Fast Facts

Meghan Brosnan

Visitors | Getting Here | Weekend | 7 Days | Kids | Facts

A Little History

People have settled around Aspen for nearly 8,000 years and up until 1879 (when prospectors first discovered the town’s silver lodes) it was inhabited by the Ute Indians. The town was named Ute City, but in 1880 the name was changed to Aspen—after the abundance of Aspen trees. By 1893 this booming metropolis had 12,000 residents, six newspapers, four schools, three banks, two theaters, an opera house, a hospital, electricity, and a brothel to boot.

In 1935, Aspen was scheduled to become one of Colorado’s premiere ski resorts but had to postpone its opening due to the War. In 1947, Aspen Mountain officially opened, boasting the world’s longest ski lift. For more than 60 years since, Aspen/Snowmass has offered some of the best skiing and riding in the world. Today, Aspen/Snowmass boasts 5,285 acres of terrain, 336 trails, and an average snowfall of 300 inches--numbers that sound good to any mountain enthusiast.

Our Mountain Town

Aspen rests at an elevation of 7,908 ft. and is located in the Roaring Fork Valley within the White River National Forest. Approximately 4 hours from Denver, this vacation destination encompasses two towns, Aspen and Snowmass, and boasts four world-renowned mountains that are sure to please any level of skier or rider. Aspen Highlands is the locals’ favorite mountain, while Aspen Mountain (known simply as “Ajax”) is perfect for experts looking for powder stashes and great skiing in the trees. The largest of the four mountains, Snowmass, is the most family-friendly mountain, catering to a range of abilities and levels. For novice skiers and riders Buttermilk is the best place to learn how to link turns.

Check out our recommendations for the best beginner trails.

Weather

The average temperature for Aspe dips below 30 degrees but we promise all the sunshine makes this mountain town feel much warmer. As it's the nature of Colorado weather, you never really know what kind of conditions the day has in store so plan on a snowstorm one minute and bluebird skies another. Or, vice versa. Save yourself from freezing or overheating by wearing layers of thin clothing under your ski gear. Whatever you do, don’t forget to bring some sunscreen because at this high altitude SPF is the only thing that will save you from a goggle burn.

Slope Etiquette

You can find the skier/rider responsibility code just about everywhere on the mountain, but we thought we'd share it with you for good measure. It may seem simple, but be aware of these rules as they ensure a safe and fun day on the mountain. And don’t forget to sport a helmet—not only will it to protect your noggin but it will keep you nice and warm on chilly days.

• Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
• People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
• You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
• Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and avoid others.
• Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
• Observe all posted signed and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
• Prior to using any lift, you must have knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.

Need Some Direction?

Aspen may be small, but it can still be a confusing place to get around. For all the answers to your questions stop by the Aspen Chamber Resort Association (ACRA) and visit director of guest services Erik Klanderud and his gracious staff. The main visitor center is located at 425 Rio Grande Place but you can also pick up a restaurant guide, a map, or mountain info at one of ACRA's information booths inside the Wheeler Opera House, at the kiosk on the Cooper Avenue Mall, or at the Pitkin County Airport.

Hop on the Bus, Gus

It can be intimidating to drive on icy roads, so avoid the hassle and take
advantage of Aspen’s transportation options. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) provides a fleet of 75 vehicles to shuttle commuters between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, 365 days a year. The RFTA free skier shuttle takes skiers and boarders between various pick-up stops in downtown Aspen and the four mountains. For door-to-door service, remember that many Aspen hotels offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off
transportation for their guests throughout downtown.

Conveniences

Now that you know how to get around it is important to know where to find all the essentials for your vaca. Located right on Main Street, Carl’s Pharmacy, which is Aspen’s one-stop general store and pharmacy has Advil, paintbrushes, make-up, blow-dryers, dog toys, and everything else you can think of. After, head over to CIty Market, mere blocks from the gondola, to pick up energy bars, bottled water, and any other snacks to store at your condo or hotel. Looking for a nice bottle of wine to enjoy after you hit the slopes? Next to the City Market is The Grog Shop, which offers an extensive collection of wine and spirits, or head over to Of Grape & Grain, which can be found under Brunelleschi's on East Hopkins .

For a hassel-free stay, be sure to print out our list of Aspen's essential phone numbers.

You Might Not Know

For an unprecedented six consecutive years Aspen/Snowmass has hosted the ESPN Winter X Games, which is the premiere action-sports event of the year. The Games will return for its seventh year January 24-27, bringing more than 250 of the top international athletes to Buttermilk to compete in events such as Skier X, Slopestyle, Snowboarder X, Superpipe, SnoCross, and Snowmobile Freestyle.