the wandering chick
...Aspen

It wasn't intentional; I just got lucky. The day I had planned to drive down to check out Aspen was the day the men's US Pro Cycling Challenge was taking off from there. They had spent the night in Aspen, and take off this sunny August morning was scheduled for 11:30.

Aspen handled the event with remarkable organization. Minimal roads were blocked off for the ride, and free shuttle transportation was offered to those like me who were coming in from out of town. I got to the start area in time to pick a good spot, then just waited it out with my camera in one hand and a nice warm cinnamon roll in the other.

Afterwards, the town cleared, streets were swept, and everyone went about their business. I walked the town since I had never been to Aspen before. I'll surely go back while I'm visiting the area.

not just for winter fun
Aspen pedestrian section
Aspen has a wonderful pedestrian section with cafe tables, benches and beautiful trees where the locals and tourists alike mingle with coffee, the paper, or just people-watching.
Aspen pedestrian section
Aspen pedestrian section
Aspen pedestrian section
The 2012 Men's US Pro Cycling Challenge
The 2012 Men's US Pro Cycling Challenge
The 2012 Men's US Pro Cycling Challenge
The 2012 Men's US Pro Cycling Challenge
The 2012 route takes these guys up to 12,000 feet in elevation not just once, but three different times during the seven-day race. They will ascend nine mountain passes and a total of 683 miles while riding through the scenic Colorado Rockies. I hope they're able to enjoy the views.
An astonishing entourage of support vehicles follows the guys along the route. Everything from paramedics to bike repair to media clip along behind the bikers.
The 2012 Men's US Pro Cycling Challenge

Aspen is one of several pages included in the Roaring Fork Valley pages. If you'd like to see more images taken in this fascinating region, click here.

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