MINISTRY OF EDUCATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVAACADEMY OF ECONOMIC STUDIESDEPARTMENT , TOURISM AND HOTEL SERVICES

SPECIALIZED PROJECT Assessment of mountain destinations in the U.S.,,Aspen Mountain Lodging

Conducted :II year studentT-122Todirica Doina Chisinau 2014

Content

Introduction 3

Chapter I. Mountainous tourism - concepts and definitions.

1.1 Getting on the mountaineous tourism..........................................................41.2 The evolution of mountain destinations in the U.S.................................... 5Chapter II. Analysis of tourist destination Aspen, USA. 2.1. Infrastructure .............................................................................................7 2.2. Parking & transportation ...........................................................................8 2.3.Restaurants .................................................................................................8Chapter III. The power of four 3.1..Snowmass., Aspen mountain , Aspen highlands , Buttermilk..................113.2. Air transportation......................................................................................13 3.3.Lodging......................................................................................................143.4. Lift tickets.................................................................................................153.5. Equipment rental.......................................................................................16 Chapter IV. Summer recreation 4.1 Aspen summer pricing.17 4.2 Activites ..18Conclusion.............................................................................................................30Bibliography..........................................................................................................31

Introduction

Mountains were considered mysterious and dangerous lands. Theory revoluioner Teton plates developed in the last 20 years has unraveled the mystery majority forming mountains. Some of the mountains are the result of volcanic activity, the other layers are made up of flat rock, lateral pressure due to the very high, which moves and gives them shape. Such mountains are born where the earth's crust is in motion, the edge of rigid plates that form the earth's crust tough.Mountain building occurs when they meet two oceanic plates that collide, and one will slip under the other. The board will sink will melt, and if some of magma resulting from melting plate reaches suprafaa will form the mountain. Magma does not reach the surface is driven by volcanoes, sometimes raises them above the rock layers, such as: U.S. blacks Mountains Dakota. But the long and beautiful mountain lanuir are Himalayas, Andes, Rockies and Appli Mountains. These are sedimentary rocks subjected to mechanical forces huge part di these rocks were formed in the bottom of deep seas less.

CHAPTER I. MOUNTAINOUS TOURISM - CONCEPTS AND DEFINITIONS.

1.1. Getting on the mountaineous tourism

Once with development of tourism in recent decades and its transformation into a mass movement, the mountain has become more cautions investors and promoters of this tourism, precisely because of the many conditions that it offers for the development of economic activities beneficial results. The effects of mountain tourism development in the economic and social, although sometimes difficult to quantify, are rated as very important.Of course , there were less desirable effects , especially socially , but authorities or other bodies reaction was prompt and once aware of these negative effects , measures were taken to prevent or combat . The same is true for the environmental impacts of mountain tourism , becoming today a clear need to promote sustainable development in the mountain and intensified protection measures .Demand for experienced mountain tourism , worldwide, an upward trend , but important changes regarding motivation movement , under the influence of many factors, economic, social - demographic , psychological , political, etc. ..The roots of mountain tourism ranks in some particular places , and when we say this, we think both the spatial location of supply and demand . Diffusion of mountain tourism in the social and extending upland decorations are basically two main and interrelated phenomena that constitute the essence of the evolution of mountain tourism .Mountain resort - village or part of a resort that boasts picturesque mountain surroundings unpolluted, natural environmental factors, tourism structures and specific features of mountain tourism achievement.Basic activity of resorts is the accommodation services, catering and transport Leisure, these being in close connection with other duties economic, social, political and cultural locality. Quality, the way tourism demand coresound condition and tourist flows in terms of their size and structure.

Under this name is part of the largest economic and geographic region of the country, which includes eight states located in the Rocky Mountains and interior plateaus. The region occupies 16.4% of the U.S., and has only 2.5% of its population. The relief consists of chain Rocky Mountains and plateaus Wyoming, the Great Basin, Colorado and ArizonaMassive was formed tertiary consists of three large blocks. East where the Rockies, with their walls of stone that dominates abrubi Great Plain (Great Plains). Massive achieve maximum attitude Colorado, its prelungidu culmele to fields in New Mexico. Another characteristic of the Sierra Nevada mountain range is the curious traces left by erosion where rocks can be seen on numerous round holes. In these areas there are forests and trees Sequoia Wellington with locuiitorii are very proud of these giant trees. Mountains of the Canadian realm not reach impressive heights but are marked by very steep sea coast.

