You may be visiting Aspen for the excellent skiing and snowboarding, but that’s not all this great area has to offer. The Aspen Chamber of Commerce recently posted their fun “bucket list” of local experiences. I want to highlight of few of their recommendations along with some of my own.
1. First Tracks on Ajax
Any serious skier or snowboarder should have this high up on their list of things to do this winter. It’s worth the effort to get up early and be among the first on the slopes at Ajax Mountain. Nothing compares to freshly groomed morning powder as you carve your way down some of the best tracks in all of Colorado. Join the Aspen Snowmass staff with an advanced reservation. Learn more.
2. Find All 7 Shrines on Aspen Mountain
There are seven hidden shrines paying homage to different people connected to the history of Aspen. You may need a local guide to find a few of them or you might just stumble upon one when explore some of the ski trails that are a little off the beaten path. See if you can find all of them this winter! Learn more.
3. Concerts at Belly Up
Belly Up is Aspen’s most famous concert venue. You simply have to see a show or two here to call yourself a true Aspenite. Shows are a little more limited this winter with Covid protocols in place, but there some great concerts coming up. Learn more.
4. X Games Aspen
Buttermilk will again host the 2022 X Games Aspen on January 21-23. The events are free to attend and you’ll be able to watch some of the world’s best extreme winter sports athletes competing at our local resort. Learn more.
5. Go Skinning
Uphill skinning is one of Aspen’s best traditions. Ski uphill with specialized skins and binding. You’ll get a great workout while you take in the beautiful mountain scenery. Then, you can ski back down the slopes. All four of Aspen’s mountains accommodate winter skinning. Learn more.
6. Aprés Ski
Another Aspen tradition is the excellent après ski scene. Many local bars and restaurants offer ski-in and ski-out service with outdoor dining settings. You are able to relax and enjoy good times with friends and family while basking in the stunning mountain views. Learn more.
7. Silver Queen Gondola
One of the best ways to enjoy the Aspen scenery is to take a ride up the Silver Queen Gondola. You’ll travel up to the peak of Aspen Mountain at 11,212 feet. This gives you access to more than 75 incredible ski and snowshoe trails. Non-skiers will enjoy the views and can relax with a nice lunch at the Sundeck Restaurant. Learn more.
8. Breakfast at Bonnie's
Bonnie’s is a great little breakfast and lunch spot located in the middle of Aspen Mountain. They are famous for their oatmeal pancakes and it’s a must-stop for anyone visiting Aspen during ski season. Learn more.
9. Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
Aspen Carriage provides memorable horse-drawn sleigh rides around Aspen. It’s a charming way to see the city. Some packages include dinner stops. This is a real Rocky Mountain tradition. Learn more.
10. A Stroll Through Downtown
No Aspen trip would be complete without a stroll through the historic downtown area. Experience all the wonderful local shops, restaurants and boutiques and feel the spirit of our great mountain community. Downtown looks so amazing when everything is covered with a fresh blanket of winter snow. Learn more.
This is just a small sampling of what should be on your Aspen winter checklist. There is so much to see and do here during the best season of the year!
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Brittanie Rockhill
Aspen Real Estate
DRE # FA.100019229
