Spring in Aspen is short & sweet. You can experience spring ski days in March & April while enjoying warmer temperatures, goggle tans, and sunny après ski. These days can often be followed by a winter storm warning and one of the best powder days of your life. The official ski season closes around mid-April, but Aspen Snowmass has been known to extend the season if there is enough snow. Here are 5 reasons to plan your spring ski vacation in Aspen.
1. Warm days and fluffy snow! The sun is out and the bluebird days are plentiful during spring in Aspen. Feel free to ditch the layers on some of the most epic powder days. Fun fact, Aspen has an average snowfall of 29 inches in March according to US Climate Data.
2. Après ski and closing day parties. During the months of March and April, après becomes a part of your ski routine. After a day on the slopes, you can ski right up to a sun soaked patio which often includes DJs, food & drink specials, and colorful spring ski attire. Closing day at Aspen Highlands has become almost as iconic as the mountain itself. Slated to close April 13th, the festivities draw upward of 4,000 celebrants in their best costumes to dance the season away at Highlands Alehouse. Other closing day highlights include Bacon Appreciation Day on Buttermilk Mountain and Hawaiian shirts galore to close out another season on Aspen Mountain.
3. Spring is a great time to collect on discounts and deals happening around town. As ski season winds down for the winter, you can expect to find lodging deals and discounts on gear and lift passes. Checkout vacation and lodging specials here.
4. Dual-Sport Days! Ski in the morning and hike or bike in the afternoon. One of the biggest perks of spring in Aspen is the ability to enjoy multiple outdoor activities in one day. Start your morning carving turns on freshly groomed corduroy and spend the afternoon hiking Smuggler Mountain or biking down valley as trails start to thaw. Local's Tip: Bring layers and check conditions—it’s not uncommon to see skiers in T-shirts on the slopes and hikers enjoying Aspen’s early spring trails in the same day.
5. Spring break in Aspen isn’t just for the après crowd. Families can take advantage of warmer temperatures and introduce kids to skiing. Enjoy time off the slopes with family-friendly activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, or visiting the Aspen Recreation Center. Bonus- spring offers softer snow conditions and fewer crowds, making it a great time for beginners to learn to ski in a more relaxed environment.
