All posts by Paul Michael

Top Things to Do During Your Aspen Vacation

Things to do in Aspen
Things to do in Aspen

Aspen vacation rentals are a great choice year round. If you are going to Aspen for your next vacation there are many activities you can enjoy. One of the most popular pastimes in Aspen is skiing. Snowmass is Aspen’s most popular and largest ski area. It is located approximately 8 miles west of the city. Snowmass is a great choice because it offers more than 3,100 acres of highly skiable terrain. This includes 17 chair lifts and, for those who enjoy diversity, 88 different runs. Continue reading Top Things to Do During Your Aspen Vacation

HOW TO RENT A CHIC ASPEN SUMMER HOME

MyAspen’s guide to finding the ultimate summer getaway.

Aspen outdoor-patio-on-luxury-aspen-home-rental (1)
aspen summer home rental

Amazing scenery. Fresh air. Biking, fishing, hiking, golf, tennis, horse back riding, white water rafting, and lots more.  Aspen music festivals, Aspen Institute events.   And dinner parties  It’s all here in beautiful Aspen Colorado.  Come for the winters to ski but stay for the summers.  It’s definitely the best kept secret in Colorado.

Renting an Aspen  summer home has all the ingredients of a decent beach read, but when it comes to vacation homes, there’s a lot to consider: location, amenities, number of bedrooms, age, décor, price,  just to name a few. So how do you know you’re getting nice enough lodging at a great deal, with a little luxury?  Should you go direct to vacation rental sites like www.vrbo.com or use a broker where you’ll pay 50% more?

My Aspen Rental-Feel The Comfort Of Home While On Vacation With An Aspen Home Rental
My Aspen Rental play room

Luxury home rentals can be just as practical, if not more, as luxury hotels, and offer a better value overall” says JP Sullivan of Aspen Vacation Rentals Properties.  “Property management companies act like 24 hour concierges, ensuring every aspect of your stay is perfect, but you’ll pay considerably more in rental fees.”  That’s why in recent years folks are increasingly renting vacation homes direct from owner using sites like homeaway.com and vrbo.com ( vacation rentals by owner )

Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront home in Hawaii to host a family get-together or a private hideaway in the mountains for just the immediate family, there’s a lot to consider.

my aspen rental kitchen
kitchen view at myaspenrental.com

But how do you find that impeccably stylish vacation rental that will accommodate all your needs, and ensure a hassle-free vacation? Sorting through the thousands of potential properties can seem intimidating, but here are a few tips to help you find the perfect summer rental house property:

  1. Start Early: The best properties tend to rent much faster than others unless you get very lucky so start your search as soon as possible.  We suggest starting as early as winter to book a summer vacation rental.  This allows you all the best options in terms of availability and price.
  2. Location: Of course, do your homework.  After you decide where you want to go, then explore around online for the different locations as to that destination.  For example, In Aspen, there are a number of different neighborhoods from the West End, to Aspen Central core ( mostly condominiums ) to the East End, Aspen Highlands, to Snowmass.  And each one offers a slightly different appeal.
  3. Ask all the Right questions: From how many bedrooms and baths to does the price include cleaning.  Also be sure to ask what the weekly rental  rates are versus the daily.  Often times its less expensive to rent the whole week than just 4-5 days.  Do you have to do the dishes before you depart? Who supplies the toiletries? Are linens included? There are no questions off limits when you’re renting someone else’s home. Find out everything, from how you’ll get the keys to how many cars will fit in the garage. Ask about the damages policy as well as insurance coverage, and make sure you understand the cancellation policy, too.
4
vacation rentals pool table

“Luxury doesn’t always have to cost more,” says HomeAway.com Senior Vice President, Jon Gray. HomeAway.com recently launched their new luxury portal, Luxury Rentals by HomeAway.com.  Often times a private rental home direct from owner is less than the cost of a luxury hotel.  And you get an entire house with a living room, kitchen, yard, etc.   Many of our vacation rental listings are less than $500 per night.

