safety
Colorado Trail Explorer app shares wildfire alerts for outdoor recreationists
By Aspen Times
· July 9, 2026
· 2 min read
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding the Colorado outdoor community that the Colorado Trail Explorer — also known as COTREX — mobile app displays active fire alerts, which include wildfires and prescribed burns in covered areas.
To access these alerts, users can open the app and search fo...
Key takeaway Over 36 agency partners use the COTREX app to post real-time advisories, which includes trail closures, safety hazards and other essential trail alerts.
Why this matters in Aspen News
For Aspen residents and visitors, the Colorado Trail Explorer app's wildfire alerts are particularly relevant given the area's dry months and proximity to wilderness areas. The Roaring Fork Valley's scenic trails and backcountry are a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, but they also pose a significant wildfire risk. With the app, users can check for active fires and prescribed burns before heading out on a hike or bike ride, helping to prevent accidental ignition and ensure a safe experience. The app's real-time advisories and offline maps are especially useful in areas with poor cell service, such as the Elk Mountains surrounding Aspen. By utilizing the COTREX app, locals and visitors can help mitigate the risk of wildfires in the area, which is crucial for protecting the community, wildlife, and natural resources. This tool is a valuable resource for anyone recreating in the Aspen area.
About this story
Original reporting by Aspen Times . Aspen News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: safety ·
Published: July 9, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding the Colorado outdoor community that the Colorado Trail Explorer — also known as COTREX — mobile app displays active fire alerts, which include wildfires and prescribed burns in covered areas.
To access these alerts, users can open the app and search fo...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 9, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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