Welcome to the Crystal River Valley...

Colorado's High Country is blessed with its share of awe inspiring places so magical in fact it just takes a picture  for world wide recognition.   Following that fame and the intrigue these images and story conjure the tourist inevitable follow.   While it is great to have access to these once little mountain retreats and ski hills, the crowds, development and noise have made them less and less ideal for a "retreat".  Very few if any exceptions are left for those looking to invest in the high county as a wonderful retreat instead of another place to fight the crowds. A place where those in search of peace & quiet, fresh air, clear water, and crowd free activities can be found with ease. Its these reasons, and so many more, that make finding and owning a piece of the Crystal River Valley so special. 

The Crystal River Valley, tucked in the White River National Forrest, is home to a tremendous variety of natural beauty, history and community harmony and is a highlight of the West Elk Loop Scenic Byway. The perfect natural combination of stunning red rock cliffs, world famous natural deposits, ancient Aspen groves, unparalleled hot springs, National Historic District, mysterious meadows, trophy level hunting grounds, Redstone Castle, crystal clear lakes, rivers and streams are at the heart of why the first known inhabitants, the Ute Indians, choose the area for the summer home.  Redstone caught the eye of John C Osgood, "Fuel King of the West"  at the turn of the century not only for its rich mining deposits but also as a place to create a model industrial village known as "The Experiment".  Many of the buildings including the Redstone Inn, Ice House, Castle, Post office and many mining cabins still stand today and the infrastructure of this now Designated Historic District unlike any other mining town in Colorado. 

The Crystal River

There is no doubt that the beautiful and accurately named Crystal River is the heartbeat of our awe inspiring valley.  This river's headwaters start in the protected Maroon Bells Scenic Area that separates the Crystal Valley from Snowmass and Crested Butte.  It crystal clear water flows year round down to Beaver Lake and the Town of Marble, then winds its way along CR 2 before flowing along to Highway 133 at the bottom of McClure Pass.  After flowing along 133 down to past the Redstone Castle in the Redstone Historic District the Crystal River  meets up with the Roaring Fork River downstream about 18 miles in Carbondale eventually joining The Colorado River in Glenwood Springs.  In fact this river is so special that it is currently in the process of being listed as Wild & Scenic, a protection that has the full support of the local community and larger Roaring Fork Watershed District.

Marble, Colorado

Our valley is further made more magical by Marble's unique history.  Prospectors for gold and silver were  discovered the marble deposits in the 1870's.  Marble was incorporated in 1899 and growth was slow as it was initially carted out of the mountain by horse power.  Later famously loaded onto a unique tram and connected to the Treasury Mountain Railway. This is why visitors see "bright white rectangle rocks" scattered along the Crystal's River banks.  They are really just spills from our charming and innovative railroad and mining history.  A history that built major American monuments such as Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and tomb of the unknown soldier.

The Ruby of the Rockies, Redstone Colorado is nationally recognized Historic District steeped in charm, quiet ambiance, and 4 season outdoor adventure. Located in beautiful Pitkin County, bordering Maroon Bells to the east, The Grand Mesa to the West, Redstone is THE heart of Crystal River Valley.  Redstone is truly a unique gem for those looking to get away to a healthy mountain environment. As if the surroundings weren't enough add to list of that tasty, clean water, an abundance of trees and trails,  limited cell service or crowds and your body, mind and sleep will be thanking you.  A close second will likely be your real estate portfolio. For those investment minded individuals don't forget a few iconic wedding venues and holistic retreats in the area are within walking distance or within just a few miles.

Take a Tour of Redstone