Take a deep breath and look around Aspen: Colorful wildflowers in summer, golden leaves in fall, and a fresh blanket of white powder snow in winter. Aspen is a spectacular setting for corporate meetings that will spark inspiration, creativity and expand the mind of meeting attendees, fostering camaraderie as they share in extraordinary experiences only found in our mountain paradise.
Here are five of our favorite places to see and experience in Aspen:
Northstar Nature Preserve
Located east of downtown Aspen, just before ascending to Independence Pass, the Northstar Nature Preserve is one of Aspen’s most sacred open spaces. Encapsulating a beautiful stretch of pristine wetland and riparian areas, Northstar is bisected by the Roaring Fork River, which runs calmly through the preserve. Northstar is known for its wildlife – from moose to mountain lion, bear to Belted Kingfisher. A popular spot for guided Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) trips with Elk Mountain Expeditions in summer, it is a quiet, contemplative place where silence and deep thought can take hold.
Aspen Mountain
Of course, skiing on Aspen mountain during winter is a must. The crown jewel of Aspen Skiing Co., Aspen Mountain has fine dining, on-mountain historic cabins and more for corporate group gatherings. During summer months, guests can hike or take the 14-minute gondola ride to the top of Aspen Mountain where a private yoga class can be scheduled. Overlooking Highland Bowl and the Castle Creek Valley, the yoga deck (which also serves as the wedding deck) provides stunning views and soft mountain breezes. A perfect site to take in a breath of fresh air while considering fresh perspectives.
The Maroon Bells
While guests are acclimating to Aspen’s altitude, plan a scenic picnic at the world-famous Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountain peaks in North America. In summer, a catered lunch can be planned near the Maroon Bells at a nearby campsite, and in winter, when the road to The Bells is closed to car traffic, local outfitter T-Lazy-7 offers snowmobiling to the Bells, followed by lunch at their rustic Western ranch.
Hunter Creek Valley
Known as “Aspen’s Backyard” the Hunter Creek Valley is not only easy to access, the views, colors and sounds of the Hunter Creek will create memories that last far beyond your Aspen trip. A glacial “hanging valley” that sits between Smuggler and Red Mountains, the Hunter Creek Valley is home to some of Aspen’s most popular hikes and mountain bike trails. Enjoy the approximately 9-mile roundtrip hike from Hunter Creek to Hunter Valley trail for sprawling meadows, mountain streams and spectacular views.
Holden/Marolt Mining and Ranching Museum
Step back in time and learn about the beginnings of modern Aspen. Once a silver-mining boomtown, Aspen’s long history in mining and ranching tells the story of hard work, grit, success and overcoming some of the toughest challenges on the planet. The museum site is close to downtown Aspen, accessible by foot, car or bike and a perfect place to host afternoon cocktail hour or another special event.
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