Vail, Aspen, the names summon images of skiers and snowboarders flashing down steep slopes of pristine, powdery snow, forests of trees covered with Christmas lights, pricey shops, tony restaurants and fancy hotels. Now think summer. Think of hotel rates which may be half those of winter. Think of restaurant discounts and bargains at fashionable shops. Think of carefully groomed golf courses.Think of rafting and canoeing and hiking, concerts and dance and theater. Then think of a drive along mountains more than 14,000 feet high.

The two resorts are 90 miles apart just around the corner in western terms of distance.

The best way of seeing both of them during the summer is an auto trip that takes you through passes as high as 12,095 feet. It goes through Leadville with its history of colorful characters as Wyatt Earp, Doc Holiday, Baby Doe and the Unsinkable Molly Brown. It takes you into trendy Aspen with its tree-lined streets and sandstone and brick buildings, then over to Glenwood Springs named for its warm mineral water pools and caves and from there east to your starting point.

Vail is where most visitors are likely to start the trip, since it's a direct, slightly less than two hour' drive from Denver via the I-70 interstate.

Vail is beautiful during the ski season, its beauty augmented by the brilliant whiteness of newly fallen powder snow on the dark mountains. In the summer, Vail's beauty comes from the dark greens of the evergreens, the lighter green leaves and white trunks of aspens, the dazzling blue of the sky and processions of cumulus clouds rubbing against the sharp peaks of the mountains.

Summer visitors come to golf on five top-rated courses. Younger and more vigorous tourists come to mountain bike, torturing muscles and lungs by pumping up steep mountain roads and trails or taking a ski lift to the top of a high peak and plunging down its side on two wheels, dodging rocks and holes and small animals, staging a heart-stopping, animated display of why Vail has one of the nation's largest hospitals specializing in sports injuries and rehabilitation.

Older and less vigorous tourists are likely to restrict their athletic activities to hikes, canoeing or fishing on a peaceful mountain lake, viewing the Vail Valley from a hot air balloon, or riding horses through parts of the surrounding national forest.

In the summer, Vail Village resembles a sidewalk sale of skis, jackets and other winter equipment and clothing marked down as much as 50 percent, sometimes more. In the winter, its impossible to find a hotel offering rates lower than $125 a day or bed and breakfasts under $100. Summer hotel rates are as low as $59. Many restaurants also cut their prices during the summer or offer two for one specials.

My wife and I stayed at the Minturn Inn, a rustic but comfortable bed and breakfast in Minturn, an old mining and railroad town five miles from Vail Valley. Many of the town's weathered buildings have been converted into inns, excellent restaurants and a variety of small, arty shops and galleries, selling items as Indian head dresses, buffalo heads and light fixtures made from elk horn.

Minturn's main street is Route 24, aptly named the Top of the Rockies Highway, which leads off I-70 just west of Vail. Its the most scenic route to take on the first leg of the trip to Aspen.

South of Minturn, Route 24 begins a sharp ascent. Off to the right is the 14,005 foot high Mount of the Holy Cross. The 1,500 foot cross, created by natural crevices in the face of the mountain, can be seen high on the northwest side of the peak.

Continuing toward Leadville, we came into a high, level valley nestled between mountain ranges. Here is the site of Camp Hale, where the 10th Mountain Division trained on skis and snowshoes before engaging in bloody combat in World War II. Robert Dole trained at the camp. So did the founders of the Aspen and Vail Ski Resorts.

From Camp Hale, the highway begins its ascent to the Continental Divide and Tennessee Pass, 10,424 feet above sea level. Fifteen minutes away and six feet higher is Leadville, which describes itself as North America's highest city. It's been more than 100 years since Doc Holiday killed two men in Leadville and Soapy Smith and his thugs ruled the town, over a century since Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson walked the streets and Leadville Johnny Brown and his young wife Molly gave parties.

The gambling tables and brothels are gone, but you can still belly up to a bar where Buffalo Bill Cody and the James brothers downed their drinks and the restored 1866 Delaware Hotel from the rough days of wealth and sin remains open for guests. The Tabor Opera House, once described as the finest between St. Louis and San Francisco, still stands, although in need of refurbishing. It is open for tours from May 30 to Oct. 1.

