Aspen is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers but also a model for sustainable, car-free travel. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, navigating Aspen without a car is not only possible but also incredibly convenient. We encourage you to avoid the unnecessary stress of parking, traffic, and other inconveniences and make the most of your time here. Here’s how you can enjoy all that Aspen has to offer while minimizing your carbon footprint and maximizing your experience.
Walking and Hiking:
With its pedestrian-friendly streets and breathtaking natural beauty at every turn, Aspen is a walker’s paradise. Many of our town’s attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to easily explore on foot.
For those looking to venture a bit further, the Rio Grande Trail and the Hunter Creek Trail offer stunning hiking experiences just a short distance from downtown. These trails are accessible by foot, making them perfect for car-free adventurers. For more hiking trails to explore, click here.
The Aspen Historical Society offers plenty of walking tours all around downtown Aspen. Book your tour online here.
Bike Rentals and Paths
Aspen’s compact size and scenic surroundings make it a perfect place to explore by bike. Numerous bike rental shops offer a range of options, from mountain bikes to electric bikes.
The Rio Grande Trail, a picturesque pathway stretching over 40 miles, is ideal for a leisurely ride. For those looking for a more challenging experience, the network of trails around Aspen Mountain provides plenty of exciting options.
WE-cycle, Aspen’s bike-share program, offers a convenient way to zip around town. With numerous stations strategically placed throughout Aspen and Basalt, WE-cycle makes it easy to pick up a bike for short trips. Best of all, the first 30 minutes of each ride are free, encouraging quick, eco-friendly commutes.
Utilize Public Transportation:
Aspen boasts an efficient and extensive public transportation system that makes getting around town and to nearby attractions simple and stress-free.
RFTA Buses The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers frequent, clean and FREE transportation to and from the airport, downtown, Woody Creek, the Intercept Lot and Snowmass Village. Additionally, RFTA offers a guided tour bus to the Maroon Bells during the summer. The high-frequency routes ensure minimal wait times, and buses are equipped with bike racks for those who wish to combine cycling with their journey. During the winter, RFTA offers free skier shuttles to all four mountains.
Free Shuttles Aspen’s free shuttle services are a fantastic option for getting around the core downtown area. The Downtowner app offers free, on-demand rides within a defined area, while the Galena Street Shuttle operated by RFTA provides a loop service through key points of interest in downtown Aspen.
Park & Ride: Park for free at the Park & Ride lots in each location listed below, and catch a RFTA bus to Aspen.
- Brush Creek Intercept lot (Snowmass)
- Basalt
- El Jebel
- Carbondale
- Glenwood Springs
Try VelociRFTA- Fast, Fun, Frequent service utilizing Bus Rapid Transit.
Embracing a car-free lifestyle in Aspen not only contributes to preserving the area’s natural beauty but also enhances your travel experience. By relying on public transportation, biking, walking, and ride-sharing, you can enjoy a stress-free and eco-friendly visit.
Plan your trip today and discover the ease and enjoyment of exploring Aspen without a car. For more details on local transportation options, visit our local transportation guide.
Aspen awaits your arrival—let's keep it green and serene together!
