El Jebel, Colorado

El Jebel is a little unincorporated community in the Roaring Fork Valley, situated between Carbondale and Basalt. It’s located 22 miles northwest of Aspen at an elevation of 6,483 feet.

In 2020 the town had a population of 4,130 residents. Located in Eagle County, El Jebel receives regular tourism for those exploring the region’s outstanding year-round recreation. It’s a census-designated place (CDP) tucked away on the north side of Highway 82.

There are several commercial businesses in town and even a tiny downtown district. There are also a few home subdivisions in the area. For mail, it’s served by the Carbondale Post Office, with zip code 81623. The name is Arabic for “the mountain”.

Main Attractions

Mountain reflection on alpine lake — Mt. Sopris reflected in one of the Thomas Lakes in El Jebel, CO. Photo by: briandjan607

Thomas Lakes – These high elevation crystal clear pair of lakes sit on the southern side of Mt. Sopris. The hike to the lakes takes about 2-3 hours from the trailhead, with the whole trail totaling 7.8 miles.

Crown Mountain Park – This huge outdoor park in the middle of town is a community hub for year-round recreation. There are sports fields, racquet courts, and an ice rink. The star of the show is the bike park that features an asphalt pump track, bike jump air bag, BMX track, and a kid’s area.

Recreation

Mountain reservoir — Sunny day over Ruedi Reservoir near El Jebel, CO. Photo by: Carolyn Cuskey

Camping –

Gateway RV Park is north of town on the highway and is a city-run park with full hook-ups and easy access to a boat launch on the Roaring Fork River.
30 minutes away along the banks of Ruedi Reservoir, there are 3 campgrounds with sites for both RVs and tent camping.
Read about other spots to camp in the area around El Jebel and Basalt.

Fishing –

Ruedi Reservoir is a short drive east on Frying Pan Rd filled with mackinaw, trout, salmon, and more to fish for on over 1,000 acres of water.
Roaring Fork River runs through town and is known around the state for its rainbow and brown trout, as well as whitefish.

Hiking –

Arbaney Kittle trailhead winds throughout White River National Forest for over 20 miles with spectacular views. If you don’t want to tackle the long route, you can opt for a 1.75 mile trek to Fryingpan Lookout.
South of town you’ll find Thomas Lakes trailhead, a 7.8 mile out and back trail that includes wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and high-altitude views.

Accommodations

El Jebel Colorado Sierra Vista Road — Sierra Vista Road leads down to the Roaring Fork Valley in El Jebel. Photo by: Marc Palumbo

Booking.com

Nearby Basalt has plenty of hotel options for your stay in the Roaring Fork Valley.

Dining

Indoor seating at a mexican restaurant — Inside seating at Casa Tequila’s in El Jebel, CO. Photo by: facebook.com/casatequilas

Breakfast in America – Hidden gem with hearty breakfast options at an affordable price. They also provide self-serve soft drinks and coffee for a caffeine boost.

Panaderia San Miguel – Made from scratch, authentic El Salvadorian dishes including pupusas, burritos, tortas, and an assortment of sweets.

Casa Tequila’s – Local favorite spot in town for flavorful Mexican food. Spicy salsa, sweet horchata, and perfectly cooked chile relleño are just a few highlights off their extensive menu.