1.2. The evolution of mountain destination Aspen .Aspenis a city in and thecounty seatofPitkin County,Colorado,United States.It is situated in a remote area of theRocky Mountains'Sawatch RangeandElk Mountains, along theRoaring Fork Riverat an elevation just below 8,000 feet (2,400m) above sea level on theWestern Slope, 11 miles (18km) west of theContinental Divide. As of the2010 census, there were 6,658 permanent residents.Founded as a mining camp during theColorado Silver Boomand later named "Aspen" because of the abundance ofaspentrees in the area, the cityboomedduring the 1880s, its first decade of existence. That early era ended when thePanic of 1893led to a collapse in the silver market, and the city began a half-century known as "the quiet years" during which its population steadily declined, reaching a nadir of less than a thousand by1930. Aspen's fortunes reversed in the mid-20th century when neighboringAspen Mountainwas developed intoa ski resort, and industrialistWalter Paepckebought many properties in the city and redeveloped them. Today it is home to three renowned institutions, two of which Paepcke helped found, that have international importance: theAspen Music Festival and School, theAspen Institute, and the Aspen Center for Physics.Perhaps one of the most famous winter resorts in the world mountain resort Aspen is famous for its ski slopes, but also beautiful places in any season. ASPEN is among the most popular ski resorts in the western United States. Nestled up in the Elk Mountains, division of the Rocky Mountains, the resort and the neighboring village, Snowmass Village serving four ski areas (Aspen Mountains, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk) is the largest concentration of Colorado tourism. Surrounding peaks are the most picturesque in the land and offers excellent conditions for both winter sports and those summer.Aspen Resort is the ideal place for a holiday in the mountains , especially in winter . Aspen can be considered paradise for winter sports addicts , and is also the ideal place for adventure , fun and socializing. Located in Colorado , at an altitude of 2422 m in the footshills of Aspen Mountain , the resort where you can ski all year round . In Aspen , September to may, temperatures are well below zero.Surrounded by wooded mountains , Aspen is the ideal realm specific sports season : skiing , skating , sledding , sleigh rides . dog sledding or snowboarding , anything is possible here .

The four mountains that surround the resort were built over 4800 acres of ski slopes for winter sports: Aspen or Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Resort development grew after World War II, when it was founded and the Aspen Skiing Company, becoming an international resort for leisure tourism, cultural tourism and business tourism.

In Aspen you can not get bored! Tourism is experiencing a very high diversity of opportunities for fun and relaxation. From winter sports to competitions and festivals organized here to visit various sights of historical, anything is possible. Active couples who prefer to spend as much time in nature, found in Aspen perfect destination. Here winters are warmer for two romantics urged the mountain spirit and dynamic summer to the delight of active couples. You can ski, you can practice snowboarding, mountain biking, rafting, golf If you run even tastes are more sophisticated. At night you can opt for a warm evening at the fireplace with your loved one or you can scour the city to experience the nightlife of Aspen

CHAPTER 2. ANALYSIS OF TOURIST DESTINATION ASPEN, USA. 2.1 Infrastructure Aspen Mountain, with its famous black-diamond terrain, has kept us on the map since 1947. Inbounds youll get a variety of glades, bumps and steeps. For an out-of-bounds experience, Aspen Mountain Powder Tours will hook you up with fresh tracks on the backside. While the mountain hasnt changed much, youll appreciate great views & food at the Sundeck at the summit and Ajax Tavern at the base, where the aprs rivals the skiing and snowboarding.Winter Season dates:November 23, 2013- April 20, 2014