MaroonBells (Image: Heather Rousseau)

Aspen’s Warmer Weather Vacation Adventures

Aspen vacation rentals are a great choice year round. Renowned for it’s incomparable skiing, Aspen is also very well known for the endless adventures available right at your fingertips. Keep reading below to find out what will turn your next Aspen vacation to a “vacation of a lifetime.”  Continue reading Aspen’s Warmer Weather Vacation Adventures

aspen skii race

International Ski Federation Race Still On

After Aspen was awarded the 2017 World Cup Finals in fall 2014, reports surfaced that some International Ski Federation (FIS) officials wanted to pull the event if Aspen did not commit to certain upgrades of the Lift 1A and its base area. Now, Atle Skaardal, race director for women’s World Cup alpine ski racing, has stated that “We want to have this happen here.”

Aspen International Ski Federation Race
Aspen International Ski Federation Race

Skaardal’s recent visit to Aspen focused on working with community organizers, the Aspen Skiing Co. and the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association to make the 2017 World Cup Finals the best possible event. He spent four hours walking the course and base area with Skico’s vice president of sales and events, John Rigney, and other local officials. Skaardal stated that “the hill is amazing” and concluded that the courses will be challenging for competitors. He also stated that Aspen is one of 16 to 18 “classic sites” on the circuit and among the best of Ski resorts.

Despite this, Skaardal did say that the Lift 1A base area has failed to meet the World Cup’s brand standards and falls short of the “Aspen experience” he expects. It has been reported that there is “good faith” on all sides and that progress will be made to improve the chairlift and surrounding base area before the event. Skaardal concluded that, “This is already a decided case…But requirements must be filled, same as it’s always been. I am convinced that everything is going to turn out in a perfect way for everybody.”

The World Cup Finals

The annual World Cup Finals event is one of the most prestigious events on the popular alpine skiing circuit. Throughout the finals, 25 top point leaders in both men’s and women’s disciplines will compete. Each of the nine races, held over five days, will occur on the Lift 1A side of the mountain. Some of the events include downhill, super G, slalom and giant slalom. There will also be a team event. This unique and thrilling event is set to take place March 15-19, 2017.

aspen co bike rider

Sky Mountain Park Trails Popular During Aspen’s Rainy Weather

Sky Mountain Park, located between Aspen and Snowmass Village, has become a popular destination for many mountain bikers during Aspen’s recent rainy weather. According to reports, nearly 2.5 inches of rain has already fallen this month, leaving many forest trails as water pools.

Luckily, Sky Mountain Park’s trail has several advantages that make it the perfect destination for mountain bikers, even during this wet time.

Sky Mountain Park’s trail network benefits from low elevation and good overall exposure to the sun. The specially designed trails are also designed to shed water. Add in quick-drying soil and you have the perfect combination for mountain bikers, even if it rains. John Wilkinson, a founding member of the Snowmass Village Trails Committee, states that, “They are virtually dry an hour or two after a deluge, it seems.” Continue reading Sky Mountain Park Trails Popular During Aspen’s Rainy Weather

don duke dixon aspen bartender

Celebrities “Starstruck” by Aspen’s Late Don “Duke” Dixon

Don “Duke” Dixon was an Aspen fixture until his death on April 28 at the age of 75. His friends and fans remember him as a man who told it like it was, drawing in celebrities who visited the popular vacation destination. Kimberly Wilson-Jarrell, a close friend of Dixon, stated that “He was the life of the party, let’s just say…He had an appeal for these stars. He was still the Duke. He wasn’t trying to suck up to them.” Some of Dixon’s close celebrity friends included Jack Nicholson, Ed Bradley, Jimmy Buffet and Don Henley.

Bob Rafelson, a close friend of Dixon’s, stated that celebrities were drawn to Dixon because of his intellect and that he was devoid of any pretense. According to Rafelson, “…when people came to Aspen they sought out guys who knew their way around, and they sought out people who had incredible personalities, and Duke was one of those people…But he himself was more celebrity than they were…He didn’t call attention to his leadership, he didn’t say, ‘Guys, follow me.’ He was a guy who exercised taste and had this sinister sense of humor.”

Others remember him as one of Aspen’s worst bartenders. He famously slung drinks at several Aspen haunts through the 1970s and 1980s. However, his service was slow, mostly because he was usually drinking with the customers. According to Rafelson, “He worked at a lot of places, but that wasn’t because he had some extraordinary ability…” He drew crowds.

Dixon would also famously start up his extremely loud, muffler-less Harley Davidson motorcycle at 2 am and drive it up and down the streets of downtown Aspen to let everyone know the bars were closing. Dixon was also known as a big hit with the ladies and a lover and defender of animals. He was also a prolific writer who was constantly featured in the local Aspen newspapers. Dixon’s famous wit was constantly shared in his letters to the Aspen newspapers, earning him the Silver Pen Award in 2007.