Once past downtown, there are unobstructed views to the west of Colorado's highest peaks, Mt.Elbert at 14,433 feet and Mt. Massive, only 12 feet lower.

Mt. Elbert continues to dominate the western skyline as Rt. 24 continues south from Leadville. Fifteen miles later Rt. 82 intersects. We turn right toward Aspen. Driving west, Mt. Elbert looms larger on our right. On the left is the Twin Lakes Reservoir, popular for fishing and camping.

Beyond Twin Lakes, the highway climbs in a continuing succession of unguarded curves and hairpin turns to Independence Pass, which crosses the Sawsatch Range at 12,095 feet. The pass is sensibly closed doing the snow season.

On either side of the pass are turnoffs and parking spaces and footpaths where sightseers are offered a feast of mountains, streams and dense forested wilderness.

West of Independence Pass, Route 82 dives down the canyon of the Roaring Fork River. The Roaring Fork flows through Aspen, which got its start as a silver mining center in the 1880s, but found gold nearly a century later as a ski resort. Located in a glacial valley surrounded by magnificent peaks, upscale Aspen, with its many rust-colored buildings dating from the turn of the century and mature trees shading the downtown streets, gives the impression of more permanence and history than modern Vail.

Both are trendy and pricey, the playgrounds of movie and rock stars and a billionaire or two. Vail is a golfers' paradise, but Aspen ups Vail by also offering travel by helicopter, underground trips through old silver mines and treks into the back country with a llama to carry your gear.

Aspen also has the edge on culture, earning an international reputation for its annual summer jazz and classical music festivals.

We linger in Aspen only long enough to window shop at the fashionable shops and galleries and to people watch as we nibble on crepes served from an old popcorn wagon standing outside near one of several downtown fountains.

Then its back on Route 82 to follow the Roaring Fork River through red rock canyons to Glenwood Springs.

The Ute Indians regarded the hot springs and vapor caves as a sacred place of healing. The old gunslinger Doc Holiday may have hoped to find confirmation in that Indian belief when he came to Glenwood Springs afflicted by tuberculosis. If so, he was disappointed. His grave is now a tourist attraction.

But most visitors come to swim and bathe in the hot water pools, or try to sweat away tensions and stiffness in the caves.

After drying off, we start on a fast 60-mile drive back to Vail via I-70. For the first 12 miles, we follow the Colorado River as it courses through the scenic Glenwood Canyon. The stream is swift here and endowed with challenging rapids with names like Maneater and Tombstone. With those names, its not surprising that it's a popular stretch of the river for rafters and kayakers.

We halt for a late supper in the Gas House, a popular restaurant in Edwards, 15 miles west of Vail. Frequent guests include Frank Gifford and Kathie Lee, who have a house nearby. Then its back to our b&b for a night's long sleep.

By: Joseph Ritz
Joseph P. Ritz is a retired journalist, an author of two books and a published and produced playwright. His latest book is a memoir, "I NEVER LOOKED FOR MY MOTHER and other regrets of a Journalist." It is meant to be most humorous. You may read selections at Amazon.com or at his website:
http://jritz.net

The small resort town of Keystone Colorado is about 85 miles West of Denver Colorado. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive to Keystone From the Denver International Airport. For someone who has never been to Keystone, it can be a confusing and tedious task of planning a vacation for the whole family to meet everyone's needs. This guide is meant to be a primer on where to stay and what is available in the different areas of Keystone Resort Colorado. Keystone is not just a single area, but a ski resort that takes up an entire valley about 5 miles long. Situated within this long valley there are some defined neighborhoods within Keystone Colorado that each offer their own unique characteristics. These characteristics are what will ultimately make your vacation getaway to Keystone Colorado the best it can be.

