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Aspen Snowmass Skiing

Reasons to Visit Aspen for the 2012-2013 Ski Season

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With the 2012-2013 ski season rapidly approaching, skiers around the globe are planning their vacations to leading resorts throughout the United States. The city of Aspen accommodates more than 3 million visitors each year, many of which enjoy the thrill of Aspen’s beautifully groomed slopes.

For those on the fence as to whether they will choose Aspen over other resorts, the following are five reasons why the greater Aspen area is an excellent choice:

  • Wide variety of slope options. Skiers and snowboarders can choose from four power-packed resorts including Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Snowmass covers 4,406 vertical feet of ski terrain which includes 91 trails, 3 terrain parks and pipes, and 21 lifts. Aspen Mountain is known for its black-diamond terrain and 76 trails that cover 675 acres, while Aspen Highlands has been a local favorite for more than 50 years and 118 trails of varying degree of difficulty. Buttermilk is a favorite of snowboarders who revere the hill’s 22-foot superpipe and skiers who enjoy an easier mix of ski trails.
  • Exceptional cuisine and entertainment. Aspen has long been known for its ability to attract the world’s best chefs. Early reservations to the city’s hot spots are highly recommended and there are plenty of great bars for those who want to play the evenings by ear. There are also numerous opportunities in the winter season to enjoy concerts, live theater, and art exhibits.
  • Great lodging available. Aspen is also home to many top-quality hotels and exceptional luxury vacation rentals. In fact, more and more vacationers have been inspired by the properties found on VRBO Aspen, many of which are home rentals that offer a plethora of amenities.

There are many more reasons as to why Aspen is a regular destination for travelers from around the world. Not only does the winter season make for unforgettable skiing, there are also several other activities for non-skiers to partake in including dog sledding, ice climbing, snowmobiling, and even world class spa retreating for those who looking to relax.

According to recent reports by Aspen’s Chamber of Commerce, there has been an increase of early bookings for vacationers looking to enjoy the winter season. While last year’s ski season was cut short, vacationers are betting on the 2012-2013 season being off-the-hook!

 

How to Find a Home Vacation Rental in Aspen

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According to recent news reports, a growing number of Americans and out of country vacationers are choosing Aspen vacation rentals over traditional hotels. There are a number of reasons for the trend including the fact that they can be more financially viable for a large family or group while providing more versatility than a four-walled hotel room. For instance, vacation rentals normally come with partial or full kitchens, which are perfect for entertaining and saving on food costs.  Aspen rentals are also available with multiple rooms, backyards, barbecues, full garages, and more.

Locating vacation rentals in Aspen, Colorado and beyond is quite easy due to the many available Internet resources. VRBO Aspen is a favorite of many vacationers, along with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, Vacation Rentals.com, and Homeaway.com. A simple online search for “vacation rentals” will  also produce numerous results. When visiting one of these sites, it is possible to define exactly what type of property will best suit a family or group of friends.

Once a handful of potential properties are located, the prospective vacationer can then view each calendar of availability. Additionally, each property owner specifies terms and conditions that may or may not include deposit, cleaning fee, house rules, and other requirements. Prior to selecting a property, it is recommended that each fee and policy is reviewed and fully understood.

There are several online resources that allow for travelers to read personal reviews shared by those who have actually stayed within specific Aspen rentals. This allows travelers to make educated decisions that will fuel an unforgettable vacation. Traveler reviews are a powerful indicator as to the condition of a property, its amenities, and other important information. They also keep vacation rental owners diligent about making necessary repairs and property upgrades.

After selecting an Aspen luxury vacation rental, a prospective traveler must either book online or call the property owner/manager to make a reservation.  Also, most vacation rental portals offer vacationers the ability to ask questions of the property owner prior to committing.

When committed to a particular property, vacationers can then begin to count down the days to their holiday. After experiencing the freedoms associated with staying at a home vacation rental, many vacationers continually seek them out as they travel around the globe.

Billionaire William Koch to Build Wild West Town Near Aspen Colorado

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It has officially been announced that billionaire William Koch is developing his very own private Wild West town within the Rocky Mountains near Aspen, Colorado. Koch’s development will see the creation of a train station, saloon, and jail. The land currently houses ghost towns that were once thriving when local mines were in full swing.

