With Earth Day just around the corner on April 22, there are plenty of ways to appreciate the mountain air and nature. Aspen’s captivating scenery, wildlife and alluring trails leave no excuse not to spend the whole day outside. Take advantage of Aspen with these 5 nature-inspired activities.
Bird Watching Splendor
You’ll need binoculars for this guided bird-sighting tour located in the woodlands of Basalt’s Rock Bottom Ranch. Not only is the three-hour tour great exercise, but it also offers great views of spring budding, wildflowers and ambient bird calls. Led by botanist and environmentalist Rebecca Weiss, this walk specializes in identifying Colorado’s diverse bird population. 2001 Hooks Spur Rd., Basalt, (970) 927-6760, aspennature.org
Visit a Whole Foods Eatery
Dine sustainably on Earth Day with a meal made from fresh, local ingredients. Pyramid Bistro serves plant-inspired dishes curated by nutritarian chef Mark Oswald. Mango spring rolls with curried peanut sauce meet sweet potato gnocchi on this hearty menu. Bonus menu items include fresh-squeezed juices made with carrot, ginger and kale. 221 E. Main St., 970.925.5338, pyramidbistro.com
Shop Secondhand
Known for being an elevated take on traditional consignment, the Little Bird sells exquisite, secondhand designer items that match Aspen’s upscale aura. Fendi totes, Hermes sneakers and Tori Burch ski boots are just some of the notable pieces in Little Bird’s stock. Start your day by shopping secondhand and then take a stroll near Aspen Mountain, just two minutes down the road. 525 E. Cooper Ave., 970.920.3830, thelittlebirdinc.com
Picnic in the Park
For a more sustainable lunch, skip the chain restaurants and head straight to one of Aspen’s parks with a picnic basket. Lush greenery, benches and wooden tables at Henry Stein Park make for a comfortable and spacious picnic space. Trail access and water rafting on the Roaring Fox River can transform the afternoon from leisure to adventure. 2 Midland Park Pl., 970.920.5120, aspenrecreation.com
Take a tour through Independence Way
Take in the stunning panoramic views of Independence Way from 11,000 feet up in a guided Jeep tour. The four-hour tour covers the scenery of Aspen Mountain’s Gold Hill, Lenado and Independence Pass in a private, custom Jeep. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you coast through stunning groves, spruce forests and fauna meadows. 555 E. Durant Ave., 970.923.4544, blazingadventures.com
Photography by: Photo by Noah Buscher
