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John Denver Sanctuary: A Tribute in Aspen

A peaceful sanctuary in Aspen, Colorado, honoring John Denver's life, music, and love for nature through gardens and song-inscribed stones.

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The John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen, Colorado, is a peaceful memorial to the singer-songwriter. Nestled in Rio Grande Park, it features gardens, streams, and boulders engraved with Denver's lyrics, offering a space for reflection and appreciation of nature.

A brief summary to John Denver Sanctuary

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the sanctuary in late spring or summer to see the perennial flower gardens in full bloom.
  • Take some time to wander along the Roaring Fork River and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the water.
  • Load up a John Denver playlist on your phone and listen to his music while walking around the sanctuary.
  • Consider visiting on a Sunday morning for easier parking in the Rio Grande Parking Plaza.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The John Denver Sanctuary is located in Rio Grande Park in Aspen, easily accessible from downtown. From most points in downtown Aspen, walk towards the Roaring Fork River. The sanctuary is adjacent to Theatre Aspen's Hurst Theatre. There is no public parking at the sanctuary itself. The entrance to the sanctuary is near the river, within Rio Grande Park.

  • Public Transport

    Aspen has a convenient public transportation system. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers free bus service within Aspen. Take the RFTA bus to Rubey Park in downtown Aspen. From Rubey Park, walk towards the Roaring Fork River and Rio Grande Park. The John Denver Sanctuary is located within the park, next to Theatre Aspen. Bus service within Aspen is free.

  • Parking

    If driving, parking is available at the Rio Grande Parking Plaza, located across Rio Grande Place from Rio Grande Park. Parking rates vary, but parking is free on Sundays unless otherwise specified. From the parking plaza, walk across Rio Grande Place to Rio Grande Park. The John Denver Sanctuary is located within the park, near the Roaring Fork River. Expect to pay for parking, except on Sundays.

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Discover more about John Denver Sanctuary

The John Denver Sanctuary, located in the heart of Aspen, Colorado, is a touching tribute to the life and legacy of John Denver, the celebrated singer-songwriter who called Aspen home for many years. The sanctuary, nestled next to Rio Grande Park and the Roaring Fork River, provides a serene and beautiful space where visitors can connect with nature and reflect on Denver's music and his deep love for the environment. Dedicated on August 15, 1998, the 4.5-acre sanctuary was conceived as more than just a memorial; it was designed to be a garden that captures the spirit of nature, reflecting Denver's passion for the environment. The sanctuary features winding streams, man-made wetlands that act as a stormwater filtration system, and a perennial flower garden that blooms in late May or early June. A highlight of the sanctuary is the Song Garden, which features native river boulders arranged in a circle, representing the circle of life. Many of these boulders are engraved with lyrics from Denver's most iconic songs, such as "Rocky Mountain High," "Sunshine on My Shoulders," and "Annie's Song". In the center of the circle stands a Colorado Blue Spruce, symbolizing John Denver's spirit. The sanctuary provides a stage for entertainment as it houses Theater Aspen. The John Denver Sanctuary offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Aspen while paying homage to a beloved artist. It's a place for quiet meditation, a family picnic, or simply a peaceful walk surrounded by nature and music. The sanctuary is open from dawn to dusk and is free to the public.

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