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Koch, 72, will also build a 21,762 mansion equipped with an elevator and wine room. Interestingly enough, one-third of the house will be built underground which will help keep the massive home from overwhelming the area’s ecology. The billionaire has long shared his love of the Old West and has gone so far as to purchase the only photograph of Billy the Kid for $2.3 million at an auction in 2011.

While the mansion is sure to be of interest to Aspen rental vacationers, Koch will only make it available to his family and close friends. The public has often made requests to see his Western artifacts, which he will make available at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C.

Of concern to locals and Aspen VRBO vacationers is an area on Koch’s land popular with hunters, organic farmers, and miners. Koch wants to insulate his property and has proposed a land swap. Locals are not happy with the proposal and are trying to block its progress.

Koch joins a growing list of influential people who have recently invested in property near Aspen, Colorado. The reason for such an investment stems from the fact that Aspen offers a diverse mix of activities and amusements throughout all seasons such as award-winning skiing, snowmobiling, rock climbing, mountain biking, river rafting, gourmet dining, and extensive shopping. The greater Aspen area also offers high profile individuals a significant amount of privacy, which is largely one of the reasons why Koch is building his Wild West town in the region.

Locals and Aspen luxury rental vacationers are sure to be curious as to Koch’s hidden Wild West town.  There are several commercial Wild West and Ghost Towns throughout Colorado available to the public for access.

Breckenridge Colorado Ski Resort to Be Expanded

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It has recently been announced that the Breckenridge Ski Area will be adding 550 additional acres on Peak 6 to ease overcrowding and offer more action-packed ski fun to its customer base. The effort will include the addition of two new lifts, a new restroom facility, and ski patrol/warming hut. All expansion efforts are expected drive more business to Breckenridge and better accommodate its regulars.

According to Rob Katz, Chairman and CEO of Vail Resorts, “The new terrain provides access to intermediate runs and high alpine bowl skiing and will be a tremendous addition to Breckenridge.”

The project will likely begin this fall and will commence in two years for the opening of the 2014-2015 ski season. For Aspen vacationers, this will provide additional opportunities for skiing adventures in the winter and hiking opportunities in the summer. Only 40 minutes from Aspen, the Breckenridge resort has grown in popularity over the years and is expected to inspire more visitors in the coming years.

The process for adding the additional acreage took a total of seven years due to the possible impacts it may make on surrounding natural life. Intensive measures were taken to best preserve the area and reduce environmental damage.

It is expected that the Breckenridge expansion will be welcome by Aspen locals and Aspen rental visitors. The 2012-2013 Breckenridge ski season will continue as normal and welcomes Aspen luxury rental vacationers for unlimited ski adventures.

Ski enthusiasts are also welcoming the Aspen Snowmass ski season in the coming months and have been reserving their Aspen VRBO rentals in advance. With more competitive ski resort pricing as result of the newly announced Epic Ski Pass, attendance is expected to increase throughout the region.

For more information on Aspen vacation rentals and information on ski resorts in the area, simply Google “Aspen Vacation rentals” and “Aspen ski resorts.”  Stay tuned for more breaking  news from the greater Aspen area!

Aspen Offers New and Exciting Multi-Mountain Ski Pass

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Ski-lovers around the globe have been celebrating after The Aspen Skiing Company, Jackson Hole, Squaw Valley, and Alta have announced a new season partnership pass for the four resorts in 2013. Soon skiers will be able to enjoy eight mountains within four resorts including Aspen, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, Snowmass, Alta (within Utah), Jackson Hole (in Wyoming), Squaw Valley (near Tahoe), and Alpine Meadows (near Tahoe).

For only $349, Skiers can enjoy two days per resort (not per mountain) and enjoy eight full days of skiing. Once the two-day pass per resort has been used, extra days within those resorts are available at 50 percent off for the rest of the ski season.

The goal of such a pass is to inspire skiers to visit more resorts and save money in the process. The deal comes at a time in which ski pass prices have skyrocketed, thus limiting many skiers from visiting their favorite resorts for extended periods of time. Visitors staying within Aspen rentals will now be given an amazing opportunity to enjoy several days of skiing for far less cash out of pocket.

