Aspen Snow Report, Weather & Ski Resorts

Aspen Ski Vacations
Varied and Exciting Terrain!

On the slopes, Aspen is a haven for skiing and winter activities. Off the slopes, high-end shopping, dining and nightlife abound. Come summer, outdoor enthusiasts love trout fishing, whitewater rafting and the extensive trail system of White River National Forest. Buttermilk Ski Resort is a popular Aspen lodging choice. Aspen vacation rentals and condos in Snowmass open the door to some of the best ski terrain-suitable for all skill levels-in the country. A legendary winter playground, Aspen features world-class skiing and phenomenal off-mountain fun in the charming downtown area. Ski-in/ski-out lodging at The Inn at Aspen offers direct access to Buttermilk Mountain, and is centrally located minutes from neighboring Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Snowmass Resort. A ski access trail connects The Ridge Townhomes to the Snowmass ski area.

The warmer months provide outdoor adventure including fly fishing and hiking in White River National Forest. And, the spring runoff unleashes Class III and IV rapids for intense whitewater rafting on the Roaring Fork and Arkansas Rivers. Choose from a variety of hotel rooms and suites at The Inn at Aspen. Or, select a townhome in Snowmass at The Ridge. Best For: Well-heeled scenesters and celebrity-stalkers with a love for top-quality skiing Hype aside, Aspen is still the ski town all North American ski towns compare themselves to-and one of the few places that manages to be both hip and classic at the same time. Riddled with galleries and boutiques and coffeehouses and gourmet restaurants, this is where movie stars mingle with Olympic athletes and where full-length fur coats never go out of style. It's undeniably ostentatious-and enough to make a dirtbag ski bum barf on his duck-taped Gore-Tex-but it may also be the world's most sophisticated mountain town outside of Europe.

The skiing and snowboarding's not bad either. In fact, it's as good as anywhere in Colorado, with four separate ski areas within a ten-mile radius catering to all abilities and tastes. Aspen Mountain is an expert's playground-it literally has zero green runs-and one of the most consistently steep areas in Colorado. Its runs spill right into downtown. Snowmass is the mega-mountain with the second most vertical in the U.S. (though not skiable continuously) and terrain for everyone. Aspen Highlands is the local favorite and features the steepest terrain of the four. Buttermilk, with its ample greens and innovative ski school, is perfect for beginners. Lift tickets are good for all four mountains, which are easily reached from Aspen and each other by free shuttle buses.

The Perfect Mountain Town

Ask a Local Longtime Aspenite Christy Mahon is the first woman to ski all of Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks and serves as the Development Director for the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. Here are her recommendations. Best Digs Budget: The Tyrolean Lodge on Main Street was built by a legendary Aspen family and has remodeled rooms with vintage ski decor and the best rates in town.

Swank: The Hotel Jerome embodies Aspen's history. Best Eats Cheap: At 520 Grill, two local skiers and chefs quickly serve up healthy burgers, creative sandwiches, and salads. Gourmet: For 24 years, Cache Cache has been the place to go for the most sophisticated, French-inspired cuisine in Aspen, with an incredible, high-energy atmosphere. Best After-Ski Party Spot Just steps from the gondola, Ajax Tavern lures you in with the smell of truffle fries and a stylish patio scene. Best Rest-Day Activity Take a walk down the Rio Grande Trail along the Roaring Fork River to visit the 25-acre nature preserve at Hallam Lake, part of the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. Then view a cutting-edge contemporary art exhibit at the Aspen Art Museum.

Aspen's Classic Ski Run: The long face of Bell Mountain on Aspen catches the late afternoon sun and is the best way to end the perfect ski day. Aspen Mountain (sometimes called Ajax) is a ski area located in Pitkin County, Colorado, on the outskirts of Aspen. It's located the north flank of Aspen Mountain and the taller Bell Mountain, which is just south, at an elevation of 11,212 ft. The Aspen Skiing Company founded as a ski area venture in 1946. Now, it is one of four adjacent ski areas operated by the company as part of the Aspen Snowmass complex. At only 673 acres, it is smaller than other ski areas, and so retains a unique cultural flavor that harkens to the earlier days of recreational skiing in Colorado. This ski destination is within the White River National Forest and is operated under permit from the U.S. Forest Service. You can find three different restaurants on the mountain.

