Silver Queen Gondola
Ascend 11,200 feet on the Silver Queen Gondola for unparalleled Rocky Mountain vistas and summit adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Silver Queen Gondola
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend 11,200 feet on the Silver Queen Gondola for unparalleled Rocky Mountain vistas and summit adventures.
"The gondola ride up to the mountaintop is very scenic, with beautiful views."
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Views can be obscured by clouds or rain. Check forecasts for the best experience.
Consider Multi-Day Passes :ticket:
If you plan multiple rides or activities, a pass can save money.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Rocky Mountain Vistas
Summit of Aspen Mountain
Soak in 360-degree views of the Elk Mountains from 11,200 feet. Absolutely breathtaking!
The Scenic Gondola Ride
Ascending Aspen Mountain
A thrilling 15-minute journey with stunning aerial perspectives of Aspen and the surrounding peaks.
Sundeck at the Summit
Top of Aspen Mountain
Enjoy lodge-style dining, drinks, and relaxation with unparalleled mountain backdrops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Ticket Strategies & Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Views can be obscured by clouds or rain. Check forecasts for the best experience.
Consider Multi-Day Passes :ticket:
If you plan multiple rides or activities, a pass can save money.
Pet-Friendly Ascent :dog:
Bring your furry friends along for the ride up Aspen Mountain!
Hike Up, Ride Down Free? :hiking_boot:
Some advise that hiking up can grant a free ride down.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Views can be obscured by clouds or rain. Check forecasts for the best experience.
Consider Multi-Day Passes :ticket:
If you plan multiple rides or activities, a pass can save money.
Pet-Friendly Ascent :dog:
Bring your furry friends along for the ride up Aspen Mountain!
Hike Up, Ride Down Free? :hiking_boot:
Some advise that hiking up can grant a free ride down.
Street Parking Can Be Tricky :car:
Parking can be difficult; street parking is metered.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Silver Queen Gondola for its breathtaking Rocky Mountain views and the scenic 15-minute ride to the summit. The mountaintop Sundeck offers dining and relaxation, and the accessibility for pets and families is a major plus. However, some find parking challenging and ticket prices a bit steep.
"Beautiful ride with great views and mountaintop activities.
The gondola ride up to the mountaintop is very scenic, with beautiful views. It's accessible and pet-friendly, which makes it a great option for families and visitors of all kinds.
Once at the top, there are activities for the whole family and a food court area. Food service ends at 3 PM, but after that you can still buy drinks and snacks.
Outside, there’s a spacious deck with tables and lounge chairs where you can relax and enjoy the views.
You need to purchase a ticket to go up. There were no clear signs for parking, we parked on the street and paid by the hour."
Isadany Atlaremp
"Beautiful ride to the top with stunning views at the summit! The gondola line was longer than expected though. Once you’re up there, enjoy the views and grab a drink at the Sundeck!"
Vidhya Bhat
"Totally enjoyed the views coming up and going down. Wonderful free nature trail hike guided by ACES naturalists. If you’re visiting for 3 or more days, get the gondola pass. Well worth it."
Oliveri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Silver Queen Gondola is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Aspen, Colorado. You can easily walk to the base station from most hotels and shops. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging, with metered street parking being an option.
Parking directly at the gondola base is limited. Metered street parking is available in downtown Aspen, but it can be competitive. Consider using a parking garage or public transport if available.
Aspen has a free local bus system that can help you navigate the town and reach the gondola base. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.
Yes, the gondola is generally accessible for most visitors, including those with mobility challenges. It's designed to accommodate a wide range of passengers.
Many visitors arrive in Aspen by car, but be prepared for mountain driving. Alternatively, you can fly into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) and take a shuttle or taxi to town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect them to be around $39 for a round trip. Look for potential discounts or multi-day passes if you plan on multiple rides.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the base station of the gondola in downtown Aspen. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and online purchase options.
Some Reddit users have inquired about discounts. While not always advertised, there might be options like season passes that include guest perks or potential deals for local events.
