My husband and I (both non-skiers) have been invited -- for 4-5 days -- to join some of our skiing friends at an Aspen chalet this March. We are wondering whether there will be much for us to see/do,
My husband and I (both non-skiers) have been invited -- for 4-5 days -- to join some of our skiing friends at an Aspen chalet this March. We are wondering whether there will be much for us to see/do, while our friends are out on the slopes all day. Having no idea what Aspen might have to offer, we would really appreciate some thoughts from others on what is available in Aspen for non-skiers (I mean besides breathtakingly beautiful scenery!). Thanks so much for your help.
There is history. Aspen has evolved from an old gold-mining town. Several old buildings, including Victorian houses and an old theater/opera house, recall those days. There are many restaurants (especially for a town its size) and shops. If you have access to a car, or can rent one, you could drive up to Glenwood Springs, another old mining town, with a large hot-springs pool and spa and nearby vapor caves. Roads up into the mountains around Aspen will still be unplowed and closed in March.
If you are interested in any outdoor activities you might consider snowshoeing, no special skills required, just the ability to walk. Snowmobiling is also fun, but go with a guide or group if you haven't tried it before. You might also check into ice skating. For more suggestions check out: stayaspensnowmass.com
You can also enjoy the art galleries & little shops. It's also fun to sit & drink coffee or cocoa at the lodge & watch the skiers. Some days are sunny enough that you can sit outside for a while to watch & enjoy!
Ride the gondola to the top of ajax enjoy the view and have lunch. Take a dogsled ride at snomass. Go to Glenwood and swim in the springs. Have fun there is a lot a lot to do.
Yes! Snowshoeing! I was recently invited to Okemo Ski Resort and having breast cancer surgery within the past 6 months didn't want to go snowboarding or skiing. I am 63 years young and didn't want to risk further damage. Someone suggested snowshoeing and I went to one of those liquidator stores where I found on sale ($45!) a shoeshoe package to include the snowshoes, poles, and carryall bag. I really enjoyed showshoeing up the slopes and on side trails, getting good exercise and breathing in the fresh air. It was great seeing the skiiers and snowboarders up close and personal doing their thing. I met mom's teaching their little ones to ski and hot-doggers, and daredevil snowboarders and was careful to keep out of their way. When I skiied and snowboarded in past years I only saw downhill and had to concentrate on what I was doing but with snowshoeing you get another perspective of the slopes and can really enjoy the ambiance of the ski resort setting and all its perks without laying out the big bucks for lift tickets. I would look into snowshoeing as a way of enjoying the slopes and relating to the skiiers and snowboarders. Have fun!
