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Letter: A balance of wilderness and culture

Each summer in the Roaring Fork Valley, I find myself torn between whether to get out in our vast mountains or catch the neverending supply of music and activities in town. Usually I run myself ragged trying to do both.

Fortunately, this year there’s happy medium. It’s called Wildfest, and it’s the perfect blend of wildness and culture. Wilderness Workshop’s signature summer event takes place Aug. 1 on the grounds of one of Old Snowmass’ finest ranches — The Other Side Ranch, dating back to the 1800s. Located up East Sopris Creek, the ranch includes a historic barn, open meadows with spectacular views of the Elk Mountains and lots of furry friends. It is the perfect setting for live music, local food, workshops and fun for the whole family.

The headline act is the neo-bluegrass band Head for the Hills (bring your dancing shoes!), and they’ll be joined by Aspen’s own Jes Grew plus two other bands. Local chef Hayden Dudley, formerly of Cloud 9, is providing food at a Locavore Cafe with locally sourced food from Crystal River Meats and Rock Bottom Ranch. Coffee, teas and local beer and spirits will be served all day. There will be workshops, panel discussions, a communal mural creation and a kids’ zone.



This is the place to celebrate and enjoy what makes our valley such an amazing place to live: groovy music and culture surrounded by some of the country’s most spectacular backcountry.

Find out more at http://www.wildernessworkshop.org/wildfest, on Wilderness Workshop’s Facebook page or by calling the workshop at 970-963-3977.




Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door, kids 12 and younger are free. We’re also looking for volunteers. Don’t miss this one. I hope to see you there — on the edge of wilderness listening to some great tunes!

Will Roush

Conservation director, Wilderness Workshop