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Aspen Ski Resort Review

Wertu ski expert
May 1, 2024

Four unique mountains make Aspen Snowmass a skier's paradise, catering to all levels with a charming Victorian downtown and a plethora of resorts to choose from.

Aspen overview

Stats

4.5
/5
Rating
2422
m
Resort height
3813
m
Summit

KM of slopes

48
Beginners
217
Intermediates
48
Experts
509
Total

Best for

Beginners
Intermediates
Experts
Boarders
Off-piestes
Fun
Fun
Couples
Snowparks

Aspen for beginners

Beginners rating -
48
Perfect
Although Aspen Mountain isn't the go-to spot for newbies, Buttermilk and Snowmass have got you covered. Most first-timers hang out at Buttermilk's main base, where you'll find rentals and a magic carpet lift. Once you get the hang of it, you can venture onto short trails like Larkspur at West Buttermilk. Snowmass also steps up with Assay Hill and Fanny Hill, perfect for learning the ropes. From kids' playgrounds to adult-focused lessons, there's no shortage of ways to find your ski legs here.

Aspen for intermediates

Intermediates rating -
Intermediates
Perfect
Aspen is basically an intermediate haven, with a majority of the runs catering to this skill level across all four mountains. Take the Silver Queen Gondola up Aspen Mountain and ski down groomers like Ruthie's, or check out the expansive Thunderbowl at Aspen Highlands. Snowmass is another spot not to miss, offering a great variety of rolling intermediate runs off the Elk Camp lift. And for those who like to carve up well-groomed trails, Buttermilk's Buckskin has your name on it. Just be aware of high-traffic areas, especially on Aspen Mountain.

Aspen for advanced

Advanced skiers rating -
Experts
Perfect
If you've got the chops for expert skiing, Aspen offers enough thrills to keep your heart pumping. From Aspen Mountain's moguled runs like The Dumps and Gentleman's Ridge to the hike-required steeps of Aspen Highlands Bowl, there's a lot to love. Snowmass enters the scene with its expert terrains in the Cirque and Hanging Valley Headwall areas. So whether you're tackling Aspen's famous ridges or earning your turns in Highlands Bowl, Aspen’s got something that’ll challenge even the most seasoned skiers.

Aspen for snowboarders

Snowboarders rating -
Boarders
Perfect
Aspen is a dream destination for snowboarders. The resort boasts four distinct mountains, each with its own unique appeal for boarders. Buttermilk is renowned for its superpipe and terrain park, which hosts the Winter X Games, while Snowmass offers a variety of terrain parks and natural features. Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands, with their steep slopes and challenging terrain, are perfect for advanced snowboarders seeking an adrenaline rush.

Aspen for off-pistes

Off-pistes rating -
Off-piestes
Perfect
Aspen is a freerider's dream, boasting four separate mountains each with its unique off-piste offerings. The Highland Bowl, accessible only by hiking, offers some of the steepest and deepest powder runs, while the Back of Bell on Aspen Mountain is renowned for its challenging tree skiing. Snowmass, the largest of the four, provides extensive off-piste terrain with wide-open powder fields and gladed areas, making it a must-visit for any off-piste enthusiast.

Aspen for families

Families rating -
Fun
Perfect
Aspen is a family-friendly ski haven featuring four diverse mountains, educational historical walks, and kid-focused ski learning centers like The Hideout at Buttermilk. Dining is a breeze with a variety of restaurants catering to all preferences, making it an ideal destination for families.

Aspen apres-ski

Apres-ski rating -
Perfect
Fun
Aspen boasts a lively après-ski scene, with venues to suit any mood. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails at Justice Snow's, potent local brews at Aspen Brewing Company's Tasting Room, or dance the night away at hotspots like Escobar and Eric's. Live music fans can catch world-class performances at Belly Up Aspen.

Aspen

food scene

Aspen food scene

Aspen is a family-friendly ski haven featuring four diverse mountains, educational historical walks, and kid-focused ski learning centers like The Hideout at Buttermilk. Dining is a breeze with a variety of restaurants catering to all preferences, making it an ideal destination for families.