Aspen, Colorado has been known to be quite a pricy locale, yet many travelers are discovering that Aspen home rentals can save them a significant amount of money. With additional savings as result of the new multi-resort pass, a greater number of Aspen visitors are expected.

In response to the announcement, an Aspen ski fan commented positively on the program by stating that she likes “paying ahead of time…I want to ski anytime without dishing out money each time.” Many others responded in similar fashion, sharing that now they will have more incentive to visit the places that they love.

It is expected that Aspen VRBO and other Aspen rental sites will see an increase in traffic in the coming months as more skiers plan to make use of their all-new passes!

Biking the Rio Grande Recreation Trail in Aspen Colorado

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Are you looking for the ultimate adventure in Aspen, Colorado? Thanks to the Rails-to-Trails project, you can now leave your Aspen rental in the morning and ride from Aspen to Glenwood Springs. The 39.5 mile trail utilizes the old railroad corridor and follows the picaresque Fork River.

There is a bit of everything for bikers of all levels. Along the way, there are amazing views of Mount Sopris, horse pastures, the sprawling Aspen Glen golf course, the roaring river, the old Satank bridge, and more.

For those looking to eat along the way, downtown Carbondale provides a nice mix of sidewalk cafes and restaurants. There are also a handful of beautiful art galleries and boutiques to browse through.

Another great stop is the Rock Bottom Ranch. There you can enjoy a 115-acre wildlife preserve that contains the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. As part of the preserve are wetlands, ponds, the Cottonwood Bottomlands, and numerous nature trails.

Bring Your Own Bikes or Rent?

Both options are viable as you stay in an Aspen luxury rental. If traveling with a bike is a no-go, Canyon Bikes and other leading bike rental companies in the area will provide either hourly or day rates on a great selection of bikes. You can contact Canyon Bikes at 800-439-3043 with your questions.

If you are still searching for a place to stay, an aspen vacation rental is an excellent choice. Rather than stay in the confines of a hotel, you can enjoy the privacy of a condo or aspen home rental. You will also have much more room to store your bikes. A great resource for finding information on an Aspen rental is that of Aspen VRBO. There you will find many great properties from which to choose.

On the biking front, there are many other options as well. Whatever you do, make your trip to Aspen as unforgettable as possible. It is truly an amazing area within the United States to visit!

Why Entertainers and High Profile Individuals Prefer Vacation Rentals in Aspen

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The growing trend within the world of travel is Aspen luxury vacation rentals for superstars and high profile individuals. For instance, when Michele Obama and her girls visited Aspen, Colorado during the 2012 winter, they chose to stay in a private home. There are many reasons as to why movie stars, artists, politicians, and other are staying in Aspen rentals over hotels:

  • Privacy is Everything! – An Aspen home rental provides the perfect environment for spending time with family and friends without being under the microscope. Estate rentals often come equipped with full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, dining room, and entertaining areas. This way it is possible to get out on the slopes or into nature during the day and find complete privacy when returning home.
  • Entertaining Opportunities are Endless – Rather than holding high-profile parties in the middle of town, Aspen rentals allow for unlimited entertainment opportunities that can include black-tie events, barbecues, and more. It is possible to rent properties with expansive backyards that can accommodate party tents, dance floors, and other party elements.
  • Close to Ski Resorts – Aspen rentals can be located right on or next to the slopes. Thus, high profile individuals can pre-pay their ski pass, put on their ski hats, and head out for a day of skiing without being noticed.
  • Unlimited Equipment Storage – For those with all sorts of toys including motorcycles, snowmobiles, skis, snowboards, etc., home rentals can provide garage space to accommodate it all. Plus, all equipment tends to be quite secure in such an environment.

When staying within a traditional hotel, there are many limitations for high profile men and women. The same is true for everyday individuals and families. Aspen Rentals provide the opportunity for you to call the shots and have the vacation of a lifetime.

For more information on Aspen home rentals, VRBO Aspen is an excellent source of information. You can book your upcoming trip quite easily. Why live with the limitations of a traditional hotel when you can enjoy the comfort of a luxury rental?

