Car Rental Aspen, CO

FAQs

Do I need a car in Aspen if I'm just skiing?
If you are staying in Aspen or Snowmass and plan to only ski, you probably don't need a car. Free shuttles can take you to all four ski areas (Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk). Most hotels and rentals are also a short walk from town or a shuttle stop. A car is handy if you want to explore areas outside the main ski resorts.

What are the parking options at Aspen ski areas?
At Aspen Mountain, you can find a few paid parking spots near the Silver Queen Gondola. Snowmass has free parking at its Town Park (formerly Rodeo) and Two Creeks lots. It also has paid spots closer to Base Village and the Snowmass Mall. Aspen Highlands has a paid parking garage and lot that are open during the ski season. This parking is free after 1 p.m. and in the shoulder seasons. Buttermilk has free parking lots near its base. During busy times, all lots can fill up early, sometimes before 9 a.m.

Is it better to rent from Denver or Aspen airport?
Renting a car at Aspen airport is easier, but it usually costs more. If you rent from Denver, you can get better prices and have more cars to choose from, but you have to drive 3.5 to 4 hours to get to Aspen. The Denver option often saves you money on trips longer than five days or when you plan to visit other places in Colorado.

Are there driving restrictions on Independence Pass?
Yes. Vehicles on Independence Pass cannot be longer than 35 feet. This means large vehicles like RVs and trailers are not allowed on some narrow parts of the road. Officials also close the pass completely in the winter. The closure usually lasts from late October to late May, depending on how much snow there is.

What type of vehicle is best for winter driving in Aspen?
For winter driving, we strongly suggest you get an AWD or 4WD vehicle that has good all-season or winter tires. Colorado's Traction Law says you must have the right tires or AWD/4WD during winter months. Most cars you can rent at Aspen airport meet these rules, but you should always check with the rental company to be sure.

Can I find one-way rentals from Aspen to Denver?
Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip, but the rental company will usually charge an extra "drop fee" of about $100 or more. At certain times of the year, rental companies might get rid of or lower these fees because they need to move their cars to other locations. You should ask about any one-way specials when you book your car.

Are there any car-free times when I should avoid having a car in Aspen?
It's very hard to find parking in downtown Aspen during big events like the Food & Wine Classic or the Fourth of July celebrations. It can also be tough to park during New Year's week and Presidents' Day weekend. If you are not planning to leave town, you might want to return your rental car during these busy times.