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Ultimate Guide to Aspen Winter

14 Oct 2024
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Aspen Blog

A winter in Aspen is more than just a vacation destination—it’s an unforgettable experience that blends adventure, luxury, and natural beauty. With over 5,700 acres of skiable terrain, the Aspen Snowmass area is home to some of the best winter sports in the world. Whether you're a seasoned skier, a first-time snowboarder, or someone who simply loves a cozy winter retreat, Aspen has something for everyone.

And the key to a perfect Aspen vacation? Choosing the right place to stay. That's where Aspen Alps Vacation Rentals comes in. Offering luxury, comfort, and ski-in/ski-out access, Aspen Alps ensures you have a home away from home in one of the most stunning winter wonderlands on Earth.

Why Aspen in Winter?

Aspen Snowmass is legendary. Its four mountains—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—offer everything from gentle slopes for beginners to steep runs for experts. But Aspen’s charm extends far beyond skiing. Here, you’ll find a town buzzing with world-class dining, art galleries, high-end shopping, and an après-ski culture that’s second to none.

Aspen isn’t just about adventure—it’s about the entire winter experience. Spend your mornings on the slopes, your afternoons exploring charming streets lined with boutiques and cafes, and your evenings by the fireplace in your luxury vacation rental.

For anyone planning a winter vacation, Aspen delivers the perfect balance of thrill and relaxation.

snowmass aspen in winter

Plan Ahead: Lift Tickets & Season Passes

If you’re visiting Aspen Snowmass, early planning is essential, particularly when it comes to lift tickets. Whether you're exploring the steep terrain of Aspen Mountain or the family-friendly trails of Snowmass, purchasing lift tickets in advance will save you time and guarantee access.

Here are the key things to know about each mountain:

  • Aspen Mountain: Famous for its advanced terrain, offering expert skiers plenty of challenges. Known for steep runs and stunning views of the town below.
  • Snowmass: The largest of the four, Snowmass offers a variety of runs for every skill level, with a focus on family-friendly terrain and extensive beginner trails. It also boasts a wide range of off-slope activities.
  • Aspen Highlands: A favorite among locals, this mountain is ideal for expert skiers who love bowl skiing, including the famed Highland Bowl.
  • Buttermilk: Best known for hosting the Winter X Games, Buttermilk is also perfect for beginners and families, with easy slopes and excellent ski schools.

Tip: When you book your stay at Aspen Alps, their concierge team can arrange everything for you, from lift tickets to ski rentals. This way, you won’t waste any time when you arrive—just head straight to the slopes.

Beyond the Slopes: Winter Adventures in Aspen

While skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions in Aspen, there’s much more to do during your winter getaway. Here are some unique winter activities to consider:

Naturalist Snowshoe Tours
Explore Aspen’s peaceful winter landscapes on a snowshoe tour guided by a naturalist from the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies. These tours offer a unique perspective on Aspen’s forests and wildlife.

Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
For a bit of high-speed adventure, the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster at Snowmass is a must. Speed through the forest at up to 28 mph on this thrilling coaster ride—fun for all ages.

Ullr Nights at Snowmass
Celebrate winter in style with Ullr Nights, a weekly festival held at Snowmass. Featuring tubing, bonfires, live music, and hot chocolate, it’s a family-friendly event perfect for off-slope fun.

Backcountry Skiing & Snowcat Tours
For advanced skiers looking for the ultimate experience, backcountry skiing and guided snowcat tours offer access to untouched powder and some of the most stunning scenery in the Rockies.

aspen in winter colorado town

Après-Ski & Dining in Aspen: The Perfect Way to Unwind

Aspen’s après-ski scene is as famous as its slopes. After a day on the mountain, there’s no better way to unwind than enjoying a cocktail or hot chocolate at one of Aspen’s many après-ski spots.

Top Après-Ski Spots:

  • Ajax Tavern: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, this lively spot offers outdoor seating with mountain views, along with truffle fries and signature cocktails.
  • The Little Nell: For a more luxurious experience, The Little Nell’s après-ski lounge, Chair 9, offers craft cocktails and gourmet snacks with a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro: For a truly unforgettable après-ski, head to Cloud Nine at Aspen Highlands, famous for its lively, European-style celebrations on the mountain.

If you’re looking to relax and enjoy a quiet night in, Aspen Alps Vacation Rentals provides fully equipped kitchens where you can prepare a meal or bring in gourmet catering. Many rentals also offer cozy fireplaces and spacious living areas, perfect for a night of relaxation after an action-packed day.

Luxury Meets Convenience: Why Aspen Alps Vacation Rentals is the Best Place to Stay

Choosing the right accommodations is key to a successful winter vacation, and Aspen Alps Vacation Rentals offers everything you need for a luxurious, convenient, and relaxing stay.

Located just steps from Aspen Mountain, Aspen Alps provides ski-in/ski-out access, so you can hit the slopes the moment you step outside. But the convenience doesn’t stop there. Each rental features fully equipped kitchens, private balconies with mountain views, and wood-burning fireplaces, perfect for unwinding after a day of skiing.

Other amenities include:

  • Full-service spa: Relax and rejuvenate with a range of treatments after a day on the slopes.
  • Fitness center: Stay active with the on-site gym, featuring everything from cardio machines to free weights.
  • Concierge services: From booking lift tickets to making dinner reservations, Aspen Alps’ dedicated concierge team ensures every aspect of your stay is seamless.
  • Private balconies and spacious living areas: Ideal for families or groups, these rentals provide the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the stunning views.

No matter the size of your group, Aspen Alps Vacation Rentals has a variety of accommodations to suit your needs, from intimate condos for couples to spacious townhomes for larger families or groups of friends.

Exploring Aspen: Winter Culture and Shopping

When you’re not on the slopes, Aspen’s cultural and shopping scene is sure to impress. Downtown Aspen is filled with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and luxury stores. From the latest winter fashion to unique local art, there’s something for every taste.

Art lovers will enjoy exploring the Aspen Art Museum, which offers rotating contemporary exhibitions. For those interested in live performances, the Wheeler Opera House hosts concerts, comedy shows, and theater productions year-round.

Shopping District Highlights:

  • Gucci and Prada: High-end fashion lovers can find world-renowned designers right in the heart of Aspen.
  • Aspen Sports: Perfect for picking up ski gear, clothing, and accessories.
  • Aspen Emporium: A great place to find local art, jewelry, and Aspen-themed souvenirs.

skiing in aspen in winter

Make Aspen Alps Your Winter Home

When you combine the adventure of Aspen Snowmass with the luxury and convenience of Aspen Alps Vacation Rentals, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable winter vacation. Whether you're hitting the slopes, relaxing by the fire, or enjoying Aspen's vibrant cultural scene, Aspen Alps offers the perfect home base.

Ready to experience the magic of Aspen this winter? Browse the variety of accomodations we offer and book your stay at Aspen Alps Vacation Rentals today and start planning your dream vacation!