Aspen Highlands Ski Resort

Imagine snow-capped peaks piercing the bright blue Colorado sky and crystal-clear air filled with the spirit of adventure. This is the atmosphere that awaits you at Aspen Highlands — one of the four unique ski areas of the famous Aspen Snowmass resort in the USA. This place has long earned its reputation as a "skier's mountain," where the natural terrain challenges even the boldest athletes.

Located near the town of Aspen, this high-altitude complex offers 135 kilometers of diverse trails. The vertical drop here is impressive: the base is at 2,451 meters, while the summit reaches 3,559 meters above sea level. The resort is famous for its steep slopes and challenging descents, which are prized by experienced skiers and snowboarders for the opportunity to put their skills to the test.

The legendary Highland Bowl gives Highlands its special significance. It’s not just a run, but a true symbol of perseverance, accessible only to those ready to make the hike to the summit for the most breathtaking descent of their lives. Combining modern infrastructure with Victorian-era charm, the resort remains one of the most prestigious and memorable winter vacation spots in the world.

To check the current trail conditions and weather, you can contact the resort administration directly. Below are the main contact details to help you plan your visit and find your way around on-site.

It is recommended to save the address in your GPS in advance, as mountain terrain can affect mobile signal quality.

The main magnet for visitors here is undoubtedly the extreme descents. If you are an experienced skier, your "must-do" is conquering the Highland Bowl. To reach the summit of this snowy cirque, you’ll have to hike up on foot, but the reward will be incredible panoramic views and a descent down one of the steepest runs in North America. For those who prefer a more moderate pace, comfortable intermediate trails are available mid-mountain, served by the modern Deep Temerity lift.

After active skiing, it’s time for the famous après-ski. Right on the mountain, you can stop by the legendary Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, known for its lively parties and fine cuisine. If you are vacationing with family, be sure to visit the Treehouse Kid's Adventure Center, where perfect conditions for children to learn and play in the snow have been created.

The evening should be spent in Aspen itself, enjoying the atmosphere of chic restaurants and elite boutiques. Many hotels are so conveniently located that you can hit the trails right from your doorstep (ski-in/ski-out). Don't forget to also check out cozy spots like Elk Camp or Lynn Britt Cabin to try local delicacies surrounded by majestic mountains.

Reaching this snowy paradise is easy, even if you don't plan on renting a car. Aspen Highlands is conveniently located in Colorado, and the nearest air gateway — Aspen-Pitkin County Airport (ASE) — is just a few minutes' drive from the main slopes. If you are arriving from Denver, prepare for a scenic journey of about 354 km (220 miles), which takes a few hours along mountain highways.

One of the best features of the resort complex is its well-developed logistics system. A free shuttle bus runs between all four Aspen ski areas, allowing tourists to easily move between the mountains at no extra cost. This is the perfect option for those who want to change their scenery during the day.

For those who prefer comfort and mobility, local taxis and transfer services from the city center are always available. The exact address for your GPS is: 199 Prospector Rd, Aspen, CO 81611, USA. Regardless of your chosen method, the road to the slopes will treat you to breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

The history of this place is rooted in the era of the famous Colorado Silver Rush. The city, now known worldwide, was founded in 1879 and was originally named Ute City. It received its current name just a year later, thanks to the thick aspen forests that still adorn the slopes of the Roaring Fork Valley today.

In the late 19th century, the future ski center experienced a period of incredible prosperity. Silver mining revenues were so high that true architectural masterpieces were built in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The Wheeler Opera House and the famous Hotel Jerome still serve as reminders of the times when the city was considered one of the wealthiest and most luxurious mining settlements in America.

After the silver boom ended, the city fell quiet for a while, only to be reborn in a new capacity. In the mid-20th century, active development of the slopes for winter sports began, and Aspen Highlands became a key part of this grand project. Today, the resort masterfully combines the spirit of the Old West with world-class infrastructure.

Interestingly, despite its global popularity and elite status, Aspen has managed to preserve its historical identity. Walking through its streets or skiing down its trails, you constantly feel the connection across time — from the first prospectors to the modern thrill-seekers conquering the steep Victorian slopes.

To fully appreciate the scale and variety of the Aspen Highlands trails, professionals recommend dedicating at least one full day (about 6–8 hours). This is enough time to complete several runs, have lunch at a panoramic restaurant, and perhaps brave the famous hike to the top of the Highland Bowl.

If your goal is to get to know the entire Aspen Snowmass region, it is better to plan a vacation for 2–3 days. This approach will allow you to explore each of the four ski areas at a relaxed pace and leave time for strolling through the town itself, visiting boutiques, and enjoying evening relaxation at local spots.

The lifts at Aspen Highlands operate daily, providing access to the slopes from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. This schedule allows for maximum use of daylight for active skiing and leaves the evening for relaxing in town.

Keep in mind that the main season lasts from November to April. Specific opening and closing dates for the trails can vary depending on snow conditions in the Rockies, so it is recommended to check the current lift status before your trip.

Exploring the surroundings after a day on the slopes can significantly enrich your trip. Many interesting locations are situated near the ski area, from cozy chapels and historic cabins to modern gastronomic venues and concert halls.

A short walk or bus ride will open up the cultural and social life of Aspen, allowing you to switch from active sports to leisurely sightseeing or tasting local cuisine.