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Frosty and crisp, Aspen ski resort lies in the state of Colorado high up in the Rocky Mountain range. This winter wonderland is known to skiing fanatics as having the best snow trails in the United States, not to mention some of the best in the world. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Aspen also has some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts; some people go there just to relax and shop! With overwhelming mountain beauty and fresh, crisp air this snowy escape is the perfect place for both the skier and non-skier alike!

Aspen Pictures

Things to do in Aspen

Of course, the most obvious thing to do in Aspen is go to the ski mountain, but don’t let this fool you, there is much, much more to do! The four main ski areas in the resort are Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Highlands, and Buttermilk. If you are any sort of snow sports fan then definitely go and try one, or all of these mountains! There’s also tons of snowshoeing, sledding, hiking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing trails to check out. For a more romantic getaway you could try going for a sleigh ride. Not going to Aspen in the winter? Don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do. In the summer, Aspen has many different outdoor things to do including mountain biking, hiking, white water rafting, fly fishing, mine exploration, hot air balloon rides, rodeos, paint ball courses, paragliding, and outdoor concerts. You can even take the chair lift up to the top of the mountain and get a spectacular view. Golfers have it made with two huge golf courses within an hour of the resort. Snowmass Golf Course and River Valley Ranch Golf Club are some great places to check out. Also be sure to hit up Aspen’s music scene like Jazz Aspen Snowmass, on Thursdays, the June Festival, and Labor Day Festival.

Nightlife in Aspen

Aspen’s night scene is more of an indoor cozy sort of one. Instead of clubbing and drinking, folks in Aspen like to keep it peaceful and quiet. Many people go to the mountains and ski/snowboard all night long, with some mountains open until 12 am or later. You can also have a romantic night in by the fire.

Dining in Aspen

Food in Aspen is pretty traditional, with many restaurants catering to tourists. Expect slightly higher prices as this is a ski resort. The Artisan Restaurant in Snowmass has some great options while staying within the town. The Crystal Palace Theatre Restaurant has a great gourmet dinner experience followed by a cabaret revue with political satire, known to locals as a really good time.

Shopping in Aspen

You can find a lot of really great ski shops with awesome gear, as well as nice spas and small, family shops. Downtown Aspen has tons of little, quaint shops with unique and cool clothing. Also, be sure to get over to Snowmass Village where you can find a multi-tiered outdoor shopping center, chock full of ski/snowboard equipment, clothes, and art. There are also really great health spas, like the Aspen Club and Spa, that offer nice massages, fitness classes, facials, pedicures, and everything else to help you relax.

Aspen Travel Tips

• Get to Aspen a day early to adjust to the high altitude.
• Take it slow on the slopes, trails are known to be very rigorous.
• Book early, things can fill up fast during peak winter season.