The 5 Best Aspen Restaurants to Enjoy This Summer

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Looking for a unique eating experience in Aspen Colorado this summer? Just a short distance you’re your Aspen rental or hotel, there are several amazing restaurants from which to choose. The following are five best Aspen restaurants for you, your family, and friends to enjoy:

  1. Zocalito Latin Bistro – According to Trip Advisor, Zocalito offers amazing cuisine and inspired atmosphere. From its delicious Chilean wine selection to fresh sea scallops and signature potatoes, each and every bite is a delight. It is also a perfect spot for both romance and unforgettable fun with friends and family. You won’t want to miss out on Zocalito’s innovative and delicious menu. For reservations call 970-920-1991.
  2. Pyramid Bistro – Offering an eclectic menu, Pyramid Bistro is an Aspen favorite. All food is organic and cooked over low heat in order to preserve its nutrition value. You will be amazed at how delicious nutritious food can be! Enjoy innovative dishes including kale salad, fresh carrot soup, flax seed gnocchi, and more. Open from 11:30am to 9:30pm for your dining pleasure. Dial 970-925-5338 for more details.
  3. Pine Creek Cookhouse – Seeking contemporary American cuisine and a romantic ambiance? The Pine Creek Cookhouse is an excellent selection and features a beautiful mountain setting, just a short drive from your Aspen vacation rental. Choose from a delicious steak, seafood, gourmet salads, and scrumptious desserts. For reservations call 970-925-1044.

  4. Pinions Restaurant – Located in downtown Aspen, just across from the historic Hotel Jerome, Pinions is a contemporary restaurant that serves beautifully prepared gourmet cuisine. The Sashimi Tuna Tacos are a favorite appetizer, caviar is delicious, and Prime Ribeye Steak unforgettable. The local favorite also features an extensive wine and beverage list and a yummy selection of high quality desserts. For reservations call 970-920-2021.

  5. Finbarr’s Irish Pub – Seeking a comfortable pub where you can sit back with friends and enjoy a cold beer and delicious meal? Finbarr’s is an excellent choice for locals and visitors alike. Choose from a traditional pub menu that features Shepherd’s Pie, Bangers and Mash, and Fish and Chips. The restaurant also features a beautiful patio that is both people and dog friendly. You can’t go wrong with Finbarr’s!

You are sure to have an amazing time at one of these wonderful establishments, which are not far from a beautiful Aspen luxury rental. Of course, there are many more Aspen restaurants from which to choose, so if you would like a few more options simply utilize Google or TripAdvisor.

Secrets for Planning the Best Aspen Vacation Ever

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If you are considering a vacation to Aspen, you may be wondering how exactly you can gain the most out of your adventure. The following are secrets for having a most amazing time:

  • Vacation rentals versus hotels – A growing number of travelers are realizing that Aspen rentals are a much better way to spend a week or more in Aspen, Colorado. Rather than staying in a stifling hotel, a luxury vacation rental allows for families and/or groups of friends to enjoy their privacy, while having the power of cooking their own meals and enjoy the comfort of a peaceful backyard. There are numerous types of vacation rentals out there and VRBO Aspen can help you find your dream property.
  • Out on the town – The beauty of Aspen is that there are a number of amazing (even award-winning) restaurants and bars to frequent. In order to assure that you can enjoy the restaurant of your choice, it is recommended that you get a reservation before reaching Aspen. On a busy week or weekend, the town fills up quickly! The same goes for the theatre and concerts. Make sure you book early to get seats.
  • In the great outdoors – There are tons of amazing activities to partake of throughout the year. The secret to finding the best adventures for you, your friends, and family is to research online as early as possible. Identify the activities you would like to participate in and book early. If you are staying at an Aspen vacation rental or hotel, you can ask the booking representative if they have any special relationships with various vendors. They may be able to score you sizable discounts.
  • Spas and hot springs – Don’t forget that one of the amazing things about Aspen is that there are several award-winning spas from which to choose. Also, you can gain peace of mind at one of many yummy hot springs. A quick Google search can help you discover the perfect spa for you.

Another secret is that the sky is the limit in Aspen, Colorado. With a bit of creativity, you can have the vacation of a lifetime. Do a little online research, ask your Aspen rental or hotel booking rep for advice, and you are on your way!!

