The views of the high peaks, the perpetual snow and nature are characteristics that perfectly define Aspen, a city that is waiting for you to live a unique experience. But how do you get around?
Is there Uber in Aspen? Yes, there is Uber in Aspen. Uber has been operating in Aspen since 2014 and is a popular choice among both locals and visitors. With Uber, you can request a ride and a driver will pick you up and take you to your desired location. It’s a convenient and affordable option to save you from the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.
In the rest of the blog, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about Uber in Aspen. From its history to availability and alternatives, and even how to use it, I’ve got you covered.
Uber in Aspen: What You Need to Know
Good news – Uber is available in Aspen, so you can easily get around town without worrying about transportation.
Uber operates throughout the Aspen area, including Snowmass Village, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. The app works similarly to other cities. This allows users to quickly request a ride from their current location to any destination within the coverage area.
However, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead. Especially during peak seasons like winter when wait times may be longer.
Now, there are a few things to keep in mind when using Uber in Aspen:
1. Limited Availability of Drivers in Aspen
Since Aspen is a cozy little town, you might find fewer drivers around as compared to big cities. That means that during peak hours or special events, you might end up waiting a little longer or see higher prices than usual.
But don’t worry, here’s a pro tip: it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and book your ride in advance to avoid any unexpected surprises. That way, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride without any stress!
2. Potential Driving Challenges in Mountainous Terrain
Secondly, it’s always good to keep in mind these two things. The mountainous terrain and weather conditions in Aspen can be pretty unpredictable. So, it’s possible that some Uber drivers might not feel comfortable driving in certain areas or during heavy snowfall.
If this ever happens, your driver will let you know ahead of time. He will also suggest alternative transportation options that will still get you to your destination safely and efficiently.
3. Special Considerations for Group or Luxury Transportation Needs
Lastly, if you’re traveling with a large group or require a specific type of vehicle, such as an SUV or a luxury sedan, it’s a good idea to check with Uber in advance to make sure these options are available in Aspen.
The History of Uber in Aspen
Uber has been serving the Aspen community since December 2015. Back then, it was the first ride-hailing service to arrive in Aspen, and it has become a popular transportation option for both locals and tourists ever since.
Before Uber’s arrival, the only way to get around Aspen was through traditional taxi services or renting a car. Uber changed the game by providing a more convenient and affordable option for transportation. As of today, Uber is one of the most popular ways to get around Aspen, especially during the peak winter season.
Tips for Using Uber in Aspen
1. Choose the Correct Car Option
You don’t want to be stuck with a small uber and lots of things. It’s pretty uncomfortable. Trust me! So if you’re traveling with ski equipment, make sure you select an Uber option that can accommodate your gear, like UberXL.
2. Use In-App Messaging
Use the in-app messaging feature to communicate with your driver. If you have specific pickup instructions or need to make a change to your pickup location, you can use the in-app messaging feature to communicate directly with your driver.
3. Know Your Pickup Location
Know your pickup location. In Aspen, Uber pickups can be tricky, especially if you’re in a crowded area. Make sure you know your exact pickup location and keep an eye out for your driver.
4. Respect Your Driver’s Time
Be respectful of your driver’s time. Aspen is a popular tourist destination, and many Uber drivers rely on fares to make a living. If you’re running late or need to cancel your ride, be sure to give your driver plenty of notice.
5. Rate Your Driver
Don’t forget to rate your driver. After your ride, be sure to rate your driver and leave a review. This helps other passengers know what to expect and also helps drivers improve their service.
How To Get Around Aspen Without Uber
While Uber is a popular choice in Aspen, it’s not the only option available. Other ride-hailing services, such as Lyft, are also available in Aspen. Additionally, there are traditional taxi services and car rental options available in the area.
It’s worth noting that traditional taxi services can be more expensive than ride-hailing services, and renting a car can be more affordable if you plan to do a lot of driving around the area.
