SKI MAGAZINE’S RESORT GUIDE: ASPEN SNOWMASS, COLO.
THE FOUR MOUNTAINS THAT MAKE UP ASPEN SNOWMASS ARE THE GOLD STANDARD.
If there is one superlative that stands out from reader comments about Aspen Snowmass, it’s “The Best.” Whether it’s the diverse terrain options, the quality on-hill dining, the professional ski instructors, the extensive hotel options, and the No. 1 après scene that artfully rolls right into the No. 1 nightlife scene, Aspen Snowmass is, according to a whole bunch of readers, “The Best.” Last season, after joining the Ikon Pass, a number of first-time visitors noted that Aspen Snowmass is truly worth the hype, and that the people of Aspen and Snowmass are friendly and welcoming to everyone.
For those who want to check out something new, Snowmass is the place. Hungry skiers will want to stop by Sam’s, a new Italian restaurant at the top of the Village Express and Sam’s Knob lifts. While on that side of the ski area, take a few scenic laps on Bonzai Ridge or test your bumps skills off Wildcat before heading over to the longer intermediate-through-expert runs off of the Sheer Bliss chairlift. End the day checking out The Collective’s new Moxie's Grill & Bar for a cocktail and dinner at Mix6 in the base village.
In the town of Aspen, a quick walk from Gondola Square leads to the all-new W Hotel. The place is sure to stun visitors and residents alike with its unique room layouts—e.g. quad-queen bunk beds, a suite with a private DJ booth—and the only year-round rooftop après venue that stares directly at the mountain. Meanwhile, the skiing on Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands is as stellar as ever, and there’s always something to discover while exploring the nooks and crannies of the steep glades off Bell Mountain or Deep Temerity. If you really want to get away from everyone or spend some time with family, head over to Buttermilk and linger at the top to take in views of the Elk Mountains before poking around in the perfectly spaced aspen groves and manicured groomers.
Though perhaps what really makes Aspen Snowmass the best is that it has mastered the basics of what make a ski town great. Free transportation between all four mountains and the airport means less cars on the road (No. 1 for Accessibility). Perfectly groomed trails combined with one of the best ski schools in North America can help anyone become a better skier (No. 1 for Grooming). And well-placed lifts mean there’s hardly ever a line (No. 3 for Lifts). Considering the mountains are on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective, it’s only a matter of time until more skiers realize Aspen Snowmass truly is the best. — Jon Jay.
ASPEN SNOMASS' 2020 SKI MAGAZINE READER RESORT SURVEY RANK: 1ST IN THE WEST
Average Snowfall - 300"
Acres - 5,527
Lifts - 42
Trails - 336
LOCAL TIP: On a powder day, skip hiking the entire Highlands Bowl and drop in on Flip’s Leap or Hyde Park. Snow will be freshest on cold mornings and is commonly overlooked by summit-hungry skiers.
FAMILY EXPERIENCE: Buttermilk holds its own with kids and parents looking to improve, plus the summit has the best lift-served views of the jagged Pyramid Peak.
DOWN DAY ACTIVITY: WinterSköl (Jan. 9-12) features ice sculptures around Aspen, fireworks, and a canine fashion show with dogs who could compete at Westminster.
