Plum Aspen

Plum's Guide to Hikes and Rides

cfisher — Tue, 13 May 2008 15:17:46 -0400

Now that the temps are rising, it's time to take your workout outdoors and explore some of the Roaring Fork Valley's incredible hiking and biking. Lace up your sneaks and dust off that bike because here's a list of Plum's favorite hikes and rides to get you out of the gym and into the fresh air.

Rio Grande Trail
The Rio Grande Trail is perfect for walkers, joggers, bikers, and skateboarders looking for a mellow workout. (Moms and dads also note that this is definitely the best choice if you're toting a stroller.) Hop on the paved path at the Aspen Post Office and follow the Roaring Fork River for the first two miles. Up for a little more? The path becomes unpaved at Slaughterhouse Bridge and continues for another five miles to Woody Creek, where you can take a break at the famous Woody Creek Tavern, or begin the trek back.

Smuggler Mountain/ Hunter Creek Trail
A popular hike and ride among locals, this laborious (especially if you're on a bike) and sunny ascent up Smuggler Mountain connects to the Hunter Creek Trail. If time is a constraint, opt for the short 1.5-mile jog or power walk to enjoy a bird's-eye view of Aspen from the lookout platform. If you're up for a longer hike or a fairly technical mountain-bike descent, take a left at the platform and connect to Hunter Creek's Aspen tree-laden and rocky terrain. Be warned: since Smuggler is an extremely popular route, you'll definitely run into many familar faces during your hike.

Sunnyside Trail
Make sure to pack an extra bottle of water for this hike and ride, which provides breathtaking views of Ajax, Sopris, and Highlands. The entire trail covers more than 10 miles of challenging single-track terrain (chock-full of switchbacks) that connects Hunter Creek to Cemetery Lane. (A shorter hike is a great after-work option.) As for bikers, this is an expert ride, so be sure you're up for the challenge

There really is no going wrong with any hike or ride in Aspen, just make sure you have plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfy footwear. Now, get out there already and enjoy!

For a complete list of Roaring Fork Valley trail openings, visit www.forestconservancy.com

Construction Junction

cfisher — Mon, 12 May 2008 11:19:28 -0400

If you’ve driven in and around Aspen recently then you’ve seen the plethora of fluorescent orange signs, hard hats, and construction throughout town. While the SH 82 Bus Lanes Project (slated to run through November) undoubtedly affects travels, Castle Rock Construction assures us that traffic on SH 82 will be minimally affected during peak commute hours. Drivers can, however, expect 2 min. stops from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 10 min. stops during 6-10 p.m., and 20 min. stops during 10 p.m.-5 a.m. We know—it’s still not ideal—but save yourself the road rage and take a deep breath -- all that construction will help shorten the commute come November.

An Interview with Mariah Carey

cfisher — Fri, 09 May 2008 12:44:53 -0400

Plum caught up with music mogul Mariah Carey when she was in town for the Aspen Peak holiday party last year.

Skeet Shooting

cfisher — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:47:43 -0400

Join Spencer and Oliver as they learn how to skeet shoot with the owner of Aspen Outfitting, Jon Hollinger.

Aspen Takes a Breather

cfisher — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:25:34 -0400

Off-season has once again crept up on Aspen. While some Aspenites take off to warmer vacation destinations for a week or two, most of us stay and enjoy the calm before the storm. Here are a couple of the best low-key things to do in our quiet mountain town.

Treat Yourself to Dinner

After a long (and busy) winter in Aspen, spring is the perfect time to treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner out. Grab your friends, a loved one, or even head out by yourself to enjoy one of the many discounted prices and menu specials in town. Some of our favorites are the prix fixe at The Wild Fig (a glass of wine, app, and entree for $29) the prix fixe at Ruth's Chris Steak House (three courses for $38), or the prix fixe at LuLu Wilson (appetizer, entrée, and dessert for $30).

Spa Day

Dedicate an entire day to pampering yourself. The Remede Spa at the St. Regis Resort Aspen offers 25 percent off all of their treatments (with the exception of manicures and pedicures). Decompress in the spa's soothing hot tub, sauna, steam showers, and oxygen room. The Aspen Club & Spa also rewards their guests for treating themselves as the more you get done the more you save. Nonmembers get a 10 percent discount if they have one treatment done or a 20 percent discount for two treatments. For three treatments nonmembers can receive a 30 percent or a 40 percent discount when they have four treatments in one day. Be sure to bring workout clothes because both the Remede and the Aspen Club have gyms where you get in a good workout before you relax.

Clean House

When you're busy, it's easy to become a pack rat. If you haven't worn something in the past year then chances are you won't, so take advantage of the slow season and clean house.The Thrift Store accepts donations, or you can try to sell your stuff at Susie's consignment store. If you have extra skis, boards, and gear that you no longer use, bring them to Replay Sports—if they can sell your stuff, they'll give you 50 percent of the profit.

