Located at the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Frying Pan Rivers, Basalt is 16 miles north of Aspen and 22 miles southeast of Glenwood Springs. The town takes its name from 10,800-foot Basalt Peak just to the north of town. The name comes from the black igneous rock in the area.
The Colorado Midland Railroad, built to carry coal and silver ore between Leadville and Aspen, established the town of Frying Pan Junction in 1887. Incorporated as Basalt in 1901, the mountain town filled with immigrants from Switzerland and Northern Italy to work for the railroad mines and coal smelters. With the closing of the mines, the railroad rolled up its tracks and the few remaining folks began ranching. Signs of the great railroad era still remain today in a town now reborn as a vibrant community catering to both tourists and residents.
Basalt, with its close proximity to Aspen, is a gateway to all the valley's recreational activities. Enjoy a quaint town that has become a favorite treasured destination all its own.
Aspen Mountain
Aspen Highlands
Buttermilk
Snowmass
Basalt Elementary
Basalt Middle School
Basalt High School
Additional Private Schools
Basalt is well known for its Gold Medal trout fishing in the Frying Pan River and boating and other watersports at Ruedi Reservoir, It is a hub for mountain biking in the Roaring Fork valley. In the winter there are a dozen world-class cross-country and downhill ski trails within 15 miles of Basalt. When in Basalt, get outside and enjoy yourself! Whether you’re looking for some relaxing fun or an adrenaline spiked adventure, there's an abundance of outdoor pursuits at your disposal.
Basalt enjoys mild winters that are perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Skiing in Aspen and Snowmass, with 4 mountains to choose from, is just 30 minutes upvalley and Ski Sunlight is located 30 minutes downvalley in Glenwood Springs. Hearty fishermen enjoy Basalt's world-famous Gold Medal rivers even in the winter months.
On the Water in Basalt
Watersports abound in Basalt. Rent a stand-up paddleboard and head up to Ruedi Reservoir for a relaxing cruise. Enjoy some rapid riding, kayaking or rafting on the Roaring Fork River. The angler can enjoy world-class fly-fishing year-round on Basalt’s two Gold Medal waters, the Frying Pan River and Roaring Fork River, either with a guide or in solitude.
On the Land in Basalt
Basalt is your gateway to the stunning wilderness. Visit the Frying Pan and Lime Creek areas for some phenomenal climbing routes and fall in love with the miles of biking and hiking trails out of Basalt. A few of the trails you may want to try are the Basalt Mountain Road, Beaver Creek Trail, Cattle Creek Trail or the Dexter Park Trail. Some are difficult, some moderate and some easy. Try the ones most fitted to your level of skill.
Basalt is not only rich in rivers, but also in art. Stroll the historic downtown area or take a walk around Willits, and you will discover multiple unique art and creative experiences. There are galleries devoted to contemporary Western art, three-dimensional art and fine art photography. The Wyly Community Art Center offers classes, outreach partnership programs, and local events for artists of all ages and abilities. Basalt hosts a 6-week summer concert series on Wednesday evenings. Concerts are held alternately at Lion's Park in downtown Basalt or Triangle Park at the Willits Town Center. Bring your blanket and beverage and enjoy free live music all summer long.
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