Skip to main content

Learn About Aspen Snowmass's Four Unique Ski Mountains

You are here

Home
Learn About Aspen Snowmass's Four Unique Ski Mountains

Detailed Guide to Terrain, Elevation, and Access for Each Mountain

ASPEN MOUNTAIN

Known by locals as Ajax, Aspen Mountain is one of the most iconic ski destinations in North America. Get ready for a challenge if you want to ski here! This legendary Aspen Mountain ski area is famous for its steep and expert terrain and thrilling tree runs, so beginners should check out one of the other mountains! With direct ski-in access to downtown, visitors can lap Aspen Mountain/Ajax trails all day, and then enjoy the incredible après ski scene at night.

You’ll ride the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of the mountain, with gorgeous sights of the Rockies beneath you on the way. Ajax Highlights include the Bell Mountain glades, Ruthie’s Run, and the recently opened Hero’s expansion terrain, which has even more opportunities for advanced skiers to test their skills. On-mountain dining is another celebrated part of the Ajax experience, with favorites like Bonnie’s and the Sundeck offering classic ski-town fare, while Ajax Tavern at base is a beloved après ski gathering spot.

What are the base and summit elevations of Aspen Mountain?

The base elevation of Aspen Mountain is 7,945 feet (2,422 meters), while the summit elevation reaches 11,212 feet (3,418 meters). At the top of Hero’s expansion terrain, the elevation peaks at 11,262 feet (3,433 meters), offering advanced skiers spectacular views and challenging descents.

How large is the Aspen Mountain ski area?

The Aspen Mountain ski area covers 828 acres (335 hectares) of steep and expert terrain, with 127 trails spanning 64 miles (103 km) of skiable terrain.

What is the longest run on Aspen Mountain?

The longest run at Ajax is approximately 3 miles (4.8 km), offering a continuous descent from the top of the Silver Queen Gondola down to the base area in the heart of downtown Aspen.

How many lifts does Aspen Mountain have?

Aspen Mountain has 9 lifts, including the iconic Silver Queen Gondola, a six-passenger gondola that provides fast and scenic access to the upper mountain terrain.

Is Aspen Mountain suitable for beginner skiers?

Aspen Mountain is best suited for intermediate to expert skiers. There are no beginner (green) trails, making it ideal for advanced riders looking to lap Bell Mountain glades, explore Ruthie’s Run, or tackle the Hero’s expansion terrain.

Can you ski directly into town from Aspen Mountain?

Yes. Aspen Mountain is known as the Town Mountain for a reason. It offers ski-in access to downtown, allowing visitors to finish their run just steps away from shops, dining, and après in town.

What makes Aspen Mountain different from other Aspen Snowmass mountains?

Aspen Mountain stands out for its steep terrain, direct lift access from downtown, and vibrant après-ski culture. It’s often compared to Aspen Highlands for its advanced terrain (skiing Aspen Mountain / Ajax vs Highlands) and is loved by experienced skiers for its challenging lines and town-centered convenience.

ASPEN HIGHLANDS

Aspen Highlands is where skiers find their ultimate mountain challenge. This Highlands Colorado mountain is celebrated for its steep terrain & expert runs, exhilarating off-piste glades, and unmatched high-alpine character. As a true locals’ mountain, it offers a raw and authentic ski experience that blends adventure with a sense of community. The centerpiece of the Aspen Highlands ski area is the legendary Highland Bowl, a 270-acre hike-to terrain zone where skiers earn their turns and enjoy wide-open, backcountry-style runs. Along with the Temerity double black terrain, expert skiers can explore secret chutes, glades, and backcountry-style inbounds terrain while supported by expert ski patrol/avalanche control teams (safety first, after all!)

After an exhilarating day on the slopes, celebrate with the Aspen Highlands Cloud Nine experience, where music, champagne, and alpine views come together for an unforgettable après tradition. Mid-mountain, the Merry-Go-Round lodge provides a classic rest stop, and snowcat dinner events add to the mountain’s draw. Aspen Highlands stands apart for those who crave a serious adventure with unmatched alpine character.

What are the base and summit elevations at Aspen Highlands?

The base elevation of Aspen Highlands is 8,040 ft (2,451 m), and the summit elevation reaches 11,675 ft (3,559 m). The top of Highland Bowl sits even higher at 12,392 ft (3,777 m), providing incredible alpine views and expert-level terrain.

How large is the Aspen Highlands ski area?

