Mountain Chalet Aspen 23

To Our Guests:

On behalf of the Melville Family and Staff of Mountain Chalet Aspen, we take this opportunity to welcome you and to sincerely thank you for choosing us to serve your lodging needs.

We value your patronage and it is very important to us that your stay will be a comfortable and enjoyable one. We take great pride in providing our guests with friendly and personalized service.

This directory is provided to familiarize you with the many services we offer, as well as acquaint you with the Aspen area.

If there is anything we can do to make your visit with us more enjoyable, please feel free to ask our staff members.

We hope you have a great stay and we look forward to your next visit.

GUEST SERVICES

Banquets and Catering

The hotel offers banquet and meeting facilities for business meetings or special occasions on our fifth floor and our ground floor conference rooms.

Please contact the Front Desk or dial 0.

Breakfast

Complimentary breakfast is included year round.

Hours are 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Check-Out

Check-out time is 11:00 a.m.

Computers

The two computers in our TV lobby feature high-speed Internet access for guest use. Many rooms have outlets to connect your laptop and wireless Internet is available throughout the Hotel. The Front Desk will supply you with the appropriate codes. A printer is also available to guests on the honor system of 10¢ per sheet paid to the Front Desk.

Copies

Copy service is available at the Front Desk. The charge for hotel guests is 10¢ per copy.

Credit Information

We accept Visa, Diners Club, Discover and MasterCard.

Emergency

In the event of an emergency, medical or otherwise, dial 9 + 911.

Exercise Room

Our Exercise Room is fully equipped for your fitness needs. Your room key is used for entry. Trainers are available, call 970-948-9485.

Fax Machine

Fax service is available for your convenience. The fax number is: 888-925-7798.

GUEST SERVICES

Guest Information

For additional information on any of the following, please contact the Front Desk.

Airport Transportation

Babysitting

Banking Services

Billing

Business Services

Car Rentals

Copies/Faxes

Corkscrews

Credit Cards

Cribs

Fans

Linens/Towels

Lost and Found

Housekeeping

Irons

Newspapers

Postage Stamps

Safe Deposit Boxes

Shower Mats

Taxi

Travel Necessities

Umbrellas

Voice Mail

Wake-up Messages

Housekeeping ...........................................................................................................Dial 0

Call our Front Desk for extra linens, towels, blankets or shower mats. Also, rags for cleaning your gear are available.

Ice and Vending Machines

Ice machines are located on the 4th floor and in the laundry room on the pool level.

Internet

Wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel. The Front Desk can give you the wireless access code. Many rooms also have outlets for your laptop. Contact the Front Desk to rent the appropriate cable. Also, two computers in the lobby are available for guest use with a nearby printer. On the honor system, please pay 10¢ per sheet to the Front Desk.

Iron and Ironing Boards

Iron and ironing boards are provided in your room. In addition, there is a larger ironing board located in the laundry room.

Laundry

Washers and Dryers are available for guest use on the pool level. See the Front Desk for coins and detergent.

Local Phone Calls

Local phone calls are free.

GUEST SERVICES

For articles lost or found, please contact the Front Desk.

Mail and Messages

Mail and messages received at the property may be collected by either calling or stopping by the Front Desk.

Massage

Appointments may be made at the Front Desk or by dialing “0”.

Meeting Rooms

Meeting rooms are available from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. To make arrangements, please contact the Front Desk or dial 0.

Newspapers

Local newspapers are available in the Lobby.

Parking

Complimentary parking is available underground and on Dean Street for registered hotel guests. The hotel cannot be responsible for items left in vehicles on the property or for vehicle damage in the garage.

Pet Policy

Check at the Front Desk about our pet policy.

Postage Stamps

Postage is available at current postal rates at the Front Desk.

Reservations

Contact the Front Desk for assistance or call 888-925-7797.

Ski Lockers

Your room has a ski locker. Please contact the Front Desk to find out where your ski locker is located. Rags for cleaning your skis may be obtained at the Front Desk.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in the hotel. A smoking or odor charge of $200 may be charged to your credit card.