Four Reason To Choose Aspen As Your Vacation Destination

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In today’s world, an increasing number of travelers around the world are seeking out alternative forms of lodging to traditional hotel chains. One such alternative form is that of the Aspen vacation rental. Basically, it consists of renting a vacation property in the form of a condo or home and can range from a small studio to that of a sprawling mansion.

Just to give you an idea as to why travelers are reaching out to the owners Aspen rentals through services like VRBO Aspen, we hope the following gives you an excellent idea:

  • The power of the kitchen As we are all aware, paying for food while vacationing can be an expensive proposition. Most vacation rentals come equipped with a kitchen in which you can cook your own meals and refrigerate market bought food. This is a major selling point, as it can reduce food costs by hundreds of dollars.
  • More cost-effective for groups When you travel with a group of people and add up hotel expenses, they can be amazingly costly. On the other hand, when you rent a vacation rental that houses four plus adults, everyone splits the cost and saves tremendously.
  • Entertaining flexibility A vacation rental is the perfect spot for entertaining your friends. Some Aspen luxury rentals come equipped with beautiful backyards (some with pools!). You can do anything from play backyard sports to throw an unforgettable barbecue to enjoy a wine-filled evening in the fresh Aspen air.
  • Great storage An Aspen rental also allows for you to store your sporting equipment such as your kayaks, canoes, motorcycles, skis, mountain bikes, and more. This assures its safety and makes for easy access.

No matter which way to stack it, an Aspen vacation will provide you an amazing experience. We highly recommend that you consider an Aspen rental if you are seeking true flexibility, comfort, security, and cost-effectiveness.

There are several great resources over the Web that you can use to research. Aspen VRBO will provide you a great start!

5 Top Aspen Outdoor Adventures During the Summer

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Aspen, Colorado and its surrounding areas offer an abundance of outdoor activities that are perfect for all ages. Depending on your tastes, you can tailor your vacation to fit your wildest dreams. The following are five of the most popular outdoor adventures for Aspen visitors from around the world:

  • Downhill Mountain Biking Imagine taking your most prized mountain bike up to the highest peaks of Aspen/Snowmass via gondola, strapping on your helmet at the top, and racing down one of many beautiful trails. You can enjoy hours and hours of mountain biking fun each day and enjoy your Aspen rental by night. Storing a mountain bike within an Aspen vacation rental is ideal, as they will be safe and sound throughout your stay.
  • River Rafting There are several river rafting companies that will lead you through a variety of rapids, while revealing the beauty of Aspen’s breathtaking nature. You can choose from all levels of rafting and accommodate your friends and family of all ages.
  • Hiking Without a doubt, there is some of the most beautiful hiking in the world in Aspen. You will be amazed as you behold beautiful mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes, flower-filled meadows, and massive rocks. No matter trail you head down, you are sure to find something amazingly unique to behold.
  • Rock Climbing Be amazed as you stand atop an enormous bolder after an exciting climb or rappel down the granite crags of Independence Pass. Not only is a rock climbing adventure endless fun, it is also a great workout.

  • Golf You may not consider golf an adventure; however, when you take on one of Aspen’s perfectly manicured and highly challenging courses, you may change your mind. Choose from the Maroon Creek Club, Roaring Fork Club, and the Aspen Golf Club. Each will challenge your golf skills to the limit!

Each of these adventures is a hop-skip-and-a-jump from all Aspen Rentals. Plus, there are many more activities from which you can choose. The opportunities are endless. Looking for an Aspen vacation rental? You may want to check out Aspen VRBO for a wide selection of great properties.

The Ultimate Adventure: Paragliding in Aspen Colorado!

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Are you looking for a unique adventure that will allow for you to get a birds-eye view of Aspen, Colorado? Aspen Paragliding is now offering the daring a chance to soar with the eagles and glide over mountain peaks.

Located at 426 South Spring Street in Aspen, the company offers tandem flights for $225 and includes a ride in a comfy 4×4 to launch sites from downtown. This is perfect for those staying in Aspen vacation rentals, as the Aspen Paragliding office is within walking distance.

