Aspen Highlands Ski Resort - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Aspen Highlands Ski Resort is located in Pitkin County, Colorado. The resort offers a variety of activities for both skiers and snowboarders. There are several beginner and intermediate trails, as well as a few advanced trails. The resort also has a terrain park with a variety of jumps and rails. In addition, there are several restaurants and bars located at the resort. Visitors can also take a gondola ride to the top of the mountain to experience the stunning views of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a challenging ski run or a relaxing gondola ride, Aspen Highlands Ski Resort has something for everyone.

Aspen Highlands is one of the four ski areas in the Aspen-Snowmass complex in Pitkin County, Colorado. It is located on the southern flank of North Table Mountain, just east of Aspen. Founded in 1958, it was originally known as Highland-Bell until it was renamed Aspen Highlands in 1962. The area consists of three main sections - High Country, Rescue Gully, and Deep Temerity - and offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. In recent years, Aspen Highlands has become known for its expert terrain, particularly its steeps and trees. It also boasts some of the best views in the area, with panoramic views of the Elk Mountains and the town of Aspen below. Whether you're looking to test your limits or simply take in the beauty of the Rockies, Aspen Highlands is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

The best time to visit Aspen Highlands is during the months of February and March when the snow is at its deepest and the sun is shining brightest. However, those looking to avoid the crowds can find excellent conditions during the shoulder seasons of November and April.

1. Purchase your lift tickets in advance online. This will save you time and money, as tickets purchased at the resort are significantly more expensive.
2. Rent your ski equipment in advance. Again, this will save you both time and money. You can often find discounts on rental equipment if you book it in advance online.
3. Stay at one of the many hotels or vacation rentals located near the resort. This will give you easy access to the slopes and also provide you with a comfortable place to relax after a long day of skiing.
4. Start your days early. The slopes tend to be less crowded in the morning, so you'll have an easier time finding open runs. Plus, the skiing is often better early in the day when the snow is freshly groomed.
5. Take lessons from a professional if you're new to skiing or want to improve your skills. The Aspen Highlands Ski School offers group and private lessons for skiers of all levels.
6. Explore other activities in Aspen besides skiing. The town is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and galleries that are worth checking out even if you don't hit the slopes every day of your vacation.

1. Aspen Highlands was founded in 1946 by Walter Paepcke, who also founded the Aspen Institute.
2.  The resort was originally named "Highland-Bell" after its two highest chairlifts, but was later renamed to "Aspen Highlands" after the nearby town of Aspen.
3. Aspen Highlands is home to over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the United States.
4. Aspen Highlands is known for its famous après-ski scene. The resort's Base Village is home to a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as a lively nightlife scene.
5. Aspen Highlands is also home to several renowned ski schools, including the Warren Miller Performing Arts School and the Snowmass Ski School.
6. The resort's Highland Bowl is one of the most popular attractions at Aspen Highlands, and offers skiers and snowboarders ample opportunities for powder skiing and big-air jumps.
7. Aspen Highlands is consistently ranked as one of the top ski resorts in North America by industry publications like SKI Magazine and Powder Magazine.
8. Aspen Highlands is home to the legendary Deep Thorpe ski run, which drops 2,400 vertical feet over its 3.5-mile length.
9. The resort has been voted "Best Overall Ski Resort" in North America by readers of SKI Magazine for four consecutive years (2016-2019).
    

While it is possible to explore the entire resort in one day, most visitors prefer to take their time and enjoy all that Aspen Highlands has to offer. With that in mind, we suggest allowing at least two days for a full exploration of the resort.

By car, the resort can be reached via Highway 82, which runs through the town of Aspen. From Aspen, simply follow the signs to the Highlands base area. Alternatively, the Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) provides regular bus service to the resort from a number of locations in the Aspen area.

There is no entrance fee to explore Aspen Highlands Ski Resort. The Ski Resort is open to the public and there are a variety of trails that wind through the different areas of the property. 

The resort is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, with extended hours on weekends and holidays.