Carbondale is found in the shadow of Mount Sopris, a mountain that stands 12,953 ft (3,948 m) tall. Ideally situated one hour northwest of Aspen and half-an-hour south of Glenwood Springs, Carbondale is a small town that attracts visitors looking for a peaceful Rocky Mountain escape. Those seeking outdoor adventure often make Carbondale a home base when exploring the nearby White River National Forest, which encompasses 2.3 million acres (9.3 million hectares) of land and is home to many world-renowned ski resorts. The Carbondale area is also known for its world-class fly-fishing opportunities and a number of outfitters offer fishing excursions on nearby rivers, including the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers. Shoppers appreciate Carbondale's specialty shops, which feature a wide assortment of gifts, sporting goods and furniture. Art enthusiasts enjoy browsing through Carbondale's art galleries, where some of the area's finest ceramics are on display.