Welcome to Woody Creek
A historic town for locals who love ranch-based lifestyles
This small mountain village is best known for its legendary tavern with which it shares a namesake. Welcome to the lovely Woody Creek, a small town with a population of 263, located just 8 miles north of Aspen.
Woody Creek is nestled in the Roaring Fork Valley in Pitkin County and is a hidden gem off a country road that you may miss if you’re traveling through Highway 82. The town is historic and quiet. There’s no downtown, just the Woody Creek Tavern, which was built by the Lee Jones family in the 1940s.
What to Love
- Quaint and quiet community
- A place where everybody knows your name
- Sweeping mountainside views
- Infamous dive-bar aesthetic
Local Lifestyle
Locals know the Woody Creek Tavern, and they know it well, from the picture-lined walls to the well-rounded food and drink menus. This notorious spot was the hangout of Hunter S. Thompson, a famous Gonzo journalist, played by Johnny Depp in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Woody Creek Tavern is open year-round. Take a polaroid while you’re in, and hang it on the wall to become a permanent fixture in the community.
Locals in Woody Creek are no strangers to riverfront properties and views, due to the proximity of the Roaring Fork River. Ranch properties are a prominent feature in Woody Creek, so bring your horses and livestock. They’ll enjoy the open-air and exceptional views almost as much as you. The meadows are frequented by herds of elk and other wildlife. You can enjoy this rural lifestyle only 15 minutes away from downtown Aspen.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The formerly mentioned Woody Creek Tavern is a host in and of itself and whirlwind to the senses. With over 40 years of memorabilia adorning the walls, and a pool of scents that will attack the senses, you won’t be sure where in time you even are – but you’ll be ready to stay for a while. For a less intoxicating experience, visit the Woody Creek Bakery & Cafe. While not quite as historic as Woody Creek Tavern, being established in 2011, Woody Creek Bakery & Cafe prides itself on an enticing assortment of homemade baked goods, bread, and fresh salads/sandwiches.
Things to Do
Both residents and locals love enjoying Woody Creek’s gorgeous natural surroundings. If you love to get outdoors, you’re in for a treat – Woody Creek is an excellent place for hiking, biking, rafting, horseback riding, and fishing. And don’t forget the local hangout spot Woody Creek Tavern, where everyone loves to kick back and relax. Enjoy delicious and rustic-inspired dishes like Rocky Mountain Trout, salsa verde nachos, Camp-Side Soup, or sides of cornbread and street corn. Of course, this is also a great place to grab a drink with friends, whether you’re into handcrafted cocktails, wine, or a cold beer.
Schools
While Woody Creek only has one school within its bounds, it is an exceptional and award-winning school.
