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NAME: John Denver Sanctuary
ADDRESS: Rio Grande Trail & Mill St.
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: 4.5 acres of Rio Grande Lot: 1 Rio Grande Park
DATE PURCHASED: 3/22/1973
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HOW FUNDED: 7 Penny Funds
LEGISLATION: Article XIII City of Aspen Home Rule, Section 13.13
Resolution #86, 2001
John Denver Proclamation IIIb on 8/10/1998
DEED: Warranty Deed, recorded 9/17/1973, Book 279, Page 746-747.
Reception #162368
On August 10, 1998 the City of Aspen officially dedicated a 4.5 acre parcel of the
Rio Grande Park which is adjacent to the Roaring Fork River, as the “John
Denver Sanctuary”. In the November 6, 2001 Election an amendment to the
Home Rule Charter was passed creating Specially Designated Spaces. John
Denver Sanctuary is identified as one of the Special Designated Spaces.
The focus of the sanctuary is the beauty of the recreated natural landscape,
including groves of trees, shrubs, wetlands and wildflowers. At the heart of the
sanctuary there is a boulder garden featuring native river boulders placed in a
perfect circle to represent the circle of life. At the circle’s center, there is a
single ponderosa pine symbolizing the spirit of John Denver. The boulders are
engraved with the lyrics of John Denver’s songs. In honor of John Denver it is a
place for contemplation and renewal of one’s spirit in the heart of Aspen’s
natural beauty.