Their parents came to Aspen on vacation or to spend a season ski bumming after college, but like so many others over the last few decades, instead of leaving, they put down roots in the community with jobs, homes, and families. And as the town continues its evolution from seasonal tourism economy to a year-round, globally connected community, more Roaring Fork Valley natives in their 20s and 30s seem to be coming back home to do the same.

They’ve been drawn back for largely the same reason their parents came in the first place: the outdoor-oriented lifestyle. But strong family and community ties have helped ease the return. Along with a generally upbeat view of their hometown and an unshakeable optimism that they’ll be able to make a difference in the world, these 10 young professionals are undeterred by the perceived impediments of staying in Aspen: limited or high-priced housing, especially for growing families; lack of professional jobs and attendant growth opportunities; and the vicissitudes of a transient resort lifestyle.

 These kids are back in town, and they're making their mark.

In This Feature:

The Kids Are All Right: Alex Brough

A burgeoning new industry allows this local to build a company while enjoying access to the mountains.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Danny Brown

His hometown provides plenty of visual inspiration for his filmmaking and photography.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Wesley Jacobs Brown

A change in her career path led to an entrepreneurial venture.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Kalle Edwards

She's worked her way to the top in sportswear design.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Hana Maclean

Her outdoors-oriented childhood led to an architectural interest in sustainable design.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Holly Upper

She successfully balances an ambitious career path with the mountain lifestyle.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Travis Van Domelen

Having friends and family in the valley helped this private banker move home.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Eden Vardy

His master's thesis turned into a career in sustainable agriculture.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Andrew Wickes

He's gone from skiing competitively and DJing to managing the family business.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang

The Kids Are All Right: Elizabeth Winn

Her drive and ambition have paid off in a marketing career, even in a challenging ski town environment.

05/30/2018 By Catherine Lutz and Barbara Platts Photography by Karl Wolfgang