Operating hours for the Silver Queen Gondola vary by season. During summer, it typically runs from late morning to late afternoon. In winter, hours are extended for skiers. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, the Silver Queen Gondola is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the scenic ride.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views, explore nature trails with ACES naturalists, and dine at the Sundeck restaurant. There are also opportunities for hiking and, in winter, skiing.
The ride up the Silver Queen Gondola takes approximately 15 minutes, covering 2.5 miles. Many wish it lasted longer due to the incredible views! 
The Sundeck offers lodge-style dining with options like chili and other hearty meals. While full food service may end around 3 PM, drinks and snacks are usually available later.
Yes, the gondola provides access to numerous hiking trails on Aspen Mountain, especially during the summer months. Guided nature walks are also offered.
The summit of Aspen Mountain, where the Silver Queen Gondola terminates, is at an elevation of 11,200 feet. Be mindful of the altitude.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire gondola ride offers fantastic photo ops, especially as you ascend and gain elevation. Once at the top, the panoramic mountain vistas are unparalleled. Capture the sweeping landscapes and the charming town of Aspen below.
Early mornings often provide soft, golden light and fewer people, making for serene shots. Late afternoons can offer dramatic sunset colors. However, clear midday skies also showcase the rugged mountain beauty.
Absolutely! The windows offer clear views, and you can capture the journey and the scenery unfolding outside. Just be mindful of other passengers.
The viewing deck at the Sundeck offers expansive vistas. Also, keep an eye out for designated scenic overlooks as you explore the summit area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance sky colors and reduce glare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At the summit, the Sundeck provides a casual dining option, and the open spaces are great for children to explore (under supervision, of course). The gondola is also pet-friendly, so your furry family members can join the adventure! During summer, the nature trails are a hit with kids, offering a chance to discover local plants and wildlife. ACES-led guided walks can make learning fun and interactive. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly rewarding for families looking for scenic adventure.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to supplement meals at the Sundeck, as on-mountain dining can be pricey. If you're visiting during a special event, there might be package deals available. Always check for any potential discounts or promotions before purchasing your tickets.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The 15-minute ascent itself provides dynamic perspectives of Aspen and the surrounding peaks, perfect for capturing the journey. +1Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light, often referred to as the 'golden hours.' These times can yield dramatic skies and softer shadows. Don't forget to capture the details too – the wildflowers in summer, the snow-covered trees in winter, and the charming architecture of Aspen below.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Silver Queen Gondola Experience
+1At the top, the Sundeck serves as the main hub, offering dining, drinks, and ample space to relax on its spacious deck. During summer, the mountain transforms into a playground for hikers, with trails ranging from gentle nature walks to more challenging routes. ACES naturalists often lead guided hikes, providing insights into the local flora and fauna. In winter, the gondola is a primary access point for skiing and snowboarding on Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax.
It's important to note that while the views are spectacular, weather can be a factor. Visitors have reported cloudy days that obscured the vistas, so checking the forecast is recommended. The gondola is also pet-friendly, making it a great option for those traveling with their canine companions.
Summer Activities on Aspen Mountain
Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy guided nature walks led by ACES naturalists, who share their knowledge of the mountain's ecosystem. The Sundeck at the summit offers a place to refuel with lunch or snacks while taking in the scenery. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, simply lounging on the deck chairs and soaking in the mountain air is a popular choice.
It's worth noting that while the gondola ride is a highlight, the mountain activities are the main draw for many summer visitors. The combination of accessible trails, educational programs, and breathtaking scenery makes it a worthwhile excursion for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Winter Access and Skiing
The Sundeck at the summit transforms into a bustling hub for skiers, offering a place to warm up, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the après-ski atmosphere. While the focus is on skiing, the gondola is also accessible to sightseers who wish to experience the winter wonderland from above without hitting the slopes. The views of snow-covered peaks are particularly spectacular during this season.
For those planning a ski trip, purchasing lift tickets in advance or considering a multi-day pass is often recommended, especially during peak season. The gondola's efficiency ensures that you spend more time on the mountain and less time waiting in line, maximizing your winter adventure.
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