Extended Season Details:Base elevation:7,945 ft./2,422 mSummitelevation:11,212 ft./3,418 mVertical rise:3,267 ft./996 mTerrain:675 acres/273 hectares Number of trails:76Miles/km of trails: 64 miles/103 kmLongest run:3 miles/4.83 kmTypes of trails:easiest: 0%, more difficult: 48%, most difficult: 26%, expert: 26%Lifts:8: 6 primary 1 gondola (14-minute ride), 1 high-speed quad, 1 high-speed double, 1 quad, 2 doubles; 2 secondary 1 quad (Little Nell), 1 double (Bell Mountain)Lift hours:All lifts open at 9 a.m. and close at 3:30 p.m. except FIS lift which closes at 3:45 p.m.Ski & Snowboard School:The Ski & Snowboard Schools of Aspen/Snowmass are a collection of talented and inspired Pros that are committed to helping you build confidence, understand the terrain, and guiding you to the next place in your skiing or riding. Our Pros know more than just teaching, and are willing to share knowledge of the resort and community that can help shape an unforgettable experience during your stay with us

Rental/Retail:Four-Mountain Sports/D&E Ski and Snowboard Shop/D&EWomenacross the street from the Silver Queen Gondola. On-Mountain Restaurants:4: Sundeck,Bonnie's; Ajax Tavern and element 47 at The Little Nell at the base.2.2 Parking FREE Parking:Two hours in residential areas for individual drivers. Carpools of two or more adults of driving age can also park for free all day with a carpool parking permit. Carpool parking permits are available at the airport parking kiosk only. Hybrids with current sticker park in designated areas only. Details and stickers can be obtained at the City of Aspen Parking Office (540 E. Main Street).

Paid Parking:Downtown parking meters: Maximum of four hours. First hour: $2, Second hour: $2, Third hour: $3, Fourth hour: $4. Paid parking is in effect from 10 am until 6 pm.

Day Pass:Allows all-day parking in residential areas for $7 available at the airport parking kiosk, City Hall, Wheeler Opera House and City Markets. New residential zone meters were installed to make day passes more convenient. Watch local newspapers for information on changes to parking and be sure to comply with all parking signs.ROARING FORK TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (RFTA) FREE SKIER SHUTTLERFTA provides transportation on a year-round basis. FREE buses operate between the city of Aspen and the Town of Snowmass Village. Fare buses transport passengers to other points in the Roaring Fork Valley, between Aspen and Rifle. Visit www.rfta.com for more information.Additionally RFTA buses connect all four Aspen/Snowmass mountains during the winter season with higher frequency during peak times.

2.3. Restaurants Top Dining Experiences on Aspen Mountain

Aspen Mountain has an undeniable mystique, and it goes beyond just the bumps and steeps. At its four restaurants, youre guaranteed cuisine on an elevated level, and a vibe that is equal parts Rocky Mountain laidback, and cosmopolitan jet-set.

1. Ajax Tavern

Arguably one of the best ski-in/ski-out restaurant patios in the world, Ajax Tavern is the place to see and be seen during lunch, aprs ski and dinner. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, youll enjoy watching the people those zooming down the slopes and those sitting a table or two over as much as you will love the food and wine.

With a focus on bistro-inspired comfort food and sustainably raised meats and produce, Ajax Taverns must-tastes for lunch include the juicy Ajax Double Cheeseburger, truffle fries, tomato soup with grilled cheese sandwich, and the onion soup (which, as noted on the menu, is served as it should be, with a rich stock and draped in melted cheese)

2. SundeckLeave it to Aspen to take the slopeside cafeteria to new heights. And we mean that in two senses: (1) the views from the Sundeck have that breathtaking, top-of-the-world wow-factor, and (2) the food gets high marks from foodies and families alike, with fresh, creative dishes that are ready for you to grab and eat whenever youre ready.Operated by Aspens only five-star hotel,The Little Nell, The Sundeck offers superior service and food amid breathtaking views. Favorite items are healthy, made-to-order stir-fry dishes from the wok station, fresh and inventive soups, pizzas, unique salads and delicious sandwiches.Its all served in the Sundecks bright and warm setting, defined by 30-foot ceilings, a huge rock fireplace and a spacious patio to make the most of its beautiful views of 14,000-foot peaks. The building's architecture reflects both its remote mountaintop location and Aspen's mining heritage, featuring natural wood framing and beams, a galvanized metal rook, and stone siding.3. Element 47Named for silver on the periodic table, element 47 toasts our flavorful mining town's history and the essence of Aspen: seasonality, decadence and memorable social gatherings. Fetted banquets and richly sophisticated tones convey a sense of alpine elegance. Servers glide past the restaurant's wine glass wall - as a team of Master SOMMELIERS corks bottles and decants4. Bonnies

