UPDATED Aug. 14, 2018: If you are staying with Frias Properties in July, you may have questions about the Lake Christine Fire that is currently active in Basalt, approximately 20 miles from Aspen. The Lake Christine Fire began on July 3, 2018 and continues to impact the Roaring Fork Valley, so we have put together the following guide to help our guests navigate this situation. It includes resources to stay abreast of the news. If you have any additional questions, please contact our Front Desk at (970) 920-2000 or frontdesk@friasproperties.com.
As of Aug. 13, 2018, the Lake Christine Fire was 90 percent contained. Commercial flights into and out of Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) are currently operating with a full schedule. The temporary flight restriction (TFR) was reduced in size on Saturday, July 21 but may be reinstated if the wildfire takes an unexpected turn. All travelers are encouraged to contact their airlines for specific details, options, and schedules.
What is the Lake Christine Fire?
On July 3, 2018, a fire was allegedly started by two people firing tracer rounds at a shooting range northwest of Basalt. The fire quickly spread up Basalt Mountain and forced evacuations in many neighborhoods in Basalt and El Jebel. As of Aug. 13, 2018, the Christine Lake Fire was 90 percent contained and being cleaned up by fire personnel. The affected area is located approximately 20 miles from Aspen.
Is travel to and from Aspen impacted by the Lake Christine Fire?
As of Aug. 13, 2018, Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is operating a full schedule of commercial flights. The temporary flight restriction (TFR) remains in effect and could impact flights during wildfire operations. For the most up-to-date information, check the Aspen Airport's Facebook page or Twitter account and contact your airline. Airport administration is posting updates daily.
Highway 82 is open in Basalt with no current traffic impacts. When traveling from Denver to Aspen, visitors may bypass the affected area by traveling over Independence Pass to the east of Aspen.
How is the Lake Christine Fire impacting visitors who are in Aspen?
Aspen's air quality is not currently impacted by the Lake Christine Fire. To view the current air quality conditions, click here.
Aspen visitors are expected to comply with Stage II fire restrictions that were enacted on June 28, 2018 by the Pitkin County Sheriff's Office. To view all Stage II fire restrictions, click here.
Aspen's primary visitor attractions are not impacted by the Lake Christine Fire. The Silver Queen Gondola accessing Aspen Mountain and the Maroon Bells recreation area are open. Please contact the Frias Properties Concierge for additional information about access to Aspen attractions.
Where can I find the most updated news about the Lake Christine Fire?
- For information about the Lake Christine Fire, visit the Eagle County Sheriff's Office Facebook page. Additional news sources include Aspen Times, Aspen Daily News, and Aspen Public Radio. Aspen Snowmass is also updating their Emergency Page frequently.
- For information about air travel in and out of the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), check the Aspen Airport Facebook page or Twitter account. Airport administration is posting updates daily. It is also advised that you contact your airline directly.
- For information about traffic impacts on Highway 82, visit the Colorado Department of Transportation website and select "CO 82."
- For information about current air quality conditions, visit the City of Aspen's Air Quality website.
If you have additional questions, please contact the Frias Properties Front Desk at (970) 920-2000 or frontdesk@friasproperties.com.
