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Aspen Après: Making The Most Of Colorado’s Skiing Capital

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By Lucy Cocoran on 17th November 2023

Snow-capped mountains and colourful ski suits are all part of the alpine aesthetic, which bursts to life in Aspen during autumn every year.

Any seasoned skier will be well aware of Aspen’s appeal, offering four breathtaking mountains to delight any slope enthusiast. December through to February is widely considered the best time of year to visit, with the town powdered with fresh snow and the slopes ready to play host to a lineup of excited skiers. 

Widely regarded as the playground of the rich and famous, Aspen has earned a reputation as the bucket list destination for skiing, après and everything in between. 

Below, discover The Sybarite’s guide to making the most of your time in Aspen.

Mountains To Visit

Snowmass 

This spot offers over 3000 acres of mountain terrain, making it the largest of Aspen’s major four. Ski runs are long, wide and predominantly classified as intermediate and expert. Given its sheer size, you could easily spend your entire Aspen vacation on Snowmass, working your way through the various terrains. And with a myriad restaurants, retail shops and bars, there are plenty of pleasing distractions from skiing. 

Aspen Mountain 

With just 675 skiable acres, Aspen Mountain is significantly smaller than Snowmass, and as such, typically attracts more seasoned skiers looking for challenging slopes. 50% of the mountain is classified as a blue run (for veterans), while the other 50% is classified as black and double black run (solely for experts). Unsurprisingly, beginner skiers don’t frequent this mountain too often, unless it’s to reserve a seat at the famed Ajax Tavern for some people-watching over a cocktail or two.

Aspen Highlands

Widely regarded as the favourite mountain among locals, Aspen Highlands boasts some of the best skiing routes on Colorado’s western slope. With just over 1000 acres, which are predominantly classified as black and double black, this mountain also attracts a more experienced level of skier —  as there is no terrain for beginners. 

Buttermilk 

Offering one of the best beginner ski schools in Colorado, Buttermilk is, as the name implies, a lovely, soft option for novice skiers. Being the smallest mountain with 470 acres, this offers great fun for the entire family or anyone looking for a more relaxed approach to skiing. That being said, there is also intermediate and advanced terrain for anyone seeking a challenge, without having to move to an entirely different mountain. 

The best time to visit Aspen for skiing is widely agreed upon to be winter, which runs from December. However, not only is this the most popular season, but it is also the most expensive, which is something to keep in mind.

How much are Aspen skiing fees?

You can see a full price breakdown of skiing fees here. A single lift ticket to Aspen Snowmass provides access to our four mountains. Plan to play ahead of time and ski or ride for less.

Where To Stay In Aspen

The Little Nell 

The only resort in Aspen with both a five-star and five-diamond rating, The Little Nell is a highly-sought after location for anyone seeking a memorable stay. As a ski in/ski out resort, guests are offered unrivalled access to every part of the mountain town, alongside exclusive experiences and amenities. And, with more than 20,000 wines stored in an underground cellar, après is all but guaranteed every evening. 

Address: 675 E Durant Ave, Aspen, CO 81611, United States.

Prices from £817 per night. 

The St. Regis Aspen Resort

Located just a three minute walk from the base of Aspen mountain, the St. Regis offers a slice of old world luxury in an incredible location. With rooms featuring custom Ralph Lauren beds, a Remède spa and authentic Italian restaurant, this hotel strikes the perfect balance between cosy and contemporary. 

Address: 315 E Dean St, Aspen, CO 81611, United States

Prices from £492 per night 

Hotel Jerome 

Boasting breathtaking views of Colorado’s peaks, located at the foot of Aspen Mountain, Hotel Jerome has several of Aspen’s biggest mountains as its backdrop. Built in 1889, you can expect a heritage-style stay with a contemporary age and commissioned artworks. With an onsite spa, pool and dining terrace, you might find yourself tempted to not leave its confines at all, but its proximity to the slopes makes it incredibly easy to, should you be so inclined. 

Address: 330 E Main St, Aspen, CO 81611, United States

Prices from £972 per night. 

Where To Eat In Aspen

Matsuhisa 

Located in a Victorian-style house in downtown Aspen, you can find Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's namesake restaurant, championing new-style Japanese cuisine with fresh seafood and specialty saké. 

Book here

SteakHouse No. 316 

Cowboy ribeyes and porterhouse steaks are just a few of the cuts on hand at SteakHouse No. 316 — a dining destination famed for its perfectly seared meats and gilded interiors. 

Book here

Ellina 

An intimate Italian restaurant in the heart of Aspen, diners flock to Ellina to savour a mouthful of the venue’s fresh pasta after a day spent on the slopes. 

Book here

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