Aspen

The Roaring Fork River,fast, deep, and uninterrupted by dams from its headwaters to its junction with the Colorado, is one of the last free-flowing rivers in the state. The healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout—of the hefty 12- to 18-inch variety—make the Roaring Fork a favorite with anglers. From the headwaters at Independence Pass to within 3 mi of Aspen, most of the river access is on public lands and is best fished in summer and early fall. Downstream of Aspen the river crosses through a checkerboard pattern of private and public land; it's fishable year-round. The river's rounded stones make felt soles or studs a good idea for waders. See for more information. www.wildlife.state.co.us/fishing.

Aspen Trout Guides (520 E. Durant Ave. 970/379-7963. aspentroutguides.com) runs fly-fishing tours of local waterways. The company is located in the Hamilton Sports Pro Shop. Taylor Creek Fly Shop (408 E. Cooper Ave. 970/920-1128) has the town's best selection of flies and other supplies.

The Aspen Athletic Club (720 E. Hyman Ave. 970/925-2531) is a fully equipped gym with a steam room and sauna. There's also a tanning salon and massage therapy.

The upscale Aspen Club & Spa (1450 Crystal Lake Rd. 970/925-8900) has plenty of weight-training and cardiovascular equipment, as well as indoor courts for squash, basketball, and other sports. It's also home to John Clendenin's Ski Doctor indoor ski simulator. When you're finished getting all sweaty, relax in the luxurious full-service spa.

Snowmass

Aspen Skiing Company (97 Lower Mall, Snowmass Village Mall. 970/923-8647) can hook you up with outfitters that lead trips on the Colorado, Roaring Fork, and Fryingpan rivers.

Glenwood Springs

Roaring Fork Anglers (2205 Grand Ave. 970/945-0180) leads wade and float trips throughout the area. Roaring Fork Outfitters (2022 Grand Ave. 970/945-5800) has a huge selection of flies, and guides who'll make sure you find the right ones.

Redstone

Often overlooked by anglers anxious to cast their lines in the Roaring Fork, the Crystal River runs for more than 35 mi from its headwaters near the town of Marble to its junction with the Roaring Fork in Carbondale. In spring and fall, this junction offers excellent fishing for brown and rainbow trout as they attempt a run up the Crystal to spawn. Mountain whitefish can also be hooked. The upper reaches of the river traverse public land in the White River National Forest, but the last 6 mi are mostly private property. Be sure to check signage. Near the confluence public fishing is possible at the Days Inn in Carbondale, Satank Road, and the Division of Wildlife Fish Hatchery on Highway 133, 1 mi south of Carbondale. Redstone Lodge offers fishing for a fee.

The riverscape ranges from deep boulder pools and white-water rapids to slow, flat sections. Because of the steep shore terrain, storm runoff can sometimes cloud the river, making sight-casting difficult.

Roaring Fork Anglers (2205 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs. 970/945-0180) has everything you need to get started. See www.wildlife.state.co.us/fishing for more fishing information.