Getting to Aspen

Aspen feels remote, and that is part of its charm, but it is easier to reach than most mountain towns. Here is the practical guide to getting to Aspen, Colorado, whether you fly in, drive up from Denver or arrive over the pass in summer.

Flying to Aspen

Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)

The closest option is Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, a few minutes from town. It has nonstop service from a number of major US hubs, especially in ski season, and private aviation. Mountain weather can delay or divert flights in winter, so leave some slack in your plans on travel days.

Eagle (EGE) and Denver (DEN)

Eagle County Regional Airport, near Vail, is the next closest, roughly an hour and a half away by road. Denver International Airport has the most flights and often the best fares, but it is a much longer drive, typically around four hours in good conditions.

Driving to Aspen from Denver

In winter, the usual route from Denver is I-70 west to Glenwood Springs, then Highway 82 up the Roaring Fork Valley to Aspen. In summer, many drivers take the shorter, more dramatic route over Independence Pass, but the pass road is narrow, has a vehicle-length limit, and closes for the winter once snow arrives.

Winter driving

Colorado's mountain highways can change quickly in a storm. Choose a vehicle with all-wheel or four-wheel drive and good tires, check road conditions before you leave, and follow the state's traction rules when they are in effect. Plan to arrive in daylight if you can.

Getting around once you are here

Downtown Aspen is compact and walkable, and free local buses run around town. In winter, free skier shuttles connect the four mountains, so many guests barely use a car once they arrive. Parking downtown is limited, which is one more reason to stay somewhere with room for the cars you bring.

Your first day at altitude

Aspen sits at nearly 8,000 feet. On arrival day, drink plenty of water, go easy on alcohol, and keep plans light. A quiet first evening in sets up the rest of the trip.

Planning a ski week? Read our guide to skiing Aspen's four mountains.