The Ashcroft Ghost Town, The Hunter Creek Trail, and The Aspen Youth Center may not seem like they have much in common, but they all play a crucial role in preserving the history and natural beauty of Aspen, Colorado.
Located just 11 miles outside of Aspen, the Ashcroft Ghost Town is a perfectly preserved 19th-century mining town that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Once a bustling hub of silver mining activity, Ashcroft was abandoned in the early 20th century and left to decay. However, thanks to the efforts of preservationists, the town has been restored to its former glory and now serves as a popular tourist attraction.
The Hunter Creek Trail, on the other hand, offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Aspen. The trail, which is located just a few miles from downtown Aspen, winds through a lush forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Hikers can also explore the remains of an old cabin and a historic mining site along the way.
While the Ashcroft Ghost Town and the Hunter Creek Trail offer visitors a chance to explore Aspen’s past and natural beauty, the Aspen Youth Center is focused on shaping the town’s future. The center provides a safe, supportive environment for local youth to participate in a variety of programs, including sports, art, and music. The center also partners with local schools to provide academic support and mentoring.
What connects these seemingly disparate places is their shared commitment to preserving and shaping the future of Aspen. By preserving the history of the town through the Ashcroft Ghost Town, and protecting its natural beauty through the Hunter Creek Trail, the people of Aspen are ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same experiences that they do. And by investing in the youth of the town through the Aspen Youth Center, Aspen is ensuring that it will continue to be a vibrant and thriving community for years to come.
Aspen may be known for its skiing and luxurious resorts, but it’s the town’s commitment to preserving its past and shaping its future that truly sets it apart. Whether you’re exploring the Ashcroft Ghost Town, hiking the Hunter Creek Trail, or volunteering at the Aspen Youth Center, you’re playing a crucial role in helping to preserve and shape the town’s unique character.
Sources:
– “Ashcroft Ghost Town.” Aspen Historical Society. Accessed August 8, 2021. https://aspenhistory.org/ashcroft-ghost-town/
– “Hunter Creek Trail.” AllTrails. Accessed August 8, 2021. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/hunter-creek-trail
– “Aspen Youth Center.” Aspen Youth Center. Accessed August 8, 2021. https://www.aspenyouthcenter.org/