Thanks For Everything, Ma!

cfisher — Wed, 07 May 2008 13:37:20 -0400

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, meaning if you haven’t found the perfect gift yet, you still have some time. Make her feel like the queen she is by sending her to The Remede Spa at the St. Regis Resort Aspen, which is currently offering 25 percent off all of their treatments (with the exception of manicures and pedicures). If the way to her heart is through her stomach than treat her to a decadent three-course meal at Lu Lu Wilson for only $30. Or, if you’re looking for something simple, pick up a beautiful bouquet of flowers at Sashae Floral Arts & Gifts. Whatever you choose to do, make sure you show her just how much she means to you.

Aspen Music Festival and School Closing Party

cfisher — Tue, 06 May 2008 18:08:33 -0400

After more than 350 wonderful performances throughout the summer, the Aspen Music Festival and School’s season closes out with fabulous party.

The Summertime Guide to Aspen

cfisher — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:37:52 -0400

It’s no wonder that Aspen is a world-renowned ski resort, with more than 400 inches of snow this winter alone, an unrivaled nightlife, and a cowboy sensibility that keeps visitors coming back for more. But Aspen is just as amazing when the mountains are green as it is when they are white.

Aspen’s Summer Events 2008

In its 26th year, the Food & Wine Classic (June 13-15) brings the industries’ finest chefs, sommeliers, TV personalities, and wineries to downtown Aspen for three days of tastings, seminars, and cooking demos. While tickets for this year’s decadent festival have long sold out, we recommend that foodies check out our favorite footage from last year’s Food & Wine to get excited for this year's event.

The summer in Aspen is alive with the sound of music as the Aspen Music Festival and School boasts more than 350 concerts performed by the School’s talented students and teachers. Classical music-lovers can watch these virtuosos play outside Paradise Bakery at night, on top of Aspen Mountain, the Benedict Music Tent (we just love the Sunday afternoon concerts at the Tent’s lawn), and all around town June 19-Aug. 17.

The melody doesn’t stop there as Bluegrass Sundays take place at the Sundeck on top of Ajax Mountain from noon to 3 p.m. June 23-Aug. 18. Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS) also keeps the beat going when they present their June Festival from the 19th to the 22nd, which brings such acts as Bebel Bilberto, Anita Baker, and Los Lonely Boys to downtown Aspen. If you miss JAS’ June Festival, then head to Snowmass Aug. 28-Sept. 1 for their Labor Day Festival which boasts four days of music from Xavier Rudd, John Fogerty, Yonder Mountain String Band, back to back nights of Widespread Panic, and more.

The 2008 Aspen Ideas Festival brings some of the world’s most powerful and forward-thinking writers, decision makers, business people, educators, and more to Aspen for a week full of thought-provoking conversations. This year’s Ideas Fest is sold out, but Plum will be live on site to report all the action.

One of Aspen’s favorite summer traditions is the Saturday Market, where you can not only find local and organic fruits and vegetables, but organic meat, handmade pasta, handmade jewelry, extravagant flowers, delectable sauces, and more. From June 14 through Oct. 25, you can stroll down Hunter and Hopkins every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and find delicious treats, listen to live music, and run in to familiar faces.

Hiking

With more trails than you can count, the Roaring Fork Valley boasts amazing hiking for all levels and abilities. While locals and visitors looking for a casual workout flock to Smuggler Trail, hikers looking to break a serious sweat can make tracks on Hunter Creek Trail and the Ute Trail to name a few. But be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and the appropriate footwear as nothing ruins a good hike more than blisters.

Biking

Aspen is a mountain biking Mecca and avid bikers are sure to find a range of terrain, which boasts breathtaking views. Novice riders will love Lincoln Creek Road for its double track and spectacular scenery, while some of the best single-track rides can be found on the Rim Trail and Sunnyside Trail. Those looking to go the distance can get their legs burning on Government Trail East and Richmond Hill.

Rafting

Nothing says summer in Colorado quite like rafting. Aspen-based companies such as Blazing Adventures and Aspen Whitewater Rafting can get you in some rapids on the Lower and Upper Roaring Fork, Colorado River, Shoshone Rapids, Triple Shoshone, Brown’s Canyon, Slaughterhouse, Fractions, Cemetery, and Numbers. We guarantee that after an adrenaline-packed day on the water, you won’t be able to stop smiling.

Golf

Wonderfully warm temperatures and nonstop sunshine make the golfing in our mountain town truly amazing. Aspen Golf Club, River Valley Ranch Golf Club, Glenwood Springs Golf Club, and Lakota Canyon Ranch Club (New Castle) are not only very reasonably priced public courses, but are also open seven days a week. While Aspen Glen (Carbondale), Maroon Creek Club (Aspen), and Roaring Fork Club (Basalt) are private courses, they also offer some opportunities for nonmembers.

