Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

Introduction to the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

Sitting just north of Main Street on Hallam Lake, the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) is a research center and 25-acre wildlife sanctuary. This facility is dedicated to educating visitors about Aspen's natural surroundings while preserving local flora and fauna.

Activities and Attractions

Wildlife Workshops and Walks

At ACES, you can participate in various wildlife workshops and tag along on winter snowshoe walks. One of the standout experiences is the opportunity to come face-to-face with America's favorite bird, the bald eagle. The center provides binoculars for visitors to borrow, enhancing their chances of spotting local wildlife, including deer, elk, foxes, coyotes, bears, beavers, and hawks.

Kid-Friendly Activities

If you're visiting with children, ACES offers several kid-friendly activities. Consider signing them up for arts and crafts classes or nature hikes designed specifically for young explorers. Little ones may also be captivated by the indoor animal exhibits, which feature creatures such as bearded dragons, salamanders, and cockroaches.

Visitor Feedback and Environmental Efforts

Nature lovers frequently commend the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies as the ideal place to explore Aspen's wilder side. Many visitors praise the facility for its significant environmental protection efforts, contributing to the preservation of the local ecosystem.

Hours of Operation and Fees

The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies is open year-round from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the summer months, the center also welcomes visitors on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free; however, some programming, such as guided snowshoe tours, may incur additional fees.

For more details about guided tours and onsite activities, please visit the center's official website.