The most up-to-date information for the Roaring Fork Valley

Are you tired of long security lines, airline delays and/or cancellations? If so, contact Air Denver for your charter needs. Call for great Aspen "one-way" rates or from anywhere in North America. With over 18,000 aircraft to choose from, Air Denver can easily accommodate your needs. As a "Charter Referral Service", they make chartering affordable. There are no memberships, deposits, monthly dues or aircraft acquisition fees, just excellent service at the lowest price available. Office hours are 7am-5:30pm, Mountain Time, Monday-Friday. They are available 24/7/365 for your immediate needs at (800) 333-4057 or (303) 333-3332. www.airdenver.com, email: sales@airdenver.com

Head to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in historic Glenwood Springs for a full day of fun. Enjoy guided tours of Glenwood Caverns and Historic Fairy Caves, Colorado's only alpine coaster, a giant swing, scenic tram rides, mountain-top dining, gemstone sluice box mining, a climbing wall, bungee trampoline, mechanical bull, a Western-styled maze and more. New this year: laser tag and Colorado’s only 4-dimensional theater, which combines 3D film with interactive seats and special effects. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is located midway between Aspen and Vail on I-70. For more information, call (970) 945-4228 or (800) 530-1635, ext. 111, or visit them online at www.glenwoodcaverns.com Photo by Norm Thompson

Summer: Anderson Ranch Arts Center is a world-class learning community dedicated to creativity and growth through the making and understanding of the visual arts. Summer workshops, artists' residencies, visiting artists and critics, galleries, and public events offer a full spectrum of opportunities for creative people of all levels at this historic mountain ranch. The work of resident and visiting artists is featured in public slide-presentations, exhibitions, auctionettes, and in ArtWorks, an on-campus art supply and bookstore. On Saturday, August 8th, the Annual Art Auction features work by over 250 renowned artists over gourmet lunch. Starting in June, the Ranch Café is open to the public Monday-Friday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For guided tour information, events, workshop calendars and more, visit www.andersonranch.org, e-mail info@andersonranch.org or call (970) 923-3181 x201.

Winter: Anderson Ranch Arts Center is a world-renowned arts education community promoting individual artistic development through workshops, residencies, exhibitions and community outreach. A store and galleries featuring artwork by Ranch artists are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. Self-guided tours are welcomed during these hours. For more information call (970) 923-3181 x201 or visit www.andersonranch.org.

A globally preeminent non-collecting institution that presents the newest, most important evolutions in international contem¬porary art. Exhibitions: No Sound (May 23 – July 19), Peter Coffin: Jane and Marc Nathanson Distinguished Artist in Residence (May 11 – July 24), Fred Tomaselli (August 1 – October 11), 2009 Roaring Fork Open (October 29 – November 29). Special Event: artCRUSH (summer benefit, wine tasting, auctions, dinner, dancing), August 7 Museum Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-6pm, Thursday 10am-7pm, Sunday, noon-6pm. Admission is FREE courtesy of John and Amy Phelan. 590 North Mill Street, (970) 925-8050, www.aspenartmuseum.org PHOTO: Fred Tomaselli, Avian Flower Serpent, 2006.Collection Glenn Fuhrman, NY, Courtesy The FLAG Art Foundation. Copyright the artist. Courtesy James Cohan Gallery, New York.

Visit new exhibits and recently discovered features at the Aspen Historical Society's Holden-Marolt Mining and Ranching Museum, housed in an 1890's ore sampling building overlooking Castle Creek on Aspen's western edge. The Society also operates the Wheeler-Stallard Museum, a classic 1888 brick Queen Anne Victorian at 620 West Bleeker, as well as the nearby ghost towns of Ashcroft and Independence. Attend one of their Time Travel Tuesday events (Tuesdays at 5:30) from June – September or Playing with the Past children's programs on Saturday mornings in July and August. Historic walking or electric HISTORY COACH tours are also offered. For more information, visit www.aspenhistory.org or call (970) 925-3721. Photo: From Aspen Historical Society, Webner/Oblock Collection

Summer: For nine weeks every summer, conductors, composers, seasoned performers, artist-faculty, gifted students, and audience members from around the world come together in the staggering beauty of Aspen to share their love of music. Their mutual passion creates something rare and marvelous in music. This year, the Festival’s 60th anniversary, celebrates Art, Ideas, and the Human Spirit. From June 25 through August 23, AMFS offers more than 400 events, including symphonic and chamber music concerts, solo recitals, vocal programs, fully-staged operas, children’s programs, public master classes, lectures, and backstage tours. For concert and ticket information, (970) 925-9042 or www.aspenmusicfestival.com Photo: Alex Irvin