According to the many friends and fans he left behind, Dixon “will be missed…He really loved Aspen.”

Boogie's Diner

High Profile Aspen Building Being Sold to Developer

Boogie Weinglass, a 73-year old, is now closing up shop at his famous Aspen dine, “Boogie’s Diner.” Portrayed in the 1982 movie “Diner” by Mickey Rourke, Weinglass has been operating the second-floor diner for 28 years. The diner building was initially greeted by criticism from some Aspen residents who stated that it looked out of place. However, it quickly became an Aspen fixture and is famous for its decent prices, good burgers, healthy fare and even delicious and overly-generous milkshakes.
Continue reading High Profile Aspen Building Being Sold to Developer

Aspen Food Wine Classic

2015 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen

From June 19-21, 2015 you can enjoy a wide range of foods and wines at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen. Considered “America’s premier culinary weekend,” the event will feature a variety of culinary giants and wine experts like Richard Blais, Tyler Florence, David Chang, Carla Hall, Morimoto and more. This three-day event will combine a range of activities including: Continue reading 2015 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen

Floating Restaurant in Aspen

A Floating Restaurant in Aspen?

new floating restaurant in Aspen CO
New Floating Restaurant in Aspen, CO

Rumor has it that developer Bil Dithigher has laid the foundation for achieving his great grandfather’s former vision of building and opening a restaurant on top of the West Aspen Mountain. While a restaurant atop a mountain sounds fabulous, Dithigher is taking it a step further. His vision for the new restaurant is that of an air ship that floats above the peak of the mountain fondly know as Shadow Mountain. Dithigher wants to dock the large air ship nearly 9,000 feet above Aspen, creating the city’s newest and most interesting hot spot. Sources say that Dithigher is discussing purchasing air space above the city for the new restaurant. Continue reading Floating Restaurant in Aspen

Unwind In One Of Colorado’s Best Mineral Hot Springs

Aspen Mineral SpringsIn an effort to let go of daily stressors and gain health, people from all over the world flock to Colorado’s geothermal hot springs. Nestled throughout the Rocky Mountain region and within driving distance of Aspen, there are a handful of amazing springs for you to enjoy as you venture out from your Aspen vacation rental. The following are three favorites for you to enjoy!

 

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs (40-minute drive from Aspen) is a prime location for hot spring adventures for the family. The expansive pool, also known “The Grand Spring,” spans two blocks and contains therapeutic mineral waters that are quite calming and healing. Legend has it that the hot springs were first discovered by the Ute Indians.

Penny Hot Springs
A second option is Penny Hot Springs located within the Crystal River Valley. The spot is frequented by locals who enjoy soaking after a long day of work. There you will find yourself in nature surrounded by amazing views of the valley and beautiful trees. The Penny Hot Springs are as natural as one can get, as two mineral springs bubble up from within granite and marble rocks. You’ll be amazed at how warm its waters can become, with temperatures as high as 130 degrees! As you enjoy the temperate waters and rugged nature, don’t be surprised if you get a glimpse of mountain goats and other wildlife while blissfully soaking under blue skies.

Aspen Mineral SpringsConundrum Hot Springs

If you are feeling adventurous and would  to take a minor hike before enjoying a soak in a luxurious natural hot spring, Conundrum (is located in the Maroon Bells near Aspen) and it’s the perfect choice. The 9-mile (18 miles round trip) hike to the hot springs is breathtaking, as you pass waterfalls and enjoy the colorful meadows and fragrant wildflowers. The last couple of miles are a bit rocky and steep, so be prepared for a challenge! Once you reach the hot springs, you’ll be happy you worked so hard on the way up. The water is crystal clear and it’s a perfect 98 degrees. The beauty of Conundrum is the challenging hike will make the hot springs all the more fantastic. Once you’ve soaked until your heat’s content, you can either explore the area in more detail or take the 9-mile trek back to the car.

No matter how you stack it, hot spring adventures make for unforgettable moments. No matter which hot spring you choose, you are sure to gain the much-needed relaxation you’ve been craving!

