Quick Info
Distance: 220 miles from Denver. Drive time: About 4 hours (longer in traffic/weather). Alternative: Fly into Aspen (ASE), just 7 miles away. Options: Rental car, shuttle, or private car service.
Getting to Snowmass from Denver requires commitment—it's one of the farther ski destinations from the airport. The 4-hour drive via I-70 and Independence Pass (summer only) or Glenwood Canyon (year-round) is scenic but demanding. Many visitors opt to fly into Aspen-Pitkin County Airport for the short 15-minute transfer.
Flying to Aspen
Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE): Only 7 miles from Snowmass. Direct flights from many major cities during ski season. The short transfer makes the premium ticket price worth considering.
Winter flights: Airlines expand service significantly November through March. United, American, and Delta all offer direct routes from hubs.
From ASE: Rental cars, shuttles, and taxis available. Most hotels offer transfers. The Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) provides public bus service.
Caution: Aspen's airport is famously weather-dependent. Planes divert to Grand Junction when visibility drops. Build buffer time for connections.
Driving from Denver
Year-round route via Glenwood Springs:
- I-70 west through the Eisenhower Tunnel and Vail
- Continue to Glenwood Springs (about 2.5 hours)
- Highway 82 south to Snowmass (about 1.5 hours more)
- Total: approximately 4 hours in good conditions
Summer route via Independence Pass:
- I-70 west to Exit 195 (Leadville)
- Highway 24 south to Leadville
- Highway 82 over Independence Pass (12,095 feet)
- Shorter distance but narrow, winding mountain road
- Closed mid-October through late May
Shuttle Services
Colorado Mountain Express: Shared and private shuttles from DEN to Snowmass/Aspen. Book in advance. Approximately $120+ per person for shared service.
Private car services: Various companies offer dedicated transfers. More expensive but direct and comfortable.
Bustang: Colorado's public bus runs from Denver to Glenwood Springs. Connect to RFTA for the final leg to Snowmass. Affordable but time-consuming.
Tips
Consider flying to Aspen. The time and stress savings often justify the ticket premium, especially for short trips.
Check Independence Pass. If driving in late spring or early fall, verify the pass is open before planning that route.
Avoid Friday evening departures. I-70 traffic from Denver can be severe. Leave early morning or Saturday.
Build in weather time. Both the drive and Aspen flights are weather-dependent. Don't schedule tight connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car in Snowmass?
Not really. The village is walkable, and free shuttles connect to Aspen. A car adds flexibility for exploring but isn't essential.
Is the drive difficult in winter?
I-70 through the mountains requires attention. Glenwood Canyon occasionally closes for accidents. AWD/4WD and winter tires recommended.
What about Eagle-Vail Airport?
Eagle County Airport (EGE) is an option—closer to Denver but still 1.5+ hours from Snowmass. More reliable than Aspen for landing.
Can I take Uber from Denver to Snowmass?
Technically possible but expensive ($400+) and drivers may be reluctant. Scheduled shuttle services are more reliable.