GUEST SERVICES

Swimming Pool and Spa

Our swimming pool hours are 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. No glass permitted in pool area. Swim at your own risk, as there is no lifeguard on duty.

HHMM is the time in 24-hour format: for example, 5#0600 will set a wake-up call for 6:00 a.m. – a voice will confirm the wake-up call.

Long Distance Phone Rates

Each call is charged 30¢ upon connection and then a per minute fee: Within the United States and Canada

Toll-Free Phone Calls

Toll-free phone numbers may be dialed free of charge.

Transportation

We offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Please make a reservation by stopping by the Front Desk or dialing 0. If you need transportation to the airport outside our shuttle hours, we would be happy to help you arrange a taxi.

Wake-Up Service

If you would like a wake-up call, please touch 5#HHMM on your telephone keypad. HHMM is the time in 24-hour format: for example, 5#0600 will set a wake-up call for 6:00 a.m. – a voice will confirm the wake-up call.

GUEST SERVICES

TV CHANNEL GUIDE

SAFETY AND SECURITY PROCEDURES

Your safety and the security of your personal property are of the utmost concern to those of us who welcome you as our guest. We urge you to take advantage of the following suggestions.

Safe Deposit Boxes

We provide a safe for your use in our front office at no charge. Under state law, the resort is not responsible for the loss unless articles have been secured properly in this safe.

Double Locks

For additional security, utilize the deadbolt lock provided on your door upon entering. This will prevent the door from being opened by a regular room key.

Admittance

Do not admit persons to your room without first making an identification. If there is any doubt about the person’s true identity, please contact the Front Desk.

Keys

Do safeguard your key. Be sure to leave it with the Front Desk upon departure. Do not leave it in your room or in the door. Do not give your key to others.

Fire

Please familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest fire exit stairway. In the unlikely event of a fire, please move quickly but calmly to the stairs. Report fire or smoke to the Front Desk.

Bears

Information on dealing with bear encounters is available in season at the Front Desk.

We hope that these procedures will contribute to your comfort and well-being during your stay at our property.

FIRE SAFETY PROCEDURES

Plan what to do when you check in. You won’t have time to plan during a fire.

• First, find two exits nearest your room. Be sure they are unlocked and unblocked.

• Then, count doors between your room and exits so you’ll have a reference point if it’s smoky.

• When you hear an alarm, act, don’t investigate.

• If fire is in your room, get out and close the door. Once out, report the fire.

• If fire is not in your room, leave if you can. First, feel your door. If it’s cool, open it slowly and go to the nearest exit. Crawl in smoke. Fresh air will be at the floor. Take your key so you can go back if you can’t use your exits.

• If your room door is hot, don’t open it. Your room may be the safest place to be. Seal all cracks with wet towels. Shut off fans and air conditioners. Signal at your window. Call the Fire Department and wait to be rescued.

PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS

• Take only what you can carry when touring and only necessary cash or Travelers Checks.

• We encourage you to not leave valuables in your car or trunk. Do not believe a locked car door or trunk will make your valuables safe.

• We encourage you to lock room doors when sleeping or showering by using door lock and dead bolt.

• Use your room safe or a safe deposit box at the Front Desk for your valuables.

• Bears may be found on the property in spring, summer and fall. Please see the Front Desk for guidelines on dealing with bears.

WELCOME TO THE ROARING FORK VALLEY

The Aspen/Snowmass area is a place for dreams and inspiration. When Walter Paepcke arrived in Aspen, he fell in love with the area. He was involved in the development of the ski area, and pioneers the development of Aspen as a major arts and cultural center. He dreamed of a place where people could gather to enrich the mind, body and spirit. This vision came to be known as the “Aspen Idea.” Skiing was meant to satisfy the body component, the Aspen Institute was created for the mind, and the Aspen Music Festival and School was born to enrich the soul.

Today, the Aspen Idea is alive and thriving throughout Aspen and Snowmass, and we invite you to discover for yourself why we call this place “home.”