River Run Village - River Run Village in Keystone Colorado is the heart of it all. The small and quaint village area was built in the early to mid 1990's and serves as the central gathering point for skiers, shoppers and vacationers. The area is mostly condominiums with a first floor of retail space, housing fine restaurants, coffee shops, and outdoor clothing stores. The best part of River Run Village is the active atmosphere that keeps the village moving. Skiers love River Run because you can walk to the ski slopes at Keystone Resort within just a few minutes from anywhere in the village. Along they way, they can stop for a quick cup of coffee or tea to warm up for the day. Shoppers love River Run Village because of the plentiful opportunities to shop for ski gear, outdoor clothing, or gifts for family or friends. Families love River Run because of the kid-friendliness of the entire village. From play structures, to swimming pools, to mini golf, there is plenty of different thing to keep kids active and happy for days. At night during the ski season, River Run becomes alive with bands playing and bars and restaurants to enjoy an Alpres' Ski singer and gather with close friends to talk about the day on the slopes. If you're looking for a vacation where you'll be close to everything, River Run Village is the place for you.

Mountain House - The Mountain House base area is not too far from River Run. In fact, it's a quick and easy half mile walk from River Run. However, the atmosphere is quite different. This original base area of Keystone Ski Resort is slightly older, built mostly in the late 1970's and features larger condominiums with amazing views, and walk-to-slopes convenience. The Mountain House base area is spacious and features a vast learning area and bunny hill for new skiers and riders. However, during the night the Mountain House base area winds down and comes to a close at an early hour. This area is for families perhaps with small kids who need to have the area quiet by 8pm. Close by, however, are plentiful restaurants and shops along US Hwy 6, so you still will be within just a few minutes walking distance to fine dining, and fun pubs in the evening.

Keystone Lakeside Village - Keystone's Lakeside Village is one of the most unique areas in any ski resort area. While not home to any ski lifts as of yet, the Lakeside Village still holds its own with the abundant activities available any time of year. The Lakeside village is home to the Keystone Conference Center, which hosts hundreds of different conferences throughout the year and keeps the village bustling with people and fun. Keystone Lake, a 5 acre pond surrounded by restaurants, shops and condominiums, is central to the whole area. During the winter months, the entire lake is frozen and becomes North America's largest outdoor ice skating rink. Best of all, this lake is maintained by a Zamboni, which smoothes the ice to a shiny flat surface for easy skating. Winter activities such as hockey, figure skating, and more are happening all the time at the Keystone Lakeside Village. The summer months yield a beautiful blue Lake that is the foreground to breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide to the East of Keystone Colorado. Huge planted boxes of Colorado wildflowers litter the area and it is truly a sight that comes right from the front of a postcard. Enjoy the summer days paddling a canoe, kayak, or paddle boat around the lake, or taking a stroll along the bike path that runs all the way through the valley. Access to skiing is easy with a constant stream of shuttles that run directly to the ski slopes. Not quite walk-to-slopes, but you'll actually walk much less by taking a shuttle.

Keystone Ranch - Further down the Keystone Valley to the West is the Ranch. The Keystone Ranch is home to 2 world-class golf courses. Within the golf course is a community featuring high-end single family homes with million dollar views of the green golf course in the foreground and snowcapped peaks in the background. As for the fun....it's up to nature back here nestled between the Keystone Valley and Swan Mountain. Plentiful hiking and biking trails are close by along with cross country ski trails and sledding during the winter months. Fine dining at the Keystone Ranch Restaurant is easily available. This is not a simple pub...this is world class food for sure!

Whether you're planning your first trip to Keystone Colorado, or you have been to Keystone many times, there is truly something for everyone in your group. Based on the activities for each neighborhood, choose what you want to do and the area will simply fit right into your vacation plan. Take the time to get to Keystone Colorado today....the trip is worth it and you'll have memories and stories for years to come.

By: Peter Reeburgh
Peter is the owner of SummitCove Property managment in Keystone Colorado Keystone Colorado. Call 970-368-7023 for more information about lodging in Keystone Resort today.

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For those that enjoy nature's beauty, Colorado is a place that you must see to believe. The distinctive fun of traveling in Colorado is the fabulous views of the Rocky Mountains. You'll think of the word, gigantic, in a new way after witnessing such colossal mountains. These great mountains are a source of fun activities for any season.

