While Aspen has made a name for itself as a winter destination for world class skiing, there are a number of activities and pursuits to enjoy off the slopes.

Going up? Also known as ski touring or skinning, uphilling refers to the act of hiking up a mountain typically on skis or a split board with specialized equipment such as sticky coverings on the bottom of skis or specialized bindings that release from the heels with the goal to traverse uphill. Uphilling is accessible on all four mountains at Aspen Snowmass—Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk.

Each of Aspen’s four mountains—Ajax, Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass—have devout fans amongst locals in Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley, but Aspen Highlands is arguably the “local’s mountain.” With secret stashes and uncrowded runs, Highlands is a go-to for Aspenites looking to spin laps and make turns. However, Highland Bowl is the resort’s main attraction. Touted as “the best inbounds big-mountain skiing in the lower 48” by Powder, Highland Bowl is one of Aspen’s crown jewels. 

X Games will return to Buttermilk Mountain in Aspen Snowmass with some of the world’s best action sports athletes competing in ski and snowboard events January 23-25, 2025. X Games Aspen 2025 will feature men’s and women’s ski and snowboard competitions in the disciplines of SuperPipe, Slopestyle, Big Air, Knuckle Huck, and Street Style. In addition to competition, X Games Aspen 2025 welcomes the return of music appearances each night.

Aspen Gay Ski Week is a week-long celebration taking place Jan. 14-21, 2024 on and off the slopes with events such as comedy shows, retro pool and dance parties, a film series, and, of course, skiing on all four mountains. We caught up with the experts of Men’s Vows for tips on making Aspen Gay Ski Week the best week ever:

Experience Aspen in-person or online. Start planning your weekly Aspen itinerary with these options below:

Aspen takes the après scene to new heights all winter long, and après ski in Aspen can be just as fun as a powder day on Ajax. With a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from, there is certainly a spot for everyone's taste.

Don’t freeze this winter season! Here are 5 must-try drinks to keep you warm before, during and after you hit the slopes this winter.

A ski or snowboard lesson at any resort is always a beneficial opportunity to learn how start skiing or snowboarding or how to master a new skill at any age. The ski and snowboard school lessons offered at Aspen Snowmass offer enthusiastic pros that make full use of the terrain at all four mountains to build confidence for skiers and riders at any level. Still not convinced? Check out our 5 reasons why you should sign yourself or your child up for ski school for your next trip to Aspen.