Quick Distances
Aspen: 40 miles (45 min). Maroon Bells: 50 miles (1 hr). Vail: 60 miles (1 hr). Redstone: 17 miles (25 min). Why base here: Save 50-70% on lodging compared to Aspen while accessing the same attractions.
Glenwood Springs is the smart base for exploring western Colorado. Stay in affordable lodging, soak in the hot springs each evening, and day-trip to Aspen, Vail, and the Maroon Bells. You'll save hundreds per night compared to staying in the resort towns themselves.
The drives are scenic, the distances are manageable, and you return each night to a town with excellent restaurants and the world's largest hot springs pool. It's the value play for Colorado mountain vacations.
Aspen
Distance: 40 miles (45 minutes via Highway 82)
Colorado's most famous resort town is an easy drive up the Roaring Fork Valley. The road follows the river through Carbondale and past Mount Sopris, with the Maroon Bells visible as you approach.
What to do: Walk the pedestrian mall, browse galleries and boutiques, ride the Silver Queen Gondola for mountain views, eat at world-class restaurants. In winter, ski four mountains. In summer, hike, bike, and enjoy the festivals.
Pro tip: Parking in Aspen is expensive and limited. Use the free RFTA bus from Glenwood Springs—it runs every 20-30 minutes and drops you right downtown. Save the parking hassle.
Maroon Bells
Distance: 50 miles (1 hour via Aspen)
The most photographed mountains in Colorado. Twin 14,000-foot peaks reflected in Maroon Lake create an image you've seen a thousand times—but nothing prepares you for seeing it in person.
Access: Private vehicles are banned during peak season (May-October). Take the shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands. Reserve in advance during summer weekends.
What to do: Photograph the classic view, hike the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail (easy, 1.3 miles), or tackle longer trails to Crater Lake or beyond. Allow half a day minimum.
Vail
Distance: 60 miles (1 hour via I-70)
Colorado's largest ski resort is an easy drive east through Glenwood Canyon—one of the most scenic stretches of interstate in America. The canyon alone is worth the drive.
What to do: In winter, ski 5,300 acres of terrain. In summer, explore Vail Village's pedestrian streets, ride the gondola to hiking trails, or golf with mountain views. The Gore Range provides a dramatic backdrop year-round.
Pro tip: The drive through Glenwood Canyon features rest areas with river access and trailheads. Stop at Hanging Lake (if you have a permit) or Grizzly Creek on the way.
Redstone
Distance: 17 miles (25 minutes via Highway 133)
A charming village south of Carbondale with a historic castle, art galleries, and a slower pace. The Crystal River runs through town, and the red cliffs that give it its name glow at sunset.
What to do: Tour Redstone Castle (a 42-room Tudor mansion), browse galleries and antique shops, eat at the Redstone Inn. It's a half-day trip that pairs well with Hanging Lake in the morning.
Independence Pass
Distance: 60 miles to summit (1.5 hours via Aspen)
The highest paved crossing of the Continental Divide in North America at 12,095 feet. The drive from Aspen over the pass is breathtaking—alpine tundra, ghost towns, and views that seem to stretch forever.
When to go: Open late May to early November, weather permitting. Summer and fall colors are prime seasons. The road is narrow with steep drop-offs—not for nervous drivers.
Day Trip Strategy
Morning trips, afternoon soaking. Drive to your destination early, explore until mid-afternoon, return to Glenwood Springs for a hot springs soak and dinner. The schedule works perfectly.
Use the bus to Aspen. RFTA buses run frequently between Glenwood Springs and Aspen. Skip the parking hassle and enjoy the scenery without driving.
Book Maroon Bells shuttle in advance. Summer weekends sell out. Reserve your shuttle spot before booking your lodging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth staying in Glenwood instead of Aspen?
For most visitors, yes. You'll save $200-500+ per night on lodging. The 45-minute drive is scenic and easy. The only downside is not being able to walk to Aspen nightlife.
Can I do Aspen and Maroon Bells in one day?
Yes, but it's a full day. Take the early shuttle to Maroon Bells, hike in the morning, then spend the afternoon in Aspen. Return to Glenwood for evening soaking.
Best day trip for families?
Aspen with a gondola ride is kid-friendly and easy. Glenwood Canyon drive with stops at rest areas lets kids stretch. Maroon Bells is doable but requires more planning.
What about winter day trips?
Skiing at Aspen, Snowmass, or Vail all work as day trips. Roads are maintained but bring chains. Independence Pass closes in winter—use I-70 to reach Twin Lakes and Leadville instead.