SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Snowmass is a ski resort located in the town of Snowmass Village near Aspen, Colorado. The ski area is owned and operated by the Aspen Skiing Company as part of the Aspen/Snowmass complex. It was opened on December 17, 1967 .[1] Snowmass is the largest of the four Aspen/Snowmass mountains, comprising 3,128 acres (1,266 ha). The mountain is most notable for its wide cruiser runs, family-friendly atmosphere, and extensive ski-in/ski-out lodging. Despite its family reputation, the resort also contains several terrain parks, extensive extreme skiing terrain, mogul runs, and gladed terrain. Snowmass has undergone massive changes in the past few years, including a new gondola along with a new Base Village. Snowmass has also constructed a new restaurant near Elk Camp, replacing Cafe Suzanne with a large, brand new restaurant. Today, Snowmass continues its extensive improvements to on-mountain infrastructure as well as lift repairs.
Snowmass has the most vertical feet of skiing of any ski area in the United States, but only when the Cirque poma is running.[2] There are 17 lifts at Snowmass: 8 high-speed quads (Two Creeks, Elk Camp, Alpine Springs, Sheer Bliss, Big Burn, Coney Glade, Sam’s Knob, High Alpine), 1 high-speed six pack (Village Express), 2 gondolas (the Sky Cab – better known as the “Skittles” and Elk Camp Gondola), 2 quads (Meadows and Assay Hill), 1 double (Campground) and 2 pull lifts (Scooper and The Cirque).
Aspen Snowmass is a winter resort complex located in Pitkin County in western Colorado in the United States. Owned and operated by the Aspen Skiing Company it comprises four skiing/snowboarding areas on four adjacent mountains in the vicinity of the towns of Aspen and Snowmass Village. The four areas collectively form one of the most famous winter resorts in the world and are annually the destination for visitors from all over the world.
What you need to know:
| Location: | Within the White River National Forest, adjacent to Snowmass Village and 9 miles (14 km) from downtown Aspen |
| Coordinates: | 39.1956°N 106.9513°WCoordinates: 39.1956°N 106.9513°W |
| Vertical: | 4,406 ft (1,343 m) |
| Top elevation: | 12,510 ft (3,810 m) |
| Base elevation: | 8,104 ft (2,470 m) |
| Skiable area: | 3,362 acres (13.61 km2) |
| Runs: | 94 |
| Longest run Longshot: | 5.3 mi (8.5 km) |
| Types of Trails: | easiest: 6%, more difficult: 47%, most difficult: 17%, expert: 30% |
| Best Known For: | Wide-open, groomed cruising and family-friendly activities. Snowmass has long been rated one of the best family ski areas in North America |
| Terrain Parks and Half Pipes: | 3 terrain parks (Snowmass Park and Superpipe, Little Makaha and Lowdown Park), 1 superpipe and 1 mini pipe |
SNOWMASS
Aptly named, Snowmass offers an abundance of deep snow and a vast expanse of terrain that includes 94 trails and the largest vertical descent of any resort in North America. With excellent dining facilities across the mountain, tubing lanes, and the Treehouse Kids Adventure Center at the base, Snowmass is also a favorite among families and groups.
ASPEN MOUNTAIN
There is no denying the unique personality of Aspen Mountain. Rising from the vibrant heart of downtown Aspen, this is where it all began in 1946 with the single-seat Lift 1, which immediately became the longest chairlift in the world. That mentality of “go big or go home” has always been at the foundation of the mountain they still call “Ajax.”
ASPEN HIGHLANDS
Aspen Highlands may just be one ridge over from Aspen Mountain and Buttermilk, but it is truly in a world all its own. Adored by locals and elite skiers and riders, the mountain has a duct-tape-to-diamonds vibe that is on display with the double-black steeps of Highland Bowl and the raucous après ski scene at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro.
BUTTERMILK
Buttermilk is home to ESPN’s Winter X Games, two extraordinary terrain parks and a world-famous 22-foot Superpipe. But on most days, it feels like it’s just you and the mountain, with miles of groomers and glades to explore at your leisure. The addition of The Hideout Children’s Center at Buttermilk’s base makes it the perfect place for kids to learn.
As you drive up to Snowmass Village, don’t be surprised if you feel the pace of life slowing down a bit. The serene valley where this small mountain town resides is ideal for mountain getaways where you truly want to get away. Lodging options abound in Snowmass Village, from chic hotels to vacation homes with ski-in/ski-out access. Anything you need can be found in the Base Village and Snowmass Village Mall.
Stay Aspen Snowmass is the official reservation center for Aspen and Snowmass. Local vacation experts are on-hand to create discounted vacation packages including lodging, airfare, ground transportation, lift tickets, equipment rentals, lessons, and more. Call toll free or visit them online to customize your perfect Aspen Snowmass vacation.