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Premier Performance Mountain

Aspen/Snowmass offers wide-open blue skies and fluffy white powder, as well as some of the most diverse terrain in North America. At Aspen/Snowmass, one ticket allows you to experience Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Combined, the ticket offers four mountains with a plethora of terrain, countless lifts, numerous trails, vertical drops, inches of fresh snow and endless blue skies- all located within a 12-mile radius and accessible by free shuttles. Aspen Mountain Aspen Mountain, the flagship mountain of the Aspen/Snowmass resort complex, rises grandly out of the heart of downtown Aspen at 11,212 feet. Famous the world over, Aspen Mountain has been the place to go since 1947 for those who want to ski and enjoy the best of life. Enjoy a huge variety of inbound riding with glades, bumps, and steeps or take a go with the local powder cat tour company to experience a fantastic out-of-bounds excusion. Still a classic but with modern touches, Aspen Mountain has added a new gondola to go with their amazing Sundeck at the Summit and apres at the base.

A historic mining town, Aspen's rich culture and community provide endless opportunities for visitors to renew the mind, body and spirit. Located near the end of Roaring Fork Valley, the town boasts some of the most unique bistros and beautiful lodging with a magnificent Rocky Mountain backdrop. Steep and Simple Combined Aspen/Snowmass, with two towns, four mountains (Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk), 4,993 acres, 42 lifts, 335 trails and the steepest vertical drop in Colorado, offers the best terrain and greatest variety of Rocky Mountain skiing at a single resort.

Aspen Highlands is known as the locals' favorite mountain. Located just 3 miles from downtown Aspen and accessible by free shuttle, Aspen Highlands' mountain features stunning views of the world-famous Maroon Bells while you ski within the White River National Forest. For over 50 years, Aspen Highlands has enjoyed a reputation as a local's favorite and the best kept secret of the valley. Head up 12,392 to the summit of Highland Bowl for some controlled backcountry fun or head to the new Deep Temerity lift area to enjoy the newest terrain at the area. Top to bottom, Aspen Highlands is home to some of the best big-mountain terrain in Colorado. Enjoy the wide-open runs or, for the ultimate ski/snowboarding experience, step it up a level with a snowcat ride to the first access gate then continue to hike to the renowned descents of the expanded Bowl.

Popular & Recommended Properties

Hotel Aspen - This Aspen, Colorado hotel is 0.6 mi from Aspen Mountain ski area and provides ski service to 4 area ski slopes. It features a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub. Free WiFi throughout the property is provided. The rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a DVD player, as well as with a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find bathrobes, free toiletries and a hair dryer. Hotel Aspen serves Apres-Ski wine, cheese and hors d'oeuvres during ski season. The John Denver Sanctuary is 1,950 feet from Hotel Aspen, while Eagle County Regional Airport is 32 mi away.

Limelight Hotel Aspen - Within walking distance of Aspen Mountain, Limelight Hotel features guest rooms with free Wi-Fi and 32-inch flat-screen cable TVs. This Colorado hotel has an outdoor pool, hot tub and rooftop terrace. The guest rooms provide iPod docking stations and laptop safes. They also have seating areas, desks and ironing facilities. Limelight Hotel serves breakfast and offers a ski guide service and gym. A business center and meeting rooms are also available. The Limelight Hotel is in a great location across from Wagner Park and is less than a half mile from Aspen Art Museum. It is 3 miles from Buttermilk Mountain Ski Area and 10 miles from Krabloonik Dogsled Rides.

