The most well known modern architects in Aspen at this time where Herbert Bayer & Fritz Benedict.  Bayer study and taught at the Bahaus School in Germany, while Benedict study under Frank Loyd Wright.  The influence of the modernists can be seen in many buildings throughout Aspen.

It’s this trace of modernism that led us on a pilgramge to Talsien West, Frank Loyd Wrights winter home and school in Arizona.

Taliesin Grounds

Taliesin West (Arizona)

Wright the father of modern American Architecture began his career shortly after the panic of 1893 in Chicago under Sullivan the father of the skyscraper.  As well as designing some world renown buildings like the Johnson Wax Building he also created some stunning American homes like Falling Water, Wright also taught.  In his still of teaching students did everything from upkeep and service of the “campus” itself to the study of multiple design disciplines.

Many are quick to point out that Aspen’s Fritz Benedict studied landscape design under Wright and although that was his intention he would have also been schooled in building design.

You can still find examples of Wrightian Architecture throughout the Architecture of Aspen, Colorado.

Hunter Creek Valley

The Hunter Creek Valley sits opposite of Aspen Mountain between Red Mountain and Smuggler Mountain.  This valley is a hanging valley, formed by a smaller glacier running into a larger glacier.  It is one of my favorite things to do in Aspen.

Easy for the visitor to access by either taking the Hunter Creek bus to the trail head or a 10 minute walk from town.  Pack a lunch and expect an hour long, somewhat steep hike along the rushing creek until you reach the valley then hike as far back as you would like, just remember you will have to turn around some time.   Along the hike you will find old equipment that harnessed water from the Hunter Creek for the hydro power plant (now the Art Museum) down on the Roaring Fork River.   Up in the valley are historic mining cabins and beaver dams.  You may come across a bear if they don’t hear you coming, so let them know..