DTR - Aspen, Co.

Aspen, "Where the beer flows like wine!"

What comes to mind when you think of Aspen? Probably rich, middle-aged skiers in full-length fur coats drinking $10 lattes. Sure, you'll see some people who fit this stereotype, but what we found was surprisingly different.

Aspen is composed of four different mountains: Aspen, Snowmass, Buttermilk and the Highlands, all of which accommodate to snowboarders. Buttermilk is hosting this year's X Games and has a 350-foot superpipe. Snowmass is enormous, more than double the size of the other Aspen resorts combined. Aspen Highlands attracts riders in search of untracked powder and wide open bowls. And, let's not forget Aspen, which is a historic mountain that opened its lifts to snowboarders just one year ago. This world-famous mountain also has a gondola that is great for scenic views.

When we pulled up to the Hearthstone House, we had to check the address to see if it was the right place. But being that we had just busted a left on Hyman St., off Aspen St., we knew we had hit the right spot. Designed by a protege of Frank Lloyd Wright, this cozy, centrally located lodge is by far the best deal in town. They offer an outdoor Jacuzzi, membership to the Aspen Club and Spa, a free breakfast, robes, whirlpool bathtubs, and they even let us wash our grubby clothes. We were so stoked about this place that we didn't care to snowboard.

After complimentary wine and cheese at the Hearthstone House, we cruised over to Jimmy's. This place had a good vibe with hot betties from 14-65. The food and service was excellent and they offer great deals such as half-price entrees in the bar. Make sure to save room for the lava cake.

With a full stomach, we left to the Lava Room. This place was going off! It was more fun on a Tuesday night than any LA club on the weekend. We boogied down until after 2 a.m. and conversed with people from around the world who were all in Aspen to have a good time. With $2 drinks, a good DJ, and tons of girls with accents, this place is a must when visiting town. After getting well hydrated at the Lava Room, make sure to stop by the Popcorn Stand for late night munchies and crepes, and one more opportunity to hear accents that you know you won't wake up to.

The following day we rode for a few hours at Aspen. It was dumping pretty hard, so the visibility wasn't the best, but the snow was excellent and we enjoyed checking out the various runs. The have exceptional coverage with all trails open to explore. Tons of trails with double fall lines, and fresh snow make this place super fun for free riding. And just when we thought this trip couldn't get any better, Aspen went and "totally redeemed themselves" with another night of wine and hot tubs. So next time you are thinking about going to Aspen, leave your turtleneck sweater and fur at home and show up ready to have a good time.

This concluded our stay in Aspen. We want to thank Harry the Dog, the 11teen year olds, the Silver Foxes, the girls with accents, the Guy who got a drink on his head, the DJs, the Ricky Martin look-alikes, the bartenders, the guy in the fur, the late night crepe maker, the free cider lady, the lefties, and everyone else who helped us have a great time.

Last but certainly not least we would like to give a special thank you to Melissa Rhines of Aspen Mountain, Tracy and the Hearthstone House crew, and the Aspen mountain Mgr. for showing us such an awesome time. Put Aspen at the top of your list of places to go this winter.

For more info check out www.hearthstonehouse.com and www.aspensnowmass.com