Rocky Mountain Travel Getting to Aspen Colorado
Aspen, Colorado is one of the most famous mountain destinations in North America. Known for world-class skiing, stunning alpine scenery, and a vibrant mountain town atmosphere, Aspen attracts visitors year-round for both winter adventures and summer outdoor recreation.
Despite its remote location in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is surprisingly easy to reach. Travelers can access the town by flying directly into the Aspen airport, driving scenic mountain highways, or using regional shuttle services from nearby airports.
Whether you’re planning a winter ski trip or a summer mountain vacation, understanding the transportation options available will help you plan the most convenient route.
Flying to Aspen
The fastest and most convenient way to reach Aspen is by flying into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE). The airport is located just three miles from downtown, making it one of the most accessible mountain airports in Colorado.
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport offers commercial flights from several major U.S. cities, especially during the winter ski season. Airlines frequently provide direct or connecting service from cities such as:
- Denver
- Chicago
- Dallas
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Atlanta
Because the airport is so close to town, visitors can reach their hotels in within about ten minutes after landing.
The convenience of flying direct is one of the reasons the town remains a premier destination for luxury ski travel and winter vacations.
Alternative Airports Near Aspen
If direct flights to Aspen are unavailable or too expensive, several nearby airports provide convenient access to the Roaring Fork Valley.
Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE)
Eagle County Regional Airport is located about 70 miles from Aspen near Vail. The drive from Eagle to Aspen takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours depending on road conditions.
This airport offers many seasonal direct flights during winter and is a popular option for travelers visiting the Aspen Snowmass area.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is Colorado’s largest airport and offers flights from nearly every major city in the United States and internationally.
The distance from Denver to Aspen is approximately 220 miles, and the drive typically takes about four hours depending on weather and traffic conditions.
Many visitors choose to fly into Denver and then drive or take a shuttle to Aspen.
Driving to Aspen
Enjoy the drive – the scenic adventure that allows visitors to experience some of the most beautiful landscapes in Colorado.
Most travelers arriving by car follow one of the main highway routes into the Roaring Fork Valley.
Driving from Denver
The most common route from Denver to Aspen follows:
I-70 west → Glenwood Springs → Highway 82 south to Aspen.
This route typically takes about four hours and offers stunning mountain scenery along the Colorado River and through Glenwood Canyon.
Driving from Grand Junction
Travelers coming from western Colorado can reach Aspen via Highway 82 from Glenwood Springs.
This route travels through the scenic Roaring Fork Valley and is a popular approach for visitors arriving from Utah or western Colorado.
Independence Pass (Summer Only)
During summer months, visitors can drive to Aspen via Independence Pass, one of the most scenic mountain highways in Colorado.
The road connects Aspen to the town of Leadville and climbs to more than 12,000 feet in elevation. Along the way, travelers enjoy spectacular views of alpine lakes, forests, and rugged mountain peaks.
Independence Pass is typically open from late May through early October and provides one of the most memorable scenic drives in the Rocky Mountains.
Airport Shuttle to Aspen and Area Airports
Most properties in town which are professionally managed provide free airport shuttle service to and from Aspen Airport. A ride is as simple as calling their local number once you have picked up your baggage at the the airport. Your lodging property will provide you the number to call with your travel documents.
If you are staying at a short term rental or prefer not to drive can use shuttle services to travel between regional airports and Aspen.
Several transportation companies provide scheduled and private shuttle services from airports such as:
- Aspen/Pitkin County Airport
- Eagle County Regional Airport
- Denver International Airport
Shuttles are especially convenient for winter travelers who want to avoid driving in snowy mountain conditions. Most shuttle services drop passengers directly at their hotels or lodging properties within the town limits.
Getting Around by Bus
Roaring Fork Transit Authority
The RFTA Bus service (pronounced RAFTA) services the four mountain area. Convenient schedules (up to 2am on weekends) and ski and snowboard racks, makes this is the most affordable and reliable way to get around town. If you are staying in towns such as Glenwood Springs, Basalt or Carbondale, no problem. The VelociRFTA is the bus service direct to the Town of Aspen. You can be on the gondola in 45 minutes. For up to date schedules and fares, visit the RFTA web site.
Bustang
If you are coming in from Eagle Airport or Denver Airport, the Bustang West Line will get you to Aspen.
Rental Car
If you do want to rent a car and explore more of the Aspen area, you can click here to schedule a car rental and conveniently pick up it up at Aspen Airport, Eagle Airport or even Denver International Airport. There are lots of day trips to make your trip more exciting.
