Region 12
Region 12 – Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin and Summit Counties
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Rocky Mountain Resort Region (Region 12) is located just west of the Front Range in the northwest portion of Colorado and includes the counties of Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin and Summit. Northwest Council of Governments (NWCCOG) is the region designated as State Planning and Management Region 12. It is in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and is characterized by its mountainous terrain and very high overall altitude. Most of the area is located among the high peaks of the Colorado Rockies. The region is bordered in the east by the Continental Divide, in the north by Wyoming, to the west by Garfield County, and to the south by the Elk Mountain Range in Pitkin County.
The region has often been referred to as the Rocky Mountain Resort Region, given its rural character and tourism-oriented economy.
A main section of the region has I-70 running through it, the state’s main east-west transportation corridor. This enhances the proximity of the region to Denver/Front Range metropolitan communities, as well as Grand Junction. This proximity to large metropolitan areas has contributed greatly to the region’s popularity as a mountain recreational area.
The region’s economy has transformed over time from a combination of mining and agriculture in its early history (1800s) to recreational tourism today. The quality of life, the mix of local businesses, a skilled workforce, a beautiful natural setting, and the international name recognition provided by world-class ski resorts are invaluable underpinnings unique to the region’s economy.
VISION
The Rocky Mountain Resort Region is internationally known for providing a classic Colorado lifestyle with year-round resorts and unique high-alpine environment to guests from around the world and to locals alike. Our vision is to grow and strengthen our economy in diverse, collaborative, and sustainable ways.
REGIONAL DATA & HIGHLIGHTS
Largest Companies by Employment
- Vail Resorts
- Aspen Ski Company
- Winter Park Resort
- Copper Mountain Resort
- Everest Materials, LLC
- Freeport-McMoRan
Top 5 Key Industries by Employment
- Tourism & Outdoor Recreation
- Health & Wellness
- Financial Services
- Creative Industries
- Infrastructure Engineering
Top 5 Regional Assets
- Open space and scenic beauty of Rocky Mountain Resort Region
- Colorado Mountain College
- Mountain resorts and recreation
- Aviation: Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, Eagle County Regional Airport, Kremmling Airport
- I-70 Corridor
Health & Wellness
- Region 12 boasts the highest number of businesses in the health and wellness industry per capita in the country.
Transportation
- There is an effort underway to expand air service at the Eagle County Regional Airport by developing an international terminal.