Aspen Winter

Aspen Winter — Things to Do During a Memorable Winter Trip to Aspen

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A serene mountain cabin surrounded by snow, glowing softly in the night atmosphere.

There’s nothing quite like an Aspen winter. The fresh snow, the pre-holiday buzz, the bustle of ski enthusiasts heading to the mountains—it’s simply unbeatable. Aspen is known as one of the top skiing destinations in the country, boasting world-class ski resorts and incredible terrain on the four mountains “Make no mistake– there is much more to Aspen than skiing and snowboarding. You don’t have to break out ski goggles and boots every time you want to have fun. Winter activities extend beyond hitting the slopes.”

Below, you will find some of our favorite things to do in Aspen on and off the slopes. Winter in Aspen is calling!

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO ASPEN

There are plenty of things to keep in mind about winter in Aspen, Colorado before planning your trip. Key things to remember include:

  • Winter (December through March) is one of  the busiest times in Aspen, with skiers and snowboarders flocking to the area to hit the slopes. Resorts, restaurants, boutiques, and other Aspen businesses will be filled with people from all over the globe looking to experience winter activities on world-class mountains. Working with a concierge allows for a stress-free arrival, knowing every detail has been taken care of so you can enjoy an incredible experience.
  • Aspen’s elevation is 7,908 feet, meaning it may take your body a day to get used to the altitude change if you’re coming from a flatter area.
  • Aspen is a very walkable town, with plenty of sidewalks to accommodate travelers. If you’d rather skip the walking, don’t worry. Aspen has plenty of public transportation visitors can utilize, including free shuttle routes that take you to the ski lifts, downtown, and other notable places.. Keep in mind that many hotels also offer shuttle services, and a concierge can arrange private forms of transportation for you if needed.

Remember these important details as you and your concierge plan your Aspen winter trip, as they could influence the activities you wish to participate in. For instance, your concierge knowing that winter is Aspen’s busiest season allows them to plan reservations, transportation, and other key elements of your trip ahead of time to beat the seasonal rush.

IS ASPEN WORTH VISITING IN WINTER?

Yes, Aspen is definitely worth visiting in winter. Winter sees Aspen in its prime, blanketed in snow and buzzing with slope-bound tourists and locals. There’s something special about Aspen in winter that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

There are numerous other reasons an Aspen winter is unforgettable, including the events and activities people of all ages can enjoy. Some of those include:

SKIING ON THE MOUNTAINS

The biggest draw to Aspen in the winter is its world-renowned skiing. The area is home to four incredible mountains:

  • Aspen Highlands
  • Aspen Mountain
  • Snowmass
  • Buttermilk

Each mountain is suited for different ski experience levels. Aspen Highlands and Aspen Mountain are best for intermediate to experienced skiers, whereas Snowmass and Buttermilk are better suited for beginners (but still have plenty of pro-level terrain to take advantage of.) If you need guidance on which mountain to ski, especially if you have a group of skiers with different experience levels, your luxury concierge can help determine which mountain is best and arrange lift tickets, private or group lessons, and more.

Groups of people enjoying snow tubing down a slope, surrounded by a picturesque sunset backdrop during Aspen Winter.

GO TUBING AT SNOWMASS

If you need a break from skiing, head to Snowmass and go tubing. You’ll find multiple tubing lanes available at The Meadows at Elk Camp, and you can even tube at night during Ullr Nights. Tubing down the lanes at night, gliding underneath the lights? Talk about fun! Tubing is also a great family-friendly Aspen winter activity.

You can get different tubing tickets that cover all-day tubing, Ullr Nights, and more. Interested? If so, your concierge can help arrange a tubing excursion for the whole family during your Aspen trip.

CHECK OUT THE X GAMES

Aspen is the ultimate winter game destination, with the X Games being hosted at Buttermilk. The X Games return to the mountain from January 27 to January 29, 2023, meaning visitors can see some of the world’s best winter sport athletes compete for free. Your luxury concierge can help you plan logistics if you plan on making this part of your trip. Get ready to see some seriously impressive athleticism on the slopes.

WHAT CAN YOU DO IN ASPEN IN THE WINTER WITHOUT SKIING?

There are plenty of ways to enjoy an Aspen winter without skiing. Below, you’ll find a number of winter activities that don’t require skis, poles, or snowsuits—but are still plenty of fun and contribute to an unforgettable Aspen experience.

A cozy room featuring wooden shelves filled with fashion things and a sleek black chair for seating.

SHOP IN DOWNTOWN ASPEN

Aspen is known for having stellar downtown shopping. Make your way to the luxury stores in town, such as Prada and Ralph Lauren, for an Aspen shopping haul. Downtown Aspen is also filled with charming small businesses to stop in at, giving tourists and locals alike the chance to support Aspen’s small business owners. A luxury concierge can assist you with getting transportation and shopping assistance, ensuring your shopping experience is seamless from the start. Prada’s waiting!

