Aspen Ranger District

Copyright: USDA Forest Service Maroon Bells in early autumn

Attractions - The Aspen Ranger District offers world-class skiing and snowboarding at it's four mounrin resorts: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk. On average, about 300 inches of snow falls per year. Cross- country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and back country hut trips are available as well.

The availability and diversity of outdoor activities during the summer months is amazing. Aspen is located in the middle fo the spectacular Elk Mountains. Some of the most picturesque mountains in the country can be found on this district, including the Maroon Bells and several other fourteen-thousand-foot peaks. Portions of the Maroon Bells- Snowmass, Hunter-Fryingpan, and Collegiate Peaks wilderness areas are located in the Aspen Ranger District. The Maroon Creek, Castle Creek and Hunter Creek Valleys are all easily accessible from town.

Recreation - Aspen is best known for its downhill skiing. The athletes mountain has mostly difficult terrain and doesn't allow snowboarding except under rare circumstances. Snowboarders need not worry because of the excellent nearby mountains, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. These are some of the best downhill snow riding opportunities in the world.

Winter enthusiasts are not restricted to the formal constraints of the ski resorts. Backcountry skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and snow camping opportunities in this region rival any in the state.

When the snow melts, Aspenites can hike, bike, climb, and paraglide to their hearts content. As far as I can tell, you can find high quality permutations of every outdoor activity imaginable, save ocean sports. Though you cant surf ocean waves, locals have been know to surf waves in the river in their kayaks. All in all, the Aspen area offers the opportunity for high-quality outdoor experiences.

Climate - In the valley bottoms, summer high temperatures extend into the mid 80s, with cool evenings that can often dip into the 30s. Winter lows occasionally dip to minus 30 degrees, though daytime temperatures are often in the 20s to 30s. The relative humidity is quite low throughout the year. Most of the area and its recreation facilities lie at higher elevations where significantly lower temperatures and more precipitation can be expected. Afternoon summer thunderstorms are common. Snow is possible at any time of year in the highest elevations. The high elevation roads and trails are often not clear of snow until mid-July.

Location - The Aspen Ranger District is located in the White River National Forest on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. The district begins on the Continental Divide and encompasses the headwaters of the Roaring Fork River. Its boundaries include segments of the Hunter-Fryingpan, Mt. Massive, Collegiate Peaks and Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Areas. The Ranger Offices are located on Highway 82 on the northwest side of town.