Cathedral Lake Hike Near Aspen, Colorado
Explore Colorado / Explore The Outdoors

Cathedral Lake Hike Near Aspen, Colorado

Cathedral Lake is an iconic wildflower hike in Colorado. But, be warned – it’s not easy. Forest Service rates it difficult and I agree, mainly because of a brutal switchback section. The effort is worth it to see wildflowers, waterfalls, stunning views of the Elk Mountain Range and a beautiful alpine lake. Cathedral Lake sits … Continue reading

Four Nights in Aspen, Colorado: Hiking, Ghost Towns and Mining History
Explore America / Explore Colorado

Four Nights in Aspen, Colorado: Hiking, Ghost Towns and Mining History

Driving Independence Pass on a summer or fall road trip from Denver to Aspen is a must. Summit elevation on the Continental Divide is 12,095 feet making it the highest paved state highway in Colorado (Cottonwood Pass is the highest paved passed). My friend Lisa and I left Denver on our road trip and stopped … Continue reading

A Speakeasy and Globally Inspired Cuisine: Where to Drink and Eat in Aspen
Travel Tastes

A Speakeasy and Globally Inspired Cuisine: Where to Drink and Eat in Aspen

Aspen is a foodie’s dream. Its culinary scene is vibrant, creative, indulgent and delicious. One of the newest restaurants, Meat and Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop, is quickly gaining legions of fans. I had it recommended to me by a local friend, who’s also a culinary connoisseur. I had no idea I would also discover … Continue reading

Hike to Ice Caves, Waterfall and Erratics on Grottos Trail Near Aspen, Colorado
Explore Colorado / Explore The Outdoors

Hike to Ice Caves, Waterfall and Erratics on Grottos Trail Near Aspen, Colorado

This is a short hike with a huge wow factor. The Grottos Trail off of Independence Pass near Aspen, Colorado, has geological wonders including unusual boulders, an ice cave and cascading waterfall. Grottos Trail is very popular. To be the crowds, do what my friend Lisa and I did. Get to the trailhead before 7 … Continue reading

A Peaceful “Rocky Mountain High” in the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen
Explore America / Explore Colorado

A Peaceful “Rocky Mountain High” in the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen

The scenic open space of John Denver Sanctuary is a fitting tribute to the singer famous for “Rocky Mountain High” and other songs written about the allure of the Rocky Mountains.  Prior to his death in a private plane crash in 1997, Aspen was his home for many years.  “Starwood in Aspen” showcases his love … Continue reading

J-Bar’s’s French 75
Travel Tastes

J-Bar’s’s French 75

A French 75 cocktail is about as classy as it gets.  The bubbly cocktail is a timeless drink.  It dates back to around World War I.  The name apparently comes from the 75mm M1897 artillery gun used by the French military. The J-Bar at Hotel Jerome is legendary.  The bar and hotel have been a favorite … Continue reading

Element 47’s Vegetable Scramble
Travel Tastes

Element 47’s Vegetable Scramble

It’s bursting with color and flavor. It’s oh so good.  It’s the perfect healthy start for a day of adventure in Aspen.  The Vegetable Scramble is one of the newest items on the breakfast menu at Element 47 in the Little Nell. So I ventured away from my breakfast normal of Huevos Rancheros (which are amazing!) … Continue reading

Aspen Grottos Hike
Explore Colorado / Explore The Outdoors

Aspen Grottos Hike

Just nine miles east of Aspen on Highway 82, Independence Pass, are grottos. A grotto is a geological term for a cave or cavern. The Grottos near Aspen were formed by rushing water of the Roaring Fork River. There is only an elevation gain of 300 feet on the three-quarters of a mile loop making … Continue reading