Aspen Car Rental

Guide to Aspen

Geography

Aspen is a major town in Pitkin County. Surrounded by the snow-capped Rocky and Elk Mountains, it sprawls along the Roaring Fork River, a tributary of the Colorado River.

Climate in Aspen

Since Aspen is in raised terrain, its climate is determined primarily by its altitude. Technically, it falls under the ‘humid continental’ Koppen grouping. Summer is from June to August, and winter – the skiing season – is from November to February.

Culture

The town has its origins in a mining camp from the days of the Colorado Silver Boom. Today, its economy depends on tourists like yourself.

Things to do in Aspen

Go skiing

Snow, of course, is the main reason to visit Aspen. To begin with, head to the Aspen Snowmass, a ski resort situated between Aspen and Snowmass Village. There are four mountains on which skiing is permitted: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. If you need an instructor, you should be able to easily find one in Aspen. If skiing is not your cup of tea but you’d still like to partake in the excitement of snow-related activities, opt for easier pursuits like sledding or tobogganing.

Explore the neighboring forest

Aspen sits on the eaves of the White River National Forest. The forest is open to the public, though you’ll need a permit if you mean to fish, hunt, or camp in it. Take the rare opportunity to hike through one of America’s most beautiful snowy forests and admire some of its tallest mountains (some of which are over 14000 feet above sea level!).

Pay your respects to John Denver

The legendary country singer, John Denver, lived for many years in Aspen, and clearly loved it, since he dedicated two of his songs to this town. Accordingly, you’ll find his memorial on the banks of the Roaring Fork River. At the John Denver Sanctuary, take note of the large rocks with some of Denver’s lyrics carved into them. The attached park also makes for a great family picnic spot, especially since it contains several perennial flowers that bloom in spring!

Eating out in Aspen

Being so loved by movie stars and musicians, Aspen has transformed into a haven for fine dining. For local Colorado dishes, dine at Velvet Buck, amid rustic interior and antique furniture. Try the Colorado Meat and Cheese and the truffle flatbread. French Alpine Bistro, a French-Austrian establishment, describes its atmosphere as ‘gemütlich’, German for ‘warmth, friendliness, belonging.’ The schokoladepalatschinke (chocolate crepe) may be a mouthful, but it’s also a perfect testament to its makers’ hospitality. For some exquisite sushi – saba, anyone? – eat at Matsuhisa, one of the best Japanese restaurants in town. If you want a light, snacky meal that’s going to tickle those picky taste buds, go to Big Wrap, which makes some excellent tacos, wraps, and burritos.

Aspen Transport

Airport

Aspen is serviced by Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE), which hosts three airlines: American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines.

Getting around

The quickest and cheapest way to get around Aspen is by bus. The shuttles run by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority are, blessedly, free to use. Alternatively, if you’ve got plans to explore the stunning landscapes of Colorado, consider renting a car for maximum comfort and flexibility. Some of the most popular car rental companies include Hertz, National, and Thrifty.