For information regarding Resort Lodging check out this link HERE
What’s the weather in Aspen / Snowmass today? See an overview of the current Aspen / Snowmass weather, including high and low temperatures for the day and wind mph at the base and summit of the mountain. Scroll to the right to see Aspen / Snowmass weather forecasts and wind for the next seven days. Tab over to Hour by Hour for an hourly Aspen / Snowmass weather forecast breakdown or to Long Range Weather Forecast for a detailed Aspen / Snowmass weather forecast for the next seven days.
Aspen Snowmass forecast is linked below from ONTheSNow
ABOUT THE ASPEN SNOWMASS FREESKIING OPEN
The Aspen Snowmass Freeskiing Open is an AFP Gold Level event. The Association of Freeskiing Professionals is an organization responsible for implementing a balanced global rider ranking system and to serve as a unified voice for athletes and our sport. Made up of top athletes and key influencers within the sport of freeskiing, the AFP is proactive in the future direction of events, judging, growth and evolution of the sport as well as fostering opportunities for emerging riders to climb a clear ladder to higher levels of competition.
ELK CAMP SURF & SNOW BEACH PARTY
Head up to Elk Camp – Snowmass for some fun in the sun! For the third year in a row, Elk Camp restaurant at Snowmass will host an end-of-season party featuring free leis, a dance party, and margarita blender bikes. Wear your swim attire and skim along the pond outside of Elk Camp Restaurant. For the first time, Surf & Snow Beach party will take place with a Pond Skim! Skiers and snowboarders are highly encouraged to participate. After the party on the mountain is over join fellow skiers/riders from Elk Camp to Base Village at where the party continues!
APRÈS CLOSING PARTY
Following the 80’s prom party at the Sundeck, ski down to Ajax Tavern to close out the ski season with us. Enjoy street-food inspired bites, drink specials and a DJ. Don your most stylish 80’s threads and get ready to dance in your ski boots until the sun sets
ASPEN MOUNTAIN
Breakfast at Bonnies: Cool mornings on the ski hill are some of the best. If you’re motivated you can get up early, catch the first chair up Aspen and enjoy a delicious breakfast at Bonnie’s Restaurant. If you go, make sure not to miss their legendary pancakes!
Après at The Little Nell: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain The Little Nell Hotel offers a multitude of dining options like the Ajax Tavern. Make sure to swing by after getting off the slopes, the view of the mountain along with the ambiance of the Ajax Tavern makes for an excellent drink.
BUTTERMILK MOUNTAIN
Buttermilk Panda: Buttermilk Mountain is known throughout the world as the home to the Winter X Games halfpipe competition, it is also known as being one of the most family friendly mountains in Colorado. What most people don’t know is that the Buttermilk Ski School keeps a stuffed Panda on hand that children are welcome to carry with them for a run or two. It is rumored that the Buttermilk Panda has a magical ability to turn crying into laughing. Inquire at the Buttermilk Ski School./p>
SNOWMASS MOUNTAIN
Noon Groom: With all the terrain at Snowmass Mountain it feels like you can never run out of groomed terrain, unfortunately by lunch all the corduroy is sometimes gone. Fortunately, at noon, one run on the mountain gets re-groomed! Ask a ski patroller which run is being groomed and grab some fresh turns right after lunch!
ASPEN HIGHLANDS
Highlands Bowl: Ah, Highlands. Known by locals as the “expert’s paradise” Aspen Highlands has a reputation as steep and deep with fresh snow holding on for days after storms. The real beauty of Highlands though, comes from Highland Bowl, a huge open bowl above tree line offering staggering views of nearby Mt. Snowmass and Mt. Daly. Unfortunately, there is no life access so if you do choose to hike to the top of the bowl be prepared with food, water and bellows for lungs!
Aspen and Snowmass Village have burnished an international reputation for excellent restaurants. Much of this stems from the towns’ residents and visitors, who bring their global tastes to the table in a pursuit for new and innovative tastes. And local chefs are happy to oblige. Adding to the area’s culinary cred is the Aspen Food & Wine Classic — held in June every year — which is attended by celebrated chefs and A-listers alike. Without a doubt, the event is a progressive incubator of culinary ideas, which has a major impact on the local dining scene.
