Everything You Need to Know for the Vacation of a Lifetime!
Aspen Snowmass is a top choice for winter sports, offering stunning slopes, excellent facilities, and a vibrant après-ski scene. From the iconic Aspen Mountain to the family-friendly Snowmass, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re tackling tough runs or learning to ski for the first time.
As locals with deep roots in Aspen, we’ve updated the ‘Ultimate Aspen Ski Trip Itinerary’ to feature this season’s top spots and hidden gems. Whether you’re planning for peak season or looking forward to festive holiday vibes, this guide will help you craft the perfect week at Aspen Snowmass. Click here to book with us and let’s make your Aspen Snowmass adventure a reality!
One Week in Aspen Itinerary
Day 1: Your Arrival
Upon arrival in Aspen, opt for a luxurious limo service to make a grand entrance. Once you reach your accommodation, relax by the fireplace with hot cocoa (or a glass of wine) and magnificent views of the mountains.
Day 2: Aspen Mountain Skiing and Après
Start your first ski day in Aspen with breakfast at Bear Den in Downtown Aspen. We highly recommend the French toast board!
After breakfast, head towards the Aspen Mountain gondola. We recommend Four Mountain Sports across the street from the mountain for rentals. View our Aspen Winter Guide for more information on the four mountains at Aspen Snowmass. Our favorite runs on Aspen Mountain include Ruthie’s and The Aspen Glades for fresh powder and beautiful tree lines.
After a day of exhilarating skiing or snowboarding in Aspen, head to the gondola base to enjoy après-ski at Ajax Tavern. They are known for their Wagyu cheeseburger and truffle fries. The cauliflower gratin is also a must! Finally, sip on a glass of champagne on their outdoor patio and watch skiers come down the hill.
Enjoy dinner at Casa Tua, a renowned Italian restaurant, for a lively ambiance and fantastic food to round off a perfect first day in Aspen.
Day 3: Champagne Showers at Aspen Highlands
Enjoy waking up to another beautiful day in Aspen. For a gourmet start to the day, our concierge team can book a private chef-prepared breakfast for you to enjoy. From classic breakfast platters to homemade bagels, our trusted chefs can prepare a breakfast to fuel your ski day ahead.
Today you will ski the locals’ favorite mountain, Aspen Highlands. For expert skiers, the Highland Bowl is the pinnacle of North American skiing, with some of the steepest runs in Colorado. Challenging and exhilarating, skiers trek up to an hour along a mountain ridge to reach the Highland Bowl summit, rewarded with sweeping views and thrilling powder runs. See this Local’s Guide to the Highland Bowl. We recommend skiing off the Loge Peak chairlift for groomed blue runs.
Visit the famous Cloud Nine restaurant for lunch to witness their champagne shower parties for yourself. For food, enjoy exquisite alpine cuisine, including fondue, in the chalet-style restaurant. Since they are known for their Veuve Clicquot spraying parties starting at 2 pm, prepare to walk out smelling like champagne! Cloud Nine is a popular restaurant, so bookings are required.
After a day on the slopes, treat yourself to Japanese food at Matsuhisa Aspen—don’t miss the crispy rice with tuna and a ‘gardener’ cocktail.
Courtesy of: Aspen Snowmass
Day 4: Hit the Snowmass Slopes
Venture to the biggest of the four mountains in the area today, Snowmass Mountain. With wide open trails, secret powder tree lines, and plenty of restaurant options, Snowmass is a great day for all. Our favorite runs are off the Elk Camp chairlift (above the Elk Camp Gondola), where you can enjoy views of the Maroon Bells from the top. If you are visiting in Spring, read our guide to Spring Skiing in Aspen Snowmass.
For lunch, visit The Cabin (formerly Lynn Britt Cabin,) a mid-mountain restaurant with stunning views and a Western ambiance. With an outdoor patio, bar, and DJ booth for sunny days, enjoy a charcuterie board in the sun while watching skiers ride down the Velvet Falls run. Reservations are required for lunch seating, so make sure to book!
Relax in the hot tub of your Aspen vacation rental in the late afternoon before dinner at Catch Steak. We recommend the sushi and seafood options alongside the steak! Surf and turf in the mountains, anyone?
Day 5: Relax, Revive, and Retail Therapy!
Today, relax with a much-needed break from skiing! Start your day with breakfast from Unravel Coffee, which offers the best coffee in town. Then, venture to O2 Spa for a relaxing spa treatment. Indulge in a custom massage, facial, or skin treatment at a beautiful local spa. If desired, book a yoga class in the O2 studio, giving incredible views of Aspen Mountain.
For a lunch break between shopping and spa treatments, visit the French Alpine Bistro for delectable food in a romantic setting. We recommend the gruyère cheese fondue with the charcuterie addition for a unique experience.
