Silver Queen Gondola

Imagine a journey that transports you from the cozy city streets to the clouds in just a matter of minutes. The Silver Queen Gondola is more than just transportation; it is a true legend of Aspen. As the longest single-section gondola in the world, it stretches for a full 4 kilometers, connecting the resort center with the majestic summit of Aspen Mountain in the USA.

During the 15-minute ascent, you will overcome a vertical elevation gain of more than 990 meters. Each cabin holds up to six people, offering breathtaking 360-degree views. This unique piece of engineering can transport up to 2,400 people per hour, providing guests with comfortable and quick access to the natural beauty of Colorado.

Once at the summit, at an altitude of 3,414 meters, visitors enter a world of panoramic views overlooking the famous Maroon Bells mountain range and the valley. Regardless of the season—whether it's the snow-covered slopes in winter or blooming alpine meadows in summer—a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola remains one of the most memorable experiences when visiting the region.

For up-to-date information on lift operations and ticket prices, you can use the following contact details:

At the top of the mountain, where the Silver Queen Gondola takes you, life is bustling year-round. During the summer, you'll find the world’s highest 18-hole disc golf course. This activity is completely free for visitors, and playing at such an altitude adds a unique thrill to the experience.

For music lovers, atmospheric Sunday Bluegrass concerts are held on Sundays (from July to September), featuring live performances set against the snow-capped peaks of the Elk Mountains. For those who prefer active recreation, dozens of miles of hiking and biking trails are available. Aspen is rightfully considered one of the best places in America for mountain biking, offering trails for both beginners and pros.

After your walk, be sure to stop by the Sundeck restaurant. Its spacious terrace is the perfect place for lunch with a mountain view. In winter, the gondola becomes the main artery for skiers and snowboarders, providing access to 75 trails. But even if you don't ski, you can rent snowshoes and take a peaceful walk along the scenic Richmond Ridge, enjoying the silence and crystal-clear mountain air.

The base station of the Silver Queen Gondola is located at 611 E Durant Ave, right in the heart of the city. Thanks to this central location, the lift is easily accessible on foot from almost anywhere in the downtown area, allowing you to enjoy the mountain resort atmosphere as you walk.

If you are arriving in the region by plane, the nearest hub is Aspen-Pitkin County Airport. From there, you can comfortably reach the city center by taxi, pre-booked transfer, or rental car. The city also has an excellent network of free buses (RFTA) that run between major points of interest.

For travelers with private or rental vehicles, paid parking is available in the city center; however, during the high season, it is recommended to arrive early as demand for spots is very high. Walking to the station remains the simplest and most pleasant way to get around town.

The history of the Silver Queen Gondola began in December 1986. Its opening was a true revolution for the ski resort, as it was one of only three such systems in Colorado at the time and the longest single-section gondola in the world. It cut travel time to the summit in half, making the mountain accessible not only to professional skiers but also to regular sightseers.

The name of the lift—Silver Queen—is deeply rooted in local folklore. It was coined by early settlers back in the 1880s during the "Silver Rush." It is said that the silhouette of a female figure can be seen on the western slope of the mountain, which became a symbol of the area's wealth and beauty.

The technical equipment of the lift is constantly being improved. In 2006, the old cabins were completely replaced with newer, more modern ones. In 2021, a unique engineering operation was carried out: for the first time in 35 years, the main steel cable was replaced. The new cable, nearly 8 kilometers long and weighing 97 tons, was manufactured in Switzerland specifically for this project.

To fully enjoy the ride and the views, it is recommended to allocate 1.5 to 3 hours for your visit. The one-way trip itself takes about 14-15 minutes, but time at the summit flies by thanks to the abundance of observation points.

If you plan to have lunch at the famous Sundeck restaurant or head out on one of the hiking trails, it's better to set aside half a day for your visit. Those deciding to play disc golf or attend a Sunday concert should plan for a longer stay to take in the high-altitude atmosphere at a leisurely pace.

The gondola typically operates daily on a standard schedule: from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. These hours are applicable for both the winter ski season and the summer operating period.

Please note that the schedule may change depending on weather conditions (strong winds or thunderstorms) and seasonal maintenance breaks (usually in late spring and early autumn). Before your trip, we strongly recommend checking the latest information on the official Aspen Snowmass website.

The lift's location in the center of town allows tourists to easily combine mountain excursions with exploring local culture, dining, and nightlife. Just a few minutes' walk from the station, legendary venues and historical landmarks await.