Bonnie's restaurant, located on Aspen Mountain (upper mid-mountain),is popular for offerings such as white-bean chili and apple strudel. Its famous two-tiered outdoor deck is a favorite hangout spot. Open for lunch.Open during the winter season only.Popular menu items include:Oatmeal pancakes, homemade soups and french bread, pizza, strudel, cakes, dumplings, homemade potato salad and sauerkraut, brats, burgers, dogs and a salad bar. Bonnie's also has an extensive wine list and bar.CHAPTER III. THE POWER OF FOUR 3.1. Snowmass, Aspen mountain , Aspen highlands , ButtermilkAt 4,406 vertical feet, Snowmass has the most in the country. And with 3,332 acres of terrain, 94 trails, 21 chairlifts and access to your choice of cruisers, glades, steeps, terrain parks and halfpipes,youll have to come back for more.Grab seconds at our restaurants too; on-mountain at the new Elk Camp or Sams Smokehouse at the top of the Village Express chair, or in Snowmass Base Village at Sneakys Tavern adjacent to the Treehouse Kids Adventure Center.

Aspen Mountain, with its famous black-diamond terrain, has kept us on the map since 1947. Inbounds youll get a variety of glades, bumps and steeps. For an out-of-bounds experience, Aspen Mountain Powder Tours will hook you up with fresh tracks on the backside. While the mountain hasnt changed much, youll appreciate great views & food at the Sundeck at the summit and Ajax Tavern at the base, where the aprs rivals the skiing and snowboarding.

Buttermilk built its 50-year legacy on wide-open and gently rolling trails that cater to beginners and families. Today its famous for hosting the X Games through 2014 and being voted #1 by Transworld Snowboarding Magazine Readers Poll for best pipe. The 22-foot superpipe in the legendary terrain park does not disappoint, as many X Games winners, Olympians and up-and-comers can attest.

With breathtaking 360-degree views of the Maroon Bells and an abundance of expert terrain as well as groomed cruisers, its no wonder Aspen Highlands has been the locals favorite for over 50 years. Hike the 12,392 feet to the summit of Highland Bowl for the ultimate inbounds backcountry rush. Or take the Deep Temerity lift to access the recently-added 237 skiable acres. It all adds up to some of the most challenging big-mountain terrain in North America.

SNOWMASSASPEN MOUNTAINASPEN HIGHLANDSBUTTERMILK

LocationWhite River National Forest, adjacent to Snowmass Village and 9 miles from downtown Aspen.White River National Forest, the mountain rises up from downtown Aspen.Within the White River National Forest, 3 miles from downtown Aspen.Within the White River National Forest, 3 miles from Aspen, 6 miles from Snowmass.

DatesNovember 23, 2013 - April 20, 2014November 23, 2013 - April 27, 2014December 14, 2013 - April 13, 2014December 14, 2013 - April 06, 2014

Lifts21858

Base Elevation8,104 ft. / 2.473 m7,945 ft / 2,422 m8,040 ft / 2,451 m7,870 ft. / 2,399 m

Summit Elevation12,510 ft / 3,813 m11,212 ft / 3,418 m11,675 ft / 3,559 m9,900 ft / 3,018 m

http://www.aspensnowmass.com/the-power-of-four Fig. 3.1. Detailed inf. About the power of four.

3.2. Air transportation

Aspen/Snowmass is one of the most accessible Rocky Mountain resorts, with hundreds of nonstop and connecting flights weekly intoAspen,EagleandDenverairports.

Nearby Airports Serving Aspen/Snowmass

Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)Situated in the Roaring Fork Valley, the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is just 3 miles from the town of Aspen and6 miles from Snowmass Village. With service from United, Delta and American Airlines, it offers direct flights to Denver, Chicago (O'Hare), San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta and Minneapolis/St. Paul. Hundreds of one-stop connections are available through these gateways.