The Aspen Highlands ski area spans 1,040 acres (421 hectares) with 144 trails covering 84 miles (135 km) of terrain, including steep lines, glades, and backcountry-style inbounds terrain.

What is the longest run at Aspen Highlands?

The longest run on the mountain stretches 3.5 miles (5.6 km), offering a scenic, sustained ride from summit to base that’s perfect for advanced skiers looking to maximize vertical.

What is the steepest run at Aspen Highlands?

Go-Go Gully and sections of the Highland Bowl are the steepest, with a slope angle of 48 degrees. This is a must-do for those interested in how to ski Aspen Highlands Bowl and test their skills on Temerity double black terrain.

Is Aspen Highlands suitable for beginners?

Aspen Highlands is best for intermediate to expert skiers. With its steep terrain & expert runs, off-piste lines & glades, and hike-to Highland Bowl, it’s widely known as a seasoned skier’s mountain rather than a beginner destination.What makes Aspen Highlands different from Aspen Mountain?

While Aspen Mountain (Ajax) offers direct access to town and expert frontside skiing, Aspen Highlands is known for its Highland Bowl, locals’ mountain vibe, and backcountry-style terrain. Many skiers compare the difference between Highlands and Aspen Mountain when choosing where to ski for advanced challenges.

Are there ski-in ski-out lodging options near Aspen Highlands?

Yes. Several ski-in ski-out rentals near Highlands provide convenient access to the lifts and après-ski at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro or Highlands Alehouse. These accommodations are ideal for guests seeking easy slope access and an authentic alpine atmosphere.

BUTTERMILK

Buttermilk Mountain is a family-friendly mountain designed to help skiers and riders of all ages build confidence on gentle rolling runs and mellow groomers. It’s the best beginner mountain in Aspen Snowmass, and even offers rentals and ski schools to help you get started. Buttermilk ski area in Aspen is ideal for kids learning at Panda Peak and West Buttermilk beginner terrain, while more experienced skiers can explore the Tiehack side for longer and slightly more advanced trails.

As the official Home of the X Games Aspen, Buttermilk also has a playful side, featuring world-class terrain parks and a halfpipe at Buttermilk Aspen, perfect for those ready to progress their skills. With Buttermilk ski-in ski-out lodging options, families can enjoy convenient access to the lifts, a relaxed atmosphere, and views of Pyramid Peak that make every run scenic. Whether you’re taking your first lesson, enjoying a family ski vacation at Buttermilk Aspen, or exploring the terrain park features, this Buttermilk beginner mountain is the perfect balance of fun and learning.

What are the base and summit elevations of Buttermilk Mountain?

The base elevation of Buttermilk is 7,870 ft (2,400 m), and the summit elevation is 9,900 ft (3,018 m). The approachable elevation and terrain make it one of the most popular beginner-friendly mountains in Aspen Snowmass.

How big is the Buttermilk ski area?

The Buttermilk Aspen ski resort spans 470 acres (190 hectares) with 44 trails covering 21 miles (34 km) of terrain. Its West Buttermilk beginner terrain and Tiehack side offer a mix of mellow runs and slightly more advanced terrain.

What is the longest run at Buttermilk?

The longest run at Buttermilk is 3 miles (4.8 km), giving beginners a chance to enjoy long, flowing descents on gentle rolling runs with stunning views of Pyramid Peak.

How many lifts serve Buttermilk Mountain?

There are 8 lifts that provide Buttermilk lift access across beginner, intermediate, and terrain park areas. The layout allows for easy access to the learning area for beginners, Panda Peak, and the Tiehack side.

Does Buttermilk have terrain parks?

Yes. Buttermilk is famous for its world-class terrain parks and is the official Home of the X Games Aspen.

Buttermilk Park features over 100 terrain park features, a 22-foot superpipe, and the X Games slopestyle course.
S3 Park (Ski & Snowboard Schools Park) is designed specifically for beginners learning park basics.

Why is Buttermilk ideal for families and beginners?

Buttermilk is considered the best beginner mountain in Aspen Snowmass thanks to its mellow groomers, learning terrain at Panda Peak, base area with rentals and ski school, and family-friendly mountain atmosphere. It’s a top choice for family ski vacations at Buttermilk Aspen.

Is there ski-in ski-out lodging near Buttermilk Mountain?

Yes. There are several Buttermilk ski-in ski-out lodging options that offer easy access to lifts, rentals, ski school, and après-ski. This makes it simple for families and first-time visitors to maximize their time on the slopes.

