Getting ready to hit the slopes for the first time can be exciting but also a little intimidating. Here are 9 tips to ensure you are prepared and have a great time while learning on our Aspen 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.