Aspen, Colorado

Over the past couple of weeks, I got to experience all the magic of Aspen for the first time ever! Despite being a skier since I was a toddler and skiing everywhere from the States, to Canada, to Europe, Aspen was this elusive gem I hadn’t experienced yet. Let me tell you, it totally lives up to the hype as the ultimate spot for skiers, snowboarders, and sybarites alike. Tucked snugly in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen, Colorado blends rugged vibes with classy elegance like nowhere else. It’s not just about the epic skiing – though that’s amazing – it’s also about diving into the vibrant culture scene, soaking in those jaw-dropping mountain views, and rubbing elbows with celebs if that’s your cup of tea. And don’t even get me started on the shopping and dining scene – total game-changer! Aspen’s got it all for anyone craving a luxe alpine getaway.

The Layout

Let’s talk about Aspen Ski Resort, which is made up of four epic mountains, collectively known as Aspen Snowmass. You’ve got Snowmass, Aspen Mountain (or AJAX, as the locals lovingly call it), Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk (where the X Games are hosted!). With an Aspen ski pass, you’re golden – you get to shred all four mountains to your heart’s content. But here’s a tip: if you’re planning to ski for more than six days (which, let’s be real, who wouldn’t?), then you need to check out the IKON pass (that’s what I have!). It’s not just about Aspen – this pass unlocks a whole world of ski adventures across the globe, and guess what? They’ve got a student pass too, so you can totally ball on a budget!

The Journey

The easiest, but may be the most expensive option (unless you’re one of the many flying in on your private jet), is flying into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport. All four of the mountains are within 25-minutes of the airport. Fun fact, Buttermilk is the closest ski resort to any airport in the world – just 3-minutes away! However, Eagle County (Vail’s airport) and Grand Junction Airport are other options not too far away, as well as Denver, but that’s about a 4-hour drive.

Once you’ve made it, getting to and from the different mountains is easy with Aspen’s RFTA bus service, which is free within the entirety of Aspen. And if you’re weary of public transit, take my word for it, it’s a great option if you don’t want to drive and park.

Where to Stay

I will preface with nothing in Aspen is cheap. I would recommend staying in neighboring towns like Glenwood Springs (which is on the RAFTA bus line) for more affordable lodging and food. Glenwood Springs is also home to amazing hot springs!

But if you’re wanting the true luxe Aspen experience, and willingly to spend a pretty penny, then Hotel Jerome is the epitome. Located in the heart of downtown Aspen on East Main Street, sit the iconic Hotel Jerome, which has been Aspen’s premier lodging since it opened its door in 1889. Even if you don’t stay there, grab a drink in their swanky J-Bar or have dinner at their restaurant The Living Room. 

The Little Nell is another iconic Aspen hotel (and my personal favorite). It’s modern, opulent, and just feels cool. Located on Aspen Mountain, its prime location is ski-in, ski-out. If you’re there during the warm months, then make sure check out a pool party.

Another great ski-in, ski-out hotel is The Viewline in Snowmass. They are an Autograph Collection by Marriott, so this is a super affordable option if you’re a Marriott member!

What to Wear & Where to Shop

As I said earlier, I’ve skied a lot of places in my life. Each ski town has its own atmosphere. If you’re sporting the baggie, sweatshirt-as-a-ski-jacket kind of vibe, you may stick out a bit. Don’t get me wrong, the laid-back ski culture is still evident in Aspen, but their’s is more in an buttoned-up, sporty chic way. The ladies on the mountain look straight out of a Moncler ad. I was inspired and quickly went and got myself an all black Fusalp ski suit. 

If you have a fur, bring it. The longer the better. Ever wanted to try out a cowboy hat? Aspen’s the time. Kemo Sabe, the Aspen-made, high-end western brand, has a store located downtown if you’re wanting a custom hat, but don’t be surprised if the line is out the door. 

Want an Aspen souvenir? Aviator Nation has a store front with great Aspen/Aviator merch. I had to get sweatshirt.  (see image below)

The Gorsuch store on Cooper Ave. has most of the high end ski brands and often has sales! If you need more affordable ski gear, then Four Mountain Sports has everything you need. 

For boutiques, just roam around downtown Aspen and you’ll find a one after the next.

Where to Eat

For a laid-back, rustic feel, Bear Den Aspen offers homestyle dishes and amazing cocktails with an excellent wine bar. I’m a celiac girly, and they were able to accommodate me with great gluten free bread. I am not exaggerating when I tell you I had the best steak of my life at Catch Steak Aspen. My table split 32 oz Prime Porterhouse steak and we all went speechless after the first bite. My brother got the Bananas Foster Baked Alaska, and though I couldn’t try it, the presentation was phenomenal, flames and all. 10/10 and they even have an entire gluten free menu. Within The Little Nell are two restaurants, Element 47 and Ajax Tavern. Element 47 has an excellent brunch menu, while Ajax Tavern is hotspot for Après Ski. For a mid-mountain dining, Sam’s was excellent. Hang your helmet and slip out of your ski boots into a pair of slippers and enjoy light Italian fare and glass of champagne.

Check out photos and details for what I’m wearing at https://planetdaisy.com/mountains-ski/what-i-wore-aspen-edition/