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Finding a car rental at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of brands across Colorado with no booking fees. Book early to snag a 4WD SUV with snow tires and collect it right in the terminal for the quick 10-minute drive into downtown Aspen.
| Location | Advantages | Considerations |
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| ASE Airport Terminal |
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| Aspen Downtown |
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| Snowmass Village |
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Additional Notes: Airport rental counters are located inside the main terminal. Advance reservations are strongly recommended year-round and essential during winter (December–March) and summer (June–August) peak seasons when demand exceeds supply.
On average, car rentals at Aspen Airport cost around $108 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $40 per day.
Compare pickup spots: Airport desks add about 11 % in surcharges. If your flight lands during daylight, catch the free hotel or town shuttle and grab a car in downtown Aspen to skip the fee.
Play with dates: Winter and summer spike above $120/day, but April–May or Sept–Nov drop to roughly $60–90/day. Shift your rental by a day or two in the shoulder season and watch the price graph on our site dive.
Size (and length) matters: A compact on a weekly rate can be cheaper than a mid-SUV for four separate days. Toggle vehicle classes and "weekly" options in the search to spot the sweet spot.
Fuel up down-valley: Gas in Basalt or Carbondale is usually 30–40 ¢/gal less than in Aspen. Fill there on your way back and return the car full to dodge refuel surcharges.
| Area | Parking Options | Regulations |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Aspen |
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| Snowmass Village |
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| Ski Areas |
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Local Driving Rules:
Get a car rental to get to:
Aspen Mountain – ski runs, gondola, downtown shops
Snowmass Village – slopes, Base Village dining
Maroon Bells – alpine lakes, hiking trails
Independence Pass – mountain pass, Continental Divide vistas
Is 4-wheel drive necessary for driving in Aspen?
In the winter (November–April), we highly recommend using a 4WD or AWD vehicle. You might even be required to have one during a snowstorm. Many mountain roads and passes can be hard to drive without the right car, especially in bad weather.
Are there fees for driving into Aspen?
You don't have to pay any tolls or entrance fees to drive into Aspen. However, you usually have to pay for parking in downtown Aspen and at the ski areas. The price changes depending on the season and where you park.
Can I drive to the Maroon Bells?
During busy seasons (mid-June through early October), you can't drive your own car to Maroon Bells from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. In those hours, you have to take the shuttle from Aspen Highlands. You can drive your car before 8 a.m. and after 5 p.m. if you have a reservation and during off-peak seasons when the shuttle isn't running.
How do I handle the high altitude when driving?
Aspen is at about 8,000 feet, and the mountain passes around it can reach over 12,000 feet. Your car might have less power at these high elevations. In winter, be ready for a lot of snow at higher elevations and in summer, watch out for afternoon thunderstorms which are common at high altitudes.
What documentation do I need to rent a car at ASE Airport?
You will usually need a valid driver's license and a major credit card in your name. International visitors need a valid passport and driver's license and some companies might ask for an International Driving Permit for licenses not in English. You don't always need to show proof of personal insurance, but the rental company may ask for it if you turn down their coverage.
Are one-way rentals available from ASE Airport?
You can rent a car for a one-way trip to major places like Denver, Grand Junction or Eagle. But you will usually pay an extra fee of about $75 to $250, depending on where you're going and the rental company. You will find fewer one-way rental options here than at bigger airports.
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