Aspen Snowmass

Vibrant and glamorous, Aspen Snowmass is as well known for its celebrity clientele and high end après ski. Make no mistake this is a must visit destination for serious skiers and boarders. Aspen might be the stuff of ski dreams, but daily flights from the UK (via a short connection in Denver) make this a realistic option for skiers and boarders looking to experience the legendary slopes for themselves. Commonly referred to as Aspen, there are two main resorts here offering excellent skiing and snowboarding on four different mountains. When you ski Aspen Snowmass, you only pay for one lift pass, so you can experience each of these unique ski areas during your stay.

Aspen

Aspen is the largest and glitzier of the two resorts, offering endless opportunities to see and be seen both on the slopes and in its high-end shops, restaurants, and bars. Rising above the historic town is Aspen Mountain, offering over 100km of runs which range from intermediate to difficult. The newly expanded Hero’s terrain has increased the skiable terrain here by 20%, though the new runs and chutes are not for the faint hearted!

Snowmass

Snowmass may offer less in the way of après ski but has the edge as an all-round ski destination. It offers a broad range of family friendly accommodation. With 95% of this being ski in-ski out, you'll be able to spend more time on the slopes. Snowmass is by far the largest of the four ski areas, offering a colossal 3000 acres of skiable terrain that will test all abilities. Alongside its many runs, freestylers will be in heaven with a choice of three terrain parks and two half pipes.

Buttermilk Mountain

If you’re a beginner looking to build your confidence, then Buttermilk Mountain is the perfect choice. This mountain offers mostly green and blue runs. These are gentle enough to appeal to beginners, young families or for anyone wanting a relaxed ski experience. Home to the Winter X games Buttermilk also offers five terrain parks – their jumps, rails and pipes offer up plenty of thrills and spills! The resort is an easy shuttle ride from either Aspen or Snowmass.

Aspen Highlands

Those skiers looking to test themselves to the limit will want to spend their days carving up the slopes at Aspen Highlands. Often referred to as the ‘locals mountain’ its predominantly black and double black diamond runs offer steep verticals and challenging tree runs. The biggest draw here though is the legendary Highlands Bowl – an experience that should be on every skier and boarders bucket list.