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.

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.

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. 

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.

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

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!