Aspen Snowmass
Aspen Snowmass Ski Holidays
Aspen Snowmass offers four iconic ski mountains on one lift pass, and endless winter adventure in the Colorado Rockies. Whether you're chasing powder turns, stylish après-ski, or luxury lodges, Aspen delivers a winter holiday like no other. With terrain to suit all skill levels, premium ski-in ski-out lodging, award-winning dining, and non-stop mountain atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Aspen is one of North America’s most loved ski destinations, especially for Aussies!
Where is Aspen?
2. Where is Aspen?
Aspen is located in the heart of the Colorado's Rocky Mountains. It’s approximately a 4-hour drive from Denver International Airport or just 10–15 minutes from Aspen Pitkin County Airport (ASE), with direct flights from major US cities. The town of Aspen sits at the base of Aspen Mountain, with Snowmass Village, Highlands, and Buttermilk just a short drive away — all connected via a free shuttle system.
The fastest and easiest way to get to Aspen is to fly from Australia into Los Angeles (LAX) and then connect into Aspen Airport, if you can get a window seat, its a spectacular view landing into Aspen. Another option is fly via LA or San Fran (SFO) directly into Denver and then transfer from there. Lots of airlines have great connections, United, American, Delta, and Qantas all connect easily, you can even go with Air Canada via Vancouver.
If you are looking for an economical option with just a little more room, United Airlines do an "Economy Plus" seat, which has just that little bit more legroom (trust us, you will appreciate this so much an the long haul leg).
Where to stay in Aspen?
When choosing where to stay, you have to options to consider the town of Aspen and Snowmass:
Aspen Town is ideal for travellers who want to be close to nightlife, restaurants, high-end shopping and culture. Accommodations range from 5-star luxury to value condos just steps from Aspen Mountain.
Top Luxury Hotels in Aspen? The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, The Mollie.
Best Family-friendly Hotel in Aspen? The Gant. An awesome selection of condo's to choose from with full kitchens, spacious living and a great walkable location.
Snowmass Village is more of a quintessential ski village experience, the village wraps around the base of the ski resort, meaning most Snowmass properties are slope side or true ski-in-ski-out. The majority of accommodation here is self-contained, offering more space which is great for families.
Top Luxury Hotels in Snowmass? The Viceroy, Capitol Peak Lodge
Best Family-friendly Hotel in Snowmass? Crestwood Condos, Timberline Condos
Best Value Hotels in Snowmass? Timberline Condos, and Capitol Peak during shoulder season both have excellent sales and competitive rates.
Tip: Want direct slope access? Snowmass is the place. Want culture, shopping and lively après? Stay in Aspen.
Where to ski in Aspen?
The Aspen Snowmass Lift Pass covers all four mountains:
Aspen Mountain (Ajax): Best for intermediates and experts. No green runs. Steep, fast, and fun.
Highlands: Local’s favourite for steep bowls and quieter trails. Advanced terrain and Highland Bowl access.
Buttermilk: The go-to for beginners, kids, and terrain park riders. Host of the X Games.
Snowmass: The largest of the four. Great for all levels. Excellent for families and home to the Treehouse Kids Adventure Centre.
Each mountain has unique terrain, scenic dining spots, and a vibe of its own. Try them all and find your favourite! There is a free local bus that connects you to other resorts, it's fairly easy to navigate, with buses arriving on schedule and having clear designated waiting areas with guides to which lines are headed where.
Our Teams Recommendations on Skiing Aspen:
Marty: Highlands is paradise for the adventurous, it's well worth the 20-ish minute hike to drop into the Highland Bowl, some of the most intense in bounds skiing in Colorado.
Loz: While skiing Aspen (AJAX) stop for lunch at Sundeck, the views are spectacular and there are so many options to suit all palettes. It's a great option if you are travelling with non-skiers, because they can meet you there with a quick ride on the Silver Queen Gondola, and if you are too full after lunch, you can gondola down!
Is Aspen good if you have non-skiers?
Absolutely. Aspen has just as much to offer both on, and off the slopes!