3.3. LodgingSometimes, accommodations are the best part of a vacation. Whether its a slopeside luxury legend near the Silver Queen gondola, a ski-in/ski-out condo in Snowmass, or an ultrachic hotel close to everything, the lodging here is stellar.Lodging NameTypeLocationExpense

Alpine Property ManagementPRIVATE HOMEASPEN$$$ - $$$$

Aspen AlpsCONDOMINIUMTOWN OF ASPEN$$$

Aspen Meadows ResortHOTEL-LODGETOWN OF ASPEN$$$

Aspen Mountain LodgeHOTEL-LODGETOWN OF ASPEN$$

Aspen Square Condominium HotelCONDOMINIUMTOWN OF ASPEN$$$

The Crestwood CondominiumsCONDOMINIUMSNOWMASS VILLAGE$$$

Destination Resorts SnowmassCONDOMINIUMSNOWMASS VILLAGE$$

Frias Properties of Aspen/Independence SquareCONDOMINIUMTOWN OF ASPEN$$$

The GantCONDOMINIUMTOWN OF ASPEN$$$-$$$$

Hotel Aspen/Molly GibsonHOTEL-LODGETOWN OF ASPEN$$-$$$

Hotel JeromeHOTEL-LODGETOWN OF ASPEN$$$$

Inn at AspenHOTEL-LODGETOWN OF ASPEN$$-$$$

InnsbruckCONDOMINIUMTOWN OF ASPEN$$$$

Laurelwood SuitesHOTEL-LODGESNOWMASS VILLAGE$$-$$$

http://www.aspensnowmass.com/summer-recreation Fig 3.2 Lodging in Aspen.

3.4. Lift tickets

2013-2014 LIFT TICKET 7-DAY ADVANCE PURCHASE PRICINGDecember 20, 2013 - April 20, 2014

DAYSAdult (18-64)Child (7-12)Youth(13-17)Senior(65-69)

AdvanceLowestIn-ResortYou SaveAdvanceLowestIn-ResortYou SaveAdvanceLowestIn-ResortYou Save

2$198$218$20$126$146$20$180$200$20

3$297$327$30$189$219$30$270$300$30

4$396$436$40$252$292$40$360$400$40

5$495$545$50$315$365$50$450$500$50

6*$594$654$60$378$438$60$540$600$60

7*$693$763$70$441$511$70$630$700$70

http://www.aspensnowmass.com/summer Fig . 3.3. Lift tickets pricing .*All prices subject to changeLift Ticket Office Locations Snowmass 3 ticket office locations: Snowmass Base Village, Snowmass Village Mall and Two Creeks Aspen Mountain 2 ticket office locations: Gondola Plaza and base of Shadow Mountain lift Aspen Highlands 1 ticket office location: Highlands Village Buttermilk 2 ticket office locations: Buttermilk Main (base of Summit Express Lift) and base of Tiehack

3.5. Equipment rental 2013-2014 EQUIPMENT RENTAL7-DAY ADVANCE PURCHASE PRICING

Equipment RentalsAdvanceIn-ResortYOU SAVE

Adult Ski

Premium Package$59.95$73.95$14

Deluxe Package$49.95$63.95$14

Sport Package$39.95$53.95$14

Premium Skis Only$54.95$67.95$13

Deluxe Skis Only$44.95$57.95$13

Sport Skis Only$34.95$47.95$13

Adult Snowboard

Premium Package$59.95$69.95$10

Deluxe Package$49.95$59.95$10

Premium Snowboard Only$54.95$64.95$10

Deluxe Snowboard Only$44.95$54.95$10

Child Ski & Snowboard

Premium Ski Package$36.95$44.95$8

Ski Package$26.50$29.75$3.25

Snowboard Package$26.50$29.75$3.25

Child Premium Skis Only$31.95$39.95$8

Child Skis Only$22.75$24.75$2

Child Snowboard Only$22.75$24.75$2

http://www.aspensnowmass.com/summer-recreation Fig. 3.4. Equipment rental pricing.Chapter IV. Summer recreation 4.1. Aspen summer pricing

2014 Aspen/Snowmass Summer Pricing

PriceIncludes

One Ride Gondola Sightseeing Ticket*$19.00Gainan elevated perspective with a gondola ride, a chair lift ride (only at Snowmass) and enjoy a range of free on-mountain activities, from our climbing wall to disc golf.

Perfect Summer Package$29.00Enjoy three-days of unlimited gondola rides (and all the beautiful scenery and free on-mountain activities that go with it) and a $10 lunch voucher at Elk Camp or Sundeck restaurants. Includes a guided bus tour of the majestic Maroon Bells.