Winter: America’s premier music festival continues its tradition of offering a winter concert series showcasing world-renowned artists. The 2009 season, scheduled from February through March, includes performances by Joshua Bell with pianist Jeremy Denk (Feb. 12) CSO music director Jeffrey Kahane (Feb. 16) on the piano; piano virtuoso Andreas Haefliger joined by flutist Marina Piccinini (Feb. 25); star pianist Simone Dinnerstein (March 14). All concerts are held in the acclaimed 500-seat Harris Concert Hall. For concert and ticket information call (970) 925-9042 or visit www.aspenmusicfestival.com.

The Summer Presentation Series, presented by Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, is back and better than ever! Five of the most talented and unique dance companies around the globe (including Aspen's very own Aspen Santa Fe Ballet) will take the stage for three weeks of energetic and athletic dance. The series kicks off with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet (July 17, 19), Ballet Boyz (July 24, 25), Hubbard Street Dance (July 29, 30, 31), Noche Flamenca (August 2), Aspen Santa Fe Ballet at the Benedict Music Tent (August 6), and Dance Brazil (August 8,9). All performances are at the Aspen District Theatre unless otherwise noted. To purchase tickets, call (970) 920-5770, or go online, www.aspensantafeballet.com. Photo credit is Lois Greenfield

The Aspen Institute is an international non-profit that fosters values-based leadership, encouraging individuals to reflect on the ideals and ideas that define a good society, and provides a neutral and balanced venue for discussing and acting on critical issues. The Institute offers a variety of seminars, lectures, and special events open to the public. The Arts & Ideas Series presents a program with award-winning documentary filmmaker Ken Burns on “America’s Best Idea: Our National Parks” on June 15-16. The Aspen Ideas Festival, June 29-July 5, features some of the most inspired and provocative thinkers from around the world drawn from myriad fields. The McCloskey Speaker Series takes place June 16 – August 7th. Visit www.aspeninstitute.org for a full calendar of events.

Providing an outstanding total golf experience for all levels of play in the midst of the beauty and tranquility that is uniquely Aspen. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies this 18-hole course is complete with an elegant clubhouse featuring a fully stocked golf pro-shop, a practice driving range, chipping and putting greens, cart rental, full service locker facilities, lessons, and a fabulous restaurant. Join them for the golf experience of a lifetime. Call to make your tee time reservation today at (970) 429-0280. Go online to www.aspengolf.com for more information about rates and group bookings.

River Valley Ranch Golf Club has been rated the 5th best public course in Colorado and has received 4-stars in Golf Digest's "Places to Play" listing. This Jay Morrish-designed 18-hole course features striking views of the surrounding mountains, constant changes in elevation and four holes that play across the Crystal River. It offers a clubhouse with pro shop and grill, driving range and practice putting green plus golf clinics and private lessons by PGA professionals. Groups are welcome. River Valley Ranch is located in Carbondale, just 30 minutes from Aspen. Call (970) 963-3625 for rates, specials and reservations. PHOTO: Dick Durrance II.

Capitol Peak Outfitters would like to invite you on a horseback trip to some awesome wilderness areas. This summer they will offer, horseback rides, family fishing trips and overnight pack trips to their remote summer base camp. All adventures take place in Capitol Creek Valley in the heart of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness areas of the White River National Forest. Their trips are all by horseback, taking you into great mountain country with spectacular views. Catch a glimpse of the many elk, dear and black bear while enjoying nature at its best. (970) 923-4402, www.capitolpeak.com.

Friendly, knowledgeable staff provides you a safe, enjoyable horseback riding experience. Located at the gateway to the Maroon Bells on the historic T Lazy 7 Ranch. Offering hand led, 25 minute pony rides for little kids and one hour, two hour, ½ day, and overnighters to base camp for great family fun. Full day rides and multiple day wilderness trips are for the more adventurous. No one brings you the Maroon Bells and Flat Tops Wilderness areas of western Colorado like we can. Whether you’re a greenhorn or seasoned rider, we have rides for everyone. C’mon, you know you want to. Reservations required (970) 920-(horse) 4677 www.maroonbellsaspen.com

Balloon the Rockies! with the area's only year-round balloon company. See the spectacular Rocky Mountains and their wildlife from a bird's-eye perspective that you would never have on the ground. Beginning at sunrise, flights average about an hour and the total trip time is around three hours. Your flight includes a souvenir balloon pin, a flight certificate and a delightful champagne brunch. Call today to plan your family adventure or romantic escapade. Group rates and private flights are available. Local transportation is provided.

