Tucked in a serene grove outside the small town, these whimsical aspens have become famous for their twisted, curvy trunks — unlike the usual straight-laced aspens seen throughout Colorado. They’re especially photogenic in the fall, when golden leaves glow in contrast to their quirky forms.

🧭 Getting There

📍 Shot Location:
Google Maps Pin – Dancing Aspens

🚫 Avoid the route over Ophir Pass from Highway 550.

• This is a high-clearance, 4x4-only route and not suitable for most vehicles.

• Even GPS apps may try to take you this way — do not follow this route unless properly equipped.

✅ Preferred Access:

• From the town of Ophir

• Take the dirt road about one mile out of town. The aspens will be on your RIGHT side.

• This approach is more accessible and far safer for regular vehicles.

🚗 Parking

📍 Suggested Parking Location:
Google Maps Pin – Parking Spot

• No designated parking area is available.

• Park fully off the road — there is space for 1–2 cars near the pin.

• If full, continue a bit farther up the road and look for other safe pull-off spots.

• Please be respectful: do not block the road, driveways, or private land.

📷 Photography Tips

Best Time to Shoot:

• Fall (late September to early October): peak color season.

• Morning light: creates soft, diffused lighting in the grove.

• Late afternoon: provides warm, directional light through the trees.

Gear Suggestions:

• Wide-angle lens (14–35mm): capture the twisted trunks in context.

• Telephoto lens (70–200mm): isolate curves, compress perspective.

• Tripod: essential for low-light forest scenes and creative motion blur.

• Polarizer: to cut glare on leaves and enhance color.

Compositional Ideas:

• Shoot low to the ground to exaggerate the twist of the trunks.

• Use the curves as leading lines.

• Explore backlighting through the leaves for a dreamy, glowing effect.

• Consider vertical shots to show the full height and flow of the trees.

📌 Final Notes

• Please Leave No Trace — stay on existing paths, and don't damage the grove.

• Cell service is limited in the area, so preload maps and directions.

• Respect nature and other visitors. This grove is delicate and special.