Michelle Obama and Kids at Aspen on President’s Day

Michelle Obama SkiingIt has officially been confirmed that First Lady Michelle Obama and her two daughters are exploring Aspen, Colorado. According to a longtime ski instructor, Michelle, kids, and friends are lodging near Buttermilk Mountain in a large private home. In an effort to accommodate the family, the home’s owners Jim and Paula Crown have relocated to Aspen rentals.

In an effort to fully experience Aspen’s outdoor adventures, the Obamas and their friends have hired five private instructors and are skiing the day away. Their mountain of choice is Buttermilk, which is one of the beautifully groomed Aspen Snowmass properties.

According to sources, the Obamas have been “polite, charming and appreciative” while enjoying the charms of Aspen.

Rather than eating lunch at a lodge or in town, the Obamas and friends are expected to enjoy a moment at the Crown’s house. The privacy is indicative of the many advantages of enjoying a stay at a Aspen Vacation Rental by Owner with private amenities. The secluded site makes security much easier to maintain for the protection of the First Family. After lunch, the Obamas and friends are expected to hit the slopes and enjoy the experience, along with the other American families enjoying a President’s Day away from the office.

The trip was completely kept under wraps until the Obamas landed in Aspen. In order to keep the visit secret, code names were assigned to all members of the family. Prior to landing in Aspen for their vacation, the Secret Service was in town surveying and discovering spots that the Obamas can visit in peace.

In a 2011 Wall Street Journal article, it was revealed that Aspen is the “most expensive town in America” to live in, with the least expensive real estate listing at $559,000. While real estate can be quite pricy, there are definite opportunities for reasonably priced vacation rentals to be enjoyed by the family.

The Obamas’ visit makes them one of the several renowned families to enjoy the charms of Aspen. Famous Aspen home owners currently include the Kennedys, Goldie Hawn, Jimmy Buffet, Jack Nicholson, and Kevin Costner. Also, Oprah Winfrey frequents the resort in an effort to get away from the hustle and bustle of Chicago.

An Overview of Aspen/Snowmass for Adventure Lovers

Aspen Snowmass SkiingAspen/Snowmass is undeniably one of the most exciting and impressive ski areas in the world. Boasting of four world class mountains including Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and buttermilk, there are more than 5,300 acres of terrain for adventurers to enjoy during both the ski and summer seasons.

All mountains are just a simple drive away from Aspen rentals throughout the area. Skiers can choose to either ski one mountain for the entire vacation or give them all a try. You have the power to create the dream ski vacation of your choice.

If you are curious as to the history of Aspen, you may be amazed to know that skiers have been shredding the local mountains long before 1946, when the first chair lift was placed on Aspen Mountain. In the olden days, skiers depended on either a crude boat lift or jeep lifts up the mountain. In 1946, Lift-1 was put in and operated through 1972. Today there are numerous high speed lifts for men, women, and children to enjoy!

Favorite Activities Outdoor Aspen/Snowmass

  • Skiing & Snowboarding. As mentioned above, there are numerous opportunities for adventures ski and snowboard adventures around the area.
  • Mountain Biking. When the spring and summer hit, both locals and visitors alike enjoy taking to the many trails throughout the area. Some choose to climb to the highest peaks, while others choose to utilize gondolas and enjoy the thrill of biking down.
  • River Rafting. During the summer, there are ample opportunities to jump on a raft with family and friends and partake of the roaring rapids.
  • Hiking and Rock Climbing. Throughout the year, adventurers from all around the world seek to enjoy the beauty of the greater Aspen area via amazing hiking trails and rock formations.
  • Fly Fishing Expeditions. When the snow melts and summer arrives, there are few more rejuvenating experiences than wading in crystal clear waters with a fishing rod in hand.

Aspen/Snowmass is an amazing locale for both adventure and relaxation. If you are thinking of visiting, you should definitely consider booking through VRBO Aspen. With a luxury vacation rental you can’t go wrong.


