Aspen Transportation
This is one of the best ski resorts in Colorado when it comes to transportation. You can fly commercially right into the Aspen Airport, and there is a free bus system that runs between all of the ski resorts in the valley that has a great reputation.
Driving from Denver will take at least 3+ hours depending upon the season. There are many travelers who make the drive, and there are also shuttle companies who will do it for you so that you don’t need to rent a car to get here.
Aspen Ski Shuttle Deals
Check with our transportation partners for Aspen shuttle deals that suit your needs. We aim to partner with companies that can get you to your hotel from as far away as Denver.
Powderhound Transport - $50 Discount
Save money on your shuttle ride to Aspen by using our discount code “coloradotopia50”. Mention our code when you request your custom itinerary and you will save $50.
Aspen Transportation FAQ
You can survive without one unless you are staying in a vacation rental that is far away from the resort and the bus route. If you are staying in downtown Aspen, you’ll be able to walk to the mountain and to the shops and restaurants. It will be easier to get to the other resorts by using the free bus system anyway, so there won’t be much need for a car.
In the summer, a car might be more useful for your outdoor recreation needs.
Flying into Aspen is preferable during the winter. The drive is done often and done by many, but in the winter this is almost a 4-hour drive. The summer drive is shorter, but Independence Pass closes for the winter and forces travelers to take a longer route through Glenwood Springs.
There is only one highway in and out of Aspen during the winter – CO Highway 82 is the only road in and out of Aspen during the winter months. Independence Pass is closed during the winter.
Local Bus Routes & Info
Roaring Fork Valley Bus
This bus service is FREE and provided by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority. The bus service is reliable and this is the recommended way to get between the ski resorts in the Aspen/Snowmass area.
The buses stop at the Ruby Park Transportation Center in downtown Aspen. This is located right across from the ice rink on the edge of the pedestrian mall, 1 block away from the Silver Queen Gondola.
Notable RFTA Bus Routes
- Aspen
- Aspen Highlands
- Buttermilk
- Snowmass
- Glenwood Springs
- Maroon Bells (paid route, summer only)
Driving Denver to Aspen
The Winter Route
During the winter months this is a simple drive, although slightly longer than the summer drive.
- I-70 Westbound to Glenwood Springs
- Hwy 82 South to Aspen
The Summer Route
During the summer months you will be able to go over Independence Pass and save approx 1 hour from your drive time.
- I-70 Westbound to Exit 195 (Copper Mountain)
- Hwy 91 South Through Leadville
- Hwy 24 South to Twin Lakes
- Hwy 82 West (Independence Pass)