There is no wrong time to experience Aspen, Colorado, however most people visit Aspen in the winter because there are the most things to do in Aspen in winter. From skiing to ice skating to sled dog rides, there are many different ways for visitors to get active and take advantage of the alpine climate. 

WHAT ARE THE 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ASPEN IN WINTER?

Aspen is renowned for its winter activities, offering a wealth of exciting options for visitors. Here are the top 10 things to do in Aspen during the winter season:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding
2. Snowshoeing Excursions
3. Ice Skating
4. Snowmobile Trips
5. Maroon Bells
6. Hit the Hot Springs
7. Tubing
8. Cross-Country Skiing
9. Winter Hiking
10. Ice Climbing

Whether you’re a party animal, an adrenaline junkie, a beginner skier, an arts connoisseur, or a parent with kids, there is something for everyone in Aspen.

If you have your sights set on Aspen this winter, make sure to explore all these incredible activities for a memorable trip.

1. SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING 

When people come to Aspen, it’s usually to ski or snowboard – Aspen is a ski town after all! The official ski season starts in November and runs through April, depending on the weather.

No matter your skill level, Aspen is a great place to learn, improve your technique, or challenge yourself.

There’s something for everyone on each of Aspen’s 4 mountains:

• Buttermilk Mountain is known for being a beginner-friendly place to ski due to the number of green and blue runs. However, Buttermilk also hosts the X Games each year. Main and west Buttermilk are well-maintained and free of obstacles, while the tiehack area is best for uphill skiers. There are 2 options for dining on the mountain: Cliffhouse, which is located at the summit, and Bumps, which is at the base. 
• Aspen Highlands represents everything special about skiing in Aspen. Highlands is home to Cloud 9, where you can ski in, party, spray champagne, and ski out. The Highland Bowl is a particularly challenging area as you have to hike the bowl to “earn your runs.” However, conquering the bowl is like a rite of passage and an experience you won’t soon forget. Most of the runs on Highland are blues and blacks, with mogul terrain and glades, for an additional challenge. 

• Aspen Mountain has the most spectacular view of the Elk Mountains. Ajax is known for being the local’s mountain because it has runs that offer a little bit of everything. If you only have 1 day to ski Aspen, hit Aspen Mountain. At the base of the mountain is the legendary Ajax Tavern; halfway up is Bonnie’s, which is known for having the best pancakes in town. At the top of Aspen Mountain is the Sundeck, which has an exceptional view over the Elk Mountains. 
• Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort has the most vertical area of any ski area, serviced by 17 different ski lifts. Snowmass is best for beginner and intermediate skiers, making it ideal for families. Most of the ski in/ski out accommodations in Aspen give you direct access to Snowmass slopes. 

2. SNOWSHOEING EXCURSIONS 

Don’t want to ski or snowboard?

That’s okay!

There are plenty of things to do in Aspen in winter besides ski or snowboard. Snowshoeing is a great way of getting out in nature and experiencing the natural beauty of Aspen.

Because snowshoeing is so easy, almost anyone can pick it up relatively quickly. It is also a low-impact form of cardio that burns over 600 calories an hour, so you get a great workout without putting too much strain on your joints. 

The team at Aspen Luxury Concierge recommends that snowshoers check out Aspen Golf Course and North Star Loop.

The Bernese Boulevard Trail on Aspen Golf Course is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for some exercise. North Star Loop is a 1.6 mile trail that is consistently one of the most well-groomed places to snowshoe.

3. ICE SKATING IN ASPEN, COLORADO

Ice skating is one of the quintessential things to do in Aspen winter.

The best part is that you don’t even have to be good at it to have a really fun experience.

Ice skating is both a great family activity as well as a unique date night idea or a way to spice up cardio.

You have a few options for ice skating in Aspen. For the duration of the winter season, Snowmass Base Village has an outdoor ice rink that offers free skate rentals. Since it’s so close to the Limelight Lounge, skaters often warm up by the fire for a gourmet dinner.

The other outdoor skating rink is Silver Circle Ice Rink, which is right next to CP Burger – home of the best parmesan truffle fries you’ll ever have and even spiked shakes for the adults. 

4. MAROON BELLS

You can’t come to Aspen and not see the majesty of the Maroon Bells. While this destination is more of a summer experience, there are still ways to enjoy the view during the winter season.

The road to reach Maroon Bells Basecamp is closed until summer, but visitors can cross country ski, snowshoe, snowmobile, or hike there.

Locals say that the 12.4 mile round trip hike out to the Maroon Bells is one of the most peaceful Aspen hikes.

This is one of the best things to do in Aspen in the winter.

5. SNOWMOBILE TRIPS

Experience the thrill of a snowmobile trip in Aspen’s winter wonderland. 

Guided tours take you through pristine snowy trails, offering breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains and surrounding wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, snowmobiling provides an exhilarating way to explore Aspen’s backcountry. 

