Aspen in Winter

SKIING/SNOWBOARDING

Aspen in the winter offers varied terrain for skiers/snowboarders and adventure seekers of all skill levels.

With four distinct mountains to explore (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass), skiers/snowboarders of all skill levels have many options, including groomed slopes, terrain parks and even back bowls.

Complimentary shuttles run between all four mountains and ski transport is available for convenience.

• Expert Skiers - Aspen offers high-alpine and steep slopes, as well as backcountry and freestyle skiing for skiers who are highly skilled and looking for true adventure with challenging terrain.

• Novice Skiers - Aspen also offers more gentle slopes, ski schools and graduated instruction to meet novice skiers’ skillsets. Beginners will thrive in Snowmass and Buttermilk.

• Family Skiers - Aspen features world-class ski schools in the surrounding areas, and private instruction can also be arranged.

NON-SKIERS

There is still plenty to do in Aspen in the winter for non-skiers, including many outdoor options like snowshoeing, tubing, snowmobiling, ice-skating and carriage rides.

If you don’t want to step foot on a mountain, you may enjoy shopping in town or cultural activities like exploring the Aspen Art Museum or other independent art galleries.

Don’t forget spa days, dining and other entertainment as well!

The dining scene in Aspen in the winter is thriving, reflective of the city’s reputation as a culinary destination. With options for upscale dining, international cuisine and local fare, everyone is sure to be pleased during mealtime.

Aspen also offers plenty of on-mountain, après-ski and nightlife experiences in the winter.

BREAKFAST / LUNCH

• Poppycocks: Pancakes, French toast, etc.

• Jour de Fete: Sandwiches and breakfast sandwiches — take it to go or stay and eat

• Paradise Bakery: An Aspen classic for coffee, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, ice cream, cookies, etc.

• Grateful Deli

• Big Wrap: Wraps, salads, tacos, breakfast burritos, smoothies, etc.

• White House Tavern: Famous for the crispy chicken sandwich

DINNER

• Campo de Fiori: Great Italian

• Clark’s Oyster Bar: Wonderful oysters and burgers

• Matsuhisa: Sushi

• Casa Tua: Famous Italian

• Catch: Steakhouse

• Cache Cache: Get the lamb

KID-FRIENDLY DINNER

• Mi Chola: Mexican

• Zane’s Tavern

• CP Burger: Also has ice-skating

• Brunelleschi’s: Very kid-friendly, tons of Italian options (pizza, pasta, paninis, entrees, etc.) and kids can make their own pizza at the table

APRES-SKI

• Ajax Tavern: Classic après-ski at the base of Aspen Mountain

• The Wine Bar: Formerly “Chair 9,” vibrant wine bar at The Little Nell at the base of Aspen Mountain

• The W Hotel: Aspen Mountain après-ski scene, usually with a DJ

• Aspen Tap/Aspen Brewing Co: In downtown Aspen

• Highlands Alehouse: Base of Aspen Highlands

• Willow Creek Bistro: Located in The Ritz-Carlton Club at the base of Aspen Highlands.

• Buttermilk Mountain Lodge: At the base of Buttermilk

• Home Team BBQ: Base of Buttermilk

ON-MOUNTAIN

• Sundeck: Top of Aspen Mountain

• Bonnie’s: Aspen Mountain — classic American cuisine

• Cloud Nine: Aspen Highlands — come for the fondue, stay for the après DJ and Champagne showers

• Merry-Go-Round: Aspen Highlands — cafeteria-style, but tons of outdoor seating for sunny days and a good bar

• Lynn Britt Cabin: Snowmass lunch (reservations required), après (no reservations required) and private snowcat dinners (must inquire)

• Pine Creek Cookhouse: Ski, snowshoe or take a horse-drawn sleigh to get here in the winter