What major events are held at Buttermilk Mountain?

Buttermilk hosts X Games Aspen, drawing professional athletes from around the world. This event highlights the terrain park and halfpipe at Buttermilk Aspen, showcasing elite-level competition on the same mountain where beginners learn to ski.

SNOWMASS

Snowmass Mountain is the largest of the four Aspen Snowmass mountains, offering incredible terrain variety and a truly family-friendly ski destination. With over 3,300 acres (1,336 ha) of skiable terrain, wide-open groomers, and terrain variety for all levels, Snowmass stands out as the best family mountain in Aspen Snowmass. The Fanny Hill base area and Snowmass Village create a welcoming resort environment where guests can enjoy après at Base Village, boutique shopping, and local dining. Families love the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center and Elk Camp Meadows beginner area, while advanced skiers and riders can take on Big Burn, Sam’s Knob, or the Burnt Mountain Glades for more challenging terrain.

In addition to Snowmass skiing, visitors can enjoy terrain parks and pipes, the Breathtaker alpine coaster, tubing, and dining at Elk Camp. Summer brings just as much excitement, with scenic gondola rides, hiking and biking in Snowmass, and family events. With a wide range of Snowmass vacation rentals, from cozy condos to Snowmass ski-in ski-out lodging, it’s easy to stay close to the action. Whether you’re searching for where to stay near Snowmass Village, planning a trip with Snowmass gondola and lift access, or simply looking for top things to do in Snowmass Colorado, this destination offers something for everyone, beginners, experts, and families alike!

What are the base and summit elevations of Snowmass Mountain?

The base elevation of Snowmass is 8,110 ft (2,472 m), while the summit elevation reaches 12,510 ft (3,813 m). Its vertical rise of 4,440 ft (1,341 m) is the most vertical in the USA, offering incredible top-to-bottom runs and scenic views of the Elk Mountains.

How large is the Snowmass ski area?

Snowmass Mountain features 3,342 acres (1,352 ha) of skiable terrain with 98 trails spanning 147 miles (237 km). Its wide-open layout and terrain variety for all levels make it a top choice for families, beginners, and expert skiers alike.

What is the longest run at Snowmass?

The longest run at Snowmass is 5.3 miles (8.5 km), allowing skiers and riders to enjoy extended descents with breathtaking scenery, perfect for intermediates and those who love cruising.

How many lifts serve Snowmass Mountain?

There are 20 lifts, including one eight-passenger gondola, providing efficient Snowmass gondola and lift access to all levels of terrain—from the Elk Camp Meadows beginner area to expert terrain on Big Burn and Sam’s Knob.

Are there terrain parks at Snowmass?

Yes. Snowmass offers three terrain parks designed for all levels:

Snowmass Park – Features a superpipe built by Snow Park Technologies.
Makaha Park – Home to a quarterpipe and intermediate features.
Lowdown Park – Perfect for learning basic rail and box skills.
These parks make Snowmass a family-friendly ski destination and a hub for freestyle progression.

Why is Snowmass considered the best family mountain in Aspen Snowmass?

Snowmass combines terrain variety, family-focused activities, and après at Base Village, making it ideal for travelers of all ages. Families love the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center, beginner terrain at Elk Camp Meadows, and easy ski-in ski-out lodging options close to the lifts.

What activities are available at Snowmass besides skiing?

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy the Breathtaker alpine coaster, tubing, scenic gondola rides, hiking and biking in summer, and year-round dining and shopping in Snowmass Village.

Are there Snowmass ski-in ski-out lodging options?

Yes. Snowmass ski-in ski-out vacation rentals and condos are located steps from the lifts, offering the ultimate convenience. These properties are popular among families and groups who want to maximize their time on the slopes.

What makes Snowmass different from the other Aspen Snowmass mountains?

Snowmass is the largest mountain in the Aspen Snowmass network with the most vertical drop in the U.S. Its wide-open layout, beginner zones, advanced terrain like Burnt Mountain Glades, and terrain parks and pipes offer something for every skier or rider.

Experience All Four Legendary Mountains with Frias Properties

Wake up next to any of the four prominent mountains when you reserve a vacation rental with Frias Properties of Aspen and Snowmass. For every skier and rider seeking the ultimate run, you'll find their perfect slope from the world-class steeps of Aspen Highlands to Snowmass’s 4,400 feet of vertical. Don’t just read about the mountains, come and experience it for yourself!

RESERVE YOUR VACATION RENTAL TODAY!