Highlights include visits to the iconic Maroon Bells and Independence Pass, where the beauty of winter landscapes will leave you in awe. 

Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

6. HIT THE HOT SPRINGS 

Glenwood Springs is home to one of the world’s largest mineral hot springs and offers smaller pools at different temperature points with different amenities. 

Although it isn’t in Aspen proper, Glenwood Springs is only 40 miles away from Aspen, so it only takes about an hour to get there by car. 

ALC recommends hitting the hot springs after a long week of skiing in Aspen; the pools can naturally relieve sore muscles, minimize joint pain, and wash away all your stress.

For a more secluded experience, visit Avalanche Hot Springs, nestled in the wilderness for a tranquil retreat. Additionally, the Iron Mountain Hot Springs provide stunning views of the Colorado River and the surrounding mountains. 

Children are welcome at the hot springs, just not in some of the higher temperature pools. Glenwood Springs welcomes families and is another one of the many fun things to do in Aspen winter with children. 

The new Upriver additions are 21+ for adults who want to unwind with a glass of wine during their soak.

7. TUBING

Tubing is a fun and exhilarating activity perfect for all ages. 

Snowmass offers a dedicated tubing hill at the Elk Camp area, featuring multiple lanes for a thrilling experience as you slide down the snowy slopes on an inflatable tube. 

Also, the tubing lanes are lift-served, making it easy to get back up for another run. 

The tubing hill is open during the day and offers night tubing under the lights on select evenings, adding an extra layer of excitement. After tubing, you can warm up with hot chocolate at the Elk Camp Restaurant, which provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

8. CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Discover the peaceful beauty of Aspen’s winter landscapes with cross-country skiing. 

The Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System boasts over 60 miles of free, meticulously groomed trails for all skill levels. 

Popular routes include the Owl Creek Trail, connecting Aspen and Snowmass Village, and the scenic Maroon Creek Trail, offering stunning mountain views. 

Ashcroft Ski Touring, located in the historic ghost town of Ashcroft, provides additional trails and rentals. 

For those looking to enhance their skills, local outfitters offer lessons and guided tours, making cross-country skiing an excellent way to experience Aspen’s winter charm.

9. WINTER HIKING

For those who love hiking, winter hiking in Aspen offers a unique and peaceful experience. 

Trails like the Hunter Creek Trail and Smuggler Mountain Road provide stunning winter scenery and are perfect for a refreshing hike. The Hunter Creek Trail, with its snowy forest and frozen creek views, is a local favorite. 

Moreover, Smuggler Mountain Road offers a more challenging ascent with rewarding panoramic views of Aspen from the lookout point. Make sure to wear proper winter hiking boots and layers, and consider bringing trekking poles for stability. 

Winter hiking in Aspen allows you to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

10. ICE CLIMBING

Aspen is a premier destination for ice-climbing enthusiasts. 

Local guides offer courses and guided climbs on frozen waterfalls and ice formations, providing an exhilarating adventure for both beginners and experienced climbers. 

Redstone, renowned for its stunning ice formations, is a popular spot just outside Aspen. Additionally, Aspen Expeditions and other local guiding companies provide all necessary equipment and expert instruction to ensure a safe and thrilling climb. I

ce climbing in Aspen offers a unique way to challenge yourself physically while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the winter landscape.

HOW TO PLAN YOUR BEST VACATION YET!

There are a lot of moving pieces and parts that go into planning the perfect adventure. Vacations should be relaxing, not stressful. This is why ALC offers winter experience packages, which include:

• Gear rental
• Transportation
• Ski in/ski out accommodations
• Lift tickets
• Lessons (if needed)
• Après-ski reservations.

Start planning your vacation today with Aspen Luxury Concierge!

FAMOUS EVENTS IN ASPEN DURING THE WINTER SEASON

Some things to do in Aspen in winter only come around once a year, so you’d better mark your calendars and start planning your trip! Although most of Aspen’s events are fairly ski-centric, non-skiers still have options for events that do not require them to ski. 

ASPEN GAY SKI WEEK

• What: AGSW is a completely unique Pride celebration that involves a week of parties, epic ski outfits, snowboarding drag queens, and fundraising for LGBTQIA+ causes. 

• When: AGSW is normally the 3rd week of January.
• Where: Everywhere! The Little Nell and Limelight Hotel are the centers of the festivities, but parties, events, talks, and special menus can be found all over Aspen during AGSW.
• HOW TO JOIN THE PARTY: CONTACT ASPEN LUXURY CONCIERGE TO PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ASPEN DURING GAY SKI WEEK!

X GAMES ASPEN

• What: The X Games are an Olympics-level competition of athleticism and achievement for world-class winter athletes. At the end of the day, the skis go away and the rave gear comes out. For the duration of the games, there are nightly free concerts that go from 11pm until 4 in the morning. 
• When: The last weekend in January. 