PARTICIPATE IN APRÈS-SKI

Après-ski is all the social fun that happens after you’ve left it all on the slopes. Social activities, like dining and sipping on cocktails, are essential after a day on the mountain. Grab a table at Cloud 9 at Aspen Highlands for unbeatable views and world-class wine, or enjoy a private dinner or wine tasting at the Little Nell. Have your luxury concierge make an exclusive reservation and experience a divine chef-paired wine dinner you won’t find anywhere else. 

silver queen gondola travels upward through a snowy mountain scene, highlighting the beauty of Aspen in winter.

TAKE A RIDE ON THE SILVER QUEEN GONDOLA

One of the best Aspen winter activities to do is take a ride on the Silver Queen Gondola, also known as the Aspen Mountain Gondola. The gondola takes you right to the top of Aspen Mountain, where delicious dining at the Sundek Restaurant and spectacular views await. Those wishing to get some skiing in can choose from 75 trails once they reach the top of the mountain. If you aren’t keen on skiing, no worries—non-skiers can still enjoy the ride up and down the mountain, taking in Aspen from the sky.

VISIT THE PINE CREEK COOKHOUSE

Make no mistake—the Pine Creek Cookhouse, located at the base of the Elk Mountains, boasts more than a dynamite turkey club and a gourmet charcuterie board. Visitors can participate in several fun winter activities at this special Aspen spot, including cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Or, if you’re feeling romantic, have a horse-drawn carriage take you to lunch or dinner—just make sure to grab a blanket for the ride. Work up an appetite before dining at one of Aspen’s must-see spots. Pine Creek will officially open on December 9, but reservations are now open. Ask your luxury concierge to make a reservation before they fill up!

VISIT THE WHEELER OPERA HOUSE

Fans of the arts will love Aspen’s Wheeler Opera House, an Aspen culture staple that’s home to concerts, films, lectures, and more. The Wheeler Opera House first opened all the way back in 1889 and has provided quality entertainment for Aspen visitors and locals ever since. If you’re interested in taking in a show, your concierge can arrange tickets ahead of time. Grab an elegant downtown meal beforehand to make it dinner and a show!

A team of dogs energetically pulling a sled across a snowy landscape in aspen winter krabloonik tour

GO ON A DOG SLED TOUR

A unique winter activity to do in Aspen is go on a dog sled tour—specifically, a Krabloonik Dog Sled Tour. Enjoy the scenic views of Colorado’s backcountry while twisting and turning in the snow, pulled confidently by 8 to 10 Alaskan husky sled dogs. Each sled carries two adults and a child. Enjoy the thrill of watching these majestic working dogs pull you and your loved ones through a breathtaking adventure. Reservations are open now, so if you’re interested in booking, tell your luxury concierge so they can book you a spot right away.

RECEIVE ASSISTANCE IN PLANNING YOUR WINTER TRIP TO ASPEN

Need someone to help you coordinate the details of your Aspen winter trip? If so, contact us today—we’d love to not only help you plan a trip to our favorite town, but create an unforgettable experience, from finding the best places to stay in Aspen to coordinating travel logistics for your group. Aspen, in luxury, awaits!

Aspen Altitude

Aspen Altitude — What to Know Before Hitting the Slopes

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A ski lift ascends a snowy mountain, showcasing the beauty of Aspen Altitude in winter.

Aspen is one of the best ski spots in the country, complete with incredible mountainous views and thrilling slopes. Novice skiers and slope pros flock to Aspen for an unforgettable experience on the mountains. There’s a lot to say about Aspen, but there’s one thing all visitors should be aware of: the Aspen altitude.

All travelers should be aware of Aspen, Colorado’s altitude and the effects it can have, especially those venturing up the mountains. Being aware of Aspen’s altitude and its possible effects can help you be well-prepared for a ski trip. Here’s what people vacationing in Aspen should know about the area’s altitude, along with key ski trip preparation tips.

aspen city limit sign elevation 7908

DOES ASPEN HAVE A HIGH SKI ALTITUDE?

According to the Aspen Chamber Resort Association, the altitude of Aspen is 7,908 feet above sea level. The town itself has a high elevation, but its four main mountains have even higher peak altitudes:

Snowmass: 12,510 feet above sea level.

Aspen Highlands: 12,392 feet above sea level.

Aspen Mountain: 11,212 feet above sea level.

Buttermilk: 9,900 feet above sea level.

A snowboarder performs a trick on a rail, showcasing skill and style in Aspen

HOW DIFFICULT IS ASPEN SKIING?

Aspen’s four mountains have different difficulty levels, making it an ideal destination for novice skiers, slope veterans, and all those in between.

