John Denver Sanctuary
470 Rio Grande Pl, Aspen, CO, 81611
This Aspen sanctuary is both a public park and a memorial to the musician John Denver, whose songs like “Rocky Mountain High” capture the spirit of Colorado. Come to relax on the shores of the Roaring Fork River, stroll along the paths, and appreciate the work of the park's namesake in a garden devoted to his music.
The basics
At the heart of the John Denver Sanctuary is the Song Garden, a circle of natural river boulders that are engraved with some of the musician’s most famous lyrics. A single Colorado blue spruce at the center of the circle represents his spirit. In addition to the Song Garden, you can meander along the many gravel and dirt paths branching out from the main trail, some of which connect to the adjacent Rio Grande Park. While you can visit the sanctuary on your own, a guided tour can fill you in on the park’s history and design, as well as John Denver’s enduring legacy.
Things to know before you go
The John Denver Sanctuary is free and open to the public.
Restrooms are available on-site.
Plan to spend about an hour visiting the Song Garden and exploring the connecting trails.
There is no public parking at the sanctuary. The closest parking is at the Rio Grande Parking Garage.
While the main trail is flat and paved, wheelchair access is limited throughout the sanctuary.
How to get there
From downtown Aspen, walk north on Mill or Spring Street for about 5 minutes until you pass Main Street, then turn into Rio Grande Park and follow the trails for a few minutes until you reach the sanctuary. If you’re driving, park at the Rio Grande Parking Garage. You can also get there by bus; the closest stop is Rio Grande Park.
When to get there
The sanctuary is open daily from dawn until dusk. Visit in October to catch the annual John Denver Celebration, when fans gather to pay tribute to the singer through music, personal remembrances, and special gatherings. In May and June, the sanctuary’s large flower garden bursts into bloom, making it a popular time to host parties and weddings.
Why Aspen is home to the John Denver Sanctuary
Though originally from New Mexico, John Denver spent much of his life in Aspen. His love for this town shines through his work, with songs like “Starwood in Aspen” capturing his passion for his chosen Rocky Mountain home. His dedication also lives on in the local environmental protection group the Windstar Foundation, which he founded to help conserve land in nearby Snowmass.
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