Uphilling offers a rewarding way to experience the slopes. From the learning basics to the scoop on exciting uphilling events, check out our guide to uphilling to learn the ropes before earning your turns.
What is uphilling?
Uphilling, also called alpine touring (AT) or skinning, is when you climb up the mountain with uphill boots and skis on your feet and poles in your hands. Unlike downhill skiing equipment, uphill bindings have two modes, allowing you to unlock your heel on the ascent for mobility akin to walking and lock down your heel when you’re ready to ski down. Uphill skis also have skins, long strips of material that attach to the bottom of the skis and provide the traction needed to climb the mountain. Before taking a well-earned run down, peel off your skins, lock in your bindings, and let it rip.
Where can I uphill?
Uphill at any of Aspen Snowmass’s four mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. An uphill pass is required and uphillers must stay on designated routes. Before heading out, check the Aspen Snowmass app for updates, designated route maps, and to ensure your intended route is open.
- Aspen Mountain does not permit uphilling during operating hours; uphill access is only permitted between 6am – 9am and 5pm – 10pm and uphillers are required to use the designated downhill route: Copper, Copper Bowl, and Little Nell. Dogs are prohibited on the mountain at all times during the operating season.
- Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass allow uphilling from 6am – 10 pm. Dogs are prohibited between the operating hours of 8 am – 5 pm (including Full Moon Dinners on Buttermilk) and must be on a leash at all other times.
Where can I rent or purchase uphill gear?
Rent or purchase uphilling equipment from the Ute Mountaineer. Many other ski shops around town also rent or sell equipment.
Uphilling Events
- Friday Morning Uphill Breakfast Club: On Fridays from January 9, 2026 – March 27, 2026 (excluding January 23rd and February 27th), uphill to the Cliffhouse, located on top of Buttermilk, for a tasty, mountaintop breakfast (available for purchase between 8:45 am and 10 am). Aspen Chamber Resort Association will be sponsoring breakfasts this season, so you can enjoy your French toast or fried rice for just $8 per person.
- Full Moon Dinners: On January 1, February 1, and March 1, 2026, skin or hike up the main route on Buttermilk for a monthly meal beneath an illuminated winter sky. At the top, enjoy a cash bar when the Cliffhouse opens at 5 pm and á la carte dinner options, including Mongolian Grill, from 5:30 – 8:30 pm.
Where can I learn more?
If you’re new to the sport and in need of some expert advice, consider taking an Aspen Snowmass lesson for tips on equipment, hydration and nutrition, pacing, routes, rules, and more! Additionally, be sure to check the Aspen Snowmass app or uphilling page for route information and the full uphill policy.
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