As more people access the backcountry, learning how to safely and responsibly spend time in these spaces is a critical part of being prepared. Join Aspen Public Radio and The Arts Campus at Willits (TACAW) on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for the Roaring Fork Valley’s second annual Backcountry Symposium.

This FREE event will convene local and visiting backcountry enthusiasts to learn about outdoor education, recreation ecology, and mapping technology — plus tips and tools for wilderness safety and backcountry decision-making.

Register now to be entered into a drawing for amazing backcountry gear and prizes!

The day will include a series of panel discussions and presentations exploring the outdoors and sharing key resources and tools for understanding the landscape of backcountry adventure.

Beginning with a Resource Fair, area organizations and businesses working in outdoor education and adventure will provide information and resources, including: Colorado Mountain College, Aspen Valley Land Trust, Buddy Program, Wilderness Workshop and Explore Booksellers who will be onsite with a selection of recommended titles available for purchase.

Just announced! Get your portrait professionally taken by Rising Sun Photog as part of this special event (for FREE), as we work to capture images of the real & aspiring adventurers who are spending time in the backcountry.

And we’ll have The Whole Empanada onsite selling their delicious empanadas.