safety
What to know about evacuating Snowmass in case of a wildfire
By Beau Toepfer Follow
btoepfer@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times
· June 30, 2026
· 3 min read
What is Snowmass Village’s evacuation plan if a wildfire were to threaten the town?
There’s a complicated answer, according to Chief of Snowmass Village Police Brian Olson.
Snowmass is fully surrounded by forests and shrubland, and much of that vegetation is moderately to highly likely to ...
Key takeaway There’s a complicated answer, according to Chief of Snowmass Village Police Brian Olson.
Why this matters in Aspen News
Snowmass Village's complex evacuation plan is a sobering reminder of the town's vulnerability to wildfires, given its surroundings of highly flammable forests and shrubland. The fact that evacuation routes cannot be predetermined and may vary by neighborhood underscores the need for residents and visitors to stay informed and adapt quickly in the event of a disaster. The town's "ready, set, go" evacuation notice system is crucial in this regard, and it is essential that everyone understands the different stages and takes necessary precautions. The designation of points of refuge, such as hotels and the golf course, provides an additional layer of safety, but it is critical that people do not attempt to drive into the path of a fire or into hazardous areas. As the dry months approach, increasing the risk of wildfires, it is vital that the community remains vigilant and prepared to respond to any potential threats.
About this story
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Category: safety ·
Published: June 30, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? What is Snowmass Village’s evacuation plan if a wildfire were to threaten the town?
There’s a complicated answer, according to Chief of Snowmass Village Police Brian Olson.
Snowmass is fully surrounded by forests and shrubland, and much of that vegetation is moderately to highly likely to ...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 30, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Beau Toepfer Follow
btoepfer@aspentimes.com at 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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