Wildlife abounds in these mountains, with mule deer, elk, moose, black bear, mountain lions, coyotes, marmots, pika, Richardson's ground squirrels, bobcats, and lynx as well as a tremendous variety of birds including the majestic American Bald Eagle. Brook and rainbow trout as well as grayling and golden trout are found in the streams.

The historic town of Medicine Bow, Wyoming is just a quick 33 miles away. Made famous in Owen Wister’s classic western novel as the town where Wister’s cowboy hero, the Virginian, faced off with Trampas over a card game. Trampas call the Virginian a “son-of-a-bitch” to which the Virginian responds by drawing his pistol and uttering one of the most famous lines in American folklore, “When you call me that, smile!” Built in 1909, the three-story Virginian Hotel was the largest hotel between Denver and Salt Lake City at the time. It was also a regular gathering place for travelers, local ranchers and railroad men. Not only does this marvelous building still stand nearly a century after being built, but it is also still a working hotel and has one of the finest old-time western bars in Wyoming. Population:265 Elevation 6,563 feet

Forty miles from Aspen Highlands is the quaint town of Saratoga, located on the North Platte River which provides for excellent fishing and kayaking for those interested. In addition, Saratoga has two beautiful golf courses, of which the public course plays along the river. One of the main attractions in Saratoga is Hobo Pool, which is located at the east end of Walnut Street. It is an outdoor pool fed by water of Saratoga Hot Springs at around 120°F. The pool is open 24 hours a day, and has heated change rooms with showers nearby.

Population:1714 Elevation 6.785 feet

Continuing past Saratoga you’ll find yourself heading onto the Snowy Range Road, Hwy 130 designated the Second National Forest Scenic Byway in the United States. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway drives through the heart of the Medicine Bow National Forest and is peppered with crystal blue lakes and jagged gray granite peaks.