Denver Airport to Aspen

Quick Facts: DIA to Aspen

The long but scenic route

Distance: 200 miles via I-70 and Highway 82

Drive Time: 4-4.5 hours (5+ hours with traffic)

Route: I-70 through Glenwood Springs, then Highway 82 through Carbondale to Aspen

Price Comparison

Option	Price	Best For
Shared Shuttle	$95-130/person	Budget travelers
Private SUV (up to 6)	$550-700	Groups, families
Luxury Sedan	$650-800	Business, couples
Luxury SUV/Limo	$800-1200	VIP experience
Fly to Aspen (ASE)	Varies by airline	Time-conscious travelers

Consider flying directly to Aspen. The 4+ hour drive from Denver makes flying to Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) worth considering, especially for shorter trips.

Should You Fly to Aspen Instead?

Comparing DIA ground transport vs flying to ASE

Fly to Aspen (ASE)

Pros:

Only 4 miles from downtown Aspen
Skip 4+ hours of driving
Arrive relaxed, not road-weary
Direct flights from major hubs (Chicago, LA, Dallas, Houston)

Cons:

Higher airfare than flying to Denver
Smaller planes, limited schedules
Weather delays more common (mountain airport)
Fewer flight options

Drive from Denver (DIA)

Pros:

More flight options to Denver
Often cheaper airfare
Beautiful scenic drive through Glenwood Canyon
Can stop at Glenwood Springs hot springs

Cons:

4-5 hours in a vehicle
I-70 traffic on weekends
Winter weather can affect road conditions
Arrive tired from travel

Our recommendation: For trips of 4+ days, flying to Denver and driving can work. For weekend trips or when time is valuable, fly directly to Aspen.

Ground Transportation Options

If you're driving from DIA

Private Car/SUV ($550-700)

The most popular option for DIA to Aspen. Given the 4-hour drive, private transport is worth it for comfort and convenience.

Mercedes Sprinter, Suburban, Navigator
Direct service, no stops (unless requested)
Refreshments often included
Driver handles luggage and door-to-door service

Cost per person (4 passengers): ~$150—comparable to shuttle but much more comfortable for a 4-hour ride.

Luxury/Limo Service ($800-1200)

Aspen is a premium destination, and luxury transport matches the experience.

Cadillac Escalade, BMW X7, Mercedes GLS
Champagne, snacks, entertainment
Professional chauffeurs in suits
Perfect for special occasions

Shared Shuttles ($95-130/person)

Available but less common than Vail/Breckenridge routes. The long drive makes shared transport less appealing.

Fewer departures than shorter routes
5+ hours with stops
Colorado Mountain Express offers Aspen service
Book well in advance

Rental Car

The drive is beautiful—Glenwood Canyon is spectacular. But it's a long day of driving after a flight.

AWD essential in winter
Independence Pass closed November-May
Aspen parking is expensive and limited
Free RFTA bus in Roaring Fork Valley

Frequently Asked Questions

DIA to Aspen transportation

How long is the drive from Denver Airport to Aspen?

4-4.5 hours without traffic. Add 1+ hour on winter weekends. The route goes through Glenwood Springs and the beautiful Roaring Fork Valley.

Is it better to fly to Aspen or drive from Denver?

For short trips, fly to Aspen. For longer stays (5+ days) or budget-conscious travelers, flying to Denver and driving can work. Consider the value of your time.

How much is a private car from DIA to Aspen?

$550-700 for a standard SUV (up to 6 passengers). Luxury vehicles run $800-1200. Per person, this is reasonable for groups given the 4-hour journey.

Can I take Uber from Denver to Aspen?

Technically possible but not recommended. Expect $400+ and drivers frequently cancel 4-hour trips. Book a proper car service instead.

What's Independence Pass?

A scenic shortcut from Leadville to Aspen (saves ~1 hour vs Glenwood Springs). However, it's closed November through late May. When open, it's spectacular but has steep switchbacks.