Explore the elevation of Aspen—nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains at over 8,000 feet above sea level, this iconic alpine town is a playground for the rich and famous, offering luxury, history, and year-round adventure in a breathtaking high-altitude setting.

Table of Contents

Where is Aspen?

  • Location: Aspen is located in central Colorado within the Rocky Mountains, between the Elk Mountains and the Sawatch Range.

City Profile

  • Nickname: Known for its luxury ski resorts and celebrity homes.
  • Fame: Famed for high-end real estate, winter sports, and alpine scenery.
  • Population: Less than 7,000 full-time residents, with thousands more seasonal visitors.
  • Size rank: Largest municipality in Pitkin County.

Elevation Basics

  • City elevation: Aspen sits at an elevation of around 8,000 feet (2,400 m) above sea level.
  • Highest point: Located in the southwest part of Aspen at 8,460 feet (2,580 m).
  • Lowest point: Found near Roaring Fork in the north, at 7,660 feet (2,330 m).
  • Nearby river: The Roaring Fork River runs close to town.
  • City founding: Originally founded in 1879 as Ute City.
  • Mining history: A major silver mining town in the late 1800s, declining after the Panic of 1893.
  • Modern evolution: Reborn as a ski resort destination, Aspen became synonymous with wealth, winter sports, and luxury retreats.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Why so high? Aspen's elevation is due to its location in the Rocky Mountains.
  • State comparison: Colorado has a mean elevation of 6,800 feet (2,070 m), so Aspen is well above average.
  • City comparison: Aspen is higher than:
    • Denver – 5,280 feet (1,609 m)
    • Aurora – 5,472 feet (1,668 m)
    • Colorado Springs – 6,033 feet (1,839 m)
  • Highest town in Colorado: Aspen is not the highest—Leadville holds that title at 10,152 feet (3,094 m).
  • Altitude prep: Visitors should stay hydrated and dress in layers to adapt to high elevation.
  • Altitude sickness: Due to the thin air, some may experience headaches, nausea, or fatigue.

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate type: Aspen has a humid continental climate, typical of high-elevation mountain towns.
  • Temperature swings: Temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night.
  • Summer: Warm days with average July highs of 78°F (26°C), but cold nights.
  • Winter: Features heavy snow and freezing temperatures, ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
  • Popular activities: Famous for skiing, but also offers hiking, horseback riding, and year-round festivals.
  • Major events: Hosts the renowned Winter X Games and other cultural and outdoor events.

Plan Your Trip