nonprofits that we support each and every year.” Our service-hearted team actively contributes to giving back, representing the community-oriented stance of the company. 

The Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty team poses for a photo before a beautiful day of giving back to the community.

Roaring Fork Sotheby’s International Realty broker Amy Dunlap smiles from the top floor of the home she generously helps construct.

Aspen

Parc Aspen (620 E Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO, parcaspen.com) 

Founders and Aspen locals Maryanne and Harley Sefton set out to create a perfect dining experience. With local employees and locally-sourced ingredients from Two Roots Farm, Parc Aspen is fully focused on creating a seamless Aspen experience. “Executive Chef Mark Connell and Wine & Beverage Director Greg Van Wagner offer three levels of dining and extensive wine list that covers the world over.” (parcaspen.com) 

Unravel Coffee (315 E Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO, unravel.coffee) 

A branch of the new hotel called Gravity Haus, Unravel Coffee presents a fresh take on fair trade. Their main mission is to encourage sustainable resourcing and consumption, capitalizing on “the uplifting buzz that comes with embracing a new collaborative coffee experience — one that embodies agriculture, technology, sustainable regiments and the human experience” (unravel.coffee). With delicious food options like a turkey avocado sandwich with lemon-dressed arugula and a charcuterie board, be sure to grab a snack with your coffee! 

Phatt Pho n Sushi (300 Puppy Smith St. #201, Aspen, CO, phattphonsushi.com)

Sushi lovers, indulge! Aspen’s newest Japanese joint located near Clark’s Market on Puppy Smith Street features each of the delicacies you love, without the astronomical pricing you don’t. With a mission to be the most reasonably-priced fare of its kind in town, Phatt Pho n Sushi caters to those who like to enjoy food in the restaurant, as well as those who prefer to feast at home. With options like a lemongrass bahn mi sandwich, a spicy ahi tuna roll, vietnamese coffee and options for vegan eaters, this spot appeals to all and is a sure-fire local favorite.

Madame Ushi (415 E Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO, madameushiaspen.com) 

One of the more experience-driven, extravagant restaurants in the Aspen community, Madame Ushi offers a full nightlife itinerary–and is not for the faint of heart. Start your evening with craft cocktails and crispy hash browns topped with yuzu crème fraiche and osetra caviar (pictured below), and finish with bottle service and dancing at Gala, the new nightclub located directly across from the restaurant. Whenever you choose to take full advantage of Aspen’s most high-profile spots, your wish is Madame Ushi’s command. 

Saint Ambroeus– (520 E Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO, saintambroeus.com) 

A popular Milan-based ‘pasticceria and confetteria,’ Sant Ambroeus offers pastries, light bites and a fully stocked coffee menu. Their locations stem from New York City to Palm Beach to Italy, and the cult following they’ve developed over the years trails them to each location. Aspen is the newest location on the list, so be sure to stop by before the line curls around the block. 

Snowmass Village

Mawita (49 Wood Rd, Snowmass Village, CO, mawita.com)

You may have heard of Mawa’s Kitchen, located in the Aspen Airport Business Center. Owner and chef Mawa McQueen is a James Beard semifinalist nominee 2022 and the 2020 & 2022 Colorado Governor’s Minority business winner of the year, and this winter, she adds Mawita to her portfolio. With Latin inspiration to the menu and the ambience, the goal of this new South American restaurant is to provide a high level of service (and fun!) in an inviting atmosphere. As an added bonus, enjoy the beautiful view of Snowmass Village while you snack. 

Basalt

Free Range (22864 Two Rivers Rd, Basalt, CO, freerangebasalt.com)

Though this restaurant is no newcomer to the area, Free Range has relocated! Now planting roots on the opposite side of Highway 82, don’t mistake this joint for a barbecue-exclusive menu. With options like a colorful caesar salad, a hummus board, and smoked pork belly bao buns, this vast portfolio of food appeals to every eater.

Carbondale

Hominy Southern Kitchen (60 El Jebel Rd #108, Carbondale, CO, hominysouthernkitchen.com)

A new staple in the Carbondale community, Hominy Southern Kitchen’s chef and owner Jacob Burkhardt’s main focus is sourcing ingredients locally. This improves both the quality and overall flavor profile of each of the dishes he crafts. “The menu focuses on quality and seasonality of ingredients and is backed by the many great relationships with local farmers and growers that have been established” (hominysouthernkitchen.com). As we all know, the Roaring Fork Valley loves to support small businesses that keep their resources local, so be sure to stop by and try one of their delicious options. 