	

Why Choose Aspen over Other Mountain Resort Areas

Aspen CoAs you probably know, there are numerous ski areas to choose from throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. In your effort to narrow down where exactly you would like to book Aspen home rentals, we hope the following points will help you make the right decision for your family/friends:

  • Ski Options for All Ski Levels. No matter at what level a skier, there is the perfect slope to fit his or her needs. The Aspen mountain range features four peaks that can be skied with wild abandon including the Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk mountains. Each of them features something for all levels to enjoy.
  • Numerous Outdoor Activities to Choose From. Aspen and its surrounding areas offer an unlimited amount of fun. You can choose from downhill skiing, helicopter skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, mountain climbing, hiking, mountain biking, rafting, canoeing, and the list goes on!
  • Amazing Shopping Opportunities! In the case that you have a few shoppers in your group, you will be pleased to know that there are a wide variety of retailers to choose from. Many stores within Aspen are owned by locals and feature unique items. Also, during specified times of the year, you can enjoy street markets and fairs for the family to enjoy.
  • Gourmet Food Galore. You will never be short on cuisine options, as there are all types of renowned restaurants from which to choose. Following your cozy meal after a long day of adventuring, you can then wander around town and enjoy Aspen’s night life.

When considering Aspen, you should definitely look into Aspen rentals rather than lodging in a hotel chain. This will provide you the opportunity to socialize more while cooking a good meal/barbecuing, sitting by the fire, or playing games in the comfort of a luxurious living room. Aspen VRBO is a great resource for finding the right property.

Once you embark on your Aspen adventure, you won’t be disappointed. There is an unlimited amount of fun and adventure to be experienced whether on the ski trails, mountain bike, river raft, or in a luxurious spa. The sky is the limit!

Three Ultra-Relaxing Aspen Spas to Consider in 2012

Spa Day in Aspen CoLooking to plan a most relaxing getaway in the New Year? There are a number of reasons to choose Aspen for your spa retreat, especially if you are a spouse and/or parent. Not only are there beautiful Aspen rentals to choose from, your loved ones can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities while you enjoy multiple days at the spa!

The following are 3 top-notch spas that you may want to consider as you plan your Aspen relaxation fest:

  1. St. Regis’ Remede Spa. One of the most exclusive spas in all of Aspen, the St. Regis Spa is 15,000 square feet of pure luxury. There you can include anything from a custom massage, to warm body wraps, to manicures and pedicures, saunas, the oxygen lounge, steam caves and more. For more information call 970-429-9650.
  2. Aspen Club and Spa. This 77,000 square foot club is amazingly tranquil and includes a beautiful gym, open-aired Japanese Pagoda, and spa services. You can choose from a variety of relaxing treatments including massage, skin care, waxing and tinting, and colon hydrotherapy. The Aspen Club & Spa is a favorite of top stars and athletes including baseball star Alex Rodriguez.  To book a day of pure pleasure, call 970-925-8900.
  3. 3.     Samara Holistic Spa and Boutique.  Located in the heart of Aspen, Samara is extremely peaceful and holistic. While there you can enjoy infrared saunas, cozy footbaths, colon hydrotherapy, and numerous spa services. Many locals and out-of-towners alike visit the spa for its renowned body energy work. You are guaranteed pure relaxation while on the premises and pure energy in the days to follow. To book your spa services, call 970-925-2259.

Other Activities for the Family to Enjoy

Just to give you some ideas for keeping the family entertained while you enjoy your days at the spa, we hope the following ideas will help!

  • Downhill Skiing. For the adventurous souls in your group, dare them to enjoy a few days of skiing on some of the world’s best slopes.
  • Dogsledding or Snowmobiling. Inspire a day of dogsledding or snowmobiling fun. There are a variety of great companies to choose from in the Snowmass area.
  • Cross Country Skiing. Send them on a cross country ski tour in the area of their choice. It is a peaceful, yet invigorating sport!

Looking for an Aspen Vacation Rentals? You may want to check out Aspen VRBO for some exciting properties!

5 Reasons to Give Dogsledding a Try in Aspen, Colorado

Aspen Vacation Rentals Planning your trip to a Aspen Vacation Rentals in Colorado and looking to book some exciting adventures while you’re here? We would definitely recommend giving dogsledding a try! The following are five reasons you won’t want to miss out:

  1. Sled Dogs are Brilliant Animals – Imagine coming face to face with a pack of beautiful dogs with amazing energy and the undying determination to make your day unforgettable. These pups are specifically bred to fly across the snow and look forward to every minute of it. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to raise a sled dog team of your own before the day is over!
  2. Out in Nature – The beauty of a sledding adventure lies in the fact that you will be taken out into the middle of nature surrounded by towering pine trees. Beyond intermittent dog barks, the only thing you’ll hear is the sled gliding on the snow and the wind as you move across the rugged terrain.
  3. Great Group Adventure – The whole family can enjoy a dogsledding experience! There is nothing better than taking the entire clan out into nature for an unforgettable adventure. Throughout the day, there will be plenty of photo ops, so you won’t want to forget your camera!
  4. Educational Experience – You will be amazed at how much you will learn about sled dogs, the history of the sport, helpful techniques, top dog sled events, and the surrounding area. Most guides are more than excited to answer questions about the sport and the area – don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you’d like.
  5. Ultimate Freedom – As you glide along behind the sled team, you will feel so very free. It is a truly magical experience!

