Frequently Asked Questions
Find the answer to your question in our list of frequently asked questions below. If we have left something out, please contact us.
Using this Website:
How do I use this website?
Planning your next vacation has gone “paperless”! Our sites are designed as virtual vacation-planning guides. No need for paper when all the information you want and more is right at your fingertips. Just point and click to plan your next great adventure! Here are some tips on how to navigate our sites to get started and I hope you explore further from there.
- First determine how much time you will have and what you absolutely must see. If you are arriving and departing from the same location you may want to split the attractions in that specific location between the beginning and end of your trip.
- Which season will you be traveling? That should be the basis for your planning. Check out the Summer Section for activities and events that take place in the summer and fall months. Check out the Winter Section for the remainder of the year.
- Primary to your vacation is the place where you will stay. Explore the various lodging options by simply clicking on the name of a property. You will be directed to their website for a full and complete description of the accommodation.
- Having trouble making a decision? Then simply consult the Vacations Tab. Here you will find sample vacations and itineraries.
We encourage you to take your time to search through our site and use it to your full advantage. It provides many great resources and allows you to make direct connections to the many resources, lodging properties and activity guides in the area. Feel free to click on the LIVE CHAT link to speak with a travel consultant at any time for live help and suggestions while planning your trip. If you still would like to browse through brochures and pamphlets I suggest contacting the local chambers (phone numbers below).
Contact Numbers:
What are some useful telephone numbers in Aspen, Colorado?
Aspen Chamber of Commerce local phone (970)-925-1940 toll free (800)-670-0792
Aspen Road Report (303) 639-1111
Aspen Skiing Company (800) 525-6200
Aspen/Snowmass Concierge (800)-525-6200 x4715
Snow Report Hotline (888) 277-3676
Town of Snowmass Village (800) SNOWMASS
FREE Local Transportation (970) 925-8484 or (970) 923-2543
Aspen Pitkin County Airport (970)920 5380
Travel Tips:
Where is Aspen, Colorado?
The city sits along the southeast (upper) end of the Roaring Fork Valley, along the Roaring Fork River, a tributary of the Colorado River about 40 miles south of Glenwood Springs, Colorado
What are the closest major cities and distances?
From Denver, Aspen is 220 miles or approximately 3.5 hours via I-70 West to Glenwood Springs. Aspen is due east from Glenwood on Highway 82.
During summer months, another scenic route from Denver is I-70 West to 91 South through Leadville to 24 South, then west onto Highway 82 over Independence Pass. (The pass is open only during warm-weather months).
From Grand Junction, Aspen is an easy 2 ½-hour drive east on I-70 connecting with Highway 82 in Glenwood Springs.
From Eagle/Vail, Aspen is about 70 miles or approximately 1 hour & 40 minutes travelling I-70 West to Glenwood Springs.
Where are the closest airports and distances?
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is located only three miles from downtown Aspen, and is one of the most convenient airports in the Rocky Mountain region! Hundreds of flights by multiple carriers fly here, including many convenient one-stop connections through Denver and Salt Lake City.
There is also service into Eagle County Regional Airport, located 70 miles from Aspen. American, Continental, Delta, Northwest, and United Express fly nonstop from 11 U.S. cities into Eagle.
What is the average temperature?
The climate is mild during summer when temperatures tend to be in the 60's and very cold during winter when temperatures tend to be in the 20's.
The warmest month of the year is July with an average maximum temperature of 77 degrees F, while the coldest month of the year is January with an average minimum temperature of 7 degrees F.
Facts and Tidbits:
What is the population of Aspen, Colorado?
Aspen has roughly 5900 year round residents.
What is the elevation in Aspen, Colorado?
Aspen is situated 8200 feet above the sea level. Visitors to Aspen, often have problems pertaining to Acute Mountain Sickness. There can be other problems like headaches, vomiting, nausea, fatigue etc. The major reason for this is, that majority of the Aspen terrain is mountainous with varying degrees of slope.
What makes Aspen, Colorado so special?
Aspen feels far away from the real world. The rich and famous see it as a playground, but it remains a community of locals that boasts the perfect mix of sport and culture, offering everything from haute couture shopping and fine dining to hiking, biking and skiing.
Fun Facts
Aspen was discovered by the Ute Indians and originally called 'The Shining Mountains' for its rich silver mines. Aspen is now considered one of America's elite winter resorts.
The world's largest silver nugget (approximately 2,000 pounds) was found in Aspen's Smuggler Mine in Northwest Colorado in 1894.
Activities & Attractions:
What are some stats on Snowmass, which is the largest of the four mountains that combine to provide skiing in Aspen, Colorado?
- Vertical rise 4,406 feet
- Top Elevation 12,510 feet
- Base elevation 8,104 feet
- Skiable area 3,128 acres
- Runs 88
- Longest run 5.3 miles
- Types of trails easiest: 6%, more difficult: 50%, most difficult: 12%, expert: 32%
What are the most popular summer activities?
- Biking
- Fishing
- Golf Courses
- Guides and Tours
- Hiking and Backpacking
- Horseback Rides
- Whitewater Rafting
- Kids Summer Fun
- Scenic Flights
- Hunting
- Kayak and Canoe
- Climbing
- Motorcycle Tours
- ATV / Offroad
- Swimming
- Tennis
What are the most popular winter activities?
- Skiing
- Snowmobiling
- Snowcat Rides
- Guides and Tours
- Dog Sledding
- Sleigh Rides
- Snow Tubing
- Snowshoeing
- Ice Skating
- Kids Winter Fun
What are some of the best annual events held in Aspen, Colorado?
- January
Gay & Lesbian Ski Week
Winter X-Games - March
Aspen Santa Fe Ballet - June
Aspen Jazz Festival
Aspen Music Festival and School
Food & Wine Classic in Aspen
Leadville Trail 100
Snowmass Village Rodeo
Strawberry Days
Theatre Aspen Summer Season - July
Fourth of July Celebration - September
Aspen Ruggerfest