Colorado is widely known for ski season. Kids, as young as 3 years old, can learn to ski, so this can be a fun activity for the whole family. I have fond memories of teaching our 12 year old how to ski and hoping that we wouldn't end up paying for someone's car repairs as he practiced his stopping on the "bunny hill" while eventually slowing in the parking lot. But besides the actual skiing or snowboarding, few relaxing moments compare to being at a ski resort with a warm fireplace after an exhilarating day on the slopes. And actually being on top of an enormous mountain is simply awe-inspiring. With the massive amounts of snow, ski season can last until June depending on conditions for the year. Snow tubing and snowmobiling are also popular activities for those that want to "conquer the mountain."

Soak in the hot springs. Naturally made and full of warm, mineral-rich water, the hot springs is like sitting in the largest hot tub you've ever seen. Pool temperatures range from 83 - 114 degrees. Many have traveled here to find the healing power in these waters, which were considered a sacred healing spot by the Ute Indians prior to our discovery of it. Nature-made relaxation and quaint mountain towns assure your pleasure.

For the more adventurous, a white-water rafting trip, down the Arkansas or Colorado River, is sure to excite. There are a variety of rapids to choose from, but in general, early spring provides the more challenging rapids and by late summer, the ride is much calmer. This can be a great event to expand your personal fear boundaries. Don't be afraid, I've been told that it wasn't as wild as the imagination thought it would be.

With numerous state and national parks throughout the state, hiking is a favorite, giving the opportunity to spot wildlife and breath-taking waterfalls along the way. A must-see is Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs. The crystal clear waters and ascending cliffs provide awesome views. Fishing enthusiasts cannot find a better view to "reel one in." Numerous trails, paved and unpaved, are available for mountain biking. Catching the mountain bike chair lifts elevate riders up the mountain giving them a jump start to begin the challenge. Spectacular views abound.

As autumn comes in, the mountain drives turn to spectacular scenes of gold, orange and red as the aspen trees make their annual change. This is a favorite even for the locals. The scenery is just amazing; the colors riveting. The difficulty is predicting exactly when the change of color will begin. Focus on the month of September and then find where the changes are taking place.

One thing remains true of all these activities, when traveling throughout Colorado, it's important to be prepared for a quick weather change and be packed accordingly.

By: Bobbi Jo Frazier
Bobbi Jo Frazier is a travel agent and markets vacation packages which allow deeply discounted travel. A whole world awaits our curiosity and exhilation. For any comments or questions, visit http://www.vacationoften.com.

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Summer vacation time is here. Many families are considering a Colorado vacation. Colorado is considered a major destination for campers, hikers, mountain bikers, fishermen, and river rafters during the summer months. There is so much to see and so much to experience in this state that vacationers flock here to partake in all the outdoor activities and scenery that bring travelers back year after year.

Centrally located in the United States, Colorado is a land of diverse environments and vacation experiences. From the rolling eastern plains and grasslands to the majestic Colorado Rocky Mountains with their mountain meadows and roaring rivers and on to the canyons and mesas of the western slope of Colorado, visitors to the state can find just about anything they are wanting to do during their summer travels.

The Northern Rockies are a paradise for the outdoor enthusiast. Colorado's Northern Rockies attract a host of outdoor adventure-seeking vacationers. Campers will find well maintained campgrounds as anchor points for their daytime adventures with hiking through the high, wildflower dotted meadows, fishing, and white water rafting. There are historic sites to see and festivals to participate in.

Here, you'll find the world famous Rocky Mountain National Park. This park is known as the "Gateway to the Rocky Mountains" and is well deserving of the title. Wildlife are seen routinely in the park. Nearby Estes Park is a tourist's haven with many events that occur throughout the summer months.

In the western part of Colorado's Northern Rocky Mountains you'll find Steamboat. Noted for its winter skiing, during the summer this is the land of dude ranches and rodeos. The winter crowd subsides into an old time, relaxing cowboy lifestyle in the summer. Here, you can truly experience what it used to be in the by gone days of Colorado when cowboys were king.