To book your dogsled adventure, you can give Krabloonik Dogsledding a call at 970-923-3953. They offer an amazingly fun and educational experience to all. Krabloonik’s location is in Snowmass Village, just moments from Aspen rentals.

Still looking for a vacation rental? Definitely check out VRBO Aspen for the perfect rental!

Aspen Hosting Winter X Games 16 January 26-29th 2012

X Games Aspen COLooking for an inspiring event to share with family and friends in Aspen, Colorado? You definitely shouldn’t miss out on the ESPN WinterX Games 16 taking place between January 26 and 29, 2012. The event will attract 125 of the most talented and adventurous professional trick skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobilers from around the world to compete for medals and prize money. All of the fun can be enjoyed for FREE!

The games will be held at Aspen/Snowmass’ very own Buttermilk Mountain, a prime spot for winter sports enthusiasts to root for their favorite stars, while enjoying the natural beauty of Aspen. If you are thinking of attending, it is a prime idea to book your Aspen Rentals as soon as possible, as properties tend to sell out quickly in lieu of the event.

The ESPN WinterX Games will kick off on January 27th, featuring the Skiing Slopestyle Men’s Elimination from 10 am – 12 pm, Snowmobile Freestyle Elimination from 11:30 am – 1 pm, Skiing Slopestyle Women’s Final from 1 pm – 2 pm, Snowmobile Freestyle Round One from 7pm – 8 pm, Snowboard SuperPipe Men’s Elimination from 7 pm – 8:30 pm, Snowmobile Freestyle final from 8:30 pm – 9 pm, and Skiing SuperPipe Women’s Final from 9 pm – 9:40 pm.

Saturday and Sunday will see the fun continue, while featuring thrilling events including mono skiing, women’s SuperPipe, snowboarding, Slopstyle skiing, and snowmobiling. Saturday the competitions begin at 9:30 am and end at 9pm, while Sunday they kick off at 10:30 am and end at 8 pm.

You are sure to have a blast no matter which events you decide to take in! You can either watch all day long or split your time between watching and hitting the slopes.

This marks the 11th consecutive year the event will be held at Snowmass, just a short drive from favorite Aspen vacation rentals.  You definitely won’t want to miss out! Looking for the right vacation rental for your family and friends? Search VRBO Aspen to find the perfect spot.

For more information on the ESPN WinterX Games, visit www.xgames.com.

Aspen Colorado Ski Forecast Predictions for 2011-2012

Aspen Vacation RentalsIt has recently been reported that the National Weather Service is looking into the role that La Niña will play in the Aspen ski season. Thus far, skiers and snowboarders are curious as to their fate as they plan to soon trek to their Aspen home rental.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac La Niña won’t play a role, on the other hand 2011-2012 may be one of the mildest and driest winters on the books for Colorado in recent history. The famed book places Colorado in the south of the intermountain region and further predicts that “winter temperatures will be above normal, especially in the south, with the coldest periods in early and late December and mid- and late February.  Precipitation and snowfall will be above normal in the north and below normal in the south. The snowiest periods will occur in early November, mid-December, mid-January and early and late March.”

Much like last year that saw those who enjoyed Aspen vacation rentals experience a chilly April and May, the almanac expects for the two months to be cooler and snowier than average. Additionally, if you’re planning a ski trip to Aspen, Colorado, you may want to consider the weeks of or after January 13 and March 22, as the almanac predicts heavy snow fall during those periods.

Aspen RentalsJust how valid are the Old Farmer’s Almanac’s predictions? Last year it predicted mild and dry conditions for Colorado last winter, and Aspen visitors experienced mixed results. There ended up being plentiful amounts of snow above 8,000 feet for the majority of the winter, and to skiers’ and snowboarders’ delight the snow continued to fall into April and May. Hooray for spring skiing!

