U.S. News and World Report has named Aspen’s five-star Little Nell as the 14th best hotel in the country, and No. 1 in the state.

To create the 2013 rankings, U.S. News evaluated the strength of accolades and ratings that elite hotels received from major travel publications, as well as travelers, to identify properties that are loved by experts and consumers alike.

The Little Nell offers the rarest of amenities — an actual ski-in, ski-out location on Aspen Mountain, adjacent to the Silver Queen Gondola. With 92 rooms, it has been named a Forbes Five Star hotel for 17 consecutive years, and a AAA Five Diamond property for 22 straight years.

For more information, and for reservations, call 888-The-Nell (888-843-6355) or 970 920-4600.

Jackie Daly, a 23-year valley resident with a diverse background, is the latest addition to the Shane Aspen Real Estate team.

Daly acquired her real estate license in 2012, and has worked as a professional photographer and accountant. She is also a real estate investor who’s family has a real estate and development background in the Washington, D.C. and Virginia area.

“She’s familiar with the business, the lingo and the amount of work that will be required of her to outperform her contemporaries,” according to a press release announcing her hire.

Shane Aspen Real Estate is located at 790 East Valley Rd. in Basalt. Daly can be reached at 925-6063.