Top Ski Resorts and Runs in the Aspen Area

Aspen, Colorado is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders, with four world-class ski resorts in the area: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Each mountain offers a unique terrain and vibe, so you’re sure to find one that suits your preferences. Here’s a closer look at each mountain:

  • Aspen Mountain: Located in the heart of Aspen, this mountain is known for its steep and challenging terrain, making it a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders. It also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a cozy base village with a variety of dining and shopping options.
  • Snowmass: Located just a few miles from Aspen, Snowmass is the largest ski resort in the area, with 3,332 acres of skiable terrain. It’s known for its wide-open groomers and challenging terrain parks, making it a great option for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
  • Aspen Highlands: Located just outside of Aspen, this mountain is known for its steep, ungroomed terrain, making it a favorite among experts. It also offers a variety of terrain parks and a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain.
  • Buttermilk: Located just outside of Aspen, this mountain is known for its beginner- and intermediate-friendly terrain, making it a great option for families and new skiers. It’s also home to the X Games and the annual Winter Food & Wine Festival.

No matter which mountain you choose, you’re sure to have a great time on the slopes in Aspen. Just be sure to come prepared with the right gear and a good understanding of the ski resort’s policies and safety guidelines. Happy skiing!

Exploring Aspen’s Arts and Culture Scene

Aspen, Colorado is much more than just a ski town. It’s also a thriving cultural hub, with a vibrant arts and culture scene that draws visitors from all over the world. If you’re interested in exploring Aspen’s cultural offerings, here are a few highlights:

  • The Aspen Art Museum: This contemporary art museum is housed in a stunning building designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban. It features a rotating selection of exhibitions by local, national, and international artists.
  • The Aspen Music Festival and School: Every summer, Aspen hosts one of the premier classical music festivals in the country, featuring world-class musicians and rising stars. In addition to the festival, the Aspen Music School offers year-round music education and performance opportunities.
  • The Aspen Institute: This world-renowned think tank hosts a variety of lectures, seminars, and cultural events throughout the year, covering topics ranging from politics and policy to art and literature.
  • The Wheeler Opera House: Built in 1889, this historic theater is a cornerstone of Aspen’s cultural scene, hosting a variety of concerts, films, plays, and other events.
  • The Aspen Fringe Festival: This annual performing arts festival features a diverse lineup of theater, music, dance, and comedy, with a focus on experimental and emerging artists.
  • The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies: This non-profit organization offers educational programs and events focused on environmental conservation and sustainability, including lectures, hikes, and workshops.

In addition to these cultural institutions, Aspen is also home to a number of galleries, studios, and boutique shops featuring the work of local artists. So, whether you’re interested in classical music, contemporary art, or environmental issues, you’ll find plenty to explore in Aspen’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Where to Find the Best Après Ski in Aspen

  1. After a long day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than kicking back with a drink and some good company. If you’re looking for the best après ski in Aspen, here are a few spots you won’t want to miss:
  • The Little Nell: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, this luxurious hotel offers a cozy fireplace and a selection of craft cocktails and fine wines.
  • The Cliffhouse: Located at the top of Aspen Mountain, this upscale restaurant and bar offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a menu of creative cocktails and light bites.
  • The Aspen Brewing Company: This local brewery and taproom is a popular spot for après ski, with a laid-back atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers.
  • Hiking trails to Ashcroft or Conundrum Hot Springs. On the way, there are plenty of great spots for a drink, including the Pine Creek Cookhouse and the Haydens Post.
  • The J-Bar: Located in the historic Hotel Jerome, this classic ski town bar is known for its cozy atmosphere and strong cocktails.

5 Must Do Outdoor Activities in Aspen

Aspen, Colorado is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning mountain scenery, world-class ski resorts, and endless opportunities for adventure. If you’re planning a trip to Aspen, here are five must-do outdoor activities to add to your itinerary:

  • Ski or snowboard at one of Aspen’s four ski resorts: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Each mountain offers a unique terrain and vibe, so you’re sure to find one that suits your preferences.
  • Take a scenic drive through the Maroon Bells. These iconic peaks are just a short drive from Aspen and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at Maroon Lake, the perfect spot for a photo op.
  • Go hiking or mountain biking in the White River National Forest. This vast wilderness area is home to hundreds of miles of trails, ranging from easy, family-friendly hikes to challenging backcountry routes.
  • Try your hand at fly fishing in one of the area’s many streams and rivers. Aspen is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, making it a prime spot for catching rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the Roaring Fork Valley. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers breathtaking views of Aspen and the surrounding mountains from above.