While the almanac predicts a quite dry year in Aspen, the National Weather Service is hedging against it and predicts there to be plenty of snowfall in the fall and throughout the winter. Time will definitely tell.

Just a word of advice…last year was an amazing ski season, so you don’t want to hold off on making a decision on booking Aspen rentals because of conflicting weather reports. Good luck on your ski adventures!!

Discover the Scenic Railways of Aspen and Greater Colorado

Railways Trains of AspenHave a fascination with railways and want to view Colorado from a unique perspective? The beauty of train expeditions lays in the fact that you are able to enjoy some of the most remote and picturesque regions while letting the rails guide your adventurous self. To access Colorado’s railways, it’s best to take a day trip from your Aspen vacation rentals.

The following is a list of recommended railways for you and your family to enjoy:

Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Noted as one of the most exciting cog railways in the world, adventurers are led 14,110 feet up the summit of Pikes Peak! You are guaranteed numerous spectacular views throughout your journey.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Imagine rolling on the tracks of a railway that hauled more than $300 million in gold and silver during the mining era. You and your family can enjoy the thrill of riding in restored 1880 passenger cars and exploring abandoned mine sites, the wild Animas River, San Juan Mountains, and the historic town of Silverton.

Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad: This four-mile round trip journey takes you through old mining sites and the historic gold-rush town of Cripple Creek.

George Loop Historic Mining and Railroad Park: This historic loop was built in 1884 to accommodate the booming mining industry. You are sure to revel in the area’s rugged wilderness and beautiful views. Plus, Georgetown is an adorable town with plenty to offer visitors from around the world.

Rio Grande Scenic Railroad: Discover Colorado’s newest scenic steam engine driven train. The route will guide you through hundreds of miles of breathtaking scenery and historic towns.

Royal Gorge Scenic Railway: This 30-minute journey within open-air cars offers spectacular views of Royal Gorge and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This is a great trek for children, as they love riding in the open-air and it’s one of the shorter routes.

Royal Gorge Route Railroad:  Built in the 1950s, this rail line takes you into one of America’s most majestic canyons. Soon you’ll find yourself at the bottom of the Royal Gorge, peering up 1,200 feet to the Royal Gorge Bridge.

After a day on the rails, you can review the day’s adventures within the comfort of your Aspen rentals. Looking for vacation rentals in Aspen? You will be amazed at what you can find through VRBO Aspen. Wishing you amazing railway journeys throughout Colorado!

Aspen Unveils the Renovated Wheeler Opera House for the Upcoming Season

Wheeler Opera HousePlanning a trip to Aspen and looking for a fun way to spend your evenings? The 122-year-old Wheeler Opera House is just a short drive from your Aspen vacation rentals and has been newly renovated for one of its most exciting seasons ever. It is recommended that you start the evening by enjoying a delicious dinner at the opera house’s street-level restaurant and then take in the show of your choice.

The 2011-2012 show lineup is set to include everything from acoustic guitar specialists, country music, jazz, rock, stand-up comedians, documentaries and more. The schedule is currently being expanded on, but will include a diverse set of offerings to entertain the varied interests of Aspen locals and visitors.

Some of the scheduled events include the Warren Miller Entertainment ski documentary “Like There’s No Tomorrow” on October 29, Mike Marolt ski documentary “The Thin Line: Life On the Edge” on November 4, musician Loudon Wainwright III on November 5, country-pop duo Callie Angel and Wade Waters on November 19, the blockbuster Broadway musical Annie beginning December 16 and ending December 23, comedy troupe Crystal Palace and Glenwood Vaudeville Revue on December 26, the jazz of Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue on December 27, musician Kim Carnes & friends on December 29, Best of the Fest comedy show December 30, guitarist David Bromberg on December 31, an off-the-hook New Year’s party, and more! For additional information and a more detailed schedule visit www.wheeleroperahouse.com.

Ski AspenLooking for a place to stay in Aspen? You should definitely consider Aspen rentals. Rather than stay in a limiting traditional hotel, you can enjoy the ability to sit around a crackling fireplace with your friends and family, make your own feasts in a private kitchen or barbecue outside, and have nearby access to the many activities offered in Aspen, Colorado. For more information, take a look at VRBO Aspen. You will be surprised at what you can find at all price levels.

When in town, don’t miss out on all the exciting Wheeler Opera House events, as there is nothing like an adventurous day on the slopes, a delicious dinner, and an entertaining show to end the day!