THE RESORT
Introduction
Aspen Snowmass is four world-class mountains in one destination — and it is one of the most iconic ski experiences on the planet.
Aspen Snowmass is made up of four separate ski mountains within a 15 km radius of each other: Aspen Mountain (which locals commonly call Ajax), Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Each mountain has its own distinct personality — from the steep terrain and World Cup race runs of Aspen Mountain, to the vast 3,342-acre playground of Snowmass, the expert-favourite bowls of Aspen Highlands, and the beginner-friendly slopes and X Games heritage of Buttermilk. All four are covered by the same lift ticket and connected by a free shuttle service.
The town of Aspen itself sits at 7,945 feet (2,422 m) above sea level in the Roaring Fork Valley — a beautifully preserved Victorian silver-mining town now renowned worldwide for its extraordinary combination of world-class skiing, fine dining, arts, culture, and glamour.
4
MOUNTAINS
2,330 ha
SKIABLE TERRAIN
413
MARKED RUNS
1,341 m
VERTICAL DROP
7.6+ m
ANNUAL SNOWFALL
40%
EXPERT TERRAIN
For the 2026–27 season, the published dates are: Aspen Mountain Nov 26, 2026 – Apr 18, 2027; Snowmass Nov 26, 2026 – Apr 11, 2027; Aspen Highlands Dec 12, 2026 – Apr 11, 2027; and Buttermilk Dec 12, 2026 – Apr 4, 2027. Aspen Mountain has the longest season this year. All dates are subject to snow conditions.
FOR AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLERS
Why Aspen?
Aspen Snowmass is one of America’s most celebrated ski destinations — and for Australians making the long-haul journey to Colorado, it delivers a ski experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
Aspen Snowmass offers four mountains, a legendary town atmosphere, world-class dining and nightlife, and terrain for every ability level. For Australians willing to travel a little further, the reward is a ski holiday that is simply unforgettable.
Four mountains in one ticket
One lift ticket, pass, or Ikon Pass covers all four mountains. The free Four Mountain Connector shuttle links them, so you can ski a different mountain every day of your trip.
Terrain for every level
From Buttermilk’s gentle beginner slopes to the Highland Bowl hike-to terrain and Snowmass’s vast intermediate cruisers, Aspen Snowmass has the right mountain for every skier and boarder in your group.
Iconic town atmosphere
The town of Aspen is a destination in itself. Victorian architecture, world-class restaurants, galleries, live music, and a vibrant après scene make evenings as memorable as the days on snow.
Perfect for all group types
Whether you are travelling as a couple, a group of friends, or a family with young children, Aspen Snowmass caters to everyone. Snowmass is especially family-friendly with kids’ ski schools and gentle learning terrain.
Beyond skiing
Snowmobile tours to the Maroon Bells, dog sledding, snowshoeing, yoga on the mountain, on-snow dining experiences, and a thriving arts scene make Aspen Snowmass a full holiday, not just a ski trip.
An authentic Colorado experience
Aspen’s blend of rugged Rocky Mountain scenery, small-town charm, and world-class amenities is uniquely American. It feels distinctly American, yet quite different in character from any European resort.
5,758 acres
SKIABLE AREA
413 runs
TRAIL COUNT
4
UNIQUE MOUNTAINS
Nov – Apr
SEASON
STEP ONE
How to Get There
Getting to Aspen Snowmass from Australia requires careful planning, but the journey is well worth it. Most Australians fly via Los Angeles (LAX) connecting to either Denver International Airport (DEN) or direct to Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE).
Fly into Denver (DEN)
Denver International Airport is the main gateway for most travellers. From DEN, travellers head west on I-70 and then connect to CO-82 toward Aspen — roughly a 4-hour drive in good conditions, though winter weather and I-70 traffic can make it considerably longer. It is a stunning alpine route past mountain towns and ski resorts.