Located in the middle of Colorado, the Central Rockies region boasts a number of summertime attractions and activities. This region of Colorado is known the world over for unparalleled scenic beauty. The Colorado Rocky Mountains afford numerous opportunities for camping, hiking, biking, fishing and a host of other outdoor activities. What a great place for your Colorado vacation.

All those famous ski resorts along interstate 70 take on a new light during the summer months. Breckenridge hosts a number of summer festivals and Vail becomes a golf mecca for those that want to golf the courses that presidents travel to. Historic Aspen blooms in wildflowers and the old Victorian mining town comes alive with travelers wanting to view the scenic landscape and fish the surrounding rivers. Camping makes the area affordable and brings visitors close to the natural beauty of the land.

The wine country of the western slope affords travelers a break from the mountains and allows them to taste some premium wines that will surprise even the connoisseurs. Mountain bikers head to the Colorado Monument to the west of Grand Junction to enjoy biking the trails through the mesas and their Moab-like conditions.

The Western Slope is also where you'll find the Grand Mesa. This wilderness area will surprise and delight you with its quiet surroundings and the array of wildlife and fishing spots. And, don't forget Glenwood Springs and its famous hot springs and the Colorado River to raft in.

Colorado Springs in the southern Eastern Slope region is famous for its proximity to Pike's Peak. Named by the explorer, Zebulon Pike, it's one of the most visited mountains in the state. Nearby is also found the Royal Gorge, The Garden of the Gods, and the old Cripple Creek mining area. For a bit of the old west, this is one spot you can't pass up. As with other areas in the state, fishing is famous here along the Arkansas River. Many take a Colorado vacation just to fish this river.

In the southwest, you'll find the famous Anassazi Indian ruins of Mesa Verde and others. The canyons and mesas of the four corners region are alive with the native past. Trading posts feature the art and crafts of these native people and draw visitors throughout the summer. This is one of the most scenic regions of the state.

Just to the north are the old mining towns of Silverton and Telluride. Nearby is the little Switzerland area of Ouray. These are some of the most historic and scenic areas of Colorado. Throughout this area you will find historic railroads to ride. These are major Colorado travel destinations for railroad enthusiasts.

If a Colorado vacation is in your summer plans, you'll not be disappointed. There are so many areas to visit and so much to do while in the state that you'll probably want to concentrate on only a portion of Colorado during your visit. Savor what you see and do while here. Use your time on your Colorado travels this year not only for fun, but to plan for your vacations to Colorado in the years to come. Whether camping or staying in one of the great Bed and Breakfasts, you'll find your stay here a meaningful event for your family that will bring you all closer to the land and closer together.

By: Jim Bruce
If you think that a Colorado vacation is for you this summer, Jim Bruce provides you with all the activities that you can plan for. Find out more about the Colorado travel experience by visiting: Colorado Vacation and Travel.

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When you think of all the ski resorts you could vacation at in Colorado, one of them stands out in most skier's minds. Aspen offers a variety of ski areas for all levels, from beginners to the extreme skier. It covers over 4,500 acres spread over four mountains. The Aspen resort is also notorious for its nightlife. Downtown Aspen and the leisurely Snowmass resort has something to offer everyone after a pleasant day of skiing on the slopes.

Aspen provides all the restaurants and bars you could ever want or need in a ski town. You can take a stroll through this luxurious, old Victorian city and find many boutiques for shopping, plus much more. There is a lot of history in many of the buildings that compose the downtown area. One of these quaint, historical buildings is the Ute bank. This building, and many more in Aspen can be dated back to the silver mining era in the 1800's.

In this modern day, Aspen Mountain has become known as the "playground of the rich and famous", and it lives up to its reputation. But, don't let this lead you astray, it is also a great place to take a Colorado, family ski vacation. Christmas and New Years in Aspen is an especially wonderful time!

Aspen Mountain rises above the town of Aspen. The mountain has a top elevation of 11215 feet and a vertical drop of 3269 feet. The mountain provides 76 trails suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experts. These are accessible by eight lifts, including seven chair lifts and one cable car line. There are also areas for snowboarders and cross-country skiers.