Perfect Summer Package+ Cruiser Bike Rental$59.00Savor Aspen/Snowmass with the Perfect Summer Package (details above) plus a half-day cruiser bike rentalfrom Four-Mountain Sportsto explore the town and valley at your own pace.

Perfect Summer Package+ Downhill Bike Rental$99.00Experience three days of fun with the Perfect Summer Package (details above) and add on a 1-day Bike Snowmass ticket, a half-day downhill bike rental from Four-Mountain Sports and a 1-hour downhill bike skills park clinic to hone your skills.

http://www.aspensnowmass.com/summer-recreation/more-summer-activities Fig.4.1.Aspen summer pricing .

DetailsPerfect Summer Sightseeing ticket is valid 3 out of 3-days on the Silver Queen Gondola in Aspen and the Elk Camp Gondola and Chairlift in Snowmass. Lunch offer is valid at either the Sundeck on Aspen Mountain or Elk Camp on Snowmass. Sightseeing ticket should be presented to the cashier to redeem. One-time redemption, no change given, no cash value.Maroon Bells Voucher expires 3 days from date of purchase and must be redeemed for a bus ticket at the Four Mountain Sports shop at the Maroon Bells bus stop at Aspen Highlands.Perfect Summer + Cruiser To redeem half-day cruiser bike rental, sightseeing ticket should be presented at Four Mountain Sports in Aspen, Snowmass or Aspen Highlands. Rental is only valid within the expiration date of the sightseeing ticket.Perfect Summer + Downhill To redeem the half-day downhill bike rental, sightseeing ticket should be presented at Four Mountain Sports in Snowmass Base Village. Rental is valid through the day following the sightseeing ticket expiration. 1-hour bike clinics are at designated times and do not require a reservation.

4.2 Activities Gondola & Lift Rides

Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen MountainOver at Aspen Mountain, the Silver Queen Gondola whisks you from the beating heart of Aspen with its superb shopping, fascinating galleries and top-flight cuisine to the serene summit of Ajax in minutes. Give a few sun salutations from 11,200 feet with a yoga class at the Sundeck, or simply savor the views of the breathtaking Elk Mountains. Naturalist walks, the highest disc golf course in North America and bluegrass concerts on Sundays round out the roster atop Aspen Mountain.

Biking In summer, Aspen/Snowmass becomes the epicenter of cycling in the Rocky Mountains.Whether youre keen on bolstering your freeride skills at Bike Snowmass, tackling an epic mountain singletrack, or cruising along the charming streets of Aspen, our little corner of Colorado is ideal for cycling.

Snowmass Private Adventures

Building your own private adventure or lesson gives you the freedom to set the agenda for the day and ensure special attention to make for an epic experience! Privates are available for all ages and abilities. Mountain BikingDownhill Mountain BikingMountainboardingSkateboardingHikingFishingPaintballAnd More!

Full day Private Adventure (up to 4 people) - $460Half day Private Adventure (up to 4 people) - $255Additional persons (maximum group size is 6) - $57 per person

Private Camping AdventuresFamilies or private groups can enjoy the beauty of the mountains while our professional outfitters take them on a wonderful camping excursion. Overnight camping is available July through September. Spend time fishing, hiking and learning about nature. Camping is limited to our private site located at the top of the Elk Camp Gondola on Snowmassr Maximum of people for Overnight Camping is 12.Run & Gun Paintball Join us for a wild game of outdoor paintball! Available mid-June 10 through September. We provide all the equipment and transportation - you need to wear grubby clothes and sturdy shoes! Paintball games are appropriate for ages 8 and up. For private paintball for kids 8 & under we will arrange for target paintball!