Shared Shuttle Services
Scheduled shared-shuttle options between Denver Airport and Aspen have become limited — Epic Mountain Express (formerly Colorado Mountain Express) has discontinued its Aspen/Snowmass service. Confirm current operators and availability before you travel; your Travelplan consultant can advise on the best option for your dates.
Private Transfer or Rental Car
Private SUVs and vans offer direct door-to-door service from Denver to your Aspen accommodation. Rental cars are also available from DEN — ideal for groups wanting flexibility to explore the Roaring Fork Valley.
Fly direct into Aspen (ASE)
Aspen-Pitkin County Airport is one of the highest-altitude commercial airports in the United States, with direct services from several US hub cities including Los Angeles, Denver, and Chicago (seasonal). A direct ASE arrival puts you just minutes from the slopes.
Travelplan Tip
Ask your Travelplan consultant to arrange your Denver–Aspen transfers as part of your holiday package. With scheduled shared shuttles now limited, private transfers and rental cars are the most reliable options — book early for peak holiday periods.
FIND YOUR WAY
Maps
The Aspen Snowmass resort trail map and village accommodation map will appear here shortly. In the meantime, official resort maps are available at the Aspen Skiing Company website.
PLAN AHEAD & SAVE
Lift Pass Options
Aspen Snowmass is operated by the Aspen Skiing Company (Aspen One) — it is not owned by Alterra Mountain Company, though its four mountains are a signature destination on the Ikon Pass, one of the two major North American season pass programs. One lift ticket accesses all four mountains, and buying tickets or a pass in advance saves significantly over window prices — currently up to 25% when purchasing 30+ days ahead, depending on ticket length.
The Ikon Pass Lineup
Ikon Pass
For 2026–27, the full Ikon Pass provides 7 total days shared across all four Aspen Snowmass mountains (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass), with no blackout dates. The pass also unlocks access to 50+ other destinations worldwide, including Mammoth Mountain, Jackson Hole, Steamboat, and Niseko (Japan).
Ikon Base Pass
New for 2026–27, the Ikon Base Pass includes five days at Snowmass only, subject to Ikon blackout dates. It does not provide access to Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands or Buttermilk — an important distinction when planning your trip.
Flexible Day Tickets
If you are not purchasing an Ikon Pass, multi-day lift tickets can be purchased in advance online directly through the Aspen Skiing Company. Advance purchase online provides savings over walk-up window prices. Daily ticket limits apply — if online tickets sell out, they will not be available at ticket windows.
Aspen Skiing Company Day Tickets
1 to 7 days of access to all four Aspen Snowmass mountains on a single ticket. Advance purchase is strongly recommended — save up to 25% when buying 30+ days ahead. Prices increase closer to the date of skiing.
Flex Pass
New for 2026–27, the Aspen Snowmass Flex Pass offers 4 to 7 flexible days of skiing across all four mountains — ideal if your travel dates are not yet locked in. Ask your Travelplan consultant for current pricing.
Travelplan Tip
Ask your Travelplan consultant which pass option suits your trip dates and group. They can bundle your lift access with flights, accommodation, and transfers for the best overall value.
GEAR UP
Ski & Snowboard Rental
Aspen Snowmass has excellent rental options at the base of each mountain, with several independent shops in town offering competitive prices and high-quality equipment.
Aspen Skiing Company Rentals
The official resort-owned rental operation with outlets at the base of each mountain. Convenient pick-up and drop-off right at the lifts. Helmets, goggles, and accessories also available.
Four Mountain Sports
Resort-owned chain with multiple locations in Aspen and Snowmass Village. Good-value packages with boot fitting service.
Independent Ski Shops (Aspen Town)
Several independent rental shops in the town of Aspen offer competitive pricing, premium equipment, and personalised boot fitting. Booking ahead online is recommended in peak season.
Travelplan Tip
Your Travelplan consultant can pre-arrange rental packages as part of your holiday booking — often at a better rate than walk-in pricing.
