I've been coming to the Aspen/Snowmass area for many years. I've stayed in lovely homes close to downtown Aspen, and in lodges way off in the mountains. Both have their charms.
The Wild Ranch property, however, strikes the perfect balance between these two very different experiences, and gives the visitor the best of both. If you want a hike, or utterly magical scenery, it's just outside your door. If you want music, or skiing, it's a short drive away. And yet, complete privacy for you and/or your family and friends is part of the package.
The Carlstons' home is, in my opinion, the balance within the balance. How can a place that is so roomy and luxurious still be so intimate and tasteful? Somehow, this home makes it all work. My favorite parts of the house are, of course, the lovely swimming pool and waterfall, the breakfast/kitchen/lounge area (bring your binoculars and you might see all kinds of interesting creatures outside your window!), the upstairs portion of the library, where I like to gaze down on the lake from the comfort of a cushy armchair, and the home theater, where I can relax and watch old movies.
Aside from all the architectural charms of the place, I especially like that you can choose to mingle with your entire family or group of friends, or you can disappear into some other part of the house and have your privacy. Whoever designed this magnificent home had a real skill for making people comfortable. I plan to come back in 2016.
My review in one sentence? "You may find cheaper, you may find more expensive, but you won't find any better".