Outdoor MusicIn summer, Aspen/Snowmass draws visitors from far and wide for a variety of reasons ... including live outdoor concerts every week. Check out these summer concert series:

Snowmass Thursday Night ConcertsWhen:Thursdays, June 19 August 14; 6pmWhere:Fanny Hill

Snowmass' ever-popular free concert series is back for another summer, drawing crowds by the thousands to a comfortable outdoor venue with a spectacular mountain backdrop. Bring a blanket or low lawn chair and a picnic basket of finger foods for the ultimate al fresco experience. Beer and wine are available for purchase at inexpensive prices; grilled foods are also offered. This year's lineup includes:June 19Simplified(Island Rock)June 26Grand Funk Railroad(Rock)July 3Wanderlust SpectacularJuly 10Big Sams Funky Nation(Funk)July 17Hot Buttered Rum(Progressive Bluegrass)July 24Nicki Bluhm and the Gramblers(Folk Rock)July 31California Honeydrops(R&B)August 7Nathan & The Zydeco Cha Chas(Zydeco)August 14Fishbone(Rock Fusion)A Family Fun Zone entertains kids with anything from a bouncy house to face painting, juggling and more. A memorable evening for all whether you want to chill or dance up a storm all night.Bluegrass SundaysWhen:Every Sunday from June 22 to August 31 at noonWhere:Outside Sundeck atop Aspen MountainCost:Free with the purchase of a gondola ticketA favorite among locals, Sundays feature top bluegrass musicians from around Colorado performing in this ideal Rocky Mountain setting. The free open-air concerts are held from noon to3pm on Sundays just outside the Sundeck (on top of Aspen Mountain). The lineup varies each week.Snowmass Thursday Night ConcertsWhen:Every Saturday from July 5 to August 9 at 1pmWhere:Richmond Ridge atop Aspen MountainCost:Free with the purchase of a gondola ticketRelax at 11,000 feet in a glorious meadow overlooking Mount Hayden and take in the beauty as students of the world-renowned Aspen Music Festival & School perform a repertoire of their own choosing. Bring a picnic (or build one at the Sundeck) and a lawn chair and enjoy. Located just a short walk out Richmond Ridge from the top of the gondola.

Ballooning & ParaglidingAspen Paraglidinginvites you to go paragliding while visiting Aspen. Experience the thrill and freedom of free flight! With no prior experience necessary, you can soar with one of the country's best USHGA-certified tandem pilots from near the summit of Aspen Mountain

Hot Air Balloon RidesLofty, panoramic views of the Elk Mountains and glimpses of the local wildlife make this a truly spectacular adventure. Ballooning is available year-round, with each season holding its own unique allure. Prices vary by package

CampingPRIVATE OVERNIGHT CAMPING ADVENTUREWhether its the incredible stargazing or the delight in waking early to the sight of elk grazing in the distance, Snowmass Mountain feels like a very different place in summer. Wed like for you to experience it with a private night of camping with our professional outfitters. Book your family or private group for an overnight camping adventure and enjoy campfire songs, stargazing, fishing, camp cooking and the sublime wonders of nature

Climbing Wall & Eurobungy

Climbing WallLearn the art of rock climbing on our outdoor climbing wall. Test your agility, try it for fun, or challenge yourself on the different routes. An exciting atmosphere for the whole family. All ages welcome (harness must fit properly). $10 per climb $48 for a 5-punch pass $85 for a 10-punch pass

EurobungyJump to new heights with this gravity-defying, adrenaline-pumping sport known as Eurobungy trampoline. Each participant has an adjustable harness attached to the waist and connected to the Eurobungy ropes on each side. This allows you to put your somersault and airborne aerobatics to the test. $14 per jump $48 for a 5-punch pass $85 for a 10-punch passDisc GolfDisc Golf at Aspen MountainPlay the world's highest official disc golf course it's a hike, and a game, in one fun outing! Pick up your disc, score card and course map at the patrol headquarters atthe top of the mountain. The top 9 holes are ideal for casual disc golfers, but if you want a challenge, add on the infamous back 9 for a full round of 18. Disc golf is free, but you must purchase a gondola ticket to get to the top of Aspen Mountain (...of course, you could always hike up if you have the stamina).Disc golf is available on Aspen Mountain daily between 10:30am3:30pm.HikingThe top of Aspen Mountain is a gateway to some of Colorado's best alpine hiking and walking trails. Choose from easy, self-guided strolls to more ambitious treks. Stop by the gondola ticket office at the bottom of Aspen Mountain for a summer brochure with trail information and map.Horseback Riding

The Roaring Fork Valley has many qualified outfitters and guides to introduce you to the joy of exploring the wilderness on horseback. In addition, competitive and field riders can also find fox hunts, polo, jumping and dressage in the area.Kayaking & RaftingAspen/Snowmass is one of the top ten areas for rafting and kayaking in the country ,Here there are an incredible variety of whitewater experiences - from first-timer mild, to thrill-seeker wild.