LEARN & PROGRESS
Snow School
The Aspen Skiing Company’s Snow School operates across all four mountains and caters to every ability level — from complete beginners to expert skiers looking to sharpen technique on challenging terrain.
Adult Group Lessons
Daily group lessons grouped by ability level at each mountain. Multi-day packages are available and offer the best value. Small class sizes allow for personalised instruction.
Children’s & Teen Programs (Ages 2.5–17)
The Aspen Skiing Company’s Snow School runs age-specific programs across the age bands 2.5–3, 3–4, 5–6, 7–12 and 13–17. Programs vary by mountain and age: Buttermilk and Snowmass handle the youngest and beginner groups, while some ages and ability levels are restricted at Aspen Highlands. Full-day programs include instruction, supervised lunch, and dedicated learning terrain, and both Buttermilk and Snowmass are excellent for families.
Private Lessons
Custom half-day or full-day coaching for individuals, couples, or small groups. Private lessons allow instructors to tailor the session entirely to your goals and ability — the fastest way to improve on the mountain. Priority lift access is included.
Specialty Clinics & Programs
Women-only ski clinics, racing camps, mogul instruction, powder days, and terrain park coaching are all available through the Snow School. Check the Aspen Skiing Company website for current season offerings.
Travelplan Tip
Book lessons well in advance — especially children’s programs and private lessons during peak holiday periods.
BEYOND THE SLOPES
Activities
Aspen Snowmass offers a remarkable range of winter activities beyond skiing and snowboarding — making it a full resort experience for all members of the group, whatever their ability level or interests.
T-Lazy-7 Snowmobile Tours
Take a guided snowmobile tour to the base of the iconic Maroon Bells, where you can sip hot cocoa while taking in the magnificent scenery.
(970) 925-4614Krabloonik Dog Sledding
Bundle up and enjoy a cosy sled ride through the pristine wilderness of Aspen Snowmass. Guided tours depart multiple times daily and can include lunch or dinner at the Krabloonik restaurant.
(970) 923-3953Powder Tours (Snowcat Skiing)
A typical day averages 10,000 vertical feet of ungroomed wilderness skiing and boarding across 1,500 acres of open bowls, meadows and glades. Two guides and a driver lead each 10-person snowcat group.
(970) 920-0720Snowcat Dinner at The Cabin (Snowmass)
An exquisite Western mountain dinner high on Snowmass after the lifts close, reached by snowcat from Base Village. Current evening dates and times are set each season — check with the Aspen Skiing Company when booking.
(970) 923-8715Family Chuckwagon Dinner (Snowmass)
Wednesday evenings. A family-friendly three-course dinner reached by snowcat from Snowmass Base Village. Guests depart at 5:00pm and return by 7:30pm.
(970) 923-8715Snowcat Dinner at Cloud Nine (Aspen Highlands)
Wednesday and Thursday evenings, 6–10pm, plus additional dates. Note: not suitable for young children.
(970) 923-8715First Tracks (Early Ski Access)
Snowmass: currently offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (2026–27 dates to be confirmed); open to intermediate skiers and boarders aged 11 and over. Aspen Mountain: available daily, conditions permitting. Spaces are limited. Free.
Snowmass (970) 923-0560 / Aspen (970) 920-0755Babysitting & Childcare
Aspen Babysitting Company
(970) 948-6849Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center (Snowmass)
Licensed childcare for ages 1 to 4 years old.
EAT & DRINK
Dining
Aspen and Snowmass Village have an international reputation for exceptional restaurants — with over 100 to choose from across the valley. Foodies will find everything from classic European fare and modern American bistro cuisine to seafood, sushi, and Asian-inspired dishes.
Town Restaurants
Matsuhisa
The go-to place for sushi in Aspen, opened by Nobu in 1998.