Snowmass: While there is ample beginner terrain on Snowmass, the mountain is also known for its expert terrain. In fact, according to Parks & Trips, Snowmass offers expert terrain on 44% of its trails. The wide variety of ski runs allows for groups of all levels to enjoy different areas of the mountain. 

Aspen Highlands: Aspen Highlands offers more advanced terrain. If you are an intermediate skier, you will love cruising the blues! Experts always take advantage of a hike up the Highland Bowl, summiting at 12,392 feet with one-of-a-kind terrain.

Aspen Mountain: Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax, offers no beginner terrain but plenty of fun up top if beginners want to ride the gondola and take in the spectacular views.

Buttermilk: If you have never clicked into a pair of skis or have younger children, Buttermilk is the best option for you. At Panda Peak, you can take it slow and learn all of the basics. Don’t be fooled though, between the expert trails and the terrain park, experienced skiers can have plenty of fun here too. 

The majestic mountain, showcasing Aspen Altitude's winter beauty

WILL I GET ALTITUDE SICKNESS IN ASPEN?

It’s natural to ask yourself this question after discovering Aspen’s altitude. First, let’s talk about what exactly altitude sickness is. According to Cleveland Clinic, altitude sickness happens when someone climbs to a higher altitude too quickly and falls ill as the elevation changes. The higher the altitude, the lower the oxygen levels and air pressure, which affects the body. Altitude sickness could happen starting at 8,000 feet above sea level. Remember, Aspen’s altitude is just about 7,900 feet above sea level.

While everyone may not experience altitude sickness, it’s important to be prepared for it, especially while skiing. Not everyone who gets altitude sickness has gotten it before or will get it right away. It can sneak up on you quickly. That’s why it’s important to know the symptoms before they arise on the slopes.

ALTITUDE SYMPTOMS TO LOOK FOR INCLUDE:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Diarrhea

HOW TO CURE ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Sometimes altitude sickness happens, no matter how much people try to prevent it. Here are a few suggestions  to cure and reduce the effects of altitude sickness if it happens to you:

  • Arrange an oxygen concentrator. An oxygen concentrator provides more oxygen to recipients. Have one delivered right to your private residence or vacation rental, depending on where you stay. For instance, oxygen concentrators are available at the Remede Spa located in the St. Regis. The best part? You only need 10 to 15 mins on the concentrator for it to help. Your luxury concierge can arrange for a concentrator to be in your residence. 
  • If you’re out and start to feel ill, stop and rest where you are or travel to a lower altitude.
  • Take anti-nausea medicine.

Keep in mind that there are different levels of altitude sickness, and each requires different treatment. The steps above are best for acute mountain sickness (AMS), but those who get more severe forms of altitude sickness called high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) should get medical treatment as soon as possible.

A serene room, showcasing relaxation and luxury stay

HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR AN ASPEN SKI TRIP?

Now that you know a bit about Aspen ski altitude, you can focus on several other things to do when preparing for an Aspen ski trip. In addition to preparing your body for adjusting to the Aspen altitude, you need to get everything prepped and packed. Here are some tips to keep in mind while preparing for your trip:

  • Arrange an oxygen concentrator. An oxygen concentrator provides more oxygen to recipients. Have you one delivered right to your private residence or vacation rental. Your luxury concierge can arrange for a concentrator to be in your residence.
  • Sit in luxury at the Remede Spa located in the St. Regis. The best part? You only need 10 to 15 mins on the concentrator for it to help, so unwind during a spa service and treat yourself while you’re there.
  • Another amazing option is the Rescue Lounge, also located in Aspen’s core. Enjoy an IV booster tailored to your individual needs.
  • Start drinking plenty of water
private shopping experience skiing aspen Moncler

HERE ARE MORE FUN WAYS TO PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP:

  • Coordinate a private shopping experience with your concierge at some of our favorite shops: Gorsuch, Moncler, and Ogier. As you know, Aspen is a place to be seen…  look amazing in your new trendy ski suit. 
  • Make sure you send your restaurant reservation requests to your concierge at least six weeks in advance.
  • When it comes to ski tickets, be sure to purchase your lift tickets ahead of time in order to take advantage of discounted rates and skip long ticket lines the day of. Your concierge can assist you in purchasing exactly what you need. 
  • Think about ski and snowboard equipment. Your concierge is happy to help with shipping so your equipment is tuned and waiting at your residence when you arrive. Don’t have your own equipment? Your concierge can arrange for rentals to be delivered, or arrange an appointment at AspenX to try out the latest gear.

RECEIVE ASSISTANCE IN PLANNING YOUR ASPEN SKI TRIP

Need someone to help you navigate all that comes with the Aspen altitude and create an unforgettable luxury ski trip? If so, contact us today—we’d love to not only help you plan a trip to our favorite town, but create an unforgettable experience. From finding the best places to stay in Aspen to coordinating travel logistics for your group. Aspen, in luxury, awaits!