Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is located in Pitkin County. The resort consists of four ski areas: Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Snowmass is the largest of the four areas, with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort receives an average of 300 inches of snow each year. Aspen Mountain is the oldest ski area in the United States, and was founded in 1946. The mountain has a vertical drop of 3,267 feet and offers a variety of trails for all levels of skiers.

Hotels near Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Hotels to stay near Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

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Things to Do at Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Aspen Snowmass is a world-renowned ski destination located in Pitkin County, Colorado. With four different mountains to choose from, there is something for everyone at Aspen Snowmass. whether you're looking for gentle beginner slopes or challenging double black diamond runs, you'll find it here. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Aspen Snowmass also offers a variety of other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing. There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, both on and off the mountain. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a relaxing sit-down meal, you'll find it at Aspen Snowmass. So come on up and enjoy everything that this world-class ski destination has to offer!

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History of Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

The area that would become Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort was first explored by miners in the late 1850s. They were drawn to the area by the promise of gold and silver, but they quickly discovered that there was little mining potential. However, they did find that the areas around the mountains were perfect for winter recreation. In 1891, the first official ski club in America was formed in Aspen, and skiing quickly became a popular pastime. 

Aspen Mountain was the first of the four mountains to be developed into a ski area. In 1946, the Aspen Skiing Corporation was founded, and they began to develop lifts and trails on Aspen Mountain. The following year, the first chairlift was installed, and the mountain became a major destination for skiers from all over the country. 

Snowmass Ski Area was developed in 1963 with just one lift and two trails. It rapidly grew in popularity, and today it is one of the largest ski areas in North America. Buttermilk Mountain was developed next, followed by Highlands in 1990. Today, Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is one of the premier ski destinations in the world, attracting visitors from all over the globe.

Best Time to Visit Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

The best time to visit Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is typically between December and March, when the snowfall is at its heaviest. However, conditions can vary greatly from year to year, so it's always best to check the latest forecast before making your plans. 

Tips for Visiting Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

  1. Purchase your lift tickets in advance online to save time and money and Rent your equipment before you arrive to avoid long lines at the rental shop.
  2. Check the mountain conditions and weather forecast before you head out for the day.
  3. Don't forget your sunscreen! The high altitude means that the sun's rays are more intense.
  4. Take some time to explore the town of Aspen - there are great shops, restaurants, and bars to check out.
  5. Be prepared for high altitudes - drink plenty of water and take it easy at first if you're not used to skiing or snowboarding at altitude.
  6. Save some money by packing your own lunch or taking advantage of one of the many on-mountain dining options.
  7. take advantage of the apres-ski scene. After a long day on the slopes, relax and enjoy the lively apres-ski scene in one of Aspen's many bars and restaurants. 
  8. shop 'til you drop. Aspen is home to plenty of high-end shops, so don't forget to do some souvenir shopping while you're here! 
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

  1. The resort spans more than 5,300 acres of skiable terrain and There are more than 100 trails at Aspen Snowmass, ranging from easy greens to difficult blacks.

  2. There are 14 chairlifts and 2 gondolas at the resort, which can transport up to 43,000 skiers per hour.

  3. The Snowmass ski area was originally developed as a training ground for the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France.

  4. There are more than 50 restaurants and bars at Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort and The resort has an on-mountain child care facility for kids aged 6 weeks to 6 years old.

  5. There is a free shuttle that runs between all four mountains at Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort.

  6. In 2018, Aspen Snowmass was named the #1 Overall Ski Resort in North America by SKI Magazine reader surveys. 
     

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

It would take the average person anywhere from 3 to 7 days to explore the entirety of Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort in Pitkin County, Colorado. With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. 

How to Reach Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

From Denver, you can take I-70 West to Glenwood Springs, then follow State Highway 82 into Aspen. The drive takes about four hours. 

Entrance Fee of Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

The resort charges an entrance fee of $120 per person, per day. This fee includes the cost of lift tickets, rentals, and lessons. However, it does not include the cost of lodging or food. Families who are planning to visit the resort should budget accordingly.
 

Opening Hours of Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

 The resort is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, with extended hours on weekends and holidays.

Attractions Near Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Buttermilk Ski Resort

Buttermilk Ski Resort

7.59km from Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Buttermilk Ski Resort is located, just outside the town of Aspen. It is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beginner-friendly terrain. However, the resort also offers a variety of challenging trails for more advanced skiers. Buttermilk Ski Resort first opened in 1958 and has been owned by the Aspen Skiing Company. The resort is home to three lifts, including a high-speed quad chairlift, and offers a variety of amenities, such as ski and snowboard rentals, lessons, and child care.

Aspen Skiing Company

Aspen Skiing Company

7.66km from Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Aspen Skiing Company is the largest ski resort operator in the United States, with a total of four ski areas in Colorado: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Highlands. The company was founded in 1946 by Walter Paepcke, and its first ski area, Aspen Mountain, opened in 1947. Today, Aspen Skiing Company employs over 3,000 people and welcomes over 1 million visitors each year. Located in Pitkin County, Colorado, the company is a major contributor to the county's economy.

Aspen Highlands Ski Resort

Aspen Highlands Ski Resort

8.51km from Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

The Aspen Highlands Ski Resort is located in Pitkin County. The ski resort covers 3,000 acres of land and has more than 100 trails for skiing and snowboarding. There are also several restaurants and shops at the resort. The Aspen Highlands Ski Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado. Every year, the resort receives more than 1 million visitors. The Aspen Highlands Ski Resort is a great place to ski or snowboard, and it is also a great place to enjoy the scenery.

Aspen Chapel

Aspen Chapel

9.46km from Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Aspen Chapel is a beautiful building located in Pitkin County. The building was designed by renowned architect, Charles Elliot Saltzman and completed in 1981. The chapel is built out of concrete, stone, and glass, with a large skylight that allows natural light to fill the space. The building is set amidst stunning natural scenery, and features a large pond and a variety of trees and plants. Inside, the chapel seats up to 120 people and features stained glass windows, a marble altar.

Holden Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum

Holden Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum

10km from Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

The Holden Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum in Pitkin County, Colorado is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the American West. The museum tells the story of the region's mining and ranching heritage through a series of interactive exhibits. Visitors can pan for gold, ride a mechanical bull, and even participate in a cattle drive. There is also a replica of an old-time general store and a blacksmith shop.

Wheeler/Stallard Museum

Wheeler/Stallard Museum

10.48km from Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

The Wheeler–Stallard Museum in Aspen, Colorado is a museum dedicated to the history of the American West. The museum was founded in 1977 by brothers John and Malcolm Wheeler, and houses a collection of artifacts and artworks relating to the subject. The museum is located in the former Wheeler Opera House, which was built in 1889. The building itself is a landmark, and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974.

Discover More Attractions in Pitkin County, Home of Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Pitkin County

Pitkin County

45 attractions

Pitkin County is located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, just southwest of Aspen. The county is home to several ski resorts, as well as the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area. Tourism is a major industry in Pitkin County, and the area is popular for both winter and summer recreation. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, while in the summer they can hike, fish, and camp. The county is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the

Location of Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

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