Aspen flights and travel guide

One of the largest ski resorts in the world, Aspen is renowned for its excellent skiing, extensive runs and extravagant nightlife. Ever popular with celebrities, this is the place to ski the largest lift-served vertical piste in the world by day and party with Jack Nicholson by night. The resort itself is growing all the time. It is now possible to stay both in original Aspen, nearby Snowmass or Aspen Highlands. The pistes are expanded each year and new or updated lifts regularly come into operation.

All levels of skiers book flights to Aspen, as the numerous pistes cater to everyone. Some of the best black runs and off piste in the world are on offer here, alongside easy beginner’s runs and nursery slopes. Perhaps the most convincing draw for skiers used to European conditions is that snow is almost guaranteed. Though flights to Aspen take longer than the hop to France or Switzerland, the transfer time at the other end is minimal.

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When to Fly to Aspen

Peak season:

The winter ski season starts earlier in Aspen and Snowmass than the lower-lying Buttermilk and Aspen Highlands. Generally speaking the two larger resorts open at the end of November and the lower ones in the middle of December. Aspen isn’t a cheap resort and prices tend to stay high throughout the entire winter season due to the excellent snow cover.

Off season:

The summer months here are almost as popular as the winter ones due to the extent of outdoor activities. The best time for deals on accommodation is during the autumn period, when visitors arrive to see the changing leaf colours.

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Getting Downtown Aspen

All Aspen flights arrive at the local airport which is just a few miles out of the town. Free buses operate along Highway 82 during ski season departing from outside the terminal building. Most hotels offer free shuttles and taxis are readily available at the airport.

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Aspen Insider Information

• The Aspen Snowmass website has much useful information on the resorts. Find snow reports, trail maps and live webcam views of the peaks. The website also has information on events taking place in the resorts, details of ski and snowboard schools and the facility to buy lift passes.
• Despite its glitzy connotations Aspen is also an excellent resort for families. Ski schools operate a huge range of programmes designed for children and the instructors, obviously, speak English. Additionally, any child aged six years and under can ski or snowboard for free throughout the resort.
• Aspen is a popular destination both in winter and summer. The summer season is especially popular with hikers and bikers who explore the surrounding peaks. The Maroon Bells, accessed along Maroon Creek Road, are the most-visited mountains and during the weekend the road there is full of cyclists.
• The nightlife in Aspen is legendary, at all times of year. Pick up a copy of the local newspapers, The Aspen Daily News or the Aspen Times, to find listings and events. Or, take a wander through town and you’ll soon spot the most popular bars.
• Though Aspen Pitkin Country Airport is the closest airport, only domestic airlines provide flights to Aspen (United, Frontier or Delta Airlines). If you're flying in from the UK, Denver is the closest international airport, from where you can change onto a connecting flight, or use the coach service operated by Gray Line Colorado or collect a taxi.

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Aspen Airports

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