Aspen has much to offer skiers, as well as those who enjoy the night life in a Colorado ski town. You should expect lots of crowds and lift lines on the slopes. Again, this is the "playground of the rich and famous", and while many people choose this ski vacation spot simply for that reason, it is also a quaint, historical area that caters to the family.

When thinking of vacationing in Aspen think about the great runs and nightlife the Aspen area has to offer. There are numerous places to stay in and around Aspen, hotels, condominiums, and bed and breakfasts. You and your family will have more than 100 restaurants to choose from. Ski instructions and equipment rental can easily be found in the area, and boarders are welcome.

With everything that there is to do in Aspen you and your family shouldn't find yourself getting bored. Aspen is located in the Western Slope of Colorado. Aspen and Snowmass are two of the most popular resorts in the world, so be sure to make reservations well in advance.

By: Jim Bruce
Want more information on planning a Colorado ski vacation? The author, Jim Bruce has provided you with this at http://www.coloradotravelexperience.com ... ation.html.

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While many people think of the amazing winter activities that abound in Breckenridge, Colorado, this gorgeous resort town is actually a year-round vacation hot spot. If the thought of blazing down the ski slopes makes your heart melt or the image of rafting down the Colorado River raises your blood pressure, make your way to Breckenridge for an action-packed adventure among the Rocky Mountains.

When traveling to Breckenridge for a winter excursion, the numerous ski slopes of varying difficulty will provide the perfect remedy for the winter blahs. Whether you prefer the stability of skis or the excitement of snowboards, you will certainly find some slopes that meet your level and allow for a thrilling weekend. For an amazing expedition across 10 miles of snow-capped peaks, make your way to the Breckenridge Ski Resort where you will find plenty of space to feel the rush of the cool mountain air against your face.

The Breckenridge Ski Resort is the place to go for the ultimate winter adventure. Here you will find four mountain peeks that are stuffed to the gills with world class half pipes, huge kickers, and various terrain features so your cruise down the mountain is never boring. Moguls abound on some runs so the skilled can display their speed and accuracy while a drop off the side of the mountain is always a possibility for those who need to feel their heart beating a little faster.

While hitting the slopes and working on your skiing and snowboarding skills is a great way to spend a winter day in Breckenridge, the scenic beauty of this area should always be enjoyed. Consider a cross-country ski tour on the Continental Divide for a more slow-paced yet difficult workout that is rewarding with its breathtaking sights. Snowshoeing and snowmobiling are other great and active ways to take in your surroundings, while a horse-drawn carriage ride is the perfect entertainment option for those who want a scenic and relaxing journey around this gorgeous town.

The beauty of Breckenridge does not fade out after the winter months but only becomes more vibrant and inviting to summer visitors of this Colorado resort town. With whitewater rafting trips available from late April to late August, summer is the perfect time to head to Breckenridge for an exhilarating quest down the Colorado River. Whether you want a cozy, half-day thrill or a challenging, multi-day adventure, there are numerous companies around Breckenridge that can meet your needs and give you the most memorable experience of your vacation.

If hiking and sightseeing are on your itinerary, then the Colorado Trail can certainly fit the bill as an accommodating host. This trail provides a backcountry route through the forests and mountains of the area so you can surround yourself with the pristine beauty and invigorating mountain air that is associated with Colorado. For those times when you need a relaxing day amid towering elegance, head over to the Breckenridge Golf Club to play on 27 Jack Nicklaus-designed holes. Sitting in a gorgeous mountain valley, you will be able to hit the ball farther and straighter than every before, allowing for a less stressful but still challenging test of skill and mettle.

No matter which time of year you decide to visit Breckenridge, you are going to find an abundance of outdoor activities that will energize and revitalize your spirit and help you forget the stresses you have left behind. For the best in year-round accommodations, look into Breckenridge vacation rentals for your next trip to this Colorado getaway destination. You can enjoy all the amenities of home while surrounding yourself with the amazing mountain and forest scenery that completes any Breckenridge vacation.

By: Jennifer Weiss
HomeAway.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider Breckenridge vacation rentals for your next trip to the Rocky Mountains.

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