My last trip was 2022, and before that 30+ years ago when I was a kid, it's still a bizarre place, $2000 a night hotel rooms, 20+ million dollar homes. Lots of fur and high fashion outfits just walking down the street. The fashion in town is something you don't see every day. The scenery is amazing, and not just the nature, pay attention and you might see a Kardashian. It's fun to ski Aspen on a day trip, or stay 45 min away in Glenwood Springs. Somehow the river washes away the anger and I feel ready to take the must if you show up in Aspen.

Whenever life becomes a battlefield, I like to along the river in the Sanctuary. Beautiful flowers add vivid splashes of color. It gently meanders along the river banks. I like to walk on the paved path riverside. Somehow those Colorado skies are a sparkling azure blue. Be still and you can hear the rush of the river mix with the happy chirping of birds. It's the perfect place to sit and contemplate. The sanctuary part is a grassy area with stones arranged in a semi-circle amphitheater style. The Sanctuary sits between the gloriously green Rio Grande Park and the mighty Roaring Fork River (which does indeed roar.) Some of John Denver's other songs are also engraved on stones as is the wisdom of Carl Sagan. (In case you forget the lyrics, they are engraved on a large boulder.) What lyrics describe the ineluctable glory of the Rocky Mountains better than John Denver's 'Rocky Mountain High'? I assume that's why Aspen's Parks and Open Spaces department decided to create the John Denver Sanctuary. I left feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and in awe of the incredible beauty that nature has to offer.

If you're seeking a nature lover's paradise, Maroon Bells is an absolute must-visit destination. The facilities were well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The visitor center staff were friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights and suggestions for making the most of my time at Maroon Bells. The air was crisp, the sound of birdsong filled the air, and the tranquility was unmatched. As I ventured along the trails, I was greeted by towering aspen groves, wildflower meadows, and majestic evergreen forests. The hiking trails cater to all levels of expertise, providing ample opportunities to immerse oneself in nature. The iconic twin peaks, reflected in the crystal-clear Maroon Lake, create a picture-perfect scene that belongs on a postcard. I had the incredible opportunity to visit Maroon Bells, Colorado, and it was an absolute dream come true! Nestled amidst the rugged Rocky Mountains, Maroon Bells is a true gem of natural beauty that left me awe-inspired at every turn. Title: A Majestic Escape to Maroon Bells, Colorado!😍 At the drop off point there are bathrooms and a covered sitting area for convenience. We sat around for a while waiting to board. They recommend getting there 45 minutes early, but I think 15 would suffice. We took the 8am shuttle to avoid the afternoon rain. The shuttle service from the Highlands was hassle-free. We passed a handful of other people, but it never felt overcrowded considering it was a Sunday (though rain was in the forecast). Total hike time was about 4.5 hour with stops for snacks and lunch in the pass. The apple watch gave a round trip distance of 10.5 miles (with some side diversions). We hiked from the parking lot, past crater lake, and up to buckskin pass. If you're looking for a short, but rewarding hike, go to Crater Lake (about 3.5 miles round trip). There are even a couple benches along the path if you want to sit back and take it in.

If you don't have it in you for a hike, stroll around Maroon Lake, located 5 minutes from the parking lot. If you have the chance to go, do it! Rugged mountains, babbling streams, fields of wild flowers, turquoise blue lakes.all within view of the parking lot. The beauty of this place cannot be overstated.

Things to do in aspen