One of the best ways to see the splendor of the mountains is from a car and no place has better access to the Rockies than Aspen. While the road may vary from pavement to simply gravel - or even better yet, bumping over boulders and streams on an exciting off-road adventure, Aspen is a great home base for any four-wheel expedition. While exploring, catch a glimpse of a rainbow, as it appears to reach down to a valley floor or spy a herd of elk or bighorn sheep meandering through a meadow.

For those who flew into Aspen, car rentals range from basic to over-the-top. Choose from jeeps and other 4 x 4s, Suburbans, PT Cruisers, VW Beetles and more. Local rental car companies can even deliver a Mercedes, Lexus or other specialty vehicle to your door.

On the Road
Independence Pass
While only 40 miles long, this short journey packs in a considerable amount - awe-inspiring vistas, picturesque aspen groves, hairpin turns, nail-biting narrows and plunging shoulders, plus the ghost town of Independence. Follow the road to Twin Lakes Village at the foot of the two highest peaks in Colorado, Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. This block-long community is situated at 9,200 feet above sea level.

Frying Pan Road
Wind your way from nearby Basalt along the Frying Pan River to the expansive Ruedi Reservoir. In route, this remote two-lane highway passes red rock canyons, pastoral ranch lands and stretches of trout filled waterways that beckon fly-fishermen to pull over and cast a line. The name of the road and the river are well earned.

Castle Creek Road
The 13-mile journey to Ashcroft from Aspen offers some of the most beautiful views around. Visit the ghost town and the cozy Pine Creek Cookhouse restaurant. Reservations are suggested for lunch and required for dinner. The menu features gourmet mountain cuisine - wild game and fresh seafood, among other items.

Maroon Creek Road
In summer cars are permitted to access the famed twin peaks, Maroon Bells, before 8:30 a.m. and after 5 p.m., so this is an ideal sunrise or sunset excursion. During other daytime hours, buses provide access. At 14,000 feet, both peaks are considered “fourteeners.” Remember to bring your camera as the bells reflect onto Maroon Lake, making an ideal photo op from down below.

Into the Wild
Do It Yourself
Experienced off-road drivers with hardy four-wheel-drive vehicles may want to bounce around the area’s many jeep roads, providing consideration is given to the environment. Drives include the rocky road to the tiny mountain hamlet of Lenado, the idyllic Old Mill at Crystal City (near Marble) or Little Annie Road, which climbs the back side of Aspen Mountain ending up at the Sundeck Restaurant. Plan to arrive around midday to enjoy a gourmet lunch.

Jeep Tours
Just along for the ride? Aspen outfitters will take groups on exciting and scenic off-road trips including a climb up the front or backside of Aspen Mountain.

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Aspen Chamber Resort Association (888) 290-1324 (970) 925-1940

Stay Aspen Snowmass (888) 290-1324 The Aspen/Sopris Ranger District