Goofing off in Aspen

by Dean Walden
(Medford OR)

I've been to Aspen twice. First as a ski bum and the second time passing through after a failed relationship.

Of all the things I've done in life, some of my fondest memories are of Aspen. If you're a skier, you know it by reputation. If you follow celebrities at all you know it as their playground.

The first time was quite an adventure. I arrived in early January in an old Volkswagon with a pair of skis, a few clothes and zero money. I had read that work was easy to find and fortunately within a day, I had gainful employment at a lodge.

The fun begins when you start visiting the fabled landmarks in the town. The 'Red Onion' is one of the most famous. On any given day you might see almost anyone from Hollywood. Eddie Albert (of 'Green Acres' fame) stayed at our lodge. One day Buddy Hacket (the comedian) was in town, though I didn't approach him. The late John Denver had a home there and performed in the area at times.

Then there is the skiing. Aspen is not for beginners. Over half the runs are rated difficult (and those are the easiest ones). I was not an advanced skier and spent most of my time in another area near by called Snowmass-at-Aspen. One day Stein Eriksen went off a jump by our lodge and spread his arms which were attached to a cape which was also attached to his boots and he glided for a considerable distance before landing.

The second time to Aspen was in the summer and that's another story for another time.