Your Guide to Travel from Denver to Aspen: Options and Tips

Wondering how to get from Denver to Aspen, Colorado this year? You’re in luck! As residents who’ve made this journey numerous times, we have the inside scoop. While Aspen is globally renowned for its world-class skiing, it also boasts vibrant music and arts festivals in the summer, along with fantastic shops and restaurants year-round.

If you’re planning to Travel From Denver To Aspen and aren’t sure which route is best for you, we’ve got you covered. From scenic drives to convenient flights and ground transport options, we’ll walk you through the possibilities to help you choose.

How to Get from Denver to Aspen: Your Options

Denver to Aspen by Car

Traveling by car is a popular choice, offering flexibility and the chance to enjoy the stunning Colorado landscape. The drive time from Denver to Aspen varies significantly depending on the chosen route and current weather conditions. There are three main routes drivers typically take.

The first option involves taking I-70 West to Highway 91 near Copper Mountain, a great spot for a break. From there, you head south from Leadville onto Highway 24, which then connects to Highway 82. This route circles Mt. Elbert, a famous Colorado “fourteener,” and passes by the beautiful Twin Lakes before leading directly into Aspen via Highway 82. This particular route is especially favored in the fall for its magnificent aspen tree views, though it includes a mountain pass with potentially challenging sharp drops for inexperienced mountain drivers. A major advantage is that this route avoids the frequently congested Vail Pass. It’s arguably the most picturesque and less-traveled option, covering approximately 159 miles and averaging about 3.5 hours without significant delays. It’s crucial to remember that Independence Pass on this route is typically closed from November through April for the winter season.

Luxury car service or rental car driving on a scenic mountain road from Denver to Aspen

The cost of driving primarily depends on fuel prices and your vehicle’s efficiency.
Average Total Time: 3 ½ – 4 hours
Average Total Cost: $28 – $43

This route is not recommended for novice mountain drivers or anyone planning a trip during the winter closure (November-April).

An alternative, often easier route, is to take I-70 West all the way to Glenwood Springs, then head south on Highway 82 to Aspen. This route, while longer at nearly 200 miles and taking 4-4.5 hours, is generally flatter and less challenging than the Independence Pass route. It follows the valley, ascending into Snowmass and Aspen. Many travelers enjoy making a stop in Glenwood Springs to visit sites like Doc Holliday’s grave.

Infographic showing average travel time and cost for routes from Denver to Aspen by car

Average Total Time: 4 and a half hours
Average Total Cost: $34–$51

For more experienced drivers, a third scenic route involves taking Highway 285 West from Denver, passing through charming towns like Conifer, Bailey, and Fairplay. In Buena Vista, you turn onto Highway 24 North, then left onto Highway 82 West towards Twin Lakes and Mount Elbert. This route also offers views of the surrounding natural beauty, including parts of the Rocky Mountains and Gunnison National Forest. Although it’s about 185 miles, traffic conditions can push the travel time to 4-5 hours. Like the first route, this one goes over Independence Pass and is usually only open from May to October.

Average Total Time: 4–4 and a half hours
Average Total Cost: $31–$37

If you need a vehicle, numerous car rental companies operate in Denver, with pick-up available at the airport or other city locations. Daily costs for an economy car typically range from $70 to $120, based on a three-day rental.

Turo provides an alternative to traditional rental agencies like Thrifty, Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, and Budget. It functions like a car-sharing marketplace where you can rent vehicles from local owners via an app. Turo often includes insurance and offers contactless delivery or pickup options, usually with minimal fees.

Zipcar is another excellent option for short-term car rentals, particularly for quick mountain excursions. Operating on a membership basis (starting around $7/month or $70/year), members pay an additional hourly or daily rental fee. Daily rentals can start as low as $68, and Zipcar typically includes up to 180 miles per day without extra fees, which is often sufficient for the distance from Denver to Aspen, depending on the route. When considering travel between these locations, exploring rest stop options can be useful, such as those you might find at a flying j dealer — mega travel plaza breezewood photos.

By Plane from Denver to Aspen

Flying is one of the quickest ways to reach Aspen from Denver, ideal if speed is your priority over environmental impact. While not the “greenest,” it bypasses the potential challenges of driving.

The flight time from Denver to Aspen is approximately 50 minutes. Note that the return flight often takes slightly longer, around an hour and ten minutes.

Direct flights are available through major carriers like United and American Airlines, landing at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) from Denver International Airport (DEN). Delta has also reportedly offered seasonal routes. If you’re bringing ski or snowboard gear, be prepared for potential checked baggage fees, typically ranging from $30 to $150 per item, in addition to standard luggage costs.

Small passenger airplane at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, symbolizing travel by plane from Denver

Average total time: one hour for the flight
Average total cost: $200–$400 one-way

Denver to Aspen by Shuttle

An express shuttle service, the Roaring Fork Express operated by Colorado West Transportation, provides a direct ground option from Denver International Airport (DIA). This shared shuttle takes approximately four hours and departs from Level 5, Island 1, door 513 (look for “Mountain Carrier” columns).

