General Weather Conditions
The weather changes quickly in the mountains. In summer months, expect afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Dress appropriately for changing conditions especially when hiking. In the winter months, layering your clothes will give you the most versatility for temperature changes.
Annual Average Temperatures
Summer high 90, low 40.
Winter high 35, low 10.
Average Rainfall/Snowfall
High Altitude Syndrome
As a person climbs to higher elevations the air becomes thinner. In Aspen the amount of oxygen in the air is 30 percent less than that of sea level and the humidity is 50 percent less. Most visitors can expect some degree of change in their bodies. Symptoms range from restlessness, to shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness, headaches and increases in heart rate. To avoid the symptoms make sure you are well rested prior to arriving. On arrival in the valley, rest appropriately and don’t overexert yourself. Avoid alcohol and caffeine and increase your water intake by 50 percent.
Time Zone
Aspen is in the Mountain Standard Time Zone and practices Daylight Saving Time.
Tipping Guide
- Taxi Drivers: $1 to $2
- Baggage Porters: $1 to $5, or more if the service was particularly friendly and helpful
- Cloakroom Attendants in Nightclubs, et al: $1 to $2
- Restaurants: 20 percent, or gratuity may be included in your final bill
- Bars and Lounges: $1 to $2 per drink
- Spa Treatments: 20 percent, or gratuity may be included in your final bill
- Tours and Tour Guides: 15 to 20 percent, at your discretion, based upon your experience
- Golf Club Cleaning: $3 to $5 per bag
- Ski Guides: $50 to $100 for a full day
- Fishing Guide: $60 to $100 for a full day
- Snowmobile Guide: 20 percent
- Sleigh Ride: $5 to $20, at your discretion, based upon your experience
- In Home Chef: 20 percent, or gratuity may be included in your final bill
- Housekeeping: Your housekeeping team may be tipped at your discretion, based upon your experience. A general guideline is $10 or more per night based upon your travel party size and in-residence activities.
- Destination Host: Your Destination Host may be tipped at your discretion, based upon the amount of travel planning you required and your overall in-residence experience.
Traveling with Prescription Medicine
If you are traveling with prescription medicines, carry them in their original containers and bring a copy of your prescription. If you buy medications abroad, be aware that they may not be FDA-approved or allowed into the United States. For more information on customs rules and regulations, please contact 202.354.1000 or visit www.cbp.gov.
