[I did an interview with the Aspen Chamber about my five favorite things to do in summer and winter.]
A Colorado native who moved to Aspen after graduating college, Christy fell in love with climbing and skiing in the valley but ultimately stayed because of the culture and unique community. In the spring of 2010, Christy became the first women ever to ski all 54 of Colorado’s 14,000 foot mountains. She continues to spend most of her free time exploring the mountains of Colorado and embodies Aspen’s historical notion of mind, body, and spirit.
Christy’s 5 Favorite Things To Do in Summer:
- Three blocks from the hustle and bustle of town is a 25-acre nature preserve, the site for Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. The wooden platforms by the lake offer the perfect place to escape with a friend and take in all the natural beauty.
- Whether you’re running or hiking the Four Pass Loop in a day, or enjoying a few nights in the backcountry, this stunning 26 mile linkup circumnavigates the iconic Maroon Bells and is one of the most beautiful trails in the country. The four mountain passes, all over 12,000 feet, offer spectacular views, and the lush, alpine valleys below boast the best wildflowers in Aspen. If you can’t manage all four passes, just head up one, Buckskin or West Maroon Pass, for a small taste of it.
- Located up the Maroon Creek Valley, Pyramid Peak is one of Colorado’s most classic 14,000 ft. peaks. A challenging climb for those looking for something more than just a hike, it offers fun 4th class scrambling and a real sense of accomplishment. An early start ensures you’ll avoid the afternoon weather and be back in town to have a celebratory beer at the Aspen Tap Room. Go with a guide from Aspen Expeditions who can show you the way.
- Bring a blanket, book, and bottle of wine and lay on the grass outside the Aspen Music Festival and School tent. There is absolutely nothing more relaxing than listening to the soft rustling of Aspen leaves above you and the classic notes of greats like Beethoven and Mozart.
- Not many ski towns offer six incredible clay tennis courts open to the public – each with a stunning view of the majestic Pyramid Peak. Cruise to the courts on a bike path that leaves directly from town and end your match with a glass of wine on the patio of the Red Mountain Grill. Lessons and clinics are available all summer long.
Christy’s 5 Favorite Things To Do in Winter:
- Get a few friends together and book a winter hut trip at a 10th Mountain Division Hut or Braun Hut around Aspen. If you want a guide and chef call Aspen Expeditions and have them put together a trip for you.
- I love Saturdays at Aspen Highlands, hiking the bowl all day. You are bound to run into friends, get some good exercise, and find deep stashes of power. Grab a beer and post-ski slice of pizza at Highlands Alehouse.
- I love taking yoga classes at O2. It’s an amazing escape from the cold into a warm oasis with a peaceful ambiance.
- Aspen Center for Environmental Studies’ Potbelly Perspectives lecture series on Wednesday nights at Hallam Lake, features exciting slideshows of world travel and adventure by Aspen locals and visitors.
- An early morning skin up Aspen Mountain, or anytime during the day at Buttermilk; summiting a mountain is an awesome way to start your day.
