Quaking aspen is the most widely distributed tree in North America. It occurs from Newfoundland west to Alaska and south to Virginia, Missouri, Nebraska, and northern Mexico. Quaking aspen is distributed fairly continuously in the East. Distribution is patchy in the West, with trees confined to suitable sites.
Quaking aspen is a major cover type in North America.
In Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Utah, quaking aspen occupies more land than any other forest type. Quaking aspen also occurs in a large number of other forest cover types over its extensive range. Quaking aspen is common in mixed conifer forests of New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Quaking aspen is listed as a dominant species in over 100 habitat, plant community, and vegetation typings. Alaska - Bebb willow and roses are also associated with quaking aspen in Alaska.