Aspen
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Ron Krajian Bridge: A Piece of History in Aspen
Discover the historic Ron Krajian Bridge in Aspen: a charming pedestrian crossing with a story to tell in Mill Street Park.
The Ron Krajian Bridge, originally built in 1911 as the Carbondale Bridge, is a historic steel truss bridge that now serves as a pedestrian crossing in Aspen's Mill Street Park. Named after local personality Ron Krajian, this bridge offers a unique glimpse into Colorado's transportation history.
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A brief summary to Ron Krajian Bridge
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Rio Grande Pl, Aspen, Colorado, 81611, US
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Getting There
Walking
From downtown Aspen, the Ron Krajian Bridge is easily accessible by foot. Head east on Main Street, then turn left onto Mill Street. Continue north, and you'll find the bridge within Mill Street Park, spanning the Roaring Fork River. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes from the center of town.
Public Transport
Aspen's public transportation system, RFTA, offers free bus service within the city. Take any RFTA bus to Rubey Park, the main bus terminal in downtown Aspen. From there, follow the walking directions to Mill Street Park, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Bus service to Rubey Park is free.
Parking
If driving, parking is available at the Rio Grande Parking Plaza located at 425 Rio Grande Place, a block from Main Street. From the parking plaza, it's a short walk to Mill Street Park and the Ron Krajian Bridge. Parking rates at the Rio Grande Parking Plaza are $2 per hour, with a daily maximum of $12. Street parking is also available, but can be limited, with rates ranging from $2 to $6 per hour.
Local tips
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Take a stroll through Mill Street Park and enjoy the scenic views of the Roaring Fork River from the bridge.
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Learn about the history of the bridge and its namesake, Ron Krajian, a prominent figure in Aspen's community.
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Visit during the fall to witness the beautiful autumn colors surrounding the bridge.
Discover more about Ron Krajian Bridge
The Ron Krajian Bridge, also known as the Sheely Bridge, is a charming pedestrian bridge located in Mill Street Park in Aspen, Colorado. Originally constructed in 1911, it was initially known as the Carbondale Bridge and served vehicular traffic near Carbondale, Colorado.
In 1966, the bridge was shortened and moved to its current location in Aspen to serve as a footbridge. It was later dedicated and renamed in 1986 after Ron Krajian, a beloved Aspen local and philanthropist. Krajian was known as the 'unofficial mayor of Aspen' and was honored by the Aspen Historical Society. He purchased the naming rights to the bridge at a charity auction.
The bridge itself is a Pratt through-truss structure and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a significant landmark. It offers a scenic crossing point over the Roaring Fork River and provides access to walking trails and other park amenities. The bridge represents a successful adaptive reuse of a historic structure, transforming it from a functional roadway bridge to a cherished pedestrian landmark.
A brief summary to Ron Krajian Bridge
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