THE VALLEY INSIDER 
ROARING FORK & COLORADO RIVER VALLEY SPRING/SUMMER 2025

ROARING FORK VALLEY:
ADVENTURE & CHARM

Basalt
Basalt offers top fly fishing, scenic trails, and the warmth of a small town.

Carbondale
Carbondale is a vibrant arts town with Mount Sopris views and all year long outdoor adventure. 

Redstone
Redstone charms with red rock beauty, antiques, and a peaceful riverside setting.

Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs blends hot springs, outdoor adventures, and the charm of a small town.

New Castle
New Castle offers a family-friendly vibe, scenic riverfront views, and easy access to hiking, biking, and local shops. 

Silt
Silt brings quiet country charm with open spaces, nature trails, and welcoming small-town spirit.

Rifle
Rifle is an outdoor enthusiast's haven, known for its state parks, rock climbing, and Western heritage.

Battlement Mesa
Battlement Mesa offers peaceful neighborhoods, golf course views, and mountain beauty.

LIVE LIKE A LOCAL IN THE VALLEY

Spring and summer in the Roaring Fork Valley and Colorado River valleys bring endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and community connection. From the vibrant towns of Basalt, Carbondale, and Glenwood Springs to the peaceful charm of New Castle, Silt, Rifle, and Battlement Mesa, this region thrives with lush landscapes, rushing rivers, and warm, welcoming communities. Whether you’re fly fishing on the Fryingpan River, hiking scenic trails, soaking in hot springs, or enjoying local festivals, each town offers its own unique charm.
At Coldwell Banker Mason Morse, we know the valley’s best-kept secrets and how to match them with your lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for a cozy retreat close to town or a luxury home surrounded by nature, we’re here to help you find the perfect place to embrace all that these valleys have to offer.

SUMMER WONDERS IN THE VALLEY

Experience the best of summer in the Roaring Fork Valley, where each town offers
a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. From fly fishing in Basalt
and vibrant arts in Carbondale to Redstone’s historic charm and Glenwood Springs’
iconic hot springs and hikes, there’s something for everyone to explore.

Fryingpan River  |  Basalt
A top destination for Gold-Medal Water fly fishing and stunning riverside hikes.

First Friday Art Walk  |  Carbondale
A lively monthly celebration of local art, music, and community.

Redstone Castle  |  Redstone
A historic mansion offering guided tours and a glimpse into Colorado's past.

Hanging Lake  |  Glenwood Springs
A breathtaking turquoise lake with cascading waterfalls, accessible via a scenic hike. 

THE REAL BENEFITS OF BUYING A HOME THIS YEAR

If you’ve been debating whether to continue renting or take the leap into homeownership, it’s understandable. Renting may seem easier, especially with rising home prices and mortgage rates, but a recent Bank of America report shows that 70% of renters fear the long-term consequences of renting, including the inability to build equity. The truth is, buying a home offers significant long-term financial benefits, like building wealth through equity growth as home values appreciate. Renting may feel more affordable in the short term, but rising rents over time make it harder to save for a future home, leaving you with no equity. If you can make the numbers work, homeownership is a powerful investment for your future.

ROARING FORK VALLEY & COLORADO RIVER VALLEY
MARKET INSIGHT

LOCAL FAVORITES

LOCAL EXPERIENCES & DINING

The Pullman (Glenwood Springs)
A modern Take on classic American comfort food with a seasonally driven menu.

Free Range Kitchen (Basalt)
A farm-to-table favorite offering boutique wines, craft beers, and innovative cocktails.

White House Pizza (Carbondale)
Hearty, flavorful pizzas with fresh ingredients, homemade sauces, and a cozy, family-friendly vibe.

Izakaya (Carbondale)
A standout Japanese restaurant known for it's exceptional small plates and sushi.

Miner's Claim (Silt)
An elevated comfort food with a creative twist, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bold Southwestern flavors.

Slow Groovin (Marble)
Dishin' our tender , slow-smoked meats, flavorful house-made sauces, and hearty mountain-style comfort food with a laid-back, rustic charm look.

SCENIC DRIVES & HISTORIC LANDMARKS

Rifle Falls State Park
Rifle Falls entices with waterfalls, lush scenery, and hidden caves.

West Elk Loop Scenic Byway
A stunning drive through rugged mountain, past historic towns and scenic overlooks.

NATURE, ADVENTURE & RELAXATION

Maroon Bells (Aspen)
Iconic twin peaks with breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and a reflective lake, making it one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. 

Hanging Lake (Glenwood Springs)
A must-see natural wonder featuring a stunning turquoise lake and waterfalls, accessible via a scenic but challenging hike.

Glenwood Hot Springs Resort (Glenwood Springs)
The world's largest mineral hot springs pool, perfect for relaxation and family fun.

Crystal Mill (Redstone/Marble)
A historic and pictureesque 1890's wooden mill set against a dramatic mountain and river backdrop, accessible by a rugged trail or off-road vehicle.

Rio Grande Trail (Aspen to Glenwood Springs)
a 42-mile paved biking and walking trail that follows the Roaring Fork River, offering scenic views and wildlife sightings.