Aspen is in a remote area of the Rocky Mountains. The Roaring Fork River flows through the town. In the early years of the town, Aspen was a major center of silver mining. After a major recession, the city fell into decline, and most of the people that lived there left. However, after World War II the area was developed as a ski resort, and became a major skiing destination. Popular with celebrities, today it is one of the richest cities in the US and it remains a popular skiing destination. 