7 Things Our Aspen Editors Are Loving Right Now

Photography by Brooke Casillas.

As advocates for small businesses, The Scout Guide editors are continually scouting their communities for local finds to share and celebrate. With their fingers on the pulse, they are also excellent sources of unique recommendations. Recently, we caught up with The Scout Guide Aspen co-editors Amy Groom and Erin Jones to find out what they’re really excited about these days. Here, they share their current obsessions, from the perfect gin to sip on a summer evening to a must-read memoir.

1. WHAT I’M READING

From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home by Tembi Locke // “What am I not reading?! I am a total bookworm and I highly recommend this book that I recently read. It’s a cross-cultural love story set between Italy and California, with family—and delicious Italian food—at the heart of this poignant memoir. A stunning book on life, loss, and the language of love. Pick up a copy at your local bookseller, or online at Aspen’s Explore Booksellers.” —Erin Jones

2. WHAT I’M DOING

Rafting with Blazing Adventures and Biking The Rio Grande Trail // “Summer days call for a morning rafting trip with Blazing Adventures. The Shoshone is perfect for families, and offers great views of Glenwood Canyon. In the afternoon, I’m hopping on my bike and riding the Rio Grande Trail to Woody Creek Tavern. With 42 miles of trails from Glenwood to Aspen, it’s the perfect opportunity to get off the road and explore the old railway path.” —Amy Groom

3. WHAT I’M DECORATING WITH 

 

Aspen Gondola Fine Art Print from Brooke Casillas Photography // “I recently moved, and this print from Brooke Casillas Photography is in my kitchen. Her images capture many of my favorite places and this particular piece is a good reminder that the wait—in this case, to get to the top of Aspen Mountain—is always worth it.” —Erin Jones

4. WHAT I’M EATING

Lots of local favorites // “Since eating requires more than one meal, my perfect day starts with a late breakfast at Local (avocado toast), then I grab an afternoon pick-me-up at Paradise Bakery (homemade gelato), stop for drinks with out-of-town friends at Cache Cache (bubbles), and finish my day with dinner at Casa Tua (Ravioli Elk Ragu).” —Amy Groom

5. WHERE I’M GOING

Surf Hotel in Buena Vista, Colorado // “I recently drove over Independence Pass to visit the Surf Hotel in Buena Vista. It’s a boutique hotel with European influence and the slightest touch of mountain luxury without being extravagant. Their in-house restaurant, Wesley & Rose, serves amazing Huevos Rancheros. The perfect fuel-me-up before outdoor adventures or the drive home.” —Amy Groom

6. WHAT I’M WEARING

Creek Sweater from Gray Aspen // “This is my go-to summer sweater. Not too heavy and the perfect layer for when the sun dips behind the mountains. The color combo is my absolute favorite and I can dress it up or down. There’s a good chance this becomes a four-season piece for me.”  —Erin Jones

7. WHAT I’M DRINKING

Woody Creek Distillers Summer Gin //  “Summer nights call for Woody Creek Distillers Summer Gin on the rocks. Not only is it smooth, but the purple coloring also makes it festive (Go, Rockies!). The perfect pairing with our stunning Colorado sunsets.” —Amy Groom

To keep up with Amy and Erin’s current loves, follow The Scout Aspen on Instagram.