AJAX TAVERN – AT THE BASE OF ASPEN MOUNTAIN
Say “apres-ski,” and most people picture something strikingly similar to Ajax Tavern – glamorous yet easy. You can see Ajax Tavern’s sun-drenched, mountainside patio from halfway up the mountain – a simple target for lunch or cocktails. Arrive and let the people-watching begin; there’s no better seat in town. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain and next to the Silver Queen Gondola, Ajax Tavern is the restaurant in Aspen for casual fine dining in an unbeatable atmosphere. The Tavern comes to life at lunch, and the party rolls on well into the night. If you go no further on the menu, try the truffle fries and Ajax wagyu double cheeseburger – they have earned their reputation.
CLOUD NINE ALPINE BISTRO
This cozy, European-style cabin with a backdrop of the iconic Maroon Bells is a highlight of any Aspen Snowmass vacation. Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro is legendary for a reason: channeling authentic European Alpine culture in a warm, welcoming environment, it also happens to have the most boisterous après ski scene on any mountain in North America.
ELEMENT 47
Element 47 is Aspen’s finest spot to wine, dine and unwind. Tucked inside The Little Nell, element 47 serves Colorado Contemporary cuisine emphasizing local wagyu beef, house-made pastas and seasonal produce. The dining experience is complemented by the hotel’s award-winning wine program and genuine hospitality. The name element 47 pays tribute to silver, the precious metal that first put Aspen on the map. Serving breakfast, lunch, après and dinner, seven days a week. Our team of culinary and wine professionals is one very good reason our hotel has enjoyed the rare Five-Star, Five-Diamond ranking for so long. In 2015, element 47 received its first Five-Star Restaurant Award, the only one among Aspen restaurants.
Whether you ski in for lunch, drop in at the bar for a more casual rendezvous, or join us for the most special of occasions, you’ll be greeted with warmth, not formality. There is no dress code – “Aspen casual” is ideal attire. We are pleased to accommodate diners with any food allergies, intolerances and dietary restrictions. You’ll find the ambiance – ceiling-height glass cases with some of our rarest wines, art by Michelle Grabner, Cameron Martin, Angel Otero, Scott Reeder, Philip Vanderhyden, José Lerma – as fine as the dining.
BONNIE’S
Bonnie’s is located mid-mountain, and has long been a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. Glide off the groomers of North American or Tourtellotte Park for a cup of coffee, an indulgent apple strudel you know you’ll burn off, or a bowl of white-bean chili to warm the soul.Its famous two-tiered outdoor deck is a favorite hangout spot on bluebird days. Open during the winter season only.
PINE CREEK COOKHOUSE
Aspen’s legendary restaurant, the Pine Creek Cookhouse, is nestled at the base of the Elk Mountains.
Alpine gourmet food featuring wild game and fresh fish is brought to life with organic, locally-sourced ingredients. From field to stream our chefs prepare cuisine made from scratch every day.
WOODY CREEK TAVERN
At the Woody Creek Tavern the Mexican food is the best in the valley-the tamales have attained near-mythic status-and the strong, blue agave margaritas are the best in the Aspen area.
Neither credit cards nor reservations are accepted.
| CHILD CARE | ADVANCE PURCHASE | IN-RESORT | PEAK IN-RESORT |
| Full Day | $180 | $190 | $200 |
| Morning Half Day | N/A | $130 | $140 |
Our child care facility located in the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center caters to infants, toddlers and preschoolers, with each group having their own private area. Safe and comfortable, with an on-site nurse, your child will have a blast in this interactive environment, while under the attentive care of our experienced staff.
The Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center is a state-of-the-art facility providing:
- Quality child care for infants and toddlers ages 8 weeks to 4 years
Colorado, state-licensed child care with licensed registered nurse on staff - Interactive environment with age-appropriate themed rooms
- Experienced and nurturing staff
- Lunch and snacks provided (infants – please provide own food and formula)
THE TREEHOUSE KIDS’ ADVENTURE CENTER
The Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center — a multilevel, 2,300-square-meter childcare facility in Snowmass Village — brings the great outdoors inside with Colorado-themed play rooms and supervised activities for children ages 8 weeks to 4 years old.
Our state-of-the-art facility offers:
- State-licensed childcare for infants and toddlers
- An experienced, fun-loving staff that love to engage with kids and who foster a nurturing environment
- And a licensed, registered nurse on staff.
The first of its kind in the ski industry, the Treehouse combines these childcare facilities with ski school programs and rentals under one roof, giving families a consolidated and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
CHILD GROUP LESSONS (AGES 2.5–3 GROUP LESSON – SKI)
This safe, fun, and nurturing program is staffed with experienced professionals specializing in early childhood education as well as ski instruction. Indoors or outdoors, kids love all the new, stimulating experiences. The youngsters have their own private learning area right outside of the Treehouse at Snowmass or The Hideout at Buttermilk and will participate in a one hour ski experience each morning. When indoors, your child will enjoy age-specific rooms and a low child-to-Pro ratio. Children in this group will have rest time each afternoon.
