About RFTA
The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA, pronounced ‘rafta’) functions as a Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) providing essential regional transit services connecting communities from Aspen to Rifle, Colorado. The RTA includes the communities of Aspen, Snowmass Village, Pitkin County, Basalt, and a portion of Eagle County, Carbondale, Glenwood Springs and New Castle.
Our Mission
Connecting our region with transit and trails.
RFTA provides commuter bus service between Aspen and Glenwood Springs (Roaring Fork Valley), Glenwood and Rifle (Hogback), intra city service in the Cities of Aspen and Glenwood Springs (Ride Glenwood), ski shuttle service to the four AspenSnowmass ski areas, the Maroon Bells Shuttles, and a variety of other seasonal services. RFTA also owns and manages the greatest portion of the Rio Grande Corridor/Trail which runs from Glenwood Springs to Aspen, Colorado.
RFTA Year In Review
RFTA’s Year in Review highlights the milestones and accomplishments that shaped our year—from major capital projects to enhanced safety initiatives and service improvements. Stay informed on how we’re moving the region forward by exploring our latest year in review.
RFTA Budget
RFTA’s Finance Department ensures transparent and accurate financial management. With diverse funding sources supporting our services, we are committed to keeping customers and taxpayers informed through balanced annual budgets and audited financial statements.
An Award-Winning Transit Leader
RFTA is the largest rural transit agency in the United States and the second-largest public transit agency in Colorado. Nationally recognized for its innovation and leadership in public transportation, RFTA has earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).
RFTA proudly operates VelociRFTA, the nation’s first rural Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, delivering fast, frequent, and reliable service throughout the Roaring Fork Valley between Aspen and Glenwood Springs.
In 2024, RFTA was named a Climate Champion by the Federal Transit Administration, a testament to its commitment to sustainability and climate action. This recognition highlights RFTA’s leadership in reducing greenhouse gas emissions through its forward-thinking Climate Action Plan and continued investment in clean and efficient transit solutions.