Road Trip:
Denver to Aspen

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Are you looking for an unforgettable experience in Colorado? Take a Kyte from Denver to Aspen and experience the beauty of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. You'll find breathtaking vistas, grand geological formations, vibrant wildflowers, and abundant wildlife along this scenic route. Whether you're stopping along the way or just taking it all in, a trip from Denver to Aspen is a journey that will stay etched in your mind for years to come. On this trip, you can participate in outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking.... or relax and enjoy the scenery. Get ready for an adventure of discovering one of the most picturesque locations in the United States!

History of Aspen

Aspen sits in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in central Colorado. It is known as both a cultural and recreational hotspot, hosting some of the most popular ski resorts in North America. First settled by miners seeking silver outside Leadville, Colorado, during the mid-1800s, Aspen gained a reputation as an exclusive tourist destination. The 1960s brought massive economic and recreational growth to Aspen, with many famous individuals setting up vacation homes there.

To this day, Aspen remains a popular travel and winter sports destination but has become much more accessible to everyday travelers due to increased accessibility by road and air transportation routes to nearby Denver International Airport.

What Kind of Car You Should Rent to Get to Aspen

When planning your road trip from Denver to Aspen, be assured that Kyte has the car you need. We recommend an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle for navigating snowy and icy roads if you're traveling in the winter months. If you're visiting during the summer months, a sedan or SUV should be sufficient unless you want to go off the beaten path, in which case we recommend an AWD SUV.

How to Get to Aspen from Denver

Aspen is approximately 200 miles away from Denver. Depending on traffic and road conditions, the drive takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes. The most direct route is to take I-70 West from Denver, take exit 116 onto Colorado 82 East, and follow it to Aspen.

The Route from the Denver International Airport

After your flight lands at Denver International Airport, simply head to the car rental shuttles in the East Terminal. You'll catch a ride within 5 minutes, and it will bring you straight to your rental car. Forget about counters and paperwork – with a few clicks on the Kyte app, you'll be ready to go in seconds. Just show your driver's license, grab your keys, and enjoy the ride. Then follow the route from the last paragraph.

Scenic Alternative

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can take US 285 South from Denver and follow it through Fairplay. Take 24 West until you get to 82 West, and take it all the way to Aspen.

Safety Tips for Driving From Denver to Aspen

When driving from Denver to Aspen, one must be aware of the potential hazards:

• Mountain roads can be narrow and winding, so driving slowly and carefully is essential.

• Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for snow and ice on the roads.

• Altitude sickness is a genuine concern when driving at high elevations, so make sure to take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water.

• Wildlife can often appear along the roadside, so keep an eye out for animals crossing the road.

• Be aware of other drivers on the road, as some may need to become more familiar with mountain driving conditions or etiquette.

Attractions in Aspen

If you're looking to break up your drive from Denver to Aspen, there are plenty of attractions along the way. In Glenwood Springs, you can visit the famous hot springs or ride on the Iron Mountain Tramway. Further down the road, you can explore historic mining sites and museums in Leadville. Once in Aspen, there's a lot to see and do.

Winter Sports

Aspen is known for its world-class winter sports, so if you're visiting during the colder months, check out the ski resorts. Aspen Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands are all nearby and offer a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are also popular activities in the area.

Outdoor Activities

During the summer, Aspen is a great place to explore nature. Hiking trails abound in the surrounding mountains, and there are plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and rafting. Mountain biking is also popular in the area, with trails for all levels of riders. If you're visiting during the summer, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. Popular summer activities include hiking, river rafting, kayaking, fishing, and hot air balloon rides - to name a few! Aspen is a multi-seasonal destination that offers something special during every season.

Shopping and Fine Dining

Aspen is known for its shopping and fine dining. The downtown area along Main St is full of boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, of which you'll find plenty to suit your needs and tastes.

Other Things to Do in Aspen

The city of Aspen also offers a variety of cultural attractions, such as art galleries, museums, and live music venues. Aspen is home to various festivals throughout the year:

• In the summer, the Aspen Music Festival features classical music performances from world-renowned musicians.

• The Aspen Ideas Festival is also held in June and brings together some of the world's most influential thinkers for lectures and discussions on various topics.

• In the winter, the X Games feature extreme sports competitions like snowboarding and skiing.

• The Aspen Filmfest is held in the fall and showcases independent films worldwide.

• Lastly on our list, if you're looking for something more low-key, check out the annual Jazz Aspen Snowmass Festival in June.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Aspen is sure to make your trip memorable. So pack your bags and hit the road with Kyte!

Road Trip: Denver to Aspen