Ultimate Colorado Experience
A majestical mountain Escape
Colorado is one of the most scenic and adventurous states in the western US and with the right connections, the experience is unmatched. It's no wonder why Anthony Perez, the owner of Vonturi, has been residing in the Colorado rockies for the last two decades! The Ultimate Colorado Experience captures scenic wildflower hikes, exciting mountain bike trails and tranquil fishing streams, all mixed with luxury lodging, fine dining, spa treatments and a few unique local events to tie together one magical and unforgettable excursion through the towns of Aspen, Crested Butte and Telluride.
Best Time of Year
Suggested Length of Trip
Activities
Locations
Accommodations
Physical Fitness Level
July - September
7-14 days
Hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing
Aspen, Crested Butte, Telluride
5-start hotels, private mountain homes
Moderate to Advanced
TRIP Outline
Aspen, CO
Fly into the Aspen airport and head straight to Hotel Jerome, Aspen's oldest and most distinguished full service hotel. Recently renovated and transformed into a modern 5-star hotel, "the Jerome" is certainly among the nicest hotels in Aspen with multiple penthouse units located right in the heart of downtown. Aspen sits at roughly 8,000 feet / 2,400 meters above the sea, so you might feel a little fatigued on arrival; that's why we suggest to spend the first day indulging in spa treatments and taking care of your body. A special walking tour will be arranged to get acquainted with town and learn about Aspen's unique place in the historical Gold Rush and why it grew so wealthy so fast. Finish the day with a private dinner from one of Aspen's top chefs and get ready for your next adventure.
Once you're acclimatized, let's play! There is no shortage of outdoor activities in Aspen and the breathtaking scenery is the icing on cake. Fly fishing the Roaring Fork River, mountain biking Smuggler Mountain or hiking up to Snowmass Lake will certainly be on the shortlist but let's not forget horseback excursions and white water rafting are also viable options in the Roaring Fork Valley. Besides outdoor adventures, Aspen is well-known for music and art, in which there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy. Dinners will be a mix of local chefs using organic and local ingredients as well visiting some of the popular restaurants in Aspen. Although there is a lot to do and enjoy in the mountains, there is always plenty of opportunity to relax and take in the tranquil mountain vibe.
Hike from Aspen to Crested Butte on West Maroon Pass
After a few exciting days in Aspen, you'll set out on West Maroon Pass and cross over to Crested Butte. While your luggage is transferred over by car, all you need to carry is a small back-pack with the day's essentials and begin the 11 mile hike with your knowledgeable and friendly guide. Starting at Maroon Lake, you'll wind up the singletrack trail to Crater Lake and eventually past the Maroon Bells to the top of the pass. Along the way you'll see the most lush wildflower fields in Colorado with flowers up past your waist of all varieties. It's truly a remarkable site to see. You'll finish the hike at Emerald Lake, certainly the most spectacular mountain lake along the journey. After the hike, settle in to your new accommodations in a luxury mountain home with scenic views of the rugged Crested Butte landscape. More spa treatments and delicious eats will be in order to help recover from the hike. Relax, recover and get ready for more adventure on the way!
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is very different from Aspen. It's a rustic, quaint little town, yet special in its own way. Afterall, it's where Anthony Perez, the owner of Vonturi, calls home; and he's lived there for nearly 18 years for a reason! It's dubbed the Wildflower Capitol of Colorado and you'll see why as soon as you arrive. Crested Butte is known for scenic mountain vistas, wildflower hikes, mountain biking and fly fishing, and we'll embrace it all. The Gunnison river is recognized as one of the best rivers to fly fish in the country. A float fishing trip will be in order with an experienced guide who can help you find rainbow trout up to 20 pounds in weight. Next you'll voyage out on mountain bikes with your guide to the iconic 401 trail. This trail is well known throughout cyclists world-wide as one of the most picturesque trails in the world with wildflowers standing taller than your handlebars on the fast and flowy descent. You'll finish the ride with flower petals stuck in your bike, shoes and maybe even helmet! Another not-to-miss hike is the Oh-Be-Joyful trail up to Blue Lake passing wildflower fields and beautiful landscape along the way. Crested Butte also has depth in private chefs and fine dining restaurants that will surely impress. Don't miss a casual walk downtown, Sunday morning Farmers' Markets and weekly outdoor concerts.
Telluride
After a few unforgettable days in Crested Butte, hop in a private plane and enjoy a scenic flight from Crested Butte to Telluride and land in one of the most unique landing strips in the country. Another luxury mountain home will be awaiting your arrival with locally sourced hors devours and beverages. Telluride is another special mountain town that cannot be missed on a Colorado tour. The scenery, the history, the establishments and the people are what make these mountain towns so memorable, and for all those reasons are why Telluride is on the shortlist. Another round of fly fishing and mountain biking will surely be enjoyed in Telluride followed by private dinners, live music and living the mountain lifestyle. The last day will remain available for whatever your heart desires. Finally, fly out of the Telluride airport and head back to where you call home.
Looking for a shorter version?
If a two-week excursion isn't in the cards, try a seven day journey from Aspen to Crested Butte. You'll still do all the marvelous activities in the local area without the additional trip to Telluride. Trip highlights would still include fishing and biking in both towns plus the unforgettable wildflower hike across West Maroon Pass.
