Aspen and Snowmass

Area: Colorado

Ski in Aspen and be seen in the most famous, most chic and most fashionable of all America’s ski resorts.

Aspen is a by-word for sophistication and jet-set chic, and it is rated number one in America for après-ski and varied terrain. But the reality of the resort actually exceeds its reputation.

For one thing, Aspen is not just one ski area but four: Aspen, Snowmass, Buttermilk and Highlands, each with its own unique character.

Despite its upscale image the resort is within reach of most people, regardless of budget or experience. The four ski-mountains add up to 5000 skiable acres are all accessible on one lift pass. Aspen Mountain, known locally as ‘Ajax’ cascades almost into the heart of town and attracts more advanced skiers and snowboarders with its steeps and bumps.

Buttermilk has gentle runs for beginners plus the high-tech ‘Crazy T’rain Park’. The Highlands area offers mostly black runs and is known for its Highland Bowl – a great place to head after fresh powder. Last but by no means least, and around 12 miles north along the Roaring Fork valley, Snowmass offers perhaps the greatest diversity of terrain across a large ski area - it’s massive, and exceptional for open, Colorado cruising. Away from the slopes, Aspen offers lots of entertainment such as tubing, dog-sledding, air tours, a cooking school and live theatre.
 
You’ll find a haven of shops for every taste and price tag. There are also over 100 restaurants, many (such as The Little Nell and Pinons) with an international outstanding reputation. Aspen offers an exceptional range of après-ski options, from laid-back to highly polished, and you’re bound to find something to suit your lifestyle and budget.