Nestled between the majestic Sopris and Basalt mountains, 16 miles north of Aspen and 22 miles southeast of Glenwood Springs on Highway 82, cross-coutntry skiing, hiking and mountain biking trails abound through thousands of acres of pristine mountain wilderness. Anglers will dance with the trout along the banks of two gold medal trout streams, the Roaring Fork and Frying Pan Rivers. Ruedi Reservoir offers the most beautiful setting for windsurfing, sailing, and skiing.

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 in what is fast becoming the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley.

Basalt of today is known as a vacation mecca for families and sports enthusiasts. World-class skiing and cultural opportunities are only minutes away.

Basalt still preserves its original, quaint charm. Whether strolling through its historic downtown or exploring the newly built centers, you will find small fashion boutiques, galleries, and some of the best restaurants in the Roaring Fork Valley.

Click here for some important and useful phone numbers for the area.