Tons of Glenwood Springs Entertainment Rolled into a Convenient Package
Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley – a picturesque 50-mile stretch running from Glenwood Springs to Aspen – possesses a profusion of summer vacation activities.
Carved out of the Elk Mountains on the western edge of the Rockies, the Roaring Fork Valley begins near 11,000-foot Independent Pass, and is shaped by the mighty flow of the Roaring Fork River. Nearly the whole valley is veiled in the pines, aspens, and cottonwoods of the White River National Forest – the top recreation forest in the country – according to the United States Forest Service.
Undoubtedly, the valley’s most popular destination for hiking or backpacking is the Maroon Bells area near Snowmass. The dual summits of the Bells tower over the valley. The topographical distinctiveness of the area leads to spectacular views. A free shuttle bus runs three times an hour during the summer to Maroon Lake, the point at which most visitors begin their trek to the peaks.
The Maroon Bells wilderness area is also wildly popular for campers. The isolated meadows of a glacial valley dotted with massive fields of native wildflowers draws millions of visitors each year.
Majestic camping locales can be accessed near Carbondale, which looks north to the southern face of Mount Sopris.
Carbondale sits along Highway 83 at the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Crystal River. Along with numerous retail camps and RV parks, the federal government is in charge of the stunning Avalanche Creek site, which has just 13 campsites on a first-come, first-served basis. A minimal fee for overnight stays is charged but the breathtaking scenes from above 7,000 feet, the teeming waters of the creek, ready access to numerous mountain trails, and the site’s remote feeling despite being just a few miles from Carbondale draws tourists like moths to a flame for summer vacation activities in the region.
State and federal agencies also supervise and care for scores of completely free campsites in the region; however, little areas of private property dot the landscape so be aware of markings designating private land.
- canoeing
- hiking
- backpacking
The Ruedi Recreation region, just 15 minutes east of Basalt on the Fryingpan River, includes Ruedi Reservoir. The area is well-suited for water-skiing and boating, and the forest surrounding the area provide a wealth of hunting opportunities.
World-class fishing is a massive magnet for visitors and there is no shortage of professional fishing guides who can make a fishing trip far more enjoyable. The rivers run very high during the spring melt when water pours from the mountains into the current. During the hottest periods though, the Roaring Fork, Frying Pan, and Crystal Rivers can be waded or float fished.
The Roaring Fork Valley boast so many possibilities for summer vacation activities. And choices are not limited to hikes and fishing tours. Kayaking and rafting are also hugely popular in the area.
Consider a Colorado Vacation for your summer get-away
Other links: http://glenwoodspringsaspen.com/ or http://activities.glenwoodspringsaspen.com/