Explore Aspen by Mountain Bike

Aspen is a mountain biking destination that offers something for riders of all levels. With its stunning mountain views, diverse trails, and abundant wildlife, Aspen is the perfect place to explore on two wheels. It has also attracted a number of famous mountain bikers including:

  1. Travis Pastrana: Travis Pastrana is a professional freestyle motocross rider and mountain biker who has ridden in Aspen. In an interview, Pastrana said, “Aspen is one of my favorite places to ride. The trails are challenging and the scenery is breathtaking.”
  2. Rachel Atherton: Rachel Atherton is a professional downhill mountain biker who has competed in Aspen. In an interview, Atherton said, “Aspen is an amazing place to ride. The trails are so diverse, and there’s something for every level of rider.”
  3. Danny MacAskill: Danny MacAskill is a professional street trials rider who has ridden in Aspen. In a video, MacAskill said, “Aspen is such a beautiful place to ride. The trails are so much fun, and the views are unbeatable.”

If you are planning a mountain biking trip to Aspen, here are some of the best trails you won’t want to miss:

  1. Maroon Creek Trail: The Maroon Creek Trail is a moderate to difficult trail that offers stunning views of the Maroon Bells peaks and the surrounding valley. The trail is 9.2 miles in length and has an elevation gain of 1,600 feet. This trail is suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.
  2. Rio Grande Trail: The Rio Grande Trail is a moderate to difficult trail that follows the Rio Grande River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is 41 miles in length and has an elevation gain of 2,000 feet. This trail is suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.
  3. Government Trail: The Government Trail is a moderate to difficult trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail is 10 miles in length and has an elevation gain of 1,700 feet. This trail is suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.
  4. Smuggler Mountain Road: The Smuggler Mountain Road is an easy to moderate trail that follows an old mining road and offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail is 5.8 miles in length and has an elevation gain of 700 feet. This trail is suitable for beginner to intermediate riders.

Regardless of the outdoor or other adventure you decide to tackle in Aspen, our luxurious short-term rental located on Aspen mountain in the heart of Aspen is the ideal base camp. 

Aspen on a budget

Aspen is known as a luxurious and upscale destination, but it is possible to enjoy all that the town has to offer on a budget. If you are planning a trip to Aspen and are looking for ways to save money, here are some tips for budget-friendly travel:

  1. Dining: Aspen has a wide variety of restaurants, but many of them can be expensive. To save money on dining, consider eating at value-priced restaurants, such as The White House Tavern, which serves hearty comfort food at moderate prices. You can also save money by eating at local coffee shops and markets, which often have a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks at reasonable prices.
  2. Shopping: Aspen has a number of designer stores, but they can be expensive. To save money on shopping, consider visiting local boutiques, which often have a variety of unique and locally-made items at more affordable prices. You can also save money by shopping at consignment stores, which often have gently used designer items at a fraction of the cost.
  3. Free activities: Aspen has a number of free activities, both in the summer and winter. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking and biking on the many trails in the area, or visit the Aspen Art Museum, which is free to the public. In the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the many trails in the area, or visit the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Council, which offers free cross-country ski rentals.

Overall, Aspen is a destination that can be enjoyed on a budget. With a little bit of planning, you can save money on dining, shopping, and activities and still have a great time. So, if you’re planning a trip to Aspen and want to stick to a budget, be sure to keep these tips in mind.

Regardless of your budget, our luxurious short-term rental with wood-burning fireplace and expansive views of the town and valley, is the perfect home base. 

Aspen Retail Therapy

Aspen is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide variety of designer stores that offer everything from luxury fashion and accessories to home decor and gifts. If you are planning a trip to Aspen and are looking for some high-end retail therapy, here are some of the best designer stores you won’t want to miss:

  1. Gorsuch: Gorsuch is a luxury fashion and home decor store known for its high-end ski and apres-ski wear, as well as its home furnishings and gifts.
  2. Ralph Lauren: Ralph Lauren is a designer fashion and lifestyle store known for its classic American style and quality craftsmanship. Some of the products the store is known for include polo shirts, jeans, and home furnishings.
  3. Prada: Prada is a luxury fashion store known for its high-end clothing, accessories, and shoes. Some of the products the store is known for include handbags, shoes, and ready-to-wear fashion.
  4. Gucci: Gucci is a luxury fashion store known for its high-end clothing, accessories, and shoes. Some of the products the store is known for include handbags, shoes, and ready-to-wear fashion.
  5. Louis Vuitton: Louis Vuitton is a luxury fashion and accessories store known for its iconic handbags, luggage, and accessories. Some of the products the store is known for include the iconic Speedy and Neverfull handbags, as well as a variety of luggage, wallets, and small leather goods.

Overall, Aspen is a designer shopping destination that offers something for every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for high-end fashion, accessories, or home decor, you will find it in Aspen. So, if you’re planning a trip to Aspen and want to indulge in some designer retail therapy, be sure to visit these top stores.

Each of these stores is a short 5-10 minute walk from our luxury short-term rental, located just up the street from The Little Nell. Many are located on South Galena street, which happens to be the same street our property is located on 🙂

Snowshoeing Aspen

Snowshoeing is a popular and fun winter activity in Aspen, Colorado, and the surrounding area. With its stunning mountain views and abundant snow, Aspen is the perfect place to explore on snowshoes.