TEEN GROUP LESSONS (AGES 13–17 GROUP LESSON – SKI)
Coaching happens and skills develop – but half the time they won’t even know it’s happening because they are having so much fun! The program is structured to accommodate the personalities of the individuals within the program. Based on conditions and group ability levels, daily lessons can include learning the basics, cruising the groomers to coaching for pipe & park, big mountain, bumps, carving, racing and freestyle. Teens may choose to compete with new friends at school race day and NASTAR.
- Teen group ski lessons for all abilities are available at Snowmass every day.
- Teen skiers, all levels, are welcome to join child group ski lessons at Buttermilk.
- Teen skiers, intermediate to expert, are welcome to join child group ski lessons at Highlands
- Teen group ski lessons not available at Aspen Mountain.
ADULT GROUP LESSONS
Whether your looking to improve your skiing abilities from beginner to intermediate or intermediate to expert, join our adult group lessons and experience individualized attention on our legendary terrain. Develop lifelong relationships with building your confidence to take your skiing to the next level. Full day: 10am – 3pm.
WINTER
To reach Aspen Snowmass, exit Interstate 70 at Glenwood Springs and head 41 miles south and east to Aspen on Highway 82. (Glenwood Springs is 157 miles west of Denver).
In winter, Highway 82 over Independence Pass east of Aspen is closed, generally from late October through May depending on the first snowfall and snow removal operations, respectively.
Below is a summary of distances from Colorado’s airports to downtown Aspen.
- From Aspen/Pitkin County Airport: 3 miles east on highway 82.
- From Denver International Airport (DEN): 220 miles west via I-70 and Colorado 82.
- From Eagle County Airport (EGE): 70 miles west via I-70 and Colorado 82.
- From Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT): 125 miles east via I-70 and Colorado 82.
BY CAR
- From Aspen (15 minutes): Take Colorado Highway 82 west to Owl Creek Road (the same turn off as Buttermilk). Proceed on Owl Creek Road all the way to Snowmass Village. See below for parking details.
- From down-valley/Glenwood Springs: Take Colorado Highway 82 east to Brush Creek Road. Proceed on Brush Creek Road all the way to Snowmass Village. See below for parking details.
BY BUS
The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) provides transportation on a year-round basis including free buses operating between the city of Aspen and the town of Snowmass Village. Additionally RFTA buses connect all four Aspen/Snowmass mountains during the winter season with higher frequency during peak times. Each bus is equipped with external racks for skis and snowboards.
- From Aspen to Snowmass Village Mall (times from Rubey Park): every 15 minutes, 6:15am–7:30pm
- From Aspen Highlands to Snowmass Village Mall (times from Base Area): direct service at 3:30pm and 4:30pm or via transfer throughout the day
- From Buttermilk to Snowmass Village Mall (times from base area): Direct services at 8:30am, 9:10am, 10:10am, 11:10am, 12:10pm, 1:10pm, 2:10pm, 3:10pm and 4:10pm
To access Two Creeks by bus from Aspen, riders must take the #3 Village Shuttle from the mall. RFTA does not operate a direct bus from Aspen to Two Creeks.
BY SHUTTLE
Village Shuttle is a free shuttle service to all multi-family residences and activity centers in Snowmass Village. Service from 6:45am–12:45am. For areas within Snowmass not served by the shuttle, use the Dial-a-Ride Service. Click here for details and schedule.
FREE PARKING
Town Park Station (formerly Rodeo Lot): Shuttles depart starting at 6:40am every 20 minutes, 6:30 to 7:10am and 5:20 to 6:20pm. 10-minute service 7:10am to 5:20pm
PAID PARKING
Two Creeks and Lot E are $15 on weekdays and $25 on weekends & holidays. Snowmass transferable season parking passes are $429 for the public and $379 for premier passholders (when purchased at the same time as the Premier Pass,) for Two Creeks and Lot E (also valid at Aspen Highlands). Permit is required from 8:00am until noon daily. Spaces are limited, permits do not guarantee a spot.
BASE VILLAGE PARKING GARAGE
- Operated by Snowmass Hospitality, not affiliated with Aspen Skiing Company.
- First hour is free
- $5.00 Each additional hour
- $30.00 Daily maximum
- Evening parking is free if you enter the garage after 5:00 pm
- Free during summer months
SNOWMASS VILLAGE MALL PARKING
Parking in the lots adjacent to the Snowmass Village Mall area is by permit only. Guests can purchase weekly permits from their lodging company. Residents and employees must have permits. Parking is strictly enforced from the first day of the ski season to the last day of the season. Permits are not required in the summer and off-season.
