Airport
Aspen-Pitkin County Airport
Flying into Aspen-Pitkin County airport is the most convenient way to getting to Aspen, sitting just 3 mi away. It services flights mostly from United Airlines but also from American Airlines and Delta.
Denver International Airport
Alternatively, Denver International Airport is further, four hours drive away, however it services more and generally cheaper flights than Aspen-Pitkin. If you're not up for the drive, the Epic Mountain Express shuttle can take you to Aspen; though their estimated travel time is approximately 4.5 hours.
Bus
If you're coming to Ajax, chances are you'll be staying in the city of Aspen which sits at the foot of the mountain. Getting to the city of Aspen from Aspen-Pitkin County airport is easy. Simply hop aboard the VelociRFTA Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) (up valley direction), the journey takes roughly 14 minutes to Rubey Park in Aspen.
Car Rental
Aspen is just 10 minutes drive from Aspen-Pitkin County Airport and car rental companies including Avis and Hertz are located at the airport. Though you don't need to reserve a car in advance, it's probably best to do so to ensure your car has the right traction, ski racks and everything else you might need for driving in winter conditions.
Driver's License
Colorado recognises driver’s licenses from other countries for visits less than 90 days and most rental companies require drivers to be over 25. Car insurance can be purchased from either the rental agency or from your own travel insurance.
Parking
If you’re driving into Aspen in your own vehicle or in a rental, it is best that you understand that parking is limited – especially during the height of the tourist season. There is limited on-street parking in town that is regulated by metres that charge by the hour with a four-hour maximum stay in one place (10:00 AM until 6:00 PM). Residential parking passes are available for purchase at the Aspen Airport parking Kiosk, City Markets, Wheeler Opera House and City Hall. Most high-end hotels and condominiums provide parking for patrons, while others offer $5 USD (£4 GBP) parking passes for designated areas in proximity to the property.
If you’re driving straight to the slopes, parking is available at the Rio Grande Parking Plaza which then provides a free shuttle to the Silver Queen Gondola from 8:15 AM until 5:00 PM. Parking at Rio Grande Plaza there is going to set you back $2 USD (£1 GBP) per hour, $15 USD (£11 GBP) per day, $50 USD (£38 GBP) for a 10-day pass or $200 USD (£151 GBP) for a monthly pass.
