From Carbondale you can choose from 5 different ski mountains. Aspen Mountain, with its steeps and bumps, is located in downtown Aspen.  Aspen Highlands, a locals’ favorite, features the infamous Highland Bowl. Buttermilk, with its wide rolling trails and challenging terrain park, is known as the premier mountain for beginners. Snowmass has something for everyone – cruisers, steeps, terrain parks and half-pipes. Sunlight Mountain Resort, 12 miles south of Glenwood Springs, offers an uncomplicated trail system with a variety of terrain for beginner to expert skiers and riders. The laid-back, friendly resort also has trails for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Seven miles west of town you’ll find the Spring Gulch Nordic Trail System with 12 miles of tracked trails. Go south 18 miles to the Redstone Stables, located right behind the Redstone coke ovens, and check out the 5K cross country classic and skate ski course, along with a snow shoe trail. For backcountry trails, Nordic skiers head to Avalanche Creek just off Highway 133. The trail follows Avalanche Creek up a beautiful, steep-walled valley; once it enters the Wilderness Area past Avalanche Campground, you may need to break your own trail. Another backcountry option is McClure Pass. Its altitude guarantees good snow conditions, and the route climbs through a peaceful forest up to a ridge has a quiet beauty all its own.

On the Water in Carbondale

Sitting at the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Crystal Rivers and only a 15 minute drive to both the Colorado and Frying Pan Rivers, Carbondale serves as the perfect base-camp for anglers wanting to explore Colorado’s finest rivers for trout fishing. The Colorado Wildlife Commission declared the 13 miles of the Roaring Fork River between Basalt and Carbondale as “Gold Medal Water,” creating a 42-mile stretch that is the longest continuous section of “Gold Medal Water” in the state. The Crystal River offers excellent fishing throughout the entire year. 

The Roaring Fork Valley holds some of the most diverse, dynamic and reliable kayaking satisfying whitewater enthusiasts of all skill levels. The most exciting time to kayak here is in the spring when the snow starts to melt. Kayaking is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the wonder of the local scenery and special places that are not accessible from any road. A variety of rivers in the area offer whitewater rafting with everything from white-knuckle trips for the truly adventurous, or fun splashing whitewater for the whole family, tor slow and beautiful scenic floats for those who prefer to just relax. At the edge of Carbondale, the rushing waters of the Crystal River join the sparkling clear sprays of the Roaring Fork to offer an abundance of river rafting options.

On Land in Carbondale

Biking adventures abound around Carbondale. Whether you are looking for a relaxing ride on paved trails or a challenging ride on singletrack, Carbondale offers it all. One of the most popular spots in Carbondale is the Red Hill Recreation Area, often referred to as “Mushroom Rock.” The paved Rio Grande Trail starts in the heart of downtown Aspen and winds its way down the Roaring Fork Valley. It is the perfect choice for families. Carbondale is the gateway to climbing on the Western Slope, and a great place to stay while exploring the surrounding cliffs.

If the weather is keeping you inside, the Carbondale Recreation Center’s climbing wall is 32’ tall, features a variety of angles, lead climbing, auto belays and routes from 5.5 to 5.12. There are three 18-hole and two 9-hole courses within 10 miles of Carbondale, and several more within a 30-mile drive. Golfers of all abilities can find a course suited to their liking, with most courses available from April through October. Enjoying the Old West experience wouldn’t be the same for most people staying in the Roaring Fork and Crystal River valleys without some genuine Colorado horseback riding. Our valley is home to several horseback operations, and all provide their guests with a memorable riding experience. From carriage rides to backcountry trips, there is something for riders at all levels.

There are several diverse organizations dedicated to the inspiration and promotion of the arts in Carbondale. The Carbondale Clay Center is a non-profit organization that builds community through clay related activities. The Carbondale Council on Arts and Humanities is a non-profit organization founded to encourage an appreciation of the fine arts, popular arts, and the humanities through programs and events featuring local and professional artists and musicians. Thunder River Theatre Company s a year-round non-profit theatre company producing “professional theatre at its finest. The Performing Arts Center at Third Street is a multi-use theatre in Carbondale that provides the community with a space for events, concerts, non-profit functions, shows and more.

One aspect of Carbondale life not to miss is the Thursday night rodeo! Each year it seems to be more popular than ever. The Wild West Rodeo Series happens every Thursday from June to August. The local’s favorite festival is the annual Carbondale Mountain Fair which is held the last weekend of July. It draws over 145 vendors bringing unique and diverse homemade wares to town, non-stop entertainment, great food and friendly competitions. Throughout the weekend, over 20,000 people pass through from across the state and all over the country!