If you ever wanted to go on a balloon ride this is the one to take. Breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies, Aspen/Snowmass, and the wildlife of the Roaring Fork Valley await you. Flights are early but sunrise is the perfect time to spot elk, deer and the occasional bear. Flight time is 1 to 1.5 hours and the total adventure lasts approximately 3 hours. Your memories will last a lifetime with a FREE VIDEO of your flight! A traditional champagne toast, breakfast and presentation of commemorative flight certificate follow the flight. Operating in the Aspen area since 1984.

Summer: Visit the Hallam Lake Nature Preserve, a wild place in the heart of Aspen, featuring an environmental learning center, resident birds of prey, an indoor trout stream, self-guided trail, bird watching, and a naturalist on site to answer questions. The preserve encompasses lush riparian ecosystems including woodland, meadow, pond, and marsh communities. ACES offers programs for children and adults through its Naturalist Field School, as well as free naturalist-guided walks on Aspen Mountain, at the Maroon Bells and in Snowmass. Open Monday – Saturday, 9am-5pm. Also, check out Rock Bottom Ranch in Basalt for its organic garden and farm animals! (970) 925-5756. aces@aspennature.org. www.aspennature.org.

Winter: Visit the Hallam Lake Nature Preserve, a wild place in the heart of Aspen, featuring an environmental learning center, resident birds of prey, an indoor trout stream, self-guided trail, bird watching, and a naturalist on site to answer questions. The preserve encompasses lush riparian ecosystems including woodland, meadow, pond, and marsh communities. ACES offers programs for children and adults through its Naturalist Field School, as well as free naturalist-guided walks on Aspen Mountain, at the Maroon Bells and in Snowmass. Open Monday – Saturday, 9am-5pm. Also, check out Rock Bottom Ranch in Basalt for its organic garden and farm animals!

Aspen Whitewater Rafting is owned and operated by longtime local guides with over 75 years of combined experience. They offer exhilarating whitewater rafting and inflatable kayak (ducky) adventures with personalized service amidst breathtaking natural scenery on both the Roaring Fork and Arkansas Rivers. The company runs a variety of river trips, from mild class II / III perfect for families and new rafters, to invigorating adventurous class-IV/V whitewater, mindful of the ultimate guest experience. They provide top-notch service, new equipment, delicious riverside buffet lunches and all necessary river gear needed. Phone (866)-37-RIVER or (970) 920-3511. Photo: Arkansas valley digital imaging

The largest selection of full and half day raft and inflatable kayak trips on the Roaring Fork, Arkansas and Colorado Rivers. Fully guided tours, no experience necessary. Enjoy some of the best whitewater in the state, catering to all levels, expert guides, commitment to safety, 34 years providing great customer service and exhilarating adventures. Other activities offered include- Downhill/Singletrack Bicycle Tours - Backcountry Jeep Excursions - Sightseeing/Historical Tours - Hikes - Mountain Dinners - Flyfishing - Ballooning - Horseback Riding - Whitewater Sledging and more. All activities are permitted by the U.S.F.S. Blazing Adventures stores are located at the base of the gondola in Aspen and in the Snowmass Village. Please phone them at (970) 923-4544 or (800) 282-RAFT (7238) www.blazingadventures.com

Aspen Recreation Center is fun for the whole family! There is no better way to cool off this summer than by taking a few laps around the ice rink followed by a dip in the pool. The kids will love to feel the rush as they zoom down the two-story water slide, race through the water spray features, or take a lap around the lazy river. If that just isn’t enough visit their 32-foot, three-dimensional climbing tower, cardio and weight rooms, fitness classes, tennis courts, batting cages and more! Visit www.aspenrecreation.com for costs, schedules and more information or call (970) 544-4100!

Summer: The Aspen Recreation Department has found the cure for kids with summer vacation boredom! Summer camp is here for kids ages 5 to 14. Go on field trips to places like the Maroon Bells, go sailing, rock climbing, golfing, play tennis, swim, skateboard, ice skate and so much more! Camp is open to all visitors and guests in the Aspen Valley for a minimal daily fee. Register at least 24 hours in advance. They also offer activities for the whole family - rock climbing, adult fitness classes, sports leagues, gymnastics and more! Visit www.aspenrecreation.com for more information or call (970) 920-5140.

