Rivers

The Tyrolean Lodge in Aspen is located near the headwaters of the Roaring Fork River.  There are a number of local water activities. Whitewater rafting is the ultimate Colorado experience and Aspen is home to mellow streams and Class IV rapids alike. If you prefer a quiet canoe or stand up paddle board, check out the North Star Nature Preserve and its winding meanders through untouched Rocky Mountain splendor. If action packed adventures are more your speed then there are plenty of Class II, III and IV options along the Roaring Fork River, Colorado River and even day trips headed over Independence Pass to the Arkansas River. Aspen’s local rafting companies have years of experiences and loads of good fun on board. Late May and June are peak run off times.

World class fly fishing is one sport you can enjoy in Aspen year-round! Cast a line on a high-alpine lake in summer for native Cutthroat, or hit the Gold Medal waters of the Roaring Fork and Frying Pan rivers in just about any season. Fly fishing is technically as close as Mill Street in Aspen, but most travel just ten minutes outside of downtown on the Roaring Fork River. And if you’re feeling like a drive, the Frying Pan and Crystal Rivers also hold fantastic fly-fishing a bit further afield.
What are Gold Medal waters anyway? These fishing areas have been designated by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife as providing great spots to catch and release large trout. Only about 168 miles of Colorado’s 9000 miles of trout streams, and three lakes, carry the “Gold Medal” signature. You heard correctly, Aspen’s got good fishing!

Nearby waters

• Roaring Fork
• Colorado
• Frying Pan
• Crystal
• Arkansas
• Ruedi Reservoir
• Numerous Mountain Lakes

Other Activities include:

• Kayaking
• SUPing