AIRPORTS:
Aspen's own Sardy Field is just three miles from Aspen, and eight miles from Snowmass. Although Sardy has flights from four major cities (Denver, Phoenix, Memphis and Minneapolis-St. Paul), this airport is still very small. During holidays, when travel time peaks, there are frequent delays, so visitors should carry-on all essential items.
The second airport option is Eagle County Airport, located 70 miles away. Airlines that serve Eagle County Airport include: Northwest, American, Continental, United and Delta, with flights from cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis, Newark, New York, San Francisco, New York and Miami. From Eagle County Airport, it is only a short shuttle bus ride or rental car drive to Aspen ' for this reason, Eagle County Airport is considered the best airport for visitors to Aspen.
One note about flying into Aspen: if your skis, gear, or outdoor clothing do not arrive with you, the airlines will provide equipment vouchers for Aspen sports shops, so that you can borrow their gear until yours arrives.
For those flying into Denver International Airport: ground transportation leaves DIA for Aspen regularly, but the drive is four to five hours long (220 miles on I-70).
TRAIN:
Travelers can take the Amtrak Train to Glenwood Springs, and travel the rest of the way via shuttle, rental car, or public bus. Aspen is located 41 miles southeast of Glenwood Springs.
RENTAL CARS:
Although renting a car and driving yourself provides freedom and flexibility, there are some things to consider when driving in a mountain town. Even though roads are modern and are usually plowed during and immediately after winter storms, weather still presents driving challenges. Travel with a full tank of gas, maintain adequate distance between cars, and remember that blizzard conditions arise within moments. Visitors should check the weather forecast ahead of time, and also carry emergency supplies (food, clothing, a flashlight, etc.). Carrying a cell phone is also a good idea. One more note of caution: deer, elk and bears are prevalent in mountain country, so drivers should always be on the lookout for wildlife along their way!
ASPEN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION:
A budget-conscious and fairly hassle-free mode of transportation throughout Aspen, and to and from Snowmass, is the Roaring Fork Transit Agency (RFTA), the town's free bus system. Look for the colored flags which denote the RFTA's routes. For skiers, Aspen also offers a shuttle between the ski mountains; the shuttle is free before 4:00 p.m.
DOWNTOWN:
Parking is limited in downtown Aspen, but the town is easily seen on foot. The Aspen Historical Society provides a brochure detailing a walking tour throughout town.
