Cities and Towns in Pitkin County, Colorado

Founded on 1881-02-23, Pitkin County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Pitkin County was split from Gunnison County. The city of Aspen is the county seat. With FIPS code of 97, Pitkin County has a population of 17,348 and area of 970.37 square miles (2,513 km²).

List of all cities in Pitkin County, CO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Aspen, CO 81611 970
81612 970
Aspen-Gerbaz, CO 81611 970
Meredith, CO 81642 970
Nast, CO 81642 970
Norrie, CO 81642 970
Old Snowmass, CO 81654 970
Snowmass, CO 81654 970
Snowmass Village, CO 81615 970
West Village, CO 81615 970
Woody Creek, CO 81656 970

Major Cities and Towns in Pitkin County, Colorado

Aspen

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: 3.9 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 7,400 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81611, 81612
  • Latitude: 39.1911° N
  • Longitude: 106.8175° W

City Location and History

Aspen, the county seat and largest city in Pitkin County, is located in the Rocky Mountains, in the Roaring Fork Valley. Founded in 1879 as a silver mining town during the Colorado Silver Boom, Aspen quickly grew to become one of the most prosperous towns in Colorado. However, the repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act in 1893 led to a decline in silver prices, and Aspen’s population dwindled. In the mid-20th century, Aspen was revitalized as a ski resort destination, thanks in large part to the efforts of industrialist Walter Paepcke and his wife Elizabeth. They envisioned Aspen as a cultural and recreational hub, combining world-class skiing with intellectual and artistic pursuits. Today, Aspen is renowned for its luxurious ski resorts, cultural events, and vibrant arts scene, making it one of the most famous mountain towns in the world.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Aspen is served by the Aspen School District, with Aspen High School being the primary secondary school. The city is also home to the Aspen Music Festival and School, a prestigious institution that hosts an annual summer festival attracting musicians from around the globe. Major landmarks include the Aspen Mountain Ski Resort, which is one of the four mountains that make up the Aspen/Snowmass ski area, offering exceptional skiing and snowboarding. The Wheeler Opera House, built in 1889, is a historic venue that hosts concerts, theater productions, and film screenings. The Aspen Institute, founded by Walter Paepcke, is another key institution, known for its seminars and conferences on global issues. Aspen’s combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities makes it the heart of Pitkin County.

Snowmass Village

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: 25.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,000 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81615, 81654
  • Latitude: 39.2130° N
  • Longitude: 106.9378° W

City Location and History

Snowmass Village is a resort town located in Pitkin County, just 8 miles west of Aspen. The town was developed in the 1960s as a ski resort, with Snowmass Ski Area opening in 1967. Unlike Aspen, which has roots in the silver mining era, Snowmass Village was created specifically as a modern ski destination. The area was chosen for its extensive and varied terrain, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Snowmass has since grown into a popular year-round destination, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, wide range of outdoor activities, and upscale accommodations. The town also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, adding to its appeal as a premier mountain resort.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Snowmass Village is served by the Aspen School District, with students attending schools in nearby Aspen. The town’s major landmarks include the Snowmass Ski Area, one of the largest ski areas in Colorado, offering over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain. The Anderson Ranch Arts Center is another key landmark, known for its art workshops, exhibitions, and artist residencies, attracting artists from around the world. The Snowmass Rodeo, held weekly during the summer, is a popular event that celebrates the area’s Western heritage. The Snowmass Mall and Base Village are the town’s commercial centers, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Snowmass Village’s combination of world-class skiing, cultural activities, and natural beauty make it a significant community in Pitkin County.

Basalt

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: 2.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,000 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81621
  • Latitude: 39.3683° N
  • Longitude: 107.0379° W

City Location and History

Basalt is a small town located at the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Fryingpan Rivers, approximately 18 miles northwest of Aspen. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a railroad town, originally known as Aspen Junction, serving as a stop along the Midland Railroad. In 1901, the town was renamed Basalt after the basaltic rock formations found in the area. Basalt’s early economy was based on agriculture, mining, and the railroad, but it has since evolved into a charming mountain town known for its outdoor recreation, particularly fly fishing on the Fryingpan River. The town has also become a bedroom community for Aspen, with many residents commuting to work in the larger city while enjoying Basalt’s quieter, more laid-back atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Basalt is served by the Roaring Fork School District, with Basalt High School being the primary secondary school in the town. The town’s major landmarks include the historic Basalt Regional Library, which serves as a cultural hub for the community, offering educational programs, events, and a rich collection of books and media. The Fryingpan River is renowned for its gold medal trout fishing, attracting anglers from across the country. The nearby Ruedi Reservoir offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s historic downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, reflecting Basalt’s blend of history and modern mountain living. Basalt’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community make it an important town in Pitkin County.

Woody Creek

Area, Population, and Geography

  • Area: Approximately 1.0 square mile (unincorporated)
  • Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 81656
  • Latitude: 39.2753° N
  • Longitude: 106.9117° W

City Location and History

Woody Creek is a small, unincorporated community located along the Roaring Fork River, about 8 miles northwest of Aspen. The area was originally settled in the late 19th century as a farming and ranching community. Woody Creek is best known as the home of the late Hunter S. Thompson, the iconic journalist and author who lived in a secluded ranch in the area and was a key figure in the counterculture movement. Thompson’s presence in Woody Creek attracted a variety of artists, writers, and bohemians, giving the area a reputation for its eccentric and independent spirit. Today, Woody Creek remains a quiet, rural community, with a strong sense of identity and a deep connection to its natural surroundings.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Woody Creek is served by the Aspen School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Aspen. The community’s major landmarks include the Woody Creek Tavern, a rustic bar and restaurant that was a favorite hangout of Hunter S. Thompson and remains a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The tavern’s walls are covered with memorabilia and photographs, reflecting the area’s unique history and cultural significance. The Roaring Fork River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. The nearby Rio Grande Trail, a multi-use trail that follows the former rail line, offers biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing, connecting Woody Creek with Aspen and Basalt. Woody Creek’s combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and rural charm makes it a distinctive and cherished part of Pitkin County.

Map of Cities in Pitkin County, CO

Map of Cities in Pitkin County, CO