Meat & Cheese Restaurant
A relaxed, popular restaurant and market/deli in downtown Aspen. Standouts include the 13-hour char siu brisket sandwich and an excellent charcuterie selection. Good for families.
Hickory House
Laid-back barbecue; slow-smoked ribs and baked beans. A reliable family-friendly spot.
Mi Chola
Trendy Mexican restaurant with a funky, colourful bar in downtown Aspen. Open for lunch and dinner.
Brunelleschi's Instead
Easygoing, family-friendly Italian fare — pies, pastas, and a bar with TVs.
Red Onion
One of Aspen's first saloons, established in 1892, and a local favourite for pub-style food.
520 Grill
Reopened in summer 2026 at 455 Rio Grande Place. A casual, good-value spot for fresh, fast food: tacos, burgers, and salads.
CP Burger
Fast food Aspen style. Burgers, dogs, and grilled tuna — or try Lulu's Original Kale Salad. Frozen yoghurt for kids, spiked milkshakes for the grown-ups.
Pine Creek Cookhouse
Take the kids on a horse-drawn sleigh ride to a gourmet log cabin lunch or dinner — a truly unforgettable experience.
Casa Tua
Northern Italian fine-dining in an art-adorned space.
Ellina
A cosy, basement restaurant with rustic stone walls and excellent Italian fare.
Snowmass Restaurants
Fuel Café (Snowmass)
Great stop for breakfast or lunch: wraps, paninis, and burritos.
Stew Pot (Snowmass)
Snowmass's oldest restaurant. Home-cooked meals from beef stew and vegetarian chilli to pot roast, lamb shank, and short ribs.
Toro (Snowmass)
High-mountain cuisine with southern influences in a vibrant, lively atmosphere.
Il Poggio (Snowmass)
Handmade traditional and innovative Italian food from Italy and beyond.
LUNCH ON THE MOUNTAIN
On-Mountain Dining
Each of the four Aspen Snowmass mountains has its own on-mountain dining options — from quick lunches at the top of the lift to sit-down restaurants with panoramic views.
Aspen Mountain
Sundeck
Superior service and culinary offerings at the summit, with breathtaking views. Highlights include healthy made-to-order stir-fry from the wok station, fresh soups, pizzas, and unique salads.
Bonnie's
A popular mid-mountain spot for breakfast and lunch, set on the groomers of North American or Tourtelotte Park. Classic après ski meets mountain café.
Ajax Tavern
Best known for: après ski, truffle fries, and people-watching at the base of the mountain.
Aspen Highlands
Merry Go Round
The prime spot for lunch on Aspen Highlands.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
Best known for: classic fondue, raclette, and apple strudel. Come afternoon for après and dancing in ski boots!
Buttermilk
Bumps
Made-to-order pastas and salads, fresh grill selections, house-made soups, and the only on-mountain bakery in town. Will refuel even the hungriest skiers and riders.
Cliffhouse
Asian-inspired food — the Mongolian grill is the current standout — plus a fresh juice bar.
Snowmass
Elk Camp
Casual on-mountain dining including rotisserie, panini, salad bar, bakery, and artisan hand-tossed pizzas.
Ullrhof
American cafeteria with great burgers.
Lynn Britt Cabin
Combines elegance and gourmet cuisine with the beauty of an on-mountain restaurant. Bookings recommended.
Sam's Italian Cuisine
Renovated and reconceived featuring authentic Italian cuisine, with sweeping valley views — enjoy with a glass of Nebbiolo.
Gwyn's High Alpine
Consistently voted one of North America's best on-mountain restaurants for international flavours.
Up 4 Pizzeria
Arguably the highest-elevation pizzeria in America — with legendary fresh-baked cookies throughout the day.
Two Creeks Café
Easy-in, easy-out coffeehouse-style dining at Snowmass.
AFTER THE LIFTS CLOSE
Après & Nightlife
Aspen has one of the most vibrant après-ski and nightlife scenes of any ski resort in North America — from casual happy hours to live music clubs and sophisticated cocktail bars.