First-timers are welcome and will be assigned a professional USHPA Certified Tandem Pilot with plenty of experience in soaring over Aspen. If you aren’t completely sure what a paraglider is, it is an aircraft that fits within the confines of a backpack. Its lightweight and aerodynamic nature makes for an easy takeoff from mountainsides and gentle slopes. All that is required is a few running steps and you will be swept up into the sky with your personal pilot.

Curious as to what you need to wear when paragliding in Aspen? Aspen Paragliding recommends wind chill protection and footwear with ankle support (such as hiking boots or high top tennis shoes). It can get a bit chilly at high altitudes, which makes the layering of clothing a great idea. As for the technical gear (including helmet, harness, and parachute), Aspen Paragliding will provide you with exactly what you need.

You are welcome to enjoy the adventure on your own or bring your family and friends along. All participants must be 5-years-old and older. It is also recommended that everyone in your party be of good health and injury free.

Looking for an Aspen luxury vacation rental? There are many amazing properties that are just walking or driving distance from a paragliding adventure. Check out Aspen VRBO to find one that fits the needs of your family or group of friends.

For more information on Aspen Paragliding, call 970-925-6975. Depending on the season, scheduled flight times include 6:45am, 8:30am, 10:30am, and 5pm.

Happy soaring!!

 

 

3 Ideas for a Perfect Summer Day in Aspen, Colorado

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Will you soon be traveling to Aspen, Colorado to stay in your Aspen vacation rental and seeking the perfect day? The following are a few suggestions for a perfect summer day in Aspen:

    • Scenario 1: Wake up and stroll into the town of Aspen for breakfast at an award-winning restaurant. Favorite Aspen breakfast spots include Poppycock’s, Peach’s Corner Café, the Aspen Meadows Resort, and Aspen Over Easy.After breakfast, walk through town and look in several trendy boutiques. Take plenty of time to enjoy the warmth of the summer sun between stores and also check out a few of the beautiful art galleries. Next, dare to treat yourself to a spa experience. There are several amazing spas throughout town, or you may want to head to a leading spa retreat on the fringe of Aspen. End your luxuries day with a glass of wine and dinner at a leading Aspen restaurant. You are sure to find one that suits your cravings, as there are a wide selection from which to choose.

  • Scenario 2: Wake up with the sun, pack a light breakfast, and head out for a morning hike around the American Lake. Make sure you wear comfy shoes because the round trip is 6.4 miles long. To get to the lake, take highway 82 from Aspen and turn onto Castle Creek Road. The trailhead is about 10 miles away after turning on Castle Creek Road. Once you get on the trail, you can find a beautiful spot in nature to enjoy your breakfast.Following your long hike, head back to your Aspen rental and shower off. You can then grab your favorite book and head to the John Denver Sanctuary for a couple hours. There you will be treated by flowing streams, large rocks, and comfy spots to enjoy your book.End the evening by heading into town to find a bit of entertainment. There are a number of great bars in town with live music, or you may even be able to find a play or musical to enjoy. Browse for events online to find the perfect one to fit your tastes.
  • Scenario 3: Fix a yummy breakfast in the comfort of your Aspen luxury vacation rental and then enjoy a scheduled adventure. You can choose from rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more. You can either schedule a private adventure or reserve a spot within a group adventure. Upon the commencement of your exciting day, you can either barbecue at home or head into town for a gourmet dinner and a bit of bar hopping.

 

The beauty of Aspen is that there are numerous summer activities to choose from. With a bit of creativity, you can have the time of your life! If you are seeking a vacation rental, you may want to check out Aspen VRBO. There you will find many amazing properties from which to choose.

Aspen Style Outdoor Concert and USA Pro Cycling Challenge

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The Aspen City Council is excited to announce that they have agreed to invest a fair amount of cash into a “grassroots, old-school, Aspen-style concert” when the USA Pro Cycling Challenge rolls into town in August.

Join the Aspen Cycling Challenge

The actual date of the concert is still up in the air, according to Nancy Lesley the director of Special Events for the city of Aspen, Colorado. She revealed that two concert dates will most likely take place, with one on an evening between August 10 and 12 and the other on August 22. The second date would correspond with pro cyclists descending into Aspen from Independence Pass on the first stage of the Cycling Challenge.

