I have visited Colorado and I loved it.
Aspen, Colorado, is undoubtedly the most famous and sought-after ski resort in the United States, known worldwide for the quality of its facilities and its refined atmosphere, favored by VIPs and Hollywood stars. It is interesting to remember that before the discovery of its tourist vocation and the creation of the first ski lifts in the 1930s, this town in the Rocky Mountains lived in humility, supported by the mining industry and ranching. Today, the city, although a destination sought after by luxury tourists attracted by the first-rate shows, exclusive accommodations and restaurants, also retains all the charm of its landscapes, characterized by nature trails and majestic mountains.
Aspen is located at an altitude of about 2,400 meters, but from here you can also reach the most imposing peak of the Rocky Mountains.
Aspen offers skiers truly wide and varied possibilities. There are four ski resorts, all accessible with the same ski pass, well connected by a shuttle service so you are therefore spoiled for choice.
Aspen Mountain is the main and most frequented resort (even by Hollywood stars). It is located near a very high number of slopes, from the simplest to those for experts. If you want to enjoy a breathtaking view, don't miss the Silver Queen cable car to the top.
Snowmass is another large ski area, with slopes of various levels of difficulty, recently modernized with considerable expense and notable results. It boasts the largest difference in altitude in the United States too.
Buttermilk: if you are not exactly expert skiers, if you are looking for simple slopes and perhaps you are on vacation with the whole family, Buttermilk is perhaps the area best suited to your needs. There is also an excellent ski school that offers a 3-day program to learn to snowboard.
Aspen Highlands is for the most experienced skiers in this area who prefer the off slopes.
What to do in Aspen besides skiing?
Aspen is a worldly and rather expensive destination; it intercepts a lot of that classy tourism eager to ski in Colorado, and it often happens that you come across some VIPs on the various slopes or in the cable cars. But Aspen is not just snow. The historic center of the city, with its characteristic red brick buildings and a history that betrays the old West, is decidedly fascinating, especially for those who love wandering among luxury boutiques and refined bars.
In the city you will also find some interesting museums such as the Wheeler Museum and the Aspen Art Museum and a study center particularly active in the promotion and conservation of wildlife, which organizes events and educational programs related to the world of nature, ecology, ski tours, as well as activities for children.
At the same time, Aspen offers a lively nightlife, with crowded and exclusive bars and clubs where you can gorge on oysters, crispy frog legs and truffle fries.
Aspen is expensive and if you are looking for a more reasonably priced solution you should consider Breckenridge, just over two hours from Aspen, or Glenwood Springs, about 80 km away. However, with a little care you can also find cheap solutions just outside Aspen.
Furthermore, Snowmass is only a few kilometers from Aspen, so you