Everything You Need to Know for the Vacation of a Lifetime!
Aspen Snowmass ski resort is known for its breathtaking terrain, luxury accommodations, and lively atmosphere. A ski trip to Aspen is more than just a vacation; it’s a winter wonderland experience. From the iconic Aspen Mountain to the family-friendly Snowmass Mountain, there are slopes for every level of skier. As experienced locals in Aspen, we have curated the ‘Ultimate Aspen Ski Trip Itinerary’ to guide you through a perfect week at Aspen Snowmass.
One Week in Aspen Itinerary
Day 1: Your Arrival
Arrive in Aspen in style with a limo service on arrival. Once you reach your accommodation, relax by the fireplace with hot cocoa (or a glass of wine) and magnificent views of the mountains.
Day 2: Aspen Mountain Skiing and Après
Start your first ski day in Aspen with breakfast at Bear Den in Downtown Aspen. We highly recommend the French toast board!
After breakfast, head towards the Aspen Mountain gondola. We recommend Four Mountain Sports across the street from the mountain for rentals. View our Aspen Winter Guide for more information on the four mountains at Aspen Snowmass. Our favorite runs on Aspen Mountain include Ruthie’s and The Aspen Glades for fresh powder and beautiful tree lines.
After a day of exhilarating skiing or snowboarding on Aspen, return to the gondola base to après at Ajax Tavern. They are known for their wagyu cheeseburger and truffle fries. The cauliflower gratin is also a must! Finally, sip on a glass of champagne on their outdoor patio and watch skiers come down the hill.
Enjoy dinner at the renowned Italian restaurant, Casa Tua, for a lively ambiance and fantastic food to round off a perfect first day in Aspen.
Day 3: Champagne Showers at Aspen Highlands
Enjoy waking up to another beautiful day in Aspen. For a gourmet start to the day, our concierge team can book a private chef-prepared breakfast for you to enjoy. From classic breakfast platters to homemade bagels, our trusted chefs can prepare a breakfast to fuel your ski day ahead.
Today you will ski the locals’ favorite mountain, Aspen Highlands. For expert skiers, the Highland Bowl is the pinnacle of North American skiing, with some of the steepest runs in Colorado. Not for the faint-hearted, skiers must hike up to an hour along a mountain ridge to reach the Highland Bowl summit, to be rewarded with panoramic views and steep powder runs. See this Local’s Guide to the Highland Bowl. We recommend skiing off the Loge Peak chairlift for groomed blue runs.
Visit the famous Cloud Nine restaurant for lunch to witness their champagne shower parties for yourself. For food, enjoy exquisite alpine cuisine, including fondue, in the chalet-style restaurant. Since they are known for their Veuve Cliquot spraying parties starting at 2 pm, prepare to walk out smelling like champagne! Cloud Nine is a popular restaurant, so bookings are required.
After an exciting day on the slopes, enjoy a Japanese dinner at Matsuhisa Aspen for our favorites, crispy rice with tuna and a ‘gardener’ cocktail.
Courtesy of: Aspen Snowmass
Day 4: Hit the Snowmass Slopes
Venture to the biggest of the four mountains in the area today, Snowmass Mountain. With wide open trails, secret powder tree lines, and plenty of restaurant options, Snowmass is a great day for all. Our favorite runs are off the Elk Camp chairlift (above the Elk Camp Gondola), where you can enjoy views of the Maroon Bells from the top. If you are visiting in Spring, read our guide to Spring Skiing in Aspen Snowmass.
For lunch, visit Lynn Britt Cabin, a mid-mountain restaurant with stunning views and a Western ambiance. With an outdoor patio, bar, and DJ booth for sunny days, enjoy a charcuterie board in the sun while watching skiers ride down the Velvet Falls run. Reservations are required for lunch seating, so make sure to book!
Relax in the hot tub of your Aspen vacation rental for the late afternoon before dining at Catch Steak for dinner. We recommend the sushi and seafood options alongside the steak! Surf and turf in the mountains, anyone?
Day 5: Relax, Revive, and Retail Therapy!
Today, relax in a much-needed break from skiing! Start your day with breakfast from Unravel Coffee for the best coffee in town. Then, venture to O2 Spa for a relaxing spa treatment. Indulge in a beautiful local spa’s custom massage, facial, or other skin treatment. If desired, book a yoga class in the O2 studio with incredible views of Aspen Mountain.
