Before the Snow Falls

In the gray area between summer and winter (also known as fall), we find ourselves torn between missing the warm nights and craving snow-covered mountains. But the best part about this in-between time is the calm that falls over our beautiful mountain town, letting us recharge our batteries before another nonstop season begins. Here are our picks for fall must-dos before the snow starts falling.Visit Maroon Bells Nestled in a thicket of National Forest woodlands, the Maroon Bells are a national treasure not to be missed in all their autumnal glory. Catch a bus to the Bells outside Pro Mountain Sports at the base of Aspen Highlands (they run from 9:05 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekends only through September 30), which will take you on a guided tour up Maroon Creek Road. The road is also open to motorized vehicles daily (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) for a $10 fee until approximately the first week in November. Don't forget to bring a camera—you'll want to nab shots of the stunning fall foliage.Drive Independence PassTime is running out to drive up one of the most beautiful regions in all of Colorado—Independence Pass. Climbing 5,700 vertical ft., the Pass (as it is known to Aspen locals) boasts magnificent views that are not to be missed. For an authentic dose of driving drama, gather your friends, gas up your ride, put on your favorite CD, and go for a drive on this stunning stretch of windy road. Spend the day zigzagging past Aspen groves, towering cliffs, and babbling streams. Remember to take a minute to soak in the views because before you know it, winter will be here, and Independence Pass will be closed for the season.Keep Hiking and BikingIt's important to take full advantage of the waning amount of warm days by hitting the Roaring Fork Valley's incredible hiking and biking trails. With the leaves turning a stunning array of colors, the scenery on the way to American Lake or Cathedral Lake (both up Castle Creek Rd.) will leave you breathless. A locals' favorite choice for a hike or a mountain-bike ride is the 1.5-mile Smuggler Mountain trail, which connects to Hunter Creek's Aspen tree-laden and rocky terrain. Of course, there are countless choices for hikes and rides, so for a complete list of Roaring Fork Valley trail openings, visit www.forestconservancy.comShow Your Team SpiritWhat better way to get in the fall spirit than with a round of touch football? Get on the phone, rally the team, and head to the closest grassy field to toss the pigskin in a game of friendly competition. If spectating is more your style, show your Aspen pride by cheering on Aspen High School's varsity football team, the Aspen Skiers. Under the supervision of new coach Mike Sirko, the Aspen Skiers are already showing marked improvement by winning their first game of the season. Check out one of the Skiers' several night games to see the action underneath the lights.