How do I get from Denver Airport to Aspen? The distance (200+ miles, 4-5 hours) makes this the longest major ski resort transfer from DIA. Options: shared shuttle ($100-150/person), private car ($600-900), rental car, or fly directly to Aspen (ASE) instead. Most visitors fly into Aspen airport or Eagle airport (90 min from Aspen) rather than driving from Denver.
Route Overview
Distance: 200-220 miles (depending on route)
Drive time: 4-5 hours (good conditions)
Route: I-70 West to Glenwood Springs, then Highway 82 to Aspen
Elevation change: 5,400 feet (DIA) to 7,900 feet (Aspen)
Aspen is the farthest major ski destination from Denver Airport. The drive is scenic but long—consider flying directly to Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) or Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE, 90 minutes from Aspen) for significantly shorter ground transportation.
Transportation Options
Fly to Aspen (ASE)
Cost: $200-500+ one-way
Time: 50 minutes flight + 15 min to town
Best for: Anyone who values time over money
Direct flights from Denver to Aspen take under an hour. The Aspen airport is 4 miles from downtown. This is by far the fastest option and often worth the premium, especially in winter when mountain driving is challenging.
Fly to Eagle (EGE)
Cost: $150-400 flight + $50-100 ground
Time: 45 min flight + 90 min drive
Best for: Budget-conscious flyers, those okay with a shorter drive
Eagle County Airport is 90 minutes from Aspen with more affordable flights than ASE. Shuttles and rental cars available. Good compromise between DIA drive and Aspen flight prices.
Shared Shuttle from DIA
Cost: $100-150 per person one-way
Time: 5-6 hours
Best for: Budget travelers who don't mind long travel
Colorado Mountain Express offers shared shuttles. Long day with potential stops. Book well in advance during ski season.
Private Car from DIA
Cost: $600-900 one-way (vehicle)
Time: 4-5 hours direct
Best for: Large groups splitting costs, those wanting comfort
Direct door-to-door service without stops. Luxury vehicles available. Per-person cost becomes reasonable with 4+ passengers.
Rental Car from DIA
Cost: $80-150/day + gas (~$60)
Time: 4-5 hours
Best for: Those wanting flexibility, multi-destination trips
Long drive but offers maximum flexibility. Independence Pass (shorter summer route) is closed in winter—must take I-70 route. AWD strongly recommended.
Our Recommendation
Unless you're on a tight budget or combining Aspen with other I-70 corridor destinations, fly directly to Aspen or Eagle. The 4-5 hour drive from Denver (potentially 6+ hours with traffic/weather) is exhausting after a flight. The flight costs more but saves half a day of travel each direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I fly into Denver or Aspen?
Fly into Aspen (ASE) or Eagle (EGE) if going directly to Aspen. The 4-5 hour drive from Denver is exhausting after a flight. Denver works better if visiting multiple destinations.
Is Independence Pass open in winter?
No. Independence Pass (Highway 82 from Leadville) closes November-May. Winter travelers must use the longer I-70 route through Glenwood Springs.