Getting There:
We flew United, LGA-Denver-Aspen. We recommend connections in the same state which gives you the option to drive. This came in handy as our Aspen-Denver leg was cancelled and we had to drive 5 hours to Denver to catch our flight to LGA. You can also consider flying directly into Eagle Airport which puts you approximately 90 minutes from Aspen.
The Terrain:
Snowmass has terrain for the whole family but we love it for the long intermediate cruisers. Sheer Bliss, Whispering Jesse. Bull Run & Naked Lady are all family favorites and the perfect runs to enjoy fresh powder.
The kids loved the trick parks as the 3 (small, intermediate and expert) are under the same lift. They loved the progression of small obstacles into bigger ones.
Ski Tips:
Ski School starts at 9:30. If you are an early morning skier head up the Village Quad at 8:30am and drop into the Big Burn lift. This is some of the most wide open terrain and the perfect place to enjoy fresh powder. You will have it to yourself until 10:30am. If you need a break then go into Up4Pizza. They have the best cookies that are more like muffin tops. They bake them at 11,000 feet in elevation so they are really fluffy. After your break ski under the Sheer Bliss lift which offers the longest Intermediate cruisers.
If you have to leave the kids off at ski school, head up on the Gondola and drop into Elks Camp Lift. Take advantage of this section of the mountain before the ski school comes up. Do 2 runs and then go to Alpine Springs Lift via Adams Avenue. If you ski Blacks then head up to High Alpine Lift and ski “The Edge” which typically offers a groomed trail. For lunch head into Gwyns the only family owned restaurant on the mountain. Besides the usual grub, they offer 4 homemade salads daily.
Après Ski’s
Slopeside Lanes: Our kids loved heading into bowl at the new lanes in the original Snowmass Mall (located under Venga Venga). They have 6 lanes with full bar and wonderful wood fired pizzas. We arrived both days at 4pm and had no problems getting a lane as most people arrive between 6-9.
Stonebridge Inn: The best happy hour we’ve seen with 50% all draft beer and well drinks. Great cozy atmosphere for a small group of friends. For family fun head over between 6-9 where they have a close up Magic Show. This hotel is located between the Snowmass Village and the Snowmass Mall.
Where to Eat
CP Burger: In Aspen, a good “Shake Shack” imitation. Burgers, Salads and the best fries in Aspen. Kids can skate in the outdoor rink as well.
Boogies Diner: An old fashioned 50’s diner located in the heard of Aspen. Great selection of salads, burgers and breakfast. Save room for Milkshakes and Dessert. We had a great 3 layer Chocolate Cake with a Chocolate Milk Shake
Bakery: All homemade baked goods in this 26 year old Café. Fresh Donuts and pancakes were the order of the day. We had a great time sitting in a community table and sharing stories with folks from Florida, Mass and Switzerland.
Woody Creek Tavern: About 15 minutes from Snowmass Village. Funky, casual hole in the wall. Worth the visit for its “Anti-Aspen” feel and menu. We opted for Mexican options and enjoyed Margaritas and Enchiladas. Restaurant only seats 80-90 people so be prepared to wait.
Off Mountain Activities
Our 10 year old could not ski so we found some great activities to do with him.
Ice Skating: There is a great family rink in downtown Aspen.
Aspen Rec Center: Located in Aspen Highlands this Rec Center has it all. Ice Skating, Indoor Pool with slides, climbing walls etc…. Definitely a must if you have toddlers who need a break from skiing.
Glenwood Hot Springs: The World’s largest Hot Springs Pool is located 50 minutes from Snowmass. The springs were opened in the late 1800’s and they featured two different pools with slides. We had a great time relaxing and enjoying the scenery. The old western town is pretty cool as well. We did not have time to visit but there is a spectacular Alpine Roller Coaster and Steam Caves. You can probably spend a half day in Glenwood.
Where to Stay:
From 5 Star Luxury to family condo’s Aspen/Snowmass has it all. This was our 3rd visit to Snowmass, let us help you located the perfect accommodations…..