Living in Willits, Basalt: A Perfect Balance of Serenity and Convenience Just Minutes from Aspen, Colorado
Stephanie Kroll
Stephanie Kroll
Nestled in the heart of the Roaring Fork Valley, Willits in Basalt offers residents a unique blend of small-town charm, modern amenities, and stunning natural beauty. For those who love the idea of living near the world-renowned Aspen but crave a quieter, more affordable lifestyle, Willits provides the perfect solution. One of the key questions prospective homebuyers often ask is, “How far is Willits and Basalt from Aspen, and what is the commute like?” In this blog post, we’ll explore the distance, commute options, and the benefits of living in Willits while still enjoying everything Aspen has to offer.
Willits is conveniently located just 18 miles from downtown Aspen. This short distance allows residents to easily access all the attractions and amenities of Aspen, including its world-class ski resorts, luxury shopping, fine dining, and vibrant arts scene. Whether you’re commuting for work or heading into town for a day on the slopes, the proximity of Willits to Aspen makes it an ideal location for those who want the best of both worlds.
The commute from Willits to Aspen is straightforward and scenic, offering stunning views of the Roaring Fork River and surrounding mountains. Here are the most common ways to make the journey:
Driving is the most popular option for commuting between Willits and Aspen. The 18-mile drive typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route primarily follows Highway 82, a well-maintained road that offers a smooth and picturesque drive. During peak ski season or special events in Aspen, traffic can increase, so it’s advisable to plan ahead, especially during rush hours. During the summer months, there can also be construction or road repaving, adding time to the commute. In the weather, inclement weather can make commute by car take up to an hour or an hour and a half, depending on time of day and conditions. Many locals know back road short cuts to take when traffic is bad during the peak morning commute hours.
For those who prefer not to drive, the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) provides reliable and convenient bus service between Willits and Aspen. The RFTA buses are known for their punctuality, safety, and comfort, making them a popular choice for commuters and visitors alike. The journey by bus typically takes about 45 minutes, with buses running frequently throughout the day. Taking the bus allows you to relax, enjoy the scenery, spend time on your phone safely if you want, and avoid the hassle of parking in Aspen, which can be challenging during busy times. From Willits to Aspen, the bus costs $2.50 each way as of 2024. The L line takes longer and goes through Downtown Basalt, and takes local stops along the way. The BRT is the most direct line and makes a few stops in between Willits and Aspen, but ultimately cuts the line of cars in traffic in the morning, saving about 10-15 minutes of time off a commute.
For the more adventurous, biking between Willits and Aspen is a viable option during the warmer months. The Rio Grande Trail, a paved multi-use trail, connects Basalt to Aspen and provides a safe and scenic route for cyclists. The ride takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace, but can be much faster than that on an eBike, and offers an incredible way to experience the natural beauty of the Roaring Fork Valley up close.
Living in Willits, Basalt, offers a host of benefits that make the slightly longer commute to Aspen well worth it. Here are some of the key advantages:
Compared to Aspen’s real estate market, Willits offers more affordable housing options without compromising on quality or amenities. Whether you’re looking for a modern condo, a family-friendly home, or a spacious townhome, Willits has a variety of options that cater to different lifestyles and budgets. This affordability makes Willits an attractive option for those who want to live close to Aspen but are looking for more value for their money.
Willits Town Center is the heart of the Willits neighborhood, offering residents easy access to a wide range of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, shops, and fitness centers. The area has a vibrant community feel, with regular events, farmer’s markets, and outdoor concerts that bring neighbors together. The convenience of having everything you need within walking distance is a significant perk for those living in Willits. Homeowners and renters in Willits get more value for the money living in Basalt, and can usually live in larger homes, than if they lived in Aspen.
While Willits is close to Aspen, it also offers easy access to the natural beauty of the Roaring Fork Valley. Residents can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and more without straying far from home. The nearby Crown Mountain Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, featuring trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. For those who love the outdoors, Willits provides endless opportunities to connect with nature.
One of the standout features of Willits is its strong sense of community. The neighborhood is known for its friendly residents, active local organizations, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home. Whether you’re raising a family or looking for a peaceful place to enjoy your retirement, Willits offers a supportive and engaged community.
One of the greatest advantages of living in Willits is the ability to enjoy the tranquility of a smaller town while still being within easy reach of Aspen’s world-class amenities. Whether you’re interested in the arts, outdoor adventure, or luxury shopping, living in Willits allows you to experience everything Aspen has to offer without the high cost and hustle of living directly in the resort town. You can spend your day skiing in Aspen and be back home in Willits in time for a relaxing evening in your cozy mountain retreat.
Willits in Basalt offers the perfect balance for those who want to live near Aspen but prefer a quieter, more affordable lifestyle. The short and scenic commute to Aspen makes it easy to enjoy all that the famous mountain town has to offer, while the amenities and community spirit of Willits provide a high quality of life. If you’re considering a move to the Roaring Fork Valley, Willits is an excellent choice that gives you the best of both worlds—serenity and convenience, all within reach of Aspen.
As Willits locals, we would love the opportunity to work with you to become our new neighbor. Reach out to the real estate team at Avant Garde Aspen if you'd like to buy your next home in Willits or Basalt.
Contact the real estate team at Avant Garde Aspen to sell your property, buy luxury ski property, and browse resort homes for sale in Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale, and the rest of the Roaring Fork Valley.