Thinking about a trip to Aspen, but not sure how to get there? You’re not alone! Planning travel can often feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider! Should you fly directly into Aspen Snowmass? What’s the best place to stay? What should you do once you arrive?
One of the most common questions travelers ask is how to get from Denver to Aspen. Since Denver is Colorado’s capital and a major travel hub, flying there first is often a great choice. From there, the drive to Aspen Snowmass is another grand part of the adventure, with its stunningly beautiful twists and turns.
Since the Aspen Airport (ASE) closes annually for maintenance, knowing the best alternative routes for getting to town is a great idea so you can enjoy Aspen Snowmass in any season! Check out our blog about how to get to Aspen during the ASE closure to see all of your route options.
- How Long Does It Take to Drive from Denver to Aspen?
- Can We Take a Shuttle From Denver to Aspen?
- How to Prepare for a Winter Road Trip to Aspen
- Which Route Should We Take?
- Best Places to Stop Between Denver and Aspen
- Book Your Trip to Aspen Directly with Frias Properties!
How Long Does It Take to Drive from Denver to Aspen?
Pictured: Kenosha Pass, on the drive from Denver to Aspen.
It depends on who you ask! Some roads take about 4 hours over 185 miles of terrain, while others claim the trip is only 159 miles and can be completed in 3.25 hours. Of course, exact timing depends on your route and driving habits, but with stops, you can expect the drive to take about four hours.
Can We Take a Shuttle From Denver to Aspen?
Yes! If you’re not in the mood to embark on a Colorado mountain town road trip on your own, you can take a shuttle from the airport, and you’ll still get to see the gorgeous scenery. These are all your options for traveling from Denver to Aspen, conveniently located at the Denver airport!
Denver International Airport Shuttles:
- Epic Mountain Express
- Bustang Bus Service – You can’t ride directly to Aspen, but you can take the West line to Glenwood Springs and then transfer over to the RFTA (Roaring Fork Transportation Authority) "BRT ASPEN" route to reach Aspen!
- Wildpath Transportation
- Roaring Fork
Denver International Airport Limousines:
How to Prepare for a Winter Road Trip to Aspen
With all the nasty weather that comes to Colorado in the winter, you may be wondering if it’s safe to attempt the drive from Denver to Aspen in the snowier months. If you’re inexperienced at driving in the snow and the forecast calls for a storm, you may be better off booking a ride service like the ones we listed above. Locals know how to handle the weather, when to throw in the towel, and take shelter if things get dicey. Snow driving is a learned skill; we don’t recommend trying it out for the first time in Colorado!
Which Route Should We Take?
There are two main routes people take when driving from Denver to Aspen! Year-round, you can take I-70 West from Denver, which will take you past Glenwood Canyon with scenic views of the Colorado River. At Glenwood Springs, you’ll exit and head south on Highway 82 to Aspen.
The other route, through Independence Pass, is only open in the summertime! To access it, take Highway 82 West from Denver to Leadville, and then continue through Highway 82, which crosses through Independence Pass. This route is incredibly scenic, but it is closed from October to late May due to snow. If you plan to drive this way, be prepared, it’s very steep and narrow!
Best Places to Stop Between Denver and Aspen
Glenwood Springs
Just before turning onto Highway 82, this town is known for its hot springs and hanging lake trail, a popular hike if you have extra time.
Idaho Springs
It's the perfect quick stop for coffee or breakfast before climbing into the mountains! The historic downtown is worth a visit, and it’s a great place to stretch your legs and go for a walk.
Georgetown
A small mountain town with local shops and the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which offers short scenic rides through the valley.
Vail
Vail is a great midway stopping point, perfect for lunch or a stretch break. Vail Village has plenty of restaurants and a great walking area year-round. If you’re looking for a hidden gem, Shrine Pass Road in Vail has some of Colorado’s most stunning wildflower displays. You have to pass through if you’re driving here in July!
Kenosha Pass
The drive west from Denver on U.S. Highway 285 feels like watching the Rockies slowly come to life. Once you reach Kenosha Pass (sitting around 10,000 feet up), you’ll come across a peaceful lake surrounded by golden aspens in fall (see if you can spot a moose!). From there, the scenery opens into South Park, a vast high-altitude basin framed by some of Colorado’s most impressive alpine peaks.
Carbondale and Basalt
Both of these towns have good spots to refuel, grab a snack, or explore small-town charm before you reach Aspen. The iconic fly-fishing spot, Fryingpan River, is located in Basalt, if you’re looking to drop a line on your way in.
Book Your Trip to Aspen Directly with Frias Properties!
Once you’ve made it to Aspen Snowmass, you can make sure you’re arriving at one of the top vacation rentals in the area when you stay in a Frias Properties rental. Flopping down on your comfy bed in your home away from home will be just what you need after a long travel day. And we’d be happy to host you!
Whether you’re in town to hit the slopes and want to stay in a ski-in/ski-out condo or you’re looking to stay in an entire private home rental, we’re confident you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for in our luxury rental catalog. From our properties in the Independence Square Hotel to the Ritz-Carlton Club, each rental was designed to fit your vacation needs.
Ready for a road trip? We can’t wait to see you! Before you hop in the car, make sure your vacation accommodations are all set and squared away. You can’t go wrong when you stay in a Frias rental! Browse our available Aspen Snowmass accommodations now, and book your stay directly with Frias Properties.
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