The 2021-2022 Aspen ski season is upon us. The snow has been falling and the mountains are looking more beautiful than ever. After a little slower ski season last year, we are expecting bigger crowds this winter and spring for skiing, snowboarding, and skinning. All of Aspen’s major ski resorts will have Covid-19 precautions and restrictions in place, including some activities and facilities that will require proof of vaccination.
Below, I want to feature each of Aspen’s 4 unique ski resorts, as well as updated information for the 2021-2022 ski season.
Aspen Mountain
Aspen Mountain is often known by locals as the “town mountain” because of its convenient location near the heart of town, or by its old name of Ajax. The ski area is located on the north face of Aspen Mountain and is a smaller skiing destination compared to some of the other resorts. This has been a popular ski area since 1946 and continues to draw visitors from all over the world. No trip to Aspen would be complete without a visit to this classic resort and time spent enjoying its excellent après ski scene after you are done on the slopes. Heads up, there are no green runs so you want to know how to ski before you hop on the Gondola—unless you plan on going for the breathtaking views and then you can just download on the Gondola! Learn more.
Aspen Highlands
Aspen Highlands is considered to be a favorite of many of the more advanced skiers and snowboarders. You can enjoy carving lines on expert Colorado steeps and deeps. Highland Bowl provides an unbeatable in-bounds backcountry experience. To access the Bowl, you will have to hike in a single file line up the rim which is over 12,300 feet above sea-level. Make sure you are in shape and ready for jump-turns before you start the hike! If that sounds like too much for you, you can still enjoy the mid-mountain beginner and intermediate terrain at Aspen Highlands. There are some great cruiser runs, and if there aren’t ski races while you are there, you can test out your legs carving the race slope. Once you’ve skied here, it’s easy to understand why locals consider this ski area Aspen’s best-kept secret! Learn more.
Buttermilk Mountain
Buttermilk Mountain offers over 21 miles (34 km) of slopes and five different lifts. This is a great resort for beginners and intermediate skiers, as well as avid snowboarders and freestylers. It is home to the annual X Games Aspen and is the perfect powder playground for snow sports enthusiasts of all skill levels. Buttermilk connects with the Tiehack side of the mountain which is a local favorite spot for uphill skinning. Learn more.
Snowmass Mountain
This is the largest ski area in the Roaring Fork Valley—bigger than all three of the other mountain resorts combined. This is one place that has it all, from beginner slopes to advanced steeps and jumps. There’s no shortage of things to see and do here, with snow activities for everyone. This resort has more of a family-friendly reputation, but locals know it is also a great spot for challenging mogul runs and gladed terrain. Learn more.
Please note that strict Covid-19 regulations are in place for the 2021-2022 Aspen ski season. Masks will be required in all indoor locations and proof of vaccination must be shown at certain indoor dining areas and hotel properties. Vaccines are not required for lift access, uphill passes, market-style restaurants, ticket offices and ski/snowboard lessons or rentals. Check aspensnowmass.com for the latest information and restrictions. With new variants and challenges, the rules are subject to change throughout the season.
This is already shaping up to be another legendary ski season in Aspen. I’ll see you on the slopes!
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Brittanie Rockhill
Aspen Real Estate
DRE # FA.100019229