The concert will be an open event, free to the public and held in a city park. While the actual race doesn’t kickoff until August 22, 2012, the first concert will help build excitement for the grueling challenge and serve as a countdown to the sporting event.

According to Lesley, last year there weren’t many events and activities planned around the race, which didn’t generate enough fan fair and disappointed vendors. “Because we are a two-stage host (of a seven-stage race), it will keep people in town and the enthusiasm for the race alive.”

Looking to attend the USA Pro Cycling Challenge? The event will feature an exciting 131-mile Queen Stage between Gunnison and Aspen on August 22. Secondly, on August 23, competitors will climb Independence Pass for a 97-mile expedition and will end in Beaver Creek.

There will be 135 of the best cyclists from around the world who will take part in the race that has been noted as “the most challenging race ever held on American soil.” The entire race will span a total of 518 miles through the Rockies.

For cyclists and race fans alike, Aspen vacation rentals are an excellent option for lodging. It is possible to find a beautiful Aspen home rental on Aspen VRBO. Aspen rentals normally come equipped with full kitchens, which is ideal for three or more travelers in their effort to fix healthy meals and get plenty of rest. Some even include two-car (or more) garages to safeguard cars, road bikes, and equipment.

Don’t miss out on all the racing fun in Aspen!!

John Denver Sanctuary to Be Expanded and Rededicated in Aspen

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John Denver fans are sure to be excited to learn that the expanded portion of the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen is soon to be open to the public. City work crews have been planting grass and beautiful vegetation within a newly constructed wetlands area between the Rio Grande Park and the preexisting John Denver Sanctuary.

On July 1, 2012 there will be a rededication of the sanctuary that will see Annie Denver, the first wife of the beloved singer-songwriter, speak at the event. Also attending will be various city officials and John Denver fans.

The new portion of the sanctuary will be a “stormwater catch” that will take one-third of the downtown runoff, which will then be sent back to the Roaring Fork River. This will make a dramatic impact to the cleanliness of the water and efficiency of the drainage system. Additionally, the catch will re-create an environmental habitat for birds, butterflies, and many other adorable critters.

Annie Denver had wanted to work with city officials to expand the sanctuary to 4.5 acres following the untimely death of Denver in 1997; however lack of funds limited the project and pushed it back by nearly 15 years. It is estimated that millions of visitors in the coming years will visit the sanctuary to pay tributes to John Denver, who was an environmental activist at heart. The expansion will offer many scenic vantage points featuring flowing water, beautiful rocks, and lush plant life.

Aspen, Colorado visitors staying within Aspen Rentals and hotels or visiting for the day can take part of the event on July 1. For those who need accommodation for the event, VRBO Aspen offers many Aspen vacation home rental options.

The sanctuary will also be open throughout the summer and is the perfect stopping point for those who want to pay homage to John Denver, while enjoying its beautiful flower gardens, waterfalls, boulder seats, and breathtaking wildflowers.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain renewal and honor John Denver and the nature he so loved. The sanctuary is awaiting your visit!

Cycling and Mountain Biking In Aspen Colorado

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There is a reason why biking enthusiasts love to make at least one trip to Aspen, Colorado in their lifetimes. In the summer, numerous cyclists take to the various roads and highways (such as highway 82) to enjoy the Rio Grande Trail with its amazing scenery such as the Roaring Fork River, plenty of wildlife, train cars, and new and old ranch houses underneath a gleaming blue sky.

Mountain bikers take advantage of the challenging trails throughout Aspen Snowmass and other ski resorts. Some choose to ride gondolas to the top, while others vie for grueling climbs and reward themselves with lightning-fast rides back down.

After hours riding on the road or mountain trails, the town of Aspen turns into the perfect spot for delicious cuisine, fun nightspots, and entertainment. Or for those who decide to stay at Aspen vacation rentals, they pass the evening by cooking a delicious meal and hanging with their riding crew.

Regardless of how you stack it, Aspen Colorado offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy an unforgettable vacation with friends and family.

Where to Stay When Embarking on a Biking Trip to Aspen

If you are planning a cycling or mountain biking trek with a group, it is recommended you consider a luxury vacation rental. You can choose a property with one or more rooms to accommodate your group. Also, with a full kitchen it is possible to eat well and save a considerable amount of money on food.

