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Hallam Lake: Aspen's Nature Sanctuary

Discover Aspen's natural side at Hallam Lake: a wildlife haven and environmental learning center for all ages, steps from downtown.

Hallam Lake, a 25-acre nature preserve in the heart of Aspen, offers a tranquil escape with diverse wildlife and educational programs. It's home to the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) and features a half-mile loop trail through varied habitats.

A brief summary to Hallam Lake

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hallam Lake.

  • Borrow binoculars from ACES to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
  • Visit during the summer for the best wildflower displays.
  • Check the ACES website for upcoming events, including bird of prey demonstrations and guided walks.
  • In winter, look for animal tracks along the nature trail.
  • Consider walking, biking, or taking the bus, as parking is limited.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    Hallam Lake is located a short walk from downtown Aspen. From Main Street, walk north on Mill Street, then turn left onto Puppy Smith Street. Continue past the post office; the road dead-ends at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. Follow the driveway to the parking area on the left. The entrance to Hallam Lake is through the stone gates.

  • Public Transport

    Aspen has a free public bus system. Take any bus that stops near downtown Aspen (Rubey Park) and follow the walking directions above. There is no cost for the bus.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Aspen. A ride from Rubey Park (the main bus station) to Hallam Lake will cost approximately $15-$20. Note that prices may vary depending on demand and time of day.

Discover more about Hallam Lake

Hallam Lake, a serene 25-acre nature preserve and environmental learning center, is located just steps from downtown Aspen. As the original site of the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES), Hallam Lake has been providing immersive programming for all ages since 1968. The property was donated by Elizabeth Paepcke in 1968.Visitors can explore a half-mile loop nature trail that meanders through wetlands and aspen forests, with observation decks offering views of local wildlife. The preserve is home to a variety of animals, including mule deer, elk, foxes, coyotes, and beavers, as well as golden eagles, hawks, and songbirds. In addition to its natural beauty, Hallam Lake has a rich history, once serving as a cultural center with an ice-production facility, dance hall, and toboggan run.Today, Hallam Lake continues to offer environmental education and naturalist programs year-round. Summertime brings wildflowers, while winter is ideal for tracking animals. The site also features an indoor trout stream with native cutthroat trout. ACES also rehabilitates birds of prey, so visitors can sometimes see great horned owls and golden eagles.

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