Asher on Aspen: Tell me at the Woody Creek Tavern

On lively Saturday mornings in Aspen, particularly during the summer, the atmosphere is alive with activity. Seeking solace from the crowds and commotion, our group of four mounted our e-bikes and fled town, heading toward the Rio Grande Trail that would lead us to the iconic Woody Creek Tavern. As an essential item on every Aspen bucket list, this summer tradition always brings a thrill.

This time, however, was a little different, as it marked my first time sporting Kemo Sabe hats and boots for the occasion. Together, we rode like a spirited posse straight out of a classic Western film. The hats provided shade from the relentless sun while the boots surprisingly proved comfortable throughout our biking escapade. Why did we opt for Western wear over athleisure? Well, why not? It’s Aspen. Flying down the trail, cowboy hats intact, I felt the need for speed and kicked my pony up to level 5.

The global phenomenon of e-bikes has taken the world by storm, and it didn’t take long for us to understand why. The ride was smooth, and the electric assistance propelled us forward, allowing us to cover vast distances in no time. It was an invigorating feat that left me contemplating the possibility of owning an e-bike of my own in the future, knowing the sheer joy and convenience it can bring.

Before entering the Tavern, we made a pit stop at the newly-remodeled Saloon adjacent to the restaurant. Nestled in its rustic ambiance, we enjoyed a couple yellow jackets while savoring guacamole and wings as a prelude to our lunch. Thirst quenched and appetites teased, we made our way into the heart of the tavern.

Stepping foot into the Woody Creek Tavern is like entering a time capsule, where the cultures of past and present blur into a mesmerizing blend. As I walk through the door, my eyes are immediately drawn to the walls painted with an intriguing collage of memorabilia, accumulated over four decades. Polaroids, dating back to the restaurant’s inception, featured many tavern enthusiasts — including locals and celebrities, alike.

Since its opening in 1980, the Woody Creek Tavern has been an integral part of the local community — a cherished watering hole for the residents of both Woody Creek and Aspen. Though just a few miles away, Aspen propels itself into the future, while the tavern remains steadfast in its unpretentious charm. It offers a welcoming refuge, a place where comfort and familiarity co-exist.

The allure of the tavern extends beyond its culinary delights. It’s a place that boasts the most captivating and colorful characters. I have been frequenting the tavern ever since I was 18, when my aunt and uncle introduced me to this unique establishment. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of meeting an array of fascinating individuals who have become a part of my own personal narrative.

As our eyes fell down the menu, there was one famous tavern staple that we couldn’t resist: margaritas. Sipping the tangy sweetness of the margarita, my shoulders dropped as the ice-cold tequila ran down my throat. The air rattled with lively conversation and the clinking of glasses.

For lunch, I opted for the Summer Chicken Salad, a medley of flavors that complemented each other nicely. The bed of fresh greens was adorned with strawberries, candied pecans, and cotija cheese — all drizzled with a Dijon vinaigrette.

Time seemed to stand still as we enjoyed our meal, exchanging stories and laughter with the backdrop of the tavern’s ambiance.

After walking out the door with a little pep in my step that I didn’t have before, we leisurely made our way back to Aspen. About halfway back, we paused by the riverside, observing kayakers and rafters as they navigated the gushing waters. A courageous member of our crew even took a refreshing plunge into the river, providing a moment of relief from the summer heat.

The Woody Creek Tavern has become more than just a dining establishment to me. It’s an escape far removed from the glitz and glamor of Aspen. It is a place where I have laughed, listened, and learned from the characters who have become a memorable part of my life. With every visit, I look forward to reuniting with old friends, while also awaiting the chance to meet new faces and add new stories to the ever-growing anthology of tavern stories.