Aspen Peak - Niche Media - Aspen living at its peak
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/67357
Mountain peaks & qs tales of the trail SUMMER COCKTAIL CONVERSATION INEVITABLY TURNS TOWARD PROPER HIKING AND BIKING ETIQUETTE. JACQUELINE RUGER HUTTON OUTLINES THE "BEAR" TRUTH. C olorado is one of the most beautiful spots on earth, and Aspen is its crown jewel—an awe-inspiring balance of climates, scenery, acces- sibility, remoteness, windswept terrain, violent weather, and gently quaking trees. In fact, if it weren't for the occasional ugly person, Aspen would be perfect! In an effort to reduce the human impact that often sullies Aspen's great outdoors, let's brush up on our summer trail etiquette. Consider the following: Stay inside. Okay, we all know that's not going to happen, so listen up: Spandex running tights are for lean, young runners. They are not for muffin-topped, flat-bottomed, or beer-bellied hikers. In the same vein, barely there running shorts only draw attention to your inade- quacies. And while we're on a roll, ball caps that say aspen, nearly naked wear, Gucci loafers, smelly synthetics, braless T-shirts overstuffed with buoy- ant enhancements, and black socks all have no place on a hiking trail. Now that you look better, here's how to act better: Uphill hikers have the right of way. I know it doesn't make sense, but many things in life don't. 84 aspenpeak-magazine.com Also, leash that dog of yours; and for God's sake, pick up after him. Stay off your cell phone. Respect closure signs and trail revegetation. On the biking trails, stay on your side. Hey, Masters of the Universe, in your gaudy, übertight, shoe-matching outfits: Take a little pity on us mere mortals. Try not to curse, run over, intimidate, or mock the slightly unbal- anced. We're just trying to enjoy the scenery. That's something you miss, dude, because you never pick your head up. Lastly, but most important, is a healthy respect for the wildlife of Aspen. Do not pick the wildflowers, as tempting as it may be. Hum, sing, or wear a bell, to let the bears know you are on the trail. And if the bear wants your peanut butter and jelly sandwich, give it to him. Mountain lion? Oh dear, his taste runs more to fresh meat. Cover your head and hit the dirt. As for the most omnipresent symbol of Aspen wildlife, the Sugar Daddy and his trophy girlfriend? We can only hope there will be a hunting season for them soon! AP illustration by daniel o'leary