ASPEN MOMENTS · TRANSPORTATION GUIDE

How to Get to Aspen from Denver

The journey from Denver to Aspen spans 165 miles through the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Via I-70 West and Highway 82 through Glenwood Canyon, you'll pass the Eisenhower Tunnel, Vail, and the Roaring Fork Valley before arriving in Aspen. Allow 4 hours in normal conditions.

Top 10 Ways to Get from Denver to Aspen

1. 1
   Aspen Moments Private SUV — $1,200 $960 — Door-to-door from any Denver address or DEN airport. Flight tracking included, no hidden fees. Up to 6 passengers. 20% summer discount applied.
2. 2
   Aspen Moments Executive Van — $2,450 $1,960 — Groups of 6–11. Ford Transit Executive Van with room for ski bags, luggage, and car seats. 20% summer discount applied.
3. 3
   Drive via I-70 West + Hwy 82 — 165 miles, 4 hours in good conditions. I-70 through Eisenhower Tunnel, past Vail, then Hwy 82 into Aspen.
4. 4
   Fly into Aspen Airport (ASE) — 35-min flight from Denver, 3 miles from downtown. American Airlines and United offer seasonal direct routes.
5. 5
   Fly into Eagle County (EGE) — More flight options than ASE, 45 miles from Aspen. Combine with an Aspen Moments transfer for seamless arrival.
6. 6
   Shared Shuttle Service — More affordable, multiple stops, 5–6 hours total. Colorado Mountain Express is the main provider. Book ahead for ski season.
7. 7
   Rent an AWD SUV in Denver — All-wheel drive essential on mountain roads. Confident winter driving required on I-70 and Hwy 82.
8. 8
   Amtrak to Glenwood Springs — California Zephyr from Denver Union Station (2.5 hrs), then RFTA bus or taxi the final 45 miles to Aspen.
9. 9
   Independence Pass Route (Summer) — Open June–October, 12,095 ft. Dramatic scenery but narrow switchbacks — not for large vehicles or nervous drivers.
10. 10
    Private Helicopter Charter — Under 1 hour from Centennial Airport (APA) to Aspen. The ultimate arrival for special occasions.

Road Conditions and Travel Tips

Always check cotrip.org before departing. Glenwood Canyon closes regularly due to rockslides — adds 2+ hours via alternate routes. Leave Denver before 6am or after 10am to avoid traffic. Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings are the worst. For families or groups with ski gear, a private transfer eliminates all stress.