Allow us to be your tour guides. Explore every corner of our community – from Aspen’s rich historical heritage, breathtaking scenery, and unlimited recreational and cultural opportunity, to our local secrets, such as favorite places to go hiking and biking.

Perhaps you will find yourself returning to that special place, time and time again.

GETTING AROUND ASPEN

Once visitors arrive in Aspen, most find they have little need for a car. There is extensive and frequent bus service between Aspen and Snowmass and further down valley. Many of the hotels, shops and restaurants are within comfortable walking distance, and taxis, limos, and hotel courtesy vans provide service to and from the airport and around town. If you do bring a car, you will need to familiarize yourself with Aspen’s Pay & Display Parking system. For more information, call the City of Aspen Transportation & Parking Department at (970) 920-5267.

ASPEN CHAMBER RESORT ASSOCIATION VISITOR CENTER

590 N. Mill Street - www.aspenchamber.org - (970) 925-1940

Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed holidays and weekends.

THINGS TO DO

TOURING / OUTDOORS

Ashcroft Ghost Town

Nestled in the Castle Creek Valley 13 miles from Aspen, Ashcroft was once a mining camp in the 1880s with a population of 2,500 residents. You can walk through the remaining buildings or along the trails that wind through Aspen groves. Reopens for tours in midJune. Aspen Historical Society (970) 925-3721.

Aspen Center for Environmental Studies at Hallam Lake Nature Preserve

Explore ACES’ beautiful 25-acre Hallam Lake Nature Preserve and Environmental Learning Center featuring on-site naturalists. Check out resident birds of prey, indoor trout stream, self-guided trails, and more! ACES also offers daily programs for children and adults, as well as free guided nature walks on Aspen Mountain, at the Maroon Bells, the Castle Creek Valley, and in Snowmass Village. Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (970) 925-5756.

Independence Pass

The ghost town of Independence is located 16 miles east of Aspen on Independence Pass via Highway 82. This gold mining town reached a peak population of 1,000 people in 1882. Reopens for tours in mid-June.

The summit is another four miles east with spectacular mountain views. Independence Pass is a paved, winding road, which requires safe and cautious

driving. The first heavy snowfall closes the pass for the winter until Memorial Day Weekend. Aspen Historical Society (970) 925-3721.

The Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells are among the most photographed peaks in North America and are one of Aspen’s grand attractions. Visitors can take the Roaring Fork Transit Authoriry shuttle up to the base of the mountains and enjoy several scenic hiking trails in this wilderness area.

RFTA (970) 925-8484.

Rodeos

The Snowmass Rodeo is the longest running rodeo in Colorado. This authentic western event takes place every Wednesday evening in the summers through mid-August.

BBQ starting at 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and rodeo starting at 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Snowmass Village Rodeo, www.snowmassrodeo.org.

The Silver Queen Gondola

One of Aspen’s most popular attractions during the summer. With a rise of 3,267 vertical feet, the Silver Queen Gondola travels 2-1/2 miles to the 11,212-ft. summit of Aspen Mountain in just 18 minutes. The ride offers dramatic views of the Elk Mountains and the town of Aspen. Call the Aspen Skiing Company at (970) 925-1220, (800) 525-6200 or (970) 923-1227.

THINGS TO DO

Camping

Aspen is surrounded by magnificent wilderness, including the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness, Hunter Frying Pan Wilderness, and Lost Man Wilderness areas. Reservations and fees are required at most campground sites.

City of Aspen Recreation Department

Offers year-round classes and dropin activities for children and adults, including aerobics, basketball, swimming, ice skating, baseball, football, volleyball, gymnastics, tennis, day camp, and climbing. For more information, drop by the Red Brick Art and Recreation Center, 110 E. Hallam St., or call (970) 920-5140.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snow Shoeing

The Aspen/Snowmass Nordic trail system is unique to North America because it links two towns. Explore the extensive trail system between these

Climbing

Climb rocks or 14,000’ peaks! Discover the thrill of technical rock climbing, peak ascents, alpine mountaineering, expedition training and backpacking trips, or try out the City’s state-of the-art climbing wall. City of Aspen Recreation Department: (970) 544-4100.

