by Julie Wood

Created on: June 21, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

There was a time when the end of the ski season was marked by endless streams of traffic heading down the mountains, and cute ski villages became virtual ghost towns until the snow returned. Not so much any more. Ever growing numbers of people are seeing the benefits of the Colorado Rockies as a year round vacation destination. No longer is it the case that only the locals and a few hardy hikers and bikers can be seen after the snow melts. Today, Aspen provides year round fun and entertainment against the backdrop of some of the most spectacular scenery. While the rugged mountain slopes are an outdoor thrill seekers paradise, trendy restaurants and glitzy boutiques litter the village. It is certainly a place to see and be seen.

Aspen is the perfect place to hit the slopes on two wheels. During the summer and fall the chairlifts take on a new role as they whisk Mountain Bikes and the brave souls that dare to ride them to the top of the peaks. Pack a Helmet and check your brakes if you know what's good for you. Fortunately it isn't all screaming down hill at full speed. While mountain biking has more than enough to satisfy any adrenaline junkie, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the best of Aspen at a slower pace. If you are new to mountain biking, but a competent rider, a guided tour is the way to go. There are some great tours ranging from an afternoon over intermediate terrain to all out lung busting, thigh burning treks.

If balancing on two wheels at the top of the world doesn't appeal, then maybe staying a little more connected to the ground and strapping on a good pair of walking shoes is a better idea. Pack your camera, plenty of water and sign up for one of the great hiking tours. Again there is a whole range of varying lengths and difficulties to choose from. They are a great way for the whole family to get out and have some fun together. You do need to be at least 8 years old for most of the hiking tours, so bear that in mind.

Colorado is cowboy country, and Aspen, even with it's "home to the rich and famous" reputation is no exception. There is something about seeing those horses trekking through the mountains that makes you want to pull on a pair of boots, tip your hat and hit the trails. There are plenty of great stables to rent horses and all the gear, and yet again plenty of guided tours you can join. The views are breathtaking and it is a wonderfully nostalgic way to see the West.

The beauty of Summer in the mountains is that it rarely is too hot to get out and enjoy all that space. The altitude and the mountain breezes have a wonderful cooling effect. The air feels cleaner and fresher. Do remember that you are at altitude, there is less oxygen and you will need to be careful if you are exerting yourself. The last thing anyone needs is to keel over on the first day of their action packed vacation. Spending a day or so taking it easy and exploring the village is a great way to acclimatize to the altitude and with so much else to do once you hit the slopes, it may be your only chance.

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