Fly-fishing

Looking for some peace and quiet? Fly-fishing is one of the best, and most relaxing outdoor activities in the Roaring Fork Valley. Whether you choose Aspen Fly Fishing, Aspen Anglers, Aspen Outfitting Company, Taylor Creek Fly Shops, Frying Pan Anglers, or Aspen Trout Guides to take you on a guided trip or simply to teach you the trade—there is no going wrong. Or, if you are fly-fishing savvy, head out on your own with a tackle box and some waders and enjoy the tranquility of being out on the water.

There may not be snow, but there is no shortage of things to do in Aspen during the summer, so get out there and enjoy the great outdoors.

Aspen Celebrates Mother Earth

mbrosnan — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 14:15:44 -0400

After a record breaking season of snowfall, it's safe to say that Mother Nature has been very good to Aspen. Now it's our turn to give back, join Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) for an Earth Day celebration April 26. The day kicks off with a Community Park cleanup at 9 a.m, bring your overalls because participates will be getting down and dirty cleaning up the winter's debris. Afterwards, get your heart pumping with the Earth Day 5k road race ($10 registration at Paepcke Park) at 10 a.m. If you're not up for the race but still want to be part of the action stick around Paepcke and join the Family Eco-Edventure Walk (it's free) at 11 a.m. Following the workouts, soak up the sun at the Earth Day Fair at Hallam Lake from 12 to 2 p.m. This family friendly event with be chuck full fun and games complete with eco-friendly prizes. At the end of the day toast to cleaner Aspen, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Cantina with a specialty Earth Day concoction.

Frontier Lands in Aspen April 26!

cfisher — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 17:22:24 -0400

Now that Frontier Airlines has announced their $89 one-way ticket from Denver to Aspen, it looks like getting to our remote mountain town has become, dare we say, affordable? The flights, which begin April 26, will offer five shuttles daily making travel not only cheap but convenient as well. Of course, these things go both ways. Not only will the fares encourage weekend warriors to fly in for a quick ski fix, but it also just got a little easier for locals to venture out of Aspen and enjoy a few days in the big city.

Plum caught up with Froniter Airlines back in early April to learn more about the travel benefits of having cheaper flights. Check it out:

David Crosby

mbrosnan — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 17:54:55 -0400

American guitarist, singer, and songwriter David Crosby sat down with Plum to discuss the process of creating music before his show at the Belly Up as part of the Aspen Writers' Foundation's Lyrically Speaking seminar.

Plum is the New Black

mbrosnan — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:00:37 -0400

It shouldn't come as a surprise that here at Plum we love the color purple. Turns out our color preference makes us one hip company, according to a The New York Times article printed today, plum is the new black of the advertising and media world. Companies like American Express, Penta water, and Plum TV are paving the way of this purple mania phenomena.

Check it out: "Plum, the Color, Is Having a Star Turn"

Wildfire in Carbondale

mbrosnan — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:50:11 -0400

After a challenging day, Plum caught up with fire information officer Bill Knight to learn about the wildfire that burned more than 300 acres of property in Carbondale and its surrounding areas Tuesday, April 15.

Bobby G

mbrosnan — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 10:35:15 -0400

Bobby G takes a break from skiing on Aspen Mountain to sit down with Plum to discuss his current projects as well as his new show, Bobby G: Adventure Capitalist.

In Memory: John Nicoletta

cfisher — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 15:31:57 -0400

Aspen resident and professional skier John Nicoletta passed away April 11 while competing in the U.S. Freeskiing Series competition in Alaska. He will be greatly missed but his spirit will never be forgotten.

5Point Film Festival

mbrosnan — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 18:45:23 -0400

Julie Kennedy talks to Diana Lane about the debut of the 5Point Film Festival, a festival that celebrates adventure films and outdoor life, which arrives in Carbondale May 8-10.

Jim Horowitz

mbrosnan — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 18:10:24 -0400

Jim Horowitz, president and CEO of Jazz Aspen Snowmass, stopped by MNN to talk about JAS's incredible summer lineup for the Labor Day and Memorial Day festivals.

Frontier Airlines Preview

cfisher — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:40:27 -0400

Frontier Airlines previewed their new plane and service to Aspen by flying in their executives on the new and environmentally friendly Bombardier Q400.

Dave Elkan

cfisher — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:33:02 -0400

Dave Elkan, hockey player for Euro Trash, stopped by Fresh Tracks to talk about the Friendship Cup during Aspen Gay Ski Week 2008.

Bryan Gonzales

cfisher — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 19:20:55 -0400

Cochairman on Aspen Gay Ski Week, Bryan Gonzales, talked to Plum about the plethora of events that are happening in town and on the mountain during this fabulous event.