Ajax Tavern
Happy hour and late nights every day. Must try the truffle fries!
Belly Up Aspen
Internationally known live music club attracting world-class performers.
J-Bar at Hotel Jerome
Maintaining its original 19th-century style, the J-Bar exudes the same Western saloon flare it had when silver miners celebrated their good fortune.
Aspen Brewing Company
One of the more relaxed après spots in Aspen with a great local feel. Good beer, good people, good vibes.
GROCERIES & SHOPPING
Shopping & Groceries
Groceries
Clarks Market
The largest supermarket in town with the widest selection of groceries. 300 Puppy Smith St, Aspen.
Roxy’s Market
Aspen’s finest full-service grocery store, offering local and regional produce, freshest meats, and seafood. Near the airport.
Carl’s Pharmacy
306 E. Main St, Aspen.
Shopping
Locals’ secret: consignment stores in Aspen are full of first-rate hand-me-downs — the people handing things down are Aspen locals! Check out Suzie’s Consignment, Aspen Thrift Shop, and Little Bird for amazing finds. Aspen’s downtown also features high-end boutiques, galleries, and outdoor gear shops throughout the pedestrian-friendly mall area.
GOOD TO KNOW
Other Information
Clothing & What to Pack
Aspen temperatures between December and February are typically between –2°C and –15°C, and wind chill on the mountain can be significantly colder. Pack for cold conditions:
- Helmet (strongly recommended), goggles, and high-SPF sunscreen
- Neck warmer, beanie, and warm gloves or mittens
- Thermal base layers under jacket and pants
- Waterproof ski pants with thermal underlayer
- Correctly fitted boots and skis (or arrange rental in advance)
Resort Transport
Both downtown Aspen and Snowmass Village are pedestrian-friendly. Getting between the four mountains in winter is easy, fast, and free — the Four Mountain Connector is a winter-only shuttle that connects all four Aspen Skiing Company mountains. Many hotels in Aspen and Snowmass Village also offer resort shuttles to the slopes. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) operates buses throughout the valley.
Altitude Sickness
Aspen sits at 7,945 feet (2,422 m) above sea level — significantly higher than many destinations and well above most Australian cities. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Symptoms include shortness of breath, headaches, diminished appetite, and general fatigue.
- Drink plenty of water and stay well hydrated
- Take it relatively easy for the first two or three days
- Minimise alcohol intake in the first couple of days
- If possible, acclimatise at a lower altitude before arriving in Aspen (spending a night in Denver at 1,609 m is helpful)
Useful Phone Numbers
Miners Building, 319 East Main St, Aspen
TIPPING IN THE US
Tipping Guide
Tipping is an important and expected part of the service culture in the United States. Here is a guide to help you navigate tipping across different situations in Aspen.
Restaurants with table service
Roughly 18–22% for normal table service — 20% is the useful standard for good service, and more for exceptional service. Check first for a service charge or gratuity already included in the bill. For parties of 6 or more, a gratuity is often added automatically.
Buffet restaurants
A smaller tip is appropriate — around 10% is a fair guide — depending on how much table service (drinks, clearing plates) is provided.
Bartenders
$1–$2 per drink, or 15–20% of the total bill.
Hotel housekeeping
$2–$5 per night (more in high-end hotels). Tip extra for additional items delivered to the room.
Concierge
Tipping is not required, but always appreciated. For difficult requests, $5 and up per request is appropriate.
Bellman / Porter
$1–$2 per bag. Ski Valet / Concierge: $2–$5 per day.
Taxi Drivers
10–15% of the fare, based on service.
Valet Parking Attendants
$2–$5 when collecting your car.
Ski Instructors / Guides
15–20% or more, depending on quality, knowledge, and friendliness.
Spa
15–20% for massage therapists, hairdressers, and nail technicians.
Babysitters
15–20%, especially when dealing with multiple children.