Another consideration are Aspen rentals that allow for you to safely store your bikes. While Aspen, Colorado is amazingly safe , there is always a chance that valuable bicycles can be stolen (regardless of where you are in the world). Some vacation rental properties include full garages and/or storage areas for recreational gear.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a biking trip to Aspen in the near future. For more information on bike tours, trip ideas, and trails, there are tons of great resources on the Web; just give it a Google and you’re on your way!

Kick Off Summer At Outside in Aspen™ Elite Pro-Athletes & Symposium

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Summer is almost upon us and now it is time get outside and play in Aspen, Colorado! Outside in Aspen™ is holding the ultimate adventure weekend from June 8-10, 2012.  No matter the skill level, outdoor enthusiasts are invited to hone their skills or learn a new sport that they have always wanted to try.

Jump in with Elite Pro-Athlete-Led Adventures & Clinics, Triathlon, and Adventure Dog Workshops slated to be a part of the Outside in Aspen™ event.

Aspen summer triatholon

Arrive Friday, June 8 to Aspen with your family and friends to check in to your Aspen Luxury Home Rental, where you will have a full-kitchen for use to prepare any meal of your liking and stock up on any beverage of your choice.  After settling in to your Aspen rental, head over to the Ute Mountaineer around 6-7 p.m. for a slideshow presentation by Lucas Gilman.  Then walk over to the Sky Hotel for the opening welcome reception and “Outside in Aspen” kick-off party.

Wakeup the morning of June 9 and check out the Adventure Base Camp located in downtown Aspen. This is where participants meet their guides and exhibitors keep the excitement going all day with music, demonstrations, food, family activities, a beer garden, and gear displays.

Also, Saturday, June 9, if you are ready to get your swim, bike and run on, or just want to cheer the on the athletes, head over to the Outside in Aspen Triathlon/Dualathlon/Aquabike Dualathlon Competition.

When you are spent from all of the day’s activities, you can head back with your family and friends to your Aspen vacation rental to relax or continue the fun with the rental’s fully stocked entertainment center (Television, Stereo and DVD player). If you are just too exhausted from you full day of activities, you can always crash in the privacy and comfort of your Aspen rental bedroom.

No matter what type of fun you are looking to take in, you are sure to try new things, meet new friends and have a great time in Aspen!

 

 

Triathlon-Duathlon-Aquabike Coming to Aspen June 9th

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Have you ever wanted to compete in a triathlon or watch an event? Come play outside in beautiful Aspen, CO! Check out the Outside in Aspen Triathlon/Duathlon/Aquabike competition starting at 7:00 a.m. on June 9, 2012.

Aspen Colorado triatholon

If you are a beginner, the triathlon, which is a USA Triathlon sanctioned event, is the perfect race for you to get your feet wet while still competing on a challenging course.

If a competition involving water isn’t what floats your boat, try the dry Duathlon, which consists of a 2-mile run, a 17-mile bike ride and ending with a 4-mile finishing run.

Not into running? Then the Aquabike Duathlon is just the right fit for you! Get started in the water with an 800-yard swim and then jump on the saddle for a 17-mile bike ride while taking in the beautiful scenery of Aspen.

Being that the competition is a USA Triathlon sanctioned event, all participants must be members or purchase a single day event permit.  The cost to participate in the competition ranges from $50 – $90 depending on the event and membership status.

Are you planning on competing with a group of friends? Staying at an Aspen Vacation Rental may be the perfect option for you, your teammates and friends to stay.  Aspen rentals usually provide you with a full-kitchen so you may prepare the meals you need before heading out to compete. They also have a living room, fireplace, entertainment system (TV, Stereo and DVD player), full bathrooms and one or more bedrooms. This allows for everyone to bring the fun inside to one place after your outdoor adventures.

As far as value is concerned, Aspen luxury home rentals  are a great option for large groups, especially when you consider the need for multiple rooms and cost of food.

No matter what you decide to do, or where you decide to stay in Aspen, you are definitely in for a great time! For more information about the Outside in Aspen Triathlon please visit: Outside in Apen Triathlon/Duathlon.

Good luck…be sure to enjoy all that Aspen has to offer!