Nature walk in Aspen

In December, several of us from Environment America summited (by gondola) Aspen Mountain, in Aspen Colorado. We joined naturalists from Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) to take a snowshoe tour and learn about the mountain’s wildlife, ecology, history and more. 

As a side note, I’m convinced that hot chocolate just tastes better at 8,000 feet above sea level.

It was inspiring to learn about the local ecosystem – and the incredible adaptations that trees, plants and wildlife have undertaken in order to survive in the harsh conditions they’ve been dealt.

One recurring theme throughout the tour was the ability of nature, when left to its own devices, to survive. Human activity, harsh weather conditions and other threats have all threatened the forest and its species. Despite this, the trees and critters of Aspen Mountain stood strong, allowing us to revel in their beauty.

Getting to immerse in a quiet, expansive forest just minutes from the bustling Aspen village underscores the dynamic humans have with our natural world. Often, we think of ourselves as separate from nature, or we see nature as a separate entity in which we can choose to interact with on occasion. My time in Aspen, among other experiences, made me realize that we aren’t so separate after all. We are nature, and the beautiful Earth we live on isn’t just a tourist destination. It’s our home. 

It is in our best interest to accept our place within the world’s ecosystem with respect. The way we act makes direct impacts on so many other species – plants and animals alike. And in turn, their lives make a direct impact on ours. I felt very fortunate to experience such a beautiful place such as Aspen, and learn from experts about all the life there. Thank you, ACES.