Welcome to The Roaring Fork Valley in Colorado–a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers alike. In this comprehensive locals’ guide, we’ll unveil the hidden gems and cherished spots that make this mountain town a paradise for hiking, biking, rafting, stand-up paddle boarding, and camping. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking trails, adrenaline-pumping rides, or tranquil waters, join us as we explore the very best our Valley has to offer for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Hiking

Smuggler Mountain Trail – Aspen

This is one of the most well known trails near Aspen, and for good reason. At 3 miles roundtrip and with an elevation gain of 800 feet, this trail is a good hike for beginners and experts alike. Take in breathtaking views of Aspen from the Smuggler mountain overlook.

Sunnyside Trail – Aspen

Sunnyside Trail is a moderate hike with rewarding views of Aspen, the surrounding ski areas, and the many peaks of the Roaring Fork Valley. At 4.8 miles roundtrip and 1,700 feet of elevation gain, this hike requires some planning and commitment, but is extremely rewarding.

Hunter Creek Loop – Aspen

The Hunter Creek Loop hiking trail in Aspen, Colorado, offers a moderate-level adventure suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. This captivating loop treats hikers to the beauty of Hunter Creek, enchanting waterfalls, and stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect blend of natural wonders and manageable challenge.

American Lake – Aspen

American Lake hiking trail in Aspen, Colorado, offers a moderately strenuous yet rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Ascending through alpine meadows and dense forests, this trail leads to the breathtaking American Lake, cradled beneath towering peaks, providing hikers with both a satisfying challenge and awe-inspiring mountain vistas.

Source: Getaway Compass

Rafting/Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP)

The Roaring Fork River

For an adventurous, rapid-filled day or a lazy float down the river, The Roaring Fork River has it all. Hop on your SUP or strap into your raft, this river will not disappoint. A great way to take in the Roaring Fork Valley while adding some adventure to your day.

Ruedi Reservoir – Basalt

Just 14 miles from Basalt, this expansive reservoir offers plenty of water sport activities. From speed boats and jet skis, to SUPs and canoes, this reservoir is a great day activity for everyone.

Source: C2 Photography

Stillwater – Aspen

Paddle boarding in the Stillwater wetlands offers a serene and immersive experience in a unique natural environment. Gliding through calm waters surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, adventurers can enjoy a tranquil escape and connect with nature in a picturesque setting.

Source: Kelsey Brunner, The Aspen Times

Biking

The Rio Grande Trail – Aspen to Glenwood Springs

If you’re ready to break out your road bike and take down some miles, then the Rio Grande Trail is just the trail to be on. Stretching 42 miles of paved path from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, this trail is not only a great ride, but a great way to see every part of the valley.

Source: Roaring Fork Transportation Authority

Snowmass Bike Park – Snowmass

The Snowmass Bike Park was designed with every level of biker in mind. With over 3,000 vertical feet of designated downhill trails, this park is a mountain bikers’ dream. The Roaring Fork Valley was recently named an IMBA Gold-Level Ride Center, one of only seven in the world.

Castle Creek Road – Aspen

Biking along Castle Creek Road in Aspen, Colorado, provides cyclists with a thrilling journey through scenic beauty and alpine charm. The road winds alongside the meandering Castle Creek, passing by charming cottages, dense forests, and occasional glimpses of towering mountain peaks, offering a challenging yet immensely rewarding ride for those seeking both natural splendor and an invigorating workout.

Fishing

The Frying Pan River – Basalt

With Gold Medal waters designation, easy access, stunning views and a wide variety of fish, the Frying Pan River is one of the premier fishing locations in the country. Located east of Aspen in the Hunter- Fryingpan Wilderness, it is easy to get to and its convenient location makes it easy to check out other nearby rivers and lakes.

Camping

Silver Bar Campground – Aspen

Located just a short drive from Aspen, this campsite offers great scenery, sounds of the nearby Maroon Creek and great privacy. Hop on the nearby trails for a day of hiking or horseback riding or fish the Maroon Creek.

Chapman Campground – Fryingpan River Road past Ruedi Reservoir

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, White River National Forest offers endless serenity and adventure. With eight wilderness areas and 10 peaks surpassing 14,000 feet in elevation, the lush forest is filled with scenic, winding rivers and beautiful wildlife.

 Lost Man Campground – Aspen

Lost Man Campground, perched up Independence Pass in Aspen, Colorado, offers a serene camping getaway amidst the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. Set against the backdrop of stunning alpine vistas, the nearby Lost Man Lake hiking trail beckons hikers with its high-altitude charm, culminating in the reward of a pristine alpine lake nestled within the rugged terrain.

From the majestic peaks of the Maroon Bells to the tranquil shores of Ruedi Reservoir, this charming mountain valley offers a plethora of outdoor activities that cater to all interests and skill levels. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures like hiking, biking, and skiing, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, breathtaking landscapes in the Roaring Fork Valley provide an unforgettable experience. So, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual nature lover, make sure to add these top outdoor destinations to your bucket list for a truly remarkable journey into the heart of Colorado’s wilderness.