Unlike public buses with numerous stops, this shuttle minimizes interruptions, making it a faster ground transfer option than standard bus routes. The one-way cost fluctuates seasonally but generally ranges from $95 to $130 per person. Pets are allowed but must remain in carriers. Each passenger is limited to two bags plus one personal item, with a $35 fee for bikes or other large items; oversized items are restricted, with exceptions typically made for skis and snowboards. Shuttles are generally comfortable, well-maintained, and less crowded than buses, offering a pleasant travel experience from Denver to Aspen, short of private transport or driving yourself.

Average Total Time: 4 hours
Average Total Cost: $95–$130

Denver To Aspen Via Amtrak Train

While there isn’t a direct train line straight into Aspen, you can incorporate train travel into your journey. One enjoyable method is taking Amtrak’s California Zephyr train from Denver. This famous route, originating in Chicago and ending in San Francisco, includes a stop in Glenwood Springs.

When you reach Glenwood Springs, you’ll disembark at the West Glenwood Park & Ride. From there, you can catch the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) L bus, which provides service directly to Main Street in Aspen.

Amtrak California Zephyr train traveling through the scenic Rocky Mountains towards Glenwood Springs on the way from Denver to Aspen

The L bus fare is around $7. Amtrak fares from Denver to Glenwood Springs are highly variable, largely depending on how far in advance you book, as cheaper seats sell out quickly, especially during peak ski season. Coach tickets typically range from $60 to $120 or more one-way. This combined train and bus route is the slowest option. The Amtrak segment from Denver to Glenwood takes approximately 5-6 hours, followed by a 1.5-2 hour bus ride to Aspen.

Despite the longer travel time, Amtrak offers amenities that enhance the journey. Trains include power outlets, snack and beverage services, and large, comfortable seats with tray tables suitable for using laptops. You can move freely throughout the train and utilize quiet cars for napping or regular cars for socializing. Dining cars with booth seating offer a unique experience, and the route provides stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Bringing standard luggage is usually free.

Average Total Time: 6 ½ – 8 hours
Average Total Cost: $67 – $127

Denver to Aspen Bus

Taking a public bus is generally the most economical way to Travel From Denver To Aspen. The journey starts at Denver’s Union Station. You’ll board Bustang’s West line, heading towards Glenwood Springs. Adult fares for the Bustang segment begin at $28, with children’s fares starting at $14.

Upon arrival at the West Glenwood Park & Ride, you’ll transfer to the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) L bus, which takes you directly to Main Street in Aspen for about $7.

This route avoids the stress of driving and typically takes 6 to 6.5 hours in total. The Bustang portion is roughly 5 hours, followed by the 1.5-2 hour RFTA bus ride from Glenwood. Although not the fastest, the low cost makes it an appealing option.

Bustang or RFTA bus on a road, representing affordable bus travel options from Denver towards Aspen

Bustang buses are generally clean and often filled with enthusiastic travelers heading to the mountains. It can be a great way to meet new people and enjoy the mountain air without being behind the wheel. The return trip from Aspen to Denver follows the reverse route: RFTA bus to Glenwood, then Bustang Eastbound to Denver.

Average Total Time: 6 ½-7 hours
Average Total Cost: $35

Private Transfer from Denver to Aspen

If you prioritize speed and convenience above all else and prefer not to drive yourself, a private transfer offers door-to-door service and is typically the fastest ground transportation option between Denver and Aspen.

While private transfers are the most expensive way to travel from Denver to Aspen, they provide a premium experience. A professional driver navigates traffic and road conditions for you, potentially knowing the best routes and scenic photo opportunities. This allows you to relax and enjoy the journey in luxury. Options range from sedans and 4×4 SUVs (often equipped with ski/snowboard racks) to limousines, mini-coaches, and even full-size buses for larger groups. Companies like Summit Express provide services, with costs for groups of 5, 10, or 13 passengers potentially ranging from $1,400 to $2,000 or more. Other providers offering customized transportation include Aspen Transportation Co., Cameron James Mountain Transportation, and Royal Express Limo Transportation.

Average Total Time: 3 ½ – 4 hours
Average Total Cost: $1400+

Final Thoughts: How to Get from Denver to Aspen, Colorado

Aspen, nestled within the stunning Rocky Mountains, awaits your arrival. Now that you’re familiar with the various routes and methods, you can confidently choose the option that best aligns with your budget, time constraints, and preference for comfort and experience.

Whether you opt for a scenic self-drive, a quick flight, a comfortable shuttle ride, a leisurely train journey combined with a bus, or an affordable public bus trip, each mode offers unique advantages and charms. Plan your trip with confidence, knowing you have the information needed to select the best route for your adventure from Denver to Aspen. And don’t forget to capture the iconic views at the Maroon Bells!