St Moritz Lodge and Condominiums - This hotel has a year-round outdoor heated pool and whirlpool and free cable on flat-screen TVs. It is 2 blocks from Aspen's free ski shuttle system. A flat-screen cable TV with HBO and a refrigerator are provided in each room at the St. Moritz Lodge & Condominiums. Rooms with full kitchenettes and sitting areas are available. Some rooms include balcony seating overlooking the hotel pool. Along with the pool and whirlpool, the St. Moritz Lodge has a steam room and BBQ facilities. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and off-street parking is also available. At the foot of Shadow Mountain, the hotel is 9 blocks from Aspen Ski Mountain. Downtown Aspen is just 5 blocks away and the Aspen Ice Garden is in the next block.

Aspen Meadows Resort - Surrounded by the stunning Colorado Rocky Mountains and offering easy access to endless recreational activities, this resort features gourmet on-site dining and spacious all-suite accommodations furnished with modern amenities. Luxurious accommodations at the Aspen Meadows Resort feature wireless internet access, mini-refrigerators and microwaves. Guestrooms are also furnished with flat-screen TVs, sofa beds and iPod docking stations. While at the Aspen Meadows, guests can enjoy an outdoor year-round swimming pool as well as state-of-the-art fitness facilities. The resort also features 2 on-site dining options and a bar. A free 24-hour local transport service in the town of Aspen is available. No matter the season, guests at Aspen Meadows Resort can find a variety of activities, including top-rated ski trails, scenic hiking paths and exciting white water rafting. The downtown area, offering local shops and restaurants is also easily accessible.

Mountain Chalet Aspen - Offering a heated year-round outdoor pool and a bar, Mountain Chalet Aspen is 5 minutes' walk from Little Nell Ski Elevator. WiFi is provided. A free hot breakfast and a continental breakfast are served. Each room at Mountain Chalet Aspen provides a flat-screen TV, an iPod dock and a refrigerator. An private bathroom with a hairdryer is also included. Select rooms offer a balcony. At Aspen Mountain Chalet a hot tub and a sauna are available for guest relaxation. Other facilities offered at the property include free storage for ski equipment, a shared lounge and a games room. The property offers free parking. The hotel is 650 feet from Aspen Mountain Ajax. Snowmass Ski Area is 20 minutes' drive from Mountain Chalet Aspen

Molly Gibson Lodge - Located in downtown Aspen, Molly Gibson Lodge offers 2 hot tubs, a heated outdoor pool and a buffet breakfast every morning. The modern rooms have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access. The air-conditioned rooms are decorated with warm, earthy colors and fitted with plush beds. Each has a DVD player and an iPod docking station. Some have a private spa bath and others have a fireplace. Free parking is available at the Molly Gibson. Little Nell ski elevator is 15 minutes' walk from the lodge, while Buttermilk Ski Area is 5 minutes' drive away.

Hotel Jerome, An Auberge Resort - Originally built in 1889, Hotel Jerome, An Auberge Resort is a 10 minute walk to the Little Nell and the Silver Queen Gondola ski elevators. Free WiFi is provided and guests can take advantage of an outdoor pool, spa services and on-site gourmet restaurants. A flat-screen TV and DVD player, as well as an iPad are available in each room. Every room also comes with a private bathroom. Prospect Restaurant offers American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as brunch and guests can enjoy a drink at The Living Room bar in the lobby and the J-Bar, which also offers brunch, lunch and dinner options. The Auberge Spa offers massage and body treatments. The area surrounding the Hotel Jerome is filled with endless activities. In summer months enjoy golfing, cycling, fishing and more. The winter months allow for skiing, dog sledding and ice skating. Ski equipment hire is available. The John Denver Sanctuary is 1,000 feet from Hotel Jerome, while Aspen Mountain Ajax is 1,650 feet away. The nearest airport is Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, 3.1 miles away.

