Woody Creek and Old Snowmass: Nearby, but far from the crowd

Think of this land as a place apart. Woody Creek and Old Snowmass are so near, yet so far from the bustle of Aspen.

Instead of boutiques, Old Snowmass residents shop at a general store. Every now and again, they push aside the shelves of Fritos and beef jerky, and the place doubles as a nightclub.

Woody Creekers gather at a funky tavern that's seen its share of celebrities, sure, but everyone gets the same best-in-the-valley burger.

Woody Creek is all about the land here: the rolling hills, tree-lined creeks, and dramatic red stone monoliths. There are working ranches, a great organic farm where you can buy flowers and vegetables (and help pick them, too), and a living, breathing monastery enveloped in silence.

Tucked into a hollow, or spread out across a meadow, you will find some fine homes, and even a few estates.

But, mostly, this is a place to celebrate the land. A place to let your horses run, to let your spirits soar. It's wide open and ready to welcome you home