Basalt

 

Located between Pitkin and Eagle counties, Basalt is a small town with a higher concentration of locals than places like Snowmass and Aspen. Its charming restaurants, shops, and pubs evoke the town’s history (it was a railroad town known as Aspen Junction until becoming Basalt in 1895). Today, Basalt is an excellent place to live or visit from the ski towns to the south. Its tranquil community is offset by nearby resorts, with many ranch-style homes alongside newer builds, especially mountain homes encapsulated in beautiful nature.

 

Community events keep neighbors together in Basalt. Numerous activities are held at Lions Park and other places in town. With such proximity to Snowmass and the resorts and restaurants, many also go to the nearby city to enjoy additional recreational opportunities. There are also some terrific local spots to dine or view artistic creations.

Basalt features many tasty venues for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Locals rave about the elevated home cooking at Heather’s Savory Pies and Tapas Bar. A short walk down the road, Free Range Kitchen consistently ranks among the best restaurants in town, offering a seemingly endless menu of fresh produce and delicious dishes. Butch’s Lobster Shack serves the best seafood in the city, and The Brick Pony Pub keeps regulars happy with frosted beer mugs in a convivial atmosphere. Meanwhile, Stubbies Sports Bar & Eatery is a popular choice when you want to enjoy a drink and some live music. They serve pizza, subs, sandwiches, and a build-your-own burger. 

 

The Tipsy Trout is a favored spot along the water. Dine on the deck for gorgeous views while you devour a delicious meal. They serve Rocky Mountain trout, creamy penne pasta, fish tacos, beef stroganoff, various sandwiches, and pan-seared salmon. 

 

Spanish and Italian-inspired tapas are available at Tempranillo Restaurant. With an extensive wine list and a variety of other menu offerings, this is a popular dining establishment. Pasta, salads, tostadas, and soups flesh out the menu. 

 

Cafe Bernard offers separate breakfast/lunch and dinner hours. This bistro serves delectable dishes, such as French toast, a breakfast burrito, a variety of egg dishes, trout, salads, and more. 

 

Lions Park is where many gather during community events, particularly for the holidays and summer. Basalt River Park has plenty of green space to enjoy and features a river running through it, providing a beautiful backdrop to the area. It's also a great spot to fish, although Fisherman's Park is usually designated for that activity.

 

The Basalt Sunday Market is also beloved by those in the area. Neighbors mingle and navigate the vendors to find fresh produce, creative crafts, and homemade goods.  

 

The Art Base in the heart of downtown offers exhibitions, programs, classes, and events for the community. Several galleries are also in town, each showcasing unique collections. Visit Ann Korologos Gallery and Keating Fine Art to see what they offer.