Hiking

Please educate yourself about wilderness ethics and regulations in order to preserve and protect the natural features of our wilderness. Hikers of all abilities enjoy Aspen’s abundant trails, from a leisurely hike along the Rio Grande trail to an energetic hike to American or Cathedral lakes.

Ice Skating

We have one outdoor rink, the Silver Circle, located in central downtown Aspen. For information and rentals, please call. Our two indoor rinks are run

THINGS TO DO

ARTS / CULTURE

Anderson Ranch Arts Center

Explore this year-round visual arts community. Anderson Ranch Arts Center is best known for its summer workshops in painting, woodworking, ceramics, photography, and more. Instructors are top artists from around the country. Anderson Ranch has earned a national reputation as a place to learn from the best. For more information, contact Anderson Ranch Arts Center, 5263 Owl Creek Rd., Snowmass Village, (970) 923-3181.

Aspen Art Museum

Founded in 1979, the Aspen Art Museum is devoted to providing the Aspen community and visitors alike with outstanding programming in the visual arts. Changing exhibits, classes for children and adults, free lectures and other special events feature highly acclaimed artists, curators and program directors. For information call (970) 925-8050.

Aspen Historical Society

Discover Aspen’s fascinating history with the Aspen Historical Society’s costumed guides. Public and private tours of Aspen’s historic West End and Downtown are available. Wheeler/ Stallard House Museum open TuesdaySaturday, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Short tours are also given at the ghost towns of Ashcroft and Independence. Children’s “hands-on history” programs for preschoolers and school-aged kids.

Archives open by appointment yearround.

For more information, contact AHS, 620 W. Bleeker, (970) 925-3721.

Red Brick Arts Center

An arts information clearinghouse and “gallery extraordinaire,” the public is welcome to stop by the Red Brick Arts Center to learn about the local arts community, which is made up of more than 30 cultural organizations representing artists, dance, music, film, literary arts, television, theater and educational institutions. (970) 429-2777.

Aspen Theatre in the Park

Experience professional live theatre. Local and national talents integrate to produce vital, relevant theatre productions to the Aspen community. Performances of a musical, drama, comedy and children’s play presented in repertory. For more information, call (970) 925-9313.

Wheeler Opera House

Since its gala opening in 1889, Jerome B. Wheeler’s “perfect bijou of a theatre” has played a central role in Aspen’s cultural life. Restored to its original 19th-century grandeur, the Wheeler is one of the most intimate, attractive and versatile theatres in the country. The world’s finest musicians and actors regularly grace its stage. Mill St. and Hyman Ave. For more information, call (970) 920-5770.

HIGH ALTITUDE TIPS

You are visiting a beautiful area and we hope you enjoy every minute of your stay. But some of the very features which make these high valleys so attractive can cause problems unless you know how to prevent them. Following are some suggestions.

Altitude

Here, some 8,000 feet high, the air is thinner and there is less oxygen available. You may already have noticed that you are breathing deeper or faster and feel a bit short of breath at times.

This is one of the body’s first reactions to the altitude. Your heart probably beats faster. These are normal, helpful responses. You may have a headache, a touch of nausea, or feel tired. About 15 percent of all vacationers have such symptoms, which usually disappear 24-36 hours after arrival.

If these symptoms should grow worse or if you are worried, please get help. Doctors here are familiar with altitude illness and may ease your discomfort during the adjustment period.

Sun and Temperature

The sun has more power in this thin air and a bad sunburn can spoil your stay; use protective sun cream and clothing. It also gets chilly at night, so take extra warm clothes if you might be caught outside after dusk.

