Skincare & Travel Diaries: A Mindful Day Trip to Aspen

Aspen in early fall feels like stepping into a living painting. Coming from Denver, the crisp mountain air hit differently fresh, invigorating, and impossible to ignore. From the moment we started driving into the mountains, I felt my lungs fill and my mind quiet. This wasn’t just a getaway it was a day dedicated to presence, awe, and grounding in nature, art, and small, intentional pleasures.

Bright Fall Colors

The Drive: Landscapes That Take Your Breath Away

The journey itself is part of the magic. Winding roads cut through golden aspen groves, jagged peaks rose sharply against a brilliant sky, and occasionally, brief snow flurries glinted in the sunlight. Each turn revealed something breathtaking: a stream winding through a valley, a mountain catching the afternoon light, a cloud hanging low, almost close enough to touch.

At one point, we reached the top of Independence Pass, and the view was otherworldly. We drove straight into a low-hanging cloud, and I stuck my hand out of the window—the air felt electric and weightless. Tiny snowflakes began to fall, dusting the peaks in sparkling white. Winded and exhilarated, I paused and laughed, feeling fully alive, present, and deeply grateful.

Tip for travelers: Leave early to make the most of daylight, and take your time on the drive. The mountain landscapes are a destination in themselves, and every viewpoint is an opportunity to pause and breathe.

The J-Bar: A Mindful Indulgence

Though we didn’t stay overnight, a stop at Hotel Jerome’s J-Bar was a highlight. The space was cozy, timeless, and effortlessly stylish—perfect for a pause in the middle of an adventure.

I haven’t had a cocktail in six months, having given up alcohol for skin and health reasons. So this one had to truly capture my eye. The pistachio cocktail was exactly that: creamy, nutty, and thoughtfully balanced. Every sip felt like an intentional indulgence, a small celebration of presence and mindfulness.

We paired the cocktail with the J-Bar Burger, juicy and flavorful, which made the stop feel indulgent yet grounding—a moment to savor, reflect, and simply exist in Aspen’s energy.

Wellness tip: If you abstain from alcohol, allow yourself to fully enjoy the one special indulgence that catches your attention. Savor it slowly, pair it with nourishing food, and let it feel celebratory without guilt.

Immersed in Art

Aspen’s art scene made the day feel even more extraordinary.

The Powers Museum captivated me with its extraordinary collection, especially the works of Roy Lichtenstein, which felt bold, alive, and playful. The building’s unusual architecture amplified the experience, making each gallery feel like stepping into another world.

Next, the Aspen Art Museum offered immersive, interactive spaces. Crystals, installations that invited touch, and rooms that encouraged reflection made the art feel alive. Walking through these spaces, I felt present, engaged, and connected—not just with the art, but with my own sense of wonder.

Travel tip: Schedule at least 1–2 hours per museum, and don’t rush. Interactive exhibits reward lingering attention, allowing you to absorb both the visual and emotional energy.

Overall Wellness tip: Bring a small kit for the mountain air body butter, lip balm, and under-eye serum to protect your skin while staying grounded and present. check out Phoenix potions skincare for travel essential needs.

Power Museum

Early Fall Magic

The weather in early fall made everything feel heightened. Crisp, sunny skies paired with golden trees made the mountains almost glow. Even small moments pausing at a viewpoint, noticing the light shift across a peak, or walking along quiet streets felt like walking through a living painting.

Being intentional in these moments—feeling the wind on my skin, noting the temperature and textures, breathing deeply turned ordinary sightseeing into meditation. My body and mind felt nourished by this combination of natural beauty, fresh air, and mindful presence.