Aspen Center for Environmental Studies ACES
Explore Sustainability and Wildlife at ACES Educational Farm and Wildlife Preserve
Looking for a place where nature, sustainability, and education intersect? Discover the magic of Rock Bottom Ranch, an ACES (Aspen Center for Environmental Studies) property that doubles as a working educational farm and wildlife preserve. Nestled between the Roaring Fork River and the Rio Grande Trail in Basalt, Colorado, Rock Bottom Ranch offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors of all ages. This 113-acre property blends environmental stewardship with regenerative agriculture, making it a prime destination for families, educators, and anyone curious about how sustainable food systems really work.
Agriculture Rooted in Ecology
At the heart of Rock Bottom Ranch is a commitment to agriculture that enhances the environment rather than depleting it. The farming practices here are designed with ecosystem health, carbon sequestration, energy efficiency, and animal welfare in mind. Rock Bottom Ranch was the first farm in Colorado to be Certified Wildlife Friendly—a testament to its harmonious relationship with the surrounding natural habitat.
The farm produces a diverse mix of food, all without the use of GMOs or harmful chemicals. Livestock—including chickens, pigs, sheep, and cattle—are pasture-raised and Animal Welfare Approved, meaning they are cared for using the highest standards of ethical animal husbandry. Visitors can find farm-fresh products such as:
- Pasture-raised eggs, pork, chicken, and lamb
- Beef from RBR/Cap-K Ranch partnership
- Organic salad greens, tomatoes, root vegetables, herbs, and over 100 varieties of produce
These goods are available seasonally at the Ranch Store and local farmers’ markets throughout the Roaring Fork Valley.
Interactive Visitor Experiences
Visiting Rock Bottom Ranch isn’t just about buying fresh food—it’s about learning where that food comes from and how it’s grown. The Ranch features an Eco-Ed trail system, a bike-accessible byway, and five outdoor classrooms that offer hands-on learning experiences for children and adults alike. There’s even a creative natural playscape that lets younger guests connect with nature in imaginative ways.
Families and individuals can sign up for guided farm tours, sustainable cooking classes, and farm-to-table dinners. Seasonal events such as harvest festivals, planting days, and artisan workshops invite the community to learn together while celebrating nature and food.
For kids, Rock Bottom Ranch is a paradise of discovery. During summer and spring break camps, children can explore themes like food systems, animal care, and ecological science. Some camps are designed in partnership with other organizations to focus on photography, art, fishing, and nature exploration. A camper shuttle runs from ACES’ Hallam Lake center in Aspen to Rock Bottom Ranch on select weeks, making it easier for families across the region to participate.
More Than a Farm: Other ACES Locations
ACES is more than just Rock Bottom Ranch—it operates a network of educational sites across the Roaring Fork Valley that each offers a unique opportunity to engage with nature:
Hallam Lake Nature Preserve (Aspen)
Located in the heart of Aspen, Hallam Lake is a 25-acre wildlife preserve and the original home of ACES. Visitors can explore peaceful trails, attend naturalist programs, and spot native wildlife such as beavers, herons, and foxes. Hallam Lake is also home to ACES’ wildlife ambassadors, including birds of prey and rescue animals used in education programs.
Catto Center at Toklat (Ashcroft)
High in the Castle Creek Valley, Toklat offers rustic mountain charm and a deep history tied to early conservation efforts. This retreat center hosts workshops, artist residencies, and educational gatherings focused on creativity, storytelling, and ecology.
Spring Creek (Carbondale)
A relatively newer addition, Spring Creek is being developed as a conservation and restoration site with ongoing research projects. It’s not yet open to the public on a regular basis, but it contributes to ACES’ overall mission by preserving and rehabilitating important natural habitats.
Why ACES Matters
Whether you’re an educator, outdoor enthusiast, curious traveler, or eco-conscious parent, ACES offers a powerful way to reconnect with nature and learn how everyday choices impact the planet. The organization’s work helps foster climate literacy, land stewardship, and a deep appreciation for Colorado’s natural ecosystems.
Plan Your Visit
To learn more about Rock Bottom Ranch, upcoming programs, or to get involved with ACES at one of its locations, visit: 🌐 aspennature.org
Kathleen Fitzsimmons – Blogger and SEO writer for ColoradoInfo.com. Kathleen is a passionate Colorado resident who enjoys the many aspects the Centennial State has to offer. From the outdoor extremes to the eclectic people who make up the Colorado communities.
