Enjoy Nature
Enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley. Here are several opportunities to take in nature while you’re here.
Mornings at the Bells
Follow local naturalists on a gentle walk along the pristine lake beneath the famous Maroon Bells peaks. Learn about the plants and animals that call this area home and the secrets to their success in the Colorado wilderness. First come, first served to the first 50 participants. Dress warmly!
Aspen Ideas: Health
WHEN June 21 and 22, buses load at 6:45 AM
WHERE Shuttles leave from Limelight Hotel in Aspen
Aspen Ideas Festival
WHEN June 25, 26, 27, 28, and 29, 6:45 – 9 AM
WHERE Shuttles leave from Limelight Hotel in Aspen
Find out more about the Maroon Bells Scenic Area in the White River National Forest.
Nature Valley Presents Bird Watching
Join a local naturalist and bird expert for a one-hour bird-watching walk along the banks of Castle Creek and the Roaring Fork River. Learn about the important roles birds play in nature and in our lives, from architectural design to pollination to how birds are indicators of ecosystem health. First come, first served. Limited to 25 participants.
WHEN Monday, June 24 and Thursday, June 27, 7 – 8 AM
WHERE Meet at General Mills Market in the Mayer Courtyard at 6:45 AM
Yoga at Anderson Park
Center yourself and start your days off with an outdoor yoga practice. Certified yoga instructors from Lead with Love will lead you through a series of stretches and breathing exercises to activate your mind and body, connecting you more fully with yourself. Yoga mats provided.
WHERE Anderson Park (on the Aspen Institute campus)
WHEN June 21 – 29, 7 AM – 7:45 AM
Guided Trail Runs
Grab your sneakers and join us for a guided trail run. Two local expert runners will guide you on a beautiful 5K along rivers and through forests on Aspen’s remarkable network of trails. Runners can self-select between a faster and slower group pace.
WHEN Tuesday, June 25 and Wednesday, June 26, 7 – 8 AM
WHERE Meet in front of the Walter Isaacson Reception Center
The Stories Trees Tell
Join Aspen Center for Environmental Studies naturalists for an up-close look at the local impacts of climate change. On this walk through the woods, participants will take core samples of climate-sensitive trees and see the impacts of extreme weather chronicled in their rings. Observe firsthand how three recent severe droughts have impacted their health and made them more susceptible to invasive beetles and fire. Discuss with the experts the fate of our forests in a warming world, and how the story here in the Roaring Fork Valley relates to the bigger picture. Limited to 25 participants; first come, first served.
WHEN Friday, June 28, 4:15 — 6:15 PM
WHERE Meet in front of the Walter Isaacson Reception Center