Kick Off the New Year in Aspen

Sponsored by the Aspen Chamber Resort Association 

Aspen isn’t just one of North America’s most iconic winter destinations—it’s one of the most legendary winter destinations in the world. This incredible Colorado mountain town has long been welcoming skiers, riders, and outdoor enthusiasts for an unrivaled winter experience complete with world-class slopes, fireside après-ski, luxurious accommodations, award-winning restaurants, upscale shopping, and robust arts and cultural offerings. And there’s no better way to kick off the new year than with a winter getaway to Aspen, Colorado. 

Skiing In Aspen 

Aspen has a storied history, launching into the ski world in the early 1950s as the first destination outside of Europe to host the FIS Alpine World Championships. What started as one mountain, Aspen Mountain, has grown to four unrivaled ski mountains, boasting 5,700-plus acres of skiable terrain and 4,406 feet of vertical.   

Aspen Mountain, known locally as “Ajax,” features quad-burning groomers and fun glades that lead down to the heart of Aspen. Aspen Highlands is a playground for advanced skiers who want to carve new lines or hike up to Highland Bowl, one of the most iconic areas of ski terrain in North America. Buttermilk is beloved by all, featuring a little something of everything, from easy-going groomers to powder stashes to world-class terrain parks and more. And then there’s Snowmass, the largest of the four mountains, and a favorite among kids and families. 

Skiers and riders will be delighted all winter long in Aspen, but it doesn’t get any better than January. January is one of the snowiest months of the year, when skiers and riders can enjoy their fair share of powder days. Not to mention that January often sees less crowds, which means more untouched powder and little to no lift lines.  

What To Do Off The Slopes 

Aspen’s world-class ski terrain, however, is just the beginning of the incredible adventures and things to do during the heart of winter. Take the Silver Queen Gondola up Aspen Mountain for incredible views and equally incredible dining at the Sundeck or go on a guided snowshoe tour led by naturalists from the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES). Off-mountain adventures like snowmobiling tours, snow tubing, and ice skating are also available throughout the area.

Once a day of winter adventures starts to wind down, the action turns to après-ski. The town’s hotels and restaurants are home to some of Aspen’s most famous après-ski bars, like the historic J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome, or BUC, a local’s favorite with plenty of ski memorabilia.  

Après-ski, however, is Aspen’s opening act. The town’s dining scene is world-class, featuring everything from award-winning restaurants to celebrity chefs and alpine comfort food. Standouts include the Michelin-starred Bosq, Michelin Guide Recommended Element 47 at The Little Nell, Matsuhisa by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and the ambiance-rich French Alpine Bistro.

One of the most unique things about Aspen is the level of arts and cultural events that you’ll find in no other ski town. This includes the Aspen Art Museum, a completely free, artist-founded, non-collecting museum that features rotating exhibits, special events, and a rooftop cafe in a Shigeru Ban designed building. For a special experience, don’t miss a show at Wheeler Opera House, which was originally built in 1889.  

The beginning of this winter will also see a great lineup of happenings and events in Aspen. This includes the grand opening of the Paul JAS Center, above the historic Red Onion, which will feature live jazz, performances, and special events. January will see the return of X Games Aspen to Buttermilk for the 25th consecutive year, as well as the Toyota Grand Prix and Aspen Gay Ski Week, just to name a few of the headliners. See a complete lineup of events on the Aspen Chamber’s website. 

Plan Your Trip 

• Getting to Aspen. Flying into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is the fastest and most direct route. Travelers can be to Aspen in just 10 minutes after leaving the airport. Visitors can also fly into DEN or EGE and drive, which takes about 4 hours from Denver, and about 2 hours from Eagle/Vail.  

• Take advantage of your multi-resort pass. Pass holders of both the Ikon Pass and The Mountain Collective can enjoy access to Aspen’s four mountains. Ikon pass holders receive up to seven days. However, lift reservations are required for Ikon pass holders. Those on The Mountain Collective receive two days (reservations required) and half-off additional days. 

• Where to stay. Aspen is home to everything from five-diamond resorts to historic hotels  and much more. Explore where to stay here.