For a lunch break between shopping and spa treatments, visit the French Alpine Bistro for delectable food in a romantic setting. We recommend the gruyère cheese fondue with the charcuterie addition for a unique experience.
There’s no better way to celebrate a rest day than some retail therapy! Visit the renowned western store Kemo Sabe for their specialty wool hats or Pitkin Country Dry Goods for sophisticated boutique fashion. For other non-skiing activities, view the 7 Best Things to do in Aspen Besides Ski.
For an early dinner, visit Clark’s Aspen for their happy hour menu from 3-5 pm Monday through Friday. The happy hour menu includes half-price burgers, martinis, and 50c off oysters. The clam chowder is also a delicious way to warm up in the snow.
No Aspen ski trip is complete without attending a concert at Belly Up. The intimate venue is renowned for hosting world-class musicians on its stage. Often sold out, make sure you book tickets in advance.
Day 6: Mountain Pancakes and Starry Sleigh Rides
Famous in Aspen, Bonnie’s restaurant on Aspen Mountain is an absolute must for breakfast. Known for their oatmeal pancakes and gorgeous views, start your day with breakfast here.
For your second day skiing on Aspen Mountain, venture towards Lift 1A for steep lines and bumps. For a great groomed trail, ski top-to-bottom on the Copper run.
Stop at Sundeck for lunch at the top of the gondola for fantastic cafeteria-style food, outdoor seating, and views your family and friends will envy. We recommend a bowl of chili!
Enjoy a mountain experience like no other tonight with a sleigh ride to Pine Creek Cookhouse. Then, travel under the stars via horse and carriage to an incredible chalet restaurant at the base of the Elk Mountains. We recommend hiring a car service to drive you as no taxis or shuttles are available from the restaurant.
Day 7: Snowmobiling and a Steakhouse Dinner
Start your day at the popular Paradise Bakery with delicious pastries, cookies, muffins, coffee, and gelato. This bakery is take-out only, so wander around town while sipping your morning cappuccino or sit on one of the outdoor benches outside the bakery or in the various walking malls in Downtown Aspen.
Next, take a snowmobiling adventure to the Maroon Bells, one of the most photographic areas of North America. An experienced guide will lead you through the White River National Forest to the base of Maroon Lake. Warm up with hot chocolate as you gaze at one of the most picturesque peaks in the world.
Tonight for après, visit the Snow Lodge inside the St Regis Aspen. The same team as The Surf Lodge, The Snow Lodge is a winter supper club, lounge, and après venue. Listen to live music in the lounge or courtyard with specialty cocktails in a beautifully designed space.
For dinner, visit a local and visitor favorite, Steakhouse 316. This restaurant combines elegant mood lighting with a classic steakhouse menu. From lobster tail pairings to tomahawk rib eyes, this is a must-visit for steak and seafood lovers. For dessert, don’t pass on the bread & butter pudding.
Day 8: Final Morning
For a final gourmet breakfast, visit Element 47 at The Little Nell hotel for a continental or full ‘Nell’ buffet. From berry parfait to duck chilaquiles, there are delectable options for all.
After a magnificent Aspen ski trip, we hope you depart with unforgettable memories and experiences!
FAQ
How much does it cost to go skiing in Aspen?
For the latest lift tickets/equipment/lesson pricing information, visit the official Aspen Snowmass website.
What is the best month to ski in Aspen?
Any month between December-March is fantastic in Aspen. December is the most popular month for its vibrant holiday festivities and historically abundant snowfall. January is an excellent month for quieter crowds and still fantastic skiing. March is the start of spring skiing which means warmer temperatures and many outdoor events such as concerts and patio après.
Is Aspen skiing good for beginners?
Aspen Mountain has no beginner trails, only intermediate and expert. However, Buttermilk and Snowmass mountains have fantastic beginner terrain. We also recommend booking a lesson if it’s your first time skiing.
Is Aspen worth skiing?
Aspen was voted the #3 ski resort in the West by Skimag.com for our “gold standard for American skiing, nightlife, and lifts.” So, the answer is yes! Aspen is worth visiting for an incredible Colorado ski vacation.