There are a number of excellent snowshoeing trails in and around Aspen, ranging from easy and leisurely to challenging and strenuous. Some of the best trails include:

  1. Maroon Bells Snowshoe Tour: This guided snowshoe tour takes you to the base of the iconic Maroon Bells peaks, which are some of the most photographed mountains in the world. The tour is suitable for all levels and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
  2. Ashcroft Ghost Town: Located just outside of Aspen, the Ashcroft Ghost Town is a historic mining town that is now a popular destination for snowshoeing. The town is surrounded by miles of trails that wind through the scenic Castle Creek Valley.
  3. Pine Creek Cookhouse: The Pine Creek Cookhouse is a remote and rustic restaurant located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The restaurant is only accessible by snowshoe or cross-country ski, and offers a unique and memorable dining experience.
  4. Hunter Creek Valley: The Hunter Creek Valley is a peaceful and secluded area located just outside of Aspen, known for its beautiful views and excellent snowshoeing trails. The valley is home to a number of trails that range in difficulty, and is a great destination for a day of snowshoeing.

Overall, Aspen and the surrounding area are excellent destinations for snowshoeing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced snowshoer, you will find plenty of trails to explore. And with its beautiful mountain views and unique dining experiences, snowshoeing in Aspen is an unforgettable winter activity.

The Hotel Jerome – an Aspen institution

The Hotel Jerome is a historic and luxurious hotel located in the heart of Aspen, Colorado. With its rich history and iconic Old West-style architecture, the Hotel Jerome has been a beloved destination for travelers to Aspen for over 125 years.

The Hotel Jerome was founded by Jerome B. Wheeler, a New York City merchant who was one of the first to see the potential of Aspen as a tourist destination. In 1889, Wheeler commissioned the construction of the Hotel Jerome, which he named after himself. The hotel opened its doors in 1889 and quickly became a popular destination for the wealthy and famous.

Over the years, the Hotel Jerome has welcomed a number of celebrities and high-profile guests, including Marilyn Monroe, Greta Garbo, and John F. Kennedy. The hotel is also rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a former bellman, who is said to still roam the halls.

In addition to its luxurious guest rooms and suites, the Hotel Jerome is home to a number of top-rated dining options. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Prospect, is a farm-to-table establishment that serves locally-sourced cuisine in a chic setting. The hotel also has a popular après-ski bar, the J-Bar, which is known for its craft cocktails and hearty American fare.

Overall, the Hotel Jerome is a one-of-a-kind hotel that offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience for guests visiting Aspen. With its rich history, iconic architecture, and excellent dining options, it is the perfect place to stay while exploring all that Aspen has to offer.

Just a short 10 minute walk through the heart of Aspen from our luxurious short-term rental located just up the street from The Little Nell resort. Experience all that Aspen has to offer with all the conveniences of home in a luxurious setting, contact us today!

Dining in Aspen – Something for everyone

Aspen is a culinary destination, with a wide variety of top-rated restaurants that offer everything from farm-to-table cuisine to classic ski-town fare. If you are planning a trip to Aspen and are looking for some dining recommendations, here are the top 5 restaurants you won’t want to miss:

  1. Element 47 at The Little Nell: Located inside the luxurious Little Nell hotel, Element 47 is a farm-to-table restaurant that serves locally-sourced cuisine in a chic setting. Some of the dishes you won’t want to miss include the Colorado lamb loin and the pan-roasted duck breast. Prices at Element 47 are on the higher side, with entrees starting at around $45.
  2. J-Bar at The Hotel Jerome: The J-Bar is a classic Aspen institution, located inside the historic Hotel Jerome. The bar serves up craft cocktails and hearty American fare, and is a popular spot for après-ski. The J-Bar is known for its signature burger, which is topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and a fried egg. Prices at the J-Bar are moderate, with entrees starting at around $20.
  3. The White House Tavern: The White House Tavern is a cozy and popular spot in downtown Aspen, known for its hearty comfort food and extensive craft beer list. Some of the dishes you won’t want to miss include the White House mac and cheese and the pork belly sliders. Prices at The White House Tavern are moderate, with entrees starting at around $20.
  4. Cache Cache: Cache Cache is a French-American bistro located in the heart of Aspen, known for its sophisticated cuisine and romantic atmosphere. Some of the dishes you won’t want to miss include the Colorado lamb chops and the pan-seared duck breast. Prices at Cache Cache are on the higher side, with entrees starting at around $40.
  5. Aspen Kitchen: Aspen Kitchen is a trendy and upscale restaurant located in the Limelight Hotel, known for its contemporary American cuisine and craft cocktails. Some of the dishes you won’t want to miss include the wood-fired chicken and the Colorado lamb shank. Prices at Aspen Kitchen are moderate, with entrees starting at around $25.

Overall, Aspen is a dining destination that offers something for every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a casual après-ski spot or a romantic fine-dining experience, you will find it in Aspen.

All of these restaurants, and many many more, are located just a short 5-10 minute walk from our luxurious short-term rental property located in the heart of Aspen.