• Where: The events take place on Buttermilk Mountain. The mainstage for nightly concerts is at the base of Buttermilk near the gondolas. 
• How to Join the Party: Contact Aspen Luxury Concierge for exclusive X Games packages, which include accommodations, tickets, transportation, and personalized itineraries.

WINTERSKÖL

• What: Wintersköl is a “toast to winter” which celebrates Aspen’s winter season and alpine culture. This celebration is one of the oldest things to do in Aspen in winter because it dates back to 1951. During Wintersköl, visitors and locals can enjoy free concerts, dog fashion shows, parades, night skiing, ice sculpture shows, firework displays, and unique restaurant menus. 
• When: Middle of January, usually 3-4 days before Aspen Gay Ski Week.
• Where: Everywhere! Nearly everyone in Aspen participates in the festivities. In the middle of downtown Aspen there is the annual ice sculpture contest and dog fashion show. 
• How to Join the Party: Contact Aspen Luxury Concierge for exclusive travel packages and effortless booking.

ASPEN SANTA FE BALLET WINTER SERIES

• What: ASFB is a dance program that is based in both Aspen, Colorado and Santa Fe, New Mexico. In addition to ballet, ASFB puts on contemporary performances with unique choreography and Mexican folkloric performances that bolster ethnic pride. 
• When: Performances take place throughout the winter season. For specific dates, times, and tickets, contact Aspen Luxury Concierge. 
• Where: All performances take place at the Aspen District Theatre, which is about 10 minutes from downtown Aspen.

ASPEN WINTERNATIONAL

• What: The Winternational is part of the Audi FIS Ski World Cup tour for both men and women’s Slalom and Giant Slalom events. The fastest skiers from all over the world compete against the clock to score a medal.
• When: Events take place the first week of March.
• Where: Courses are located on Aspen Mountain where there is room set aside for spectators.

4 TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO ASPEN IN THE WINTER

1. DECIDE WHERE YOU WANT TO STAY

For accommodations in Aspen, you have 2 options: a hotel or a luxury vacation rental. All the luxury hotels in Aspen Snowmass are ski in/ski out, so it’s easy to hit the slopes in the morning.

2. MAKE A LIST OF EVERYTHING YOU WANT TO DO

This will allow your concierge to make your reservations before you arrive, so you are able to do everything you want to do. 

3. BE PREPARED FOR THE WINTER WEATHER

Most of the things to do in Aspen, Colorado winter are outdoors, so it’s important to dress for the weather. From December to February, Aspen sees lows of 11 degrees and highs in the 30s.

4. TRANSPORTATION ISN’T RELIABLE, SO PLAN ACCORDINGLY

Uber and Lyft are not reliable in Aspen. ALC usually books clients a private car to take them where they need to go for the duration of their trip. 

WHY ASPEN, COLORADO IS A PERFECT WINTER DESTINATION

During the winter season, Aspen transforms into a wonderland of natural beauty as snow blankets downtown Aspen and the Maroon Bells.

While Aspen is a hub of activity year round, everyone knows that winter is the best time to visit due to the variety of snow-based outdoor activities, cozy seasonal restaurant menus, and holiday festivities.

The best time of year to visit Aspen is December to February. Annually, Aspen gets 200 inches of snow, which means constant fresh powder on the slopes.

Even if you don’t ski, Aspen comes alive in the winter months; Aspen nightlife is actually comparable to New York or L.A.. There is always a party happening in our little mountain town, whether it’s Gay Ski Week, après-ski, spraying champagne at Cloud 9, rocking out at Belly Up, or turning up at Escobar. 

FAQS

I. IS ASPEN FUN WITHOUT SKIING?

Yes, Aspen offers plenty of fun activities besides skiing. You can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, cross-country skiing, winter hiking, and ice climbing. Additionally, Aspen has a vibrant arts scene with concerts and performances, excellent shopping, and world-class dining options.

II. HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN ASPEN IN WINTER?

Spending 3 to 5 days in Aspen during winter is ideal. This allows you to fully experience skiing or snowboarding, as well as other activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, and exploring the town. It also gives you time to relax and enjoy Aspen’s luxurious accommodations and dining.

III. IS ASPEN FUN IN DECEMBER?

Yes, Aspen is incredibly fun in December. The town is beautifully decorated for the holidays, offering festive events, ice skating, holiday markets, and plenty of outdoor activities. The ski season is in full swing, making it a perfect time to hit the slopes and enjoy the winter wonderland.

DO YOU HAVE MORE QUESTIONS? 

If you have more questions or need personalized assistance planning your Aspen trip, contact Aspen Luxury Concierge. Our expert team is ready to help you craft an unforgettable experience tailored to your preferences.

EXPERIENCE ASPEN’S WINTER WONDERLAND WITH ALC

With so many amazing things to do in Aspen in winter, you will probably need help pulling together all the small details. That’s where Aspen Luxury Concierge comes in! Our team acts as a single point of contact for all your vacation plans. You tell your concierge what you want and they will make it happen. Contact Aspen Luxury Concierge to start planning your Aspen adventure!