Hypothermia (low body temperature) can occur in summer or winter if you are wet or chilled by even a light breeze. It can also occur when you’re tired and haven’t eaten properly. Clumsiness, trouble thinking or talking clearly, and overwhelming tiredness are warning signs of hypothermia. Keep an eye on your companions. If these warning signs appear, stop, warm up, eat, take a hot drink, and if necessary, send at once for help.

In winter, most people wear enough warm clothes, but be sure your boots and gloves aren’t wet or too tight. If you lose sensation in fingers, toes, cheeks, ears or nose, stop, look for frostbite (white, cold, numb skin) and take time to warm up.

Snow blindness from snow glare and ultraviolet rays from bright summer sunlight are real hazards, so wear dark glasses, even on a cloudy day.

Humidity

The crisp, dry mountain air is exhilarating, but you’ll lose more body moisture from the deeper breathing and from perspiring (often you won’t even notice this). It’s important to maintain your body’s water store, so drink two or three times more water or juices than usual. The dryness also affects contact lens wearers who may need to moisturize their eyes more frequently. Contact lenses may need to be removed on a daily basis to let the eye take in more oxygen.

Alcohol has extra impact at altitude – one drink does the work of two – so monitor your alcohol intake.

HIGH ALTITUDE TIPS

Injuries

Accidents can happen at any time to anyone, but they are more common when you’re cold, tired or hungry. Whether you are hiking, skiing, playing golf or tennis, give your body plenty of food and water and keep your muscles warm so they function efficiently. Don’t keep going when you’re tired; quit while you’re ahead!

Illness

You’re as likely to get a cold, flu, stomach trouble, or something worse, here as anywhere else. Don’t blame everything on the altitude. If in doubt, see a doctor. The health services can handle most problems here, but helicopter or surface ambulances are quickly available. When in doubt, call for help.

Altitude sickness doesn’t discriminate. It can affect anyone regardless of age, sex, or physical conditioning. In fact, some of the best athletes in the world suffer from altitude sickness. To minimize your pain and maximize your fun, remember these tips during your vacation.

Keep hydrated. Acclimatization is often accompanied by fluid loss, so you need to drink lots of fluids to remain hydrated (at least three-four quarts per day). When you go to bed at night, leave a glass of water on your night stand.

Take it easy. Don’t over-exert yourself when you first get up to altitude. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, making the symptoms worse.

Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressant drugs, including tranquilizers and sleeping pills. These depressants further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep, resulting in worsening symptoms.

Eat healthy. Eat a high carbohydrate diet (more than 70% or your calories from carbohydrates) while at high altitude.

How do you know if you have altitude sickness? The following are some symptoms: an early morning headache that doesn’t go away, low levels of energy, insomnia, shortness of breath, nausea and loss of appetite.

BACKCOUNTRY TIPS

Dry / warm clothes. Weather in the high country is very unpredictable. If you are heading out for a short hike on a sunny day, be sure to bring rain gear and dry, warm clothes. You never know when a storm may move in.

Sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen! Most people associate the cooler temperatures at high altitude with a “less powerful” sun. In reality, the sun at high altitude is more intense than at sea level, regardless of the temperatures. Be sure to properly cover up and avoid over-exposure to the sun.

Bring plenty of water. One of the worst things you can do at high altitude is dehydrate yourself. You might assume the Rockies are running with potable H2O and therefore be tempted to skimp on carrying the weight of bottled water. Don’t fall for it. Mexico has “la Turista,” the Rockies have Giardia – “Beaver Fever.” Water from streams or lakes, must be purified before drinking.

Bring an emergency kit. As the Boy Scouts say – be prepared. Hopefully you will never have to use your emergency kit, but consider the alternative when you are hours away from help. Emergencies are unpredictable.

Know your gear. Don’t trek off into the wilderness without trying out your gear. Hiking boots are your only mode of transportation, so they have to work perfectly. They may feel great walking around the store – yet ten minutes into your hike, you may have blisters the size of moguls. Be sure to discover these nuances before you leave by breaking-in your equipment. Know what straps on your backpack go where, how to adjust them, and how to make your pack feel just right.

Have fun! That’s what vacations are for.