With four distinct mountains, Aspen offers enough terrain to satisfy every type of skier, from beginners to those looking for the steepest mogul runs on the mountain.

Alongside the world class skiing, the resort is set in a picturesque town in the Rocky Mountains. It’s a world-renowned destination for luxury, with upscale shopping, fine dining, and even a vibrant cultural scene (with the Aspen Art Museum, Wheeler Opera House, and Aspen Music Festival). The resort offers a well-rounded ski experience, with excellent terrain and a scenic town to match.

The most noteworthy terrain:

Buttermilk: this mountain is essentially Aspen’s dedicated beginner area, offering gentle, wide-open runs.

• Panda Peak/Panda Hill – this is the ideal first run for beginners.

• X Games Terrain and Superpipe – this terrain is internationally recognized freestyle terrain.

Aspen Mountain (Ajax): Rising from the downtown area, Ajax focuses on advanced and expert skiing with steep pitches and bumps.

• Gentlemen’s Ridge (Black) – this popular ridge face is known for steep moguls and glades.

• Walsh’s, Kristi, and Hyrup’s (Double Black) – these expert runs are known for their steep pitches, moguls, and technical challenges.

Aspen Highlands: This mountain is often called the “locals’ mountain” for its challenging terrain (intermediate and advanced) and laid back atmosphere.

• Highland Bowl (Double Black) – this hike-to, expert-only area offers steep, open powder fields and chutes.

• Steeplechase (Double Black) – this area features long, double black mogul runs.

Snowmass: This is Aspen’s largest mountain, and it offers excellent tree skiing and winding groomers, and easy access to a cozy resort town to enjoy after the ski day.

• Hanging Valley (Double Black) – skiers will find steep, deep trees and chutes in this area, including on runs like Roberto’s, Ladder Wall, and the Frog Pond Glades.

• The Cirque (Double Black) – accessed by the Cirque Poma, this extreme, high-alpine terrain offers steep chutes, cliffs, and sustained fall lines.

Where to park:

For Aspen Mountain (Ajax) – metered street parking and the Rio Grande Plaza garage.

For Snowmass – Brush Creek Lot and Town Park Station offer free parking and shuttle to the slopes. There is also paid parking available at the Base Village Garage.

For Aspen Highlands – Aspen Highlands Garage offers paid, limited parking at the base of the mountain.

For Buttermilk – free parking, with shuttles available to other mountains.

Where to eat on mountain:

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro – located on Aspen Highlands, this spot is known for Swiss fondue, raclette, and apres-ski parties.

Ajax Tavern – at the base of Aspen Mountain, this restaurant serves up truffle fries, burgers, and more.

Sam’s – this smokehouse BBQ is located at the top of the Village Express lift at Snowmass.

Elk Camp Restaurant – this restaurant at Snowmass is a large, cafeteria-style spot with outdoor seating.

The Cliffhouse – located at the mountain station at Buttermilk.

Where to eat in the town:

White House Tavern – this is a cozy spot in Aspen that serves things like chicken sandwiches and salads.

J Bar – located in the historic Hotel Jerome, this bar serves great cocktails.

Element 47 – located in The Little Nell, this is a great spot if you’re look for some more upscale fine dining.

French Alpine Bistro – serves crepes, onion soup, and more.

Where to stay:

The Little Nell – this is one of Aspen’s most iconic luxury ski-in/ski-out hotels at the base of the Aspen Mountain Gondola.

Limelight Hotel – this hotel is also close to the slopes and the vibrant downtown area.

Hotel Jerome, Auberge Collection – this luxurious historic hotel offers world class dining and charm.

St. Moritz Lodge – this is a more affordable option still located in downtown Aspen. Skiers have their choice of lodge rooms, condos, or even hostel-style rooms.

Mountain Chalet Aspen – this is a great mid-range choice that has a nice ski atmosphere.

Events going on at Aspen this winter:

X Games – taking place from Jan. 23-25, this major sports event is held at Buttermilk.

Apres-ski events – Aspen also offers a vibrant apres-ski scene with live music at bars like Belly Up Aspen and Shakedown Bar.

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