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Aspen!!
Aspen, like many other popular North American ski resorts, began as a small mining town. In fact, by 1891,
Aspen became the nation's largest silver producing mining district. Aspen's popularity (and population) shrank
quickly in 1893, when the country returned to the gold standard.
In 1947, Aspen opened as a ski resort, featuring the world's longest ski lift. In 1950, Aspen became
the first resort in the United States to host an international competition.
Aspen offers ski runs for vacationers of all skill levels. Buttermilk Mountain is one of Colorado's
best spots to learn how to ski, with several beginner slopes, and excellent instruction available. Aspen Mountain,
also known as "Ajax", boasts numerous expert slopes, and has earned the nickname "The Althlete's Mountain."
The resort includes four distinct ski areas in the White River National Forest:
Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. Non-skiiers and non-boarders visit Aspen
just for the scene -- lots of fabulous dining, shopping, relaxing spas and a vaiety of fun winter activities.
Try dogsledding or snowmobiling across the Maroon Bells (aka the glorious 'twin fourteeners').
Aspen also has a variety of off season attractions. In addition to the beautiful and relaxing scenery, Aspen
has many cultural attractions. The Aspen Art Museum features a large collection of contemporary art; Aspen's Wheeler /
Stallard Museum showcases Aspen's rich history.
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A romantic outing not to be missed by couples traveling there in the off-season is Aspen's Silver Queen Gondola.
Passengers are carried from the center of town to the top of the mountain for a view that is second-to-none.
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And don't forget the 'off-season' -- your Aspen summer vacation / romantic getaway can include such activities as:
Biking - miles of road and mountain biking trails -- novice through competitive levels.
Fishing - a fisherman's paradise, Aspen is surrounded by gold medal-winning trout streams.
Golfing - beautiful private and public courses.
ATV / Offroading - miles and miles of open terrain.
Touring - guided tours throughout the area.
Horseback Riding - tour Aspen's Wild West past with a Western trail ride.
Kayaking and Canoeing - paddling flat water or white-water - plenty of options for all levels of athletes and vacationers.
Scenic Flying - bird's eye views of Aspen for paragliders, hot air ballooners and more.
Swimming - refreshing dips in lakes, streams, lap pools and warm Hot Springs.
(Penny Hot Springs - FREE - half hour away from Aspen - easy to access from Highway 133)
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Dating Tips!
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At over 12,000 feet, Independence Pass is one of North America's highest paved roads.
Maroon Bells, where the view of the 12,000 foot twin peaks from the lake is one of
Colorado's most-photographed spots.