Getting around cities without Uber is pretty hard if we are used to Uber’s comfort and safety. But don’t worry, we will list some other transportation options that you could use if you are visiting Aspen and you need to know how to get around.
Let’s start by listing all the possible alternatives. In Aspen, we can use Lyft, Taxi, Bus, Rent a bike or a car, or walk around the small town and save up some money.
Now, it is time for me to give you an in detail explanation about all of the options listed.
Alternative Ride Sharing (Grab/Lyft)
The option of riding with Lyft in Aspen is available. There are many categories to chose from, like LyftX, LyftXL, Lux, LyftBlack, LyftBlackXL, and the prices for every type will be different.
And the estimated fare for a regular LyftX would be around 12-15$ from the Airport in Aspen to the city center, if you were to take the LyftXL option the price would be 15-18$, and the Lux option, which is their high end ride, would be at an estimated price of 20-25$ from the airport to city center.
Taxi in Aspen
It is another option that is available when commuting around Aspen. More expensive than when taking a bus, of course, but if you don’t like being around so many people, this is another excellent option.
High Mountain Taxi offers rides around the city, and there is also a taxi company called Colorado Mountain Express that offers rides from the airport to the city. High mountain Taxi also gives rides to and from the airport.
The minimum fare when taking a taxi is 7.5$, with the base fare being 4.2$, and for every kilometer, they charge 1.28$.
The estimated price to get from the airport to the center of the city when using an economy vehicle is around 10$, but there are also premium options that can cost more than that, for example, a price for an SUV to take you from the airport to the center of the city would be 14$
Train in Aspen
The option of taking a train around the city is unfortunately not available. The closest option to take a train is in Glenwood Springs, and to take a train you can make reservations online or call the number of the train station. But let’s go to our next available choice.
Bus in Aspen
There are buses in Aspen, and they are one of our best options. They are very affordable and have many routes. Some routes will take you to nearby skiing places and the villages near Aspen. And those routes are the best in our opinion.
The bus rides in Aspen start from 1$ and goes up to 10$ depending on the route you will take. They also have free rides to and from Snowmass, but if you want to go to places like Greenwood Springs, you will have to spend some money.
The buses that take you to the villages nearby and skiing places run every half an hour.
Walking in Aspen
This is a small mountain town that is very easy to explore on foot (measuring 3.5 square miles). So this is our best recommendation since you save up your coins and you get to see all the beautiful places that this city has to offer.
Another plus of this option is that it is eco-friendly. So you will be helping yourself and the earth at the same time.
The only thing you will need is a pair of warm boots, and you are good to go! Take a tour around, explore, and enjoy!
Bikes in Aspen
Yes, you can rent a bike in Aspen! This is another eco-friendly option. Renting a bike in Aspen can be such a fun experience since Aspen is a mountain town, and you could ride around the beautiful forests and mountains. This also, another eco-friendly option that you should go for.
Bike rental shops are usually closed during the winter since the weather is cold and driving a bike is not recommended. But when they open in spring, there are a lot of people around town driving on bikes.
There are many options to choose from, from Premium Road bikes to Kids bikes, mountain bikes, bicycles with trailers, and even electric bikes. With the bikes with trailers option, you would be able to travel around with your baby or your dog!
The price includes helmets and a basket, and also, when riding a mountain bike, you can choose from different types of bike pedals that will not cost you anything.
Rent-A-Car in Aspen
Yes, you can rent a car in Aspen! Renting a car is an excellent option if you are too lazy to walk or ride a bike, but as we said before, there are many other options to choose from, so this one is probably the one that we would recommend.
Why? It is because, as we said, Aspen is such a small town, as we have already mentioned, that you don’t need a car when it comes to commuting around. But if you are constantly in a hurry and you need to get to places fast, and like the comfort of sitting in a car that this is the best choice for you!
Car rentals cost around 20$ a day for an economy car, and the price can go up to 115$ for a premium SUV.
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