The obvious reasons for a visit to Aspen are the awesome skiing activities and other winter attractions for tourists, just waiting to be enjoyed on the slopes of the beautiful Elk Mountains.In this part of Colorado, you will find no less than four world-class ski resorts have been developed (one ticket gives access to all) - the Ajax Mountain, the Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk.
The summer in Aspen offers a different view of the mountains, with natural attractions including fields of wildflowers, surging rivers and interesting geological formations. Aspen also boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage appealing to tourists and visitors, and is home to numerous excellent galleries, museums, historical buildings and regular cultural events.
Aspen Highlands
Located 2 miles / 3 km to the southwest of the town, the Aspen Highlands is a favorite among locals and its runs are usually less crowded than those of the other ski resorts. Attractions at the Highlands include a good variety of terrain to suit all levels of ability, ranging from near vertical tree skiing to wide, open intermediate ski slopes. Freestyle Friday is a long running tradition here, showcasing the best freestyle bump and big air skiing Colorado has to offer.
Open: mid-December to early April
Admission: charges apply, discounts available for seniors and children, children under six years old are free
Aspen (Ajax) MountainAjax Mountain is the original ski area established just before the outbreak of WWII, when Aspen was still a small mountain village wallowing in the prolonged hangover of its heady mining days. After WWII, the town quickly established itself as a top skiing destination with the construction of what was then the world's longest chair lift, and later hosted the world skiing championships in 1950. Today, Ajax Mountain retains its hardcore pedigree, offering a good variety of challenging runs with many left permanently ungroomed. Just over 75 different ski runs cater mostly to intermediate and advanced skiers.
Open: late November to mid-April
Admission: charges apply, discounts available for seniors and children, children under six years old are free
Buttermilk
Opened in 1958 and situated 2 miles / 3 km west of Aspen, Buttermilk caters primarily for snowboarders and beginners. Attractions at the resort include more than 40 trails, along with a half-pipe and one of the world's longest terrain parks. Buttermilk Mountain is home to several competitions, including the Winter X Games, as well as offering experienced instructors and a gentle terrain that is perfect for learning on.
Open: mid-December to early April
Admission: charges apply, discounts available for seniors and children, children under six years old are free
Rio Grande Trail
This paved trail winds its way along the scenic Roaring Fork River, revealing dramatic views at every turn, from towering mountains to the awesome fast flowing river. The Rio Grande Trail is popular among walkers, joggers, bicycle riders and cross-country skiers.
Open: year round
Admission: free
SnowmassSnowmass was opened in 1967 and is located 12 miles / 19 km northwest of Aspen. It is by far the largest of the four skiing resorts and offers a huge range of terrain to suit all levels. Attractions include the Cirque, which boasts the biggest lift-assisted vertical drop in the country, Hanging Valley Wall, the wide open ski slopes of Big Burn, three terrain parks, a super pipe and a rail yard.
Open: late November to mid-April
Admission: charges apply, discounts available for seniors and children, children under six years old are free