Top Outdoor Activities in Whistler: Snowshoeing, Ice skating, snowmobiling, Heli-skiing, dog sledding & tubing
Relaxing Winter Activities: Day spas, yoga studios, wellness centres & scenic gondola rides
Après & Dining in Aspen: Iconic après-ski at Cloud 9, Ajax Tavern & J-Bar. Enjoy the vibrant fine dining scene.
Cultural activities include Art galleries, museums & live shows at Wheeler Opera House. Or explore world-class shopping from thrift to designer!
Our Team Recommend their top activities in Aspen Snowmass:
Loz: If you love Colorado's Cowboy culture (and a culture moment) a personalised Kemo Sabe hat will be the perfect keepsake. Make sure to check out Duchess and the Dude for amazing, one of a kind vintage pieces!
Grace: Aspen has a really rich mining history, a ghost tour is a very unique experience if you want something totally different.
Grace: Aspen has a really rich mining history, a ghost tour is a very unique experience if you want something totally different.
Tam: Our Ski Specialist Tam suggests Sunset happy hour at Venga Venga in Snowmass.
Ella: If you are an experienced rider, you cannot miss the hike to ski Highland Bowl.
Aspen FAQ's
How do I get to Aspen from Australia?
Fly into Los Angeles, San Francisco or Dallas, then connect to Aspen Airport. Alternatively, fly to Denver and transfer approx. 4 hours by coach or private shuttle.
Which resort in Aspen is best for beginners?
Buttermilk is ideal for first-timers and kids. Snowmass also has great beginner terrain and top-rated ski schools.
Where should I stay in Aspen for ski-in ski-out access?
Snowmass is best for ski-in ski-out accommodation. Top options include The Viceroy, Capitol Peak and Timberline Condos.
How can I save on lift tickets?
Depending how long you are staying, a Ski10 or Ski30 Pass (exclusive multi-day passes) are up to 80% cheaper than window rates. They have to be booked with accommodation, but offer awesome value for Aussies booking early. The "Perfect Storm" lift pass is a ski 5, pay 4 - so you get one free ski day. Aspen offers a "Kids Ski & Rent Free" earlybird promotion, which makes it a little cheaper for families. The great thing is, if you have 3-4 kids, they all get the deal as long as it's booked with accommodation.
Where can I rent skis in Aspen?
There are rental shops in every village. Most hotels partner with ski rental services or offer in-room fitting, and many have some sort of ski valet service.
What’s the best time to ski in Aspen?
Aspen’s ski season runs from late November to mid-April, but January and February offer the best snow; March is perfect for sunshine and après, and also a little less crowded.
Where is best in Aspen for intermediate to advanced skiers?
Aspen Mountain and Highlands offer almost no beginner runs. Perfect for intermediate to expert skiers.
Is there a free bus to Snowmass or Buttermilk?
Yes — Aspen has a free and frequent local shuttle connecting all four mountains.
Is Aspen on Epic or Ikon Pass?
Aspen is part of the Ikon Pass. Ikon Pass holders have access to all four mountains, as a part of their pass.
What is the best Luxury Hotel in Aspen? The Little Nell offers true ski-in ski-out at the base of Aspen Mountain. No shuttles, no hassle! Offering unmatched service, including ski concierges, valet boot warming, private wine tastings, and 24-hour room service, as well as five-star dining at Element 47 and Ajax Tavern, both renowned for their food, wine lists, and vibrant après scenes. Guests love the Little Nell's exclusive experiences, such as First Tracks access, private snowcat powder tours, and insider-only events.
What is the best Luxury Hotel in Snowmass? The Viceroy Snowmass offers true ski-in ski-out in Snowmass Village, and on-site ski valet. Spacious residences, top tier dining and a divine Wellness centre with full spa and holistic fitness centre.
TL;DR
Aspen Snowmass combines four mountains, world-class skiing, and premium accommodation into one incredible ski destination. Whether you're a powder hound, beginner, or non-skier, there's something for everyone. Stay in Aspen for town vibes and luxury, or choose Snowmass for space, value, and ski-in ski-out ease. With ski passes, free mountain shuttles, Aussie-friendly lift deals, and unforgettable dining and après, Aspen is a must-do ski holiday.