Yoga

Experience Aspen/Snowmass as a sanctuary for your body, mind and spirit.Nestled in the heart of the Rockies,Aspen Mountain provides the perfect natural setting for scenic hikes, outdoor adventures, relaxation, rejuvenation and naturally yoga.This popular program includes an hour of open-air Hatha yoga at the top of Aspen Mountain, free! (Note: must purchase foot passenger ticket to ride the gondola.)Visit Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells are the most photographed peaks in all of North America and for good reason. Composed of an unusual sedimentary mudstone rock, the snow-striped and uniquely colored peaks rise above 14,000 feet in elevation, crowning a picturesque valley dotted with lakes and braided by streams.The most popular viewpoint is from the shores of Maroon Lake, a pristine alpine lake enveloped by fields of wildflowers. There are several ways to enjoy this beyond-scenic area.

Stand Up Paddleboarding

Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) may be more synonymous with Hawaiian and Californian beaches, but here in Colorado, SUPing on our beautiful rivers is becoming a genuine craze.Now you can join in the fun on your next visit to Aspen or Snowmass. OurFour-Mountain Sportslocation in Aspen now rents stand-up paddleboards. Stop by, get fitted to the right board, and head to the Roaring Fork River which happens to be the perfect place to give this excellent core workout a try.

Conclusion

According to a detailed analysis of this destination, I can say that is a perfect choice for a summer and winter holiday,Due to this infrastructure,in this mountain resort with many hotels, restaurants, parking, transportation available, you can have a super vacation and to forget about the problems that give you big headaches.Aspen Resort is the ideal place for a holiday in the mountains , especially in winter . Aspen can be considered paradise for winter sports addicts , and is also the ideal place for adventure , fun and socializing. Located in Colorado , in the footshills of Aspen Mountain , the resort where you can ski all year round . In Aspen , September to may, temperatures are well below zero.Surrounded by wooded mountains , Aspen is the ideal realm specific sports season : skiing , skating , sledding , sleigh rides . dog sledding or snowboarding , anything is possible here .

In Aspen you can not get bored! Tourism is experiencing a very high diversity of opportunities for fun and relaxation. From winter sports to competitions and festivals organized here to visit various sights of historical, anything is possible. Active couples who prefer to spend as much time in nature, found in Aspen perfect destination. Here winters are warmer for two romantics urged the mountain spirit and dynamic summer to the delight of active couples.

You can ski, you can practice snowboarding, mountain biking, rafting, golf If you run even tastes are more sophisticated. At night you can opt for a warm evening at the fireplace with your loved one or you can scour the city to experience the nightlife of Aspen

Bibliography

INTERNET http://www.aspensnowmass.com/summer-recreation/family-friendly-activities http://fotografiisurprinzatoare.blogspot.com/2012/09/ http://pixabay.com/ro/lacul-yellowstone-wyoming-144081/http://www.aliceinwonder.net/2011/10/top-10-cele-mai-frumoase-canioane-din.htmlhttp://www.gotravel.ro/blog/5-rezervatii-naturale-de-vazut-intr-o-viata/http://www.ipedia.ro/ http://haveteenswilltravel.com/category/uncategorized/http://yupi.md/cele-mai-dumnezeiesti-locuri-de-pe-pamint-sau-de-unde-nu-ai-mai-pleca-niciodata-foto/http://fotografiisurprinzatoare.blogspot.com/2012/09/parcul-national-yellowstone-sua.htmlhttp://pixabay.com/ro/lacul-yellowstone-wyoming-144081/http://www.aliceinwonder.net/2011/10/top-10-cele-mai-frumoase-canioane-din.htmlhttp://www.gotravel.ro/blog/5-rezervatii-naturale-de-vazut-intr-o-viata/http://www.ipedia.ro/parcul-national http://haveteenswilltravel.com/category/uncategorized/http://yupi.md/cele-mai-dumnezeiesti-locuri-de-pe-pamint-sau-de-unde-nu-ai-mai-pleca-niciodata-foto/

BOOKS -"Geografia Americii de Nord si Centrale" de Ion Letea, Ioan Popovici.- Enciclopedia 1