Winter: Classes and programs include soccer, volleyball, basketball, intramurals, gymnastics and Winter Holiday Day Camp! Enjoy fitness and wellness classes in aerobics, Pilates, Tae-Bo, yoga and more at the Red Brick Gym. Youth rock climbing classes are available on their 3,200-sq./ft. climbing wall. Take a private lesson with a trained professional and experienced instructor. They also offer tots gymnastics and a tot's playhouse for indoor playtime. Public ice-skating is offered at the Aspen Ice Garden and Lewis Ice Arena (Aspen Recreation Center). Aspen Recreation Department (Red Brick) is located at 110 East Hallam Street, at Aspen Street just off Main Street. (970) 544-4100 ARC (Aspen Recreation Center). (970) 920-4117 Lewis Ice Arena. (970) 920-5141 Aspen Ice Garden.

Summer: Ashcroft / Pine Creek Cookhouse - located in the beautiful Ashcroft Valley, surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks. The Pine Creek Cookhouse, with its fabulous new log lodge, has been serving gourmet lunches and dinners since 1971. Activities include guided naturalist tours, hiking on the areas many scenic trails and visiting isolated mountain lakes. The numerous beaver ponds are ideal for fishing and fishing lessons are available. The ghost town of Ashcroft offers a glimpse of the Old West. Come and discover the best day of your vacation! Reservations suggested but not necessary for lunch and dinner.

Winter: Ashcroft is the premiere cross-country area in the nation with miles of groomed trails. The towering 14,000-foot peaks of the Elk Mountains surround this pristine valley. Spectacular ski terrain offers something for everybody with dedicated trails for snowshoers. Phone the King Cabin for information, rentals, and lessons, (970) 925-1971. The legendary Pine Creek Cookhouse has been recreated in a spectacular new log cabin. This renowned restaurant serves gourmet lunches and dinners. Enjoy an Aspen winter tradition with a guided cross-country ski or snowshoe tour by miner's lamp or a romantic sleigh ride to the Cookhouse. Lunches begin at noon. Dinner tours begin at 6:30pm. Luxury backcountry cabin rental also available. Reservations (970) 925-1044.

Basalt - Jewel in the center of the Roaring Fork Valley It is all right here in this charming, historic town that embraces its two gold medal rivers as well as its tiny coffee shops. Its main street starts with a Caboose, headquarters of the Basalt Chamber, and ends with a barber shop. Along the way you will find three exceptional galleries: Basalt Gallery, Keating Fine Art and Toklat Gallery. Toklat Gallery will be celebrating its 60th year! Check www.toklatgallery.com for a list of summer events. There are also the Veranda Collection, the Kitchen Store, clothing and shoe stores, and other boutiques. Choose from an embarrassment of riches for dining. Or, bike the Rio Grande Trail, hike Arbaney Kittle, picnic and stroll along the Roaring Fork in Old Pond Park, take the kids to the outdoor pool and playground at Arbaney Park…and don’t forget the fishing pole! Basalt: it IS the event.

Summer: Snowmass Village offers a full season of activities, festivals and events for visitors of all ages. June 5-6, Chili Pepper and Brew Fest features International Chili Society Cook-offs, competitions from regional microbreweries, live music with Leftover Salmon, Moe Paricle and more. July 2-August 6, Snowmass Summer of Free Music Series draws crowds by the thousands to Fanny Hill to hear some of the country’s best rock, R&B, soul and more. Bring a blanket and a picnic for the ultimate al fresco experience. August 7-9, the 9th annual Blast the Mass launches bikers through extreme downhill, cross country, and mountain-cross terrain for regional champion titles. The 33rd Balloon Festival wraps up the summer season on September 18-20 with one of the highest-altitude balloon events in the country. www.snowmassvillage.com or call (800) SNOWMASS

Winter: Winter in Snowmass is a season long, action packed adventure both on and off the slopes. From the free daily activities such as campfire sing-a-longs to the diverse 3,100 acres of massive mountain terrain, Snowmass Village boasts something for everyone. Don't miss the new Treehouse Kids' Adventure Center, Sheer Bliss lift and new nightspots and restaurants. Season highlights range from holiday extravaganzas around Christmas, Mardi Gras and St. Paddy’s Day to the Colorado Free Ride Series, one of the foremost extreme skiing competitions (February and March) to weekly Friday Big Air competitions with some of the nation’s hottest athletics. Visit snowmassvillage.com to find out more.