Day Trips and Things to Do in Aspen
Getting Around Without a Car
One of the advantages of visiting Aspen is that a car is often unnecessary once you arrive.
The town is compact and highly walkable, with many hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions located within a short distance of each other.
Visitors can easily explore downtown Aspen on foot while enjoying the mountain scenery and vibrant town atmosphere.
Aspen Public Transportation
The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) provides free bus service throughout Aspen and nearby communities.
Traveling Between Aspen and Snowmass
These buses run frequently during winter ski season and make it easy to explore the four mountains mountains without a vehicle.
Snowmass Village is located about nine miles from Aspen and is easily accessible by bus or car.
The free RFTA buses depart from the Snowmass Mall bound for the Rubey Park Station in downtown Aspen daily. Visit RFTA’s website for up-to-date schedule information on Aspen and Snowmass connections, as times change seasonally. Or, download printer-friendly pdf schedules.
Many travelers choose to stay in Aspen while skiing, mountain biking or hiking multiple mountains within the Aspen Snowmass system.
Snowmass Colorado Travel Guide
High Mountain Taxi
Serving the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, Vail/Eagle County Airport and Glenwood Springs Amtrak. Taxis accommodate up to 6 passengers. The vehicles are equipped with roof racks for additional luggage and skis. High Mountain Taxi provides prompt and courteous 24-hour local service. New vehicles and skilled mountain drivers afford the highest level of safety and comfort. Book online or call 970-925-TAXI (8294); or www.hmtaxi.com.
A Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Town
Aspen is a pedestrian friendly town. Several of the street are closed to cars. And you can literally walk the entire width of the Town of Aspen in 20 minutes. Fat bikes are seen zipping around town in the winter and during the summer, cruiser bikes are available for rent.
Best Time to Travel to Aspen
Aspen is a year-round destination, but travel conditions vary depending on the season.
Winter Travel
Winter travel typically involves snowy mountain roads, so visitors should plan for winter driving conditions if traveling by car. And Colorado has very specific and tough chain / tire laws. So if driving in from out of state, please make sure your vehicle is prepared for Colorado roads and compliance.
Flights into Aspen are most frequent during ski season, making winter one of the easiest times to fly directly into the town.
Transportation for Ski Trips
Visitors planning ski vacations in Aspen should consider transportation options that make it easy to access the four Aspen Snowmass mountains.
Many hotels offer shuttle services to ski areas, and the RFTA buses provide convenient routes between the two towns and the four mountains.
These transportation options allow visitors to explore all four ski mountains without needing a car.
Winter Things to Do in Aspen Colorado
Skiing and Snowboarding in Aspen
Summer Travel
Summer travel is often easier because mountain roads are clear and scenic routes like Independence Pass are open.
The summer season offers excellent weather for hiking, festivals, and outdoor activities throughout the region.
Summer Things to Do in Aspen Colorado
Tips for Planning Your Trip to Aspen
A few simple travel tips can help ensure a smooth journey.
Book Flights Early
Aspen’s airport is small, and flights can sell out during peak travel periods such as holidays and ski season.
Consider Shuttle Transportation
Shuttles can simplify travel if you prefer not to drive mountain roads.
Plan Around Weather
Winter storms can occasionally impact travel, so allow extra time when flying or driving during ski season.
Reserve Transportation in Advance
During busy weekends and holidays, shuttle services and rental cars can fill up quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What airport should I fly into?
Most visitors fly into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), which is located just a few minutes from downtown. Other options are Eagle Airport or Denver International Airport.
How far is Aspen from Denver?
It is approximately a 220 mile drive from Denver. The drive typically takes about four hours.
Is Colorado roads difficult to drive in winter?
Mountain driving conditions can vary during winter storms, but highways are well maintained and accessible with proper winter preparation.
Do I even need a car in Aspen?
Many visitors do not need a car because Aspen offers free public transportation and a walkable downtown area.
Plan Your Journey to Aspen Colorado
Reaching Aspen is easier than many visitors expect. With a convenient regional airport, scenic driving routes, and reliable shuttle transportation, travelers have several options for arriving in this beautiful mountain destination.
Whether you choose to fly direct, drive through the Rocky Mountains, or travel by shuttle, the journey to Aspen is part of the adventure.
Once you arrive, you’ll discover a vibrant mountain town surrounded by world-class skiing, outdoor recreation, and stunning alpine scenery.