There’s no better way to celebrate a rest day than some retail therapy! Visit the renowned western store Kemo Sabe for their specialty wool hats or Pitkin County Dry Goods for sophisticated boutique fashion. For other non-skiing activities, view the 7 Best Things to do in Aspen Besides Ski.
For an early dinner, visit Clark’s Oyster Bar for their happy hour menu from 3-5 pm Monday through Friday. The happy hour menu includes half-price burgers, martinis, and 50c off oysters. The clam chowder is also a delicious way to warm up in the snow.
No Aspen ski trip is complete without attending a concert at Belly Up. The intimate venue is renowned for hosting world-class musicians on its stage. Tickets often sell out quickly, so be sure to book in advance.
Day 6: Mountain Pancakes and Starry Sleigh Rides
With the winter season in full swing, Bonnie’s restaurant on Aspen Mountain continues to be a favorite breakfast destination. Known for their oatmeal pancakes paired with breathtaking views of the snow-covered slopes, this is the perfect way to fuel your morning.
For your second day skiing on Aspen Mountain, head to the reopened Lift 1A, which now offers enhanced service and access to some of the mountain’s most thrilling steep lines and bumps. Ski top-to-bottom on the freshly maintained Copper run for a smooth and exhilarating experience.
When hunger strikes, make your way to Sundeck at the top of the gondola for lunch. The cafeteria-style menu has plenty of hearty options, but their signature bowl of chili is a must-try. Outdoor seating provides panoramic views that will make your family and friends jealous, so don’t forget to snap a few photos!
Cap off your evening with a truly magical experience: a sleigh ride to the renowned Pine Creek Cookhouse. Glide through the serene, starlit snowfields by horse-drawn carriage, arriving at a cozy chalet restaurant nestled at the base of the Elk Mountains.
Pro tip: Book a car service with us in advance to enjoy a seamless and stress-free evening, as taxis and shuttles are unavailable from this remote gem.
Day 7: Snowmobiling and a Steakhouse Dinner
Start your day at the popular Paradise Bakery with delicious pastries, cookies, muffins, coffee, and gelato. This bakery is take-out only, so wander around town while sipping your morning cappuccino or sit on one of the outdoor benches outside the bakery or in the various walking malls in Downtown Aspen.
Next, take a snowmobiling adventure to the Maroon Bells, one of the most photogenic areas of North America. An experienced guide will lead you through the White River National Forest to the base of Maroon Lake. Warm up with hot chocolate as you gaze at one of the most picturesque peaks in the world.
For après, visit The Snow Lodge inside the St. Regis Aspen tonight. Enjoy winter dining and après with specialty cocktails, live music, and a beautifully designed lounge or courtyard.
For dinner, visit Steakhouse 316, a local and visitor favorite. This restaurant combines elegant mood lighting with a classic steakhouse menu. From lobster tail pairings to tomahawk rib eyes, this is a must-visit for steak and seafood lovers. For dessert, try the must-try bread and butter pudding.
Day 8: Final Morning
Head to Element 47 at The Little Nell Hotel for a final gourmet breakfast. Their buffet includes fresh berry parfaits and savory duck chilaquiles. You’ll find delectable options for everyone, perfect for starting your day right.
As your Aspen adventure ends, we’re here to help you plan your next one. Whether it’s another ski trip or a summer escape, let us handle the details.
Let ALVR help with your next trip!
At Aspen Luxury Vacation Rentals, we’re here to make your Ultimate Ski Trip to Aspen unforgettable. From securing lift tickets and private ski lessons to delivering top-tier equipment right to your door, we handle every detail so you can focus on the fun. After a day on the slopes, relax with a gourmet meal prepared by a private chef, a rejuvenating spa treatment, or a cozy night by the fire. With our concierge services, your Aspen experience will be seamless, luxurious, and truly one-of-a-kind. Let us take care of everything so you can enjoy the ultimate winter getaway.
FAQ
How much does it cost to go skiing in Aspen?
For the latest lift tickets/equipment/lesson pricing information, visit the official Aspen Snowmass website.
What is the best month to ski in Aspen?
Any month between December and March is fantastic in Aspen. December is a favorite for its festive holiday vibes and historically abundant snowfall. January is an excellent month for quieter crowds and still great skiing. March is the start of spring skiing, which means warmer temperatures and many outdoor events such as concerts and patio après.
Is Aspen skiing good for beginners?
Aspen Mountain has no beginner trails, only intermediate and expert. However, Buttermilk and Snowmass mountains have fantastic beginner terrain. We also recommend booking a lesson if it’s your first time skiing.
Is Aspen worth skiing?
Aspen remains a top destination for skiing enthusiasts. Skimag.com recently voted it the #2 ski resort in the West, citing its “gold standard for American skiing, nightlife, and lifts.”
So, the answer is YES! Aspen is worth visiting for an unforgettable Colorado ski vacation. Contact us now to start planning your trip!