Aspen Mountain Lodge - Offering a year-round outdoor pool and a hot tub, this hotel is a 15-minute walk from Aspen Mountain. Free Wi-Fi access is available. Storage for ski equipment is provided. Each room has a work desk, a flat-screen cable TV and a small refrigerator at Aspen Mountain Lodge. A private bathroom with a hairdryer is also included. Select rooms feature a balcony. Guests can take advantage of a business center and concierge services at Aspen Mountain Lodge. Other facilities include a shared lounge and luggage storage. The property provides free parking. Aspen-Pitkin County Airport is 3 miles from the hotel. Buttermilk Mountain Ski is 2 miles from Aspen Mountain Lodge.

St. Regis Aspen Resort - Located at the base of Aspen mountain, St. Regis Aspen Resort features an outdoor pool and ski storage space. Guests can enjoy on-site restaurants and spa services. Private parking is available on site. Each room at this resort is air conditioned and comes with a TV with cable channels. Rooms are equipped with a private bathroom. Extras include bath robes and free toiletries. St. Regis Aspen Resort offers 5 different options. The Velvet Buck offers mountain cuisine with local ingredients. Chefs Club Aspen serves seasonal fare. Guests can enjoy a handcrafted cocktail at Mountain Social. During the summer months Splash pool lounge offers cocktails and handcrafted cuisine. Private dining is also available. Remede Spa offers a menu of spa services, including facials and massages. There is a free airport shuttle service and gift shop at the property. A range of activities are offered in the area, such as skiing and golfing. The resort also offers ski equipment hire and bike hire. The John Denver Sanctuary is 1,950 feet from St. Regis Aspen Resort, while Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is 1,950 feet from the property. The nearest airport is Eagle County Regional Airport, 32 mi from St. Regis Aspen Resort.

Tyrolean Lodge - Located on Aspen's Main Street within a 5-minute walk from downtown shops, restaurants and bars, this hotel sits on a city bus route that provides transportation to all Aspen ski areas and spacious rooms with kitchenettes. The accommodations at the Tyrolean Lodge are equipped with full kitchenettes with a hob, a cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. This family-owned Aspen lodge is a nonsmoking property. Free parking is available on site. The Aspen Pitkin County Airport is a 10-minute drive from Tyrolean Lodge. Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is 20 minutes from the hotel by car.

Hyatt Residence Club Aspen - Offering a hot tub and ski storage space, Hyatt Grand Aspen is located in Aspen in the Colorado Region. You will find free shuttle service at the property. Ski equipment hire is available at this hotel and the area is popular for skiing. Aspen Mountain is 350 feet from Hyatt Grand Aspen. The nearest airport is Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, 3.1 mi from Hyatt Grand Aspen.

The Inn at Aspen - 2.7 miles from Maroon Lake Scenic Trail, The Inn at Aspen is located in Aspen and features a restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool. A fitness room is available for guests, along with a hot tub. The hotel provides a sun terrace and a 24-hour front desk. All guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a coffee machine. The Inn at Aspen has some rooms that have a patio, and the rooms are equipped with a private bathroom with a hot tub and a hairdryer. At the accommodation, rooms are equipped with a TV with cable channels. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities in the surrounding areas, including hiking, skiing and cycling. A business center is at guests' disposal at The Inn at Aspen. The John Denver Sanctuary is 2.8 miles from the hotel, while Independence Pass is 7 miles from the property. Aspen-Pitkin County Airport is 1.3 miles away, and the property offers a free airport shuttle service.

The Snow Queen Lodge - This Historic Victorian Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Aspen and walking distance to ski elevators, restaurants and shops and free skier shuttles to all 4 ski resorts. Called "The Jewel of Aspen" by the Aspen Historic Society, a full breakfast, WiFi, and limited free parking are included( breakfast is not included for Cooper Street Loft guests). The individually decorated rooms include a private bathroom, HD-TV, refrigerator and a hairdryer. Select rooms offer full kitchens, mountain views and private balconies. Guests can relax in the common room before a wood burning fireplace, enjoy the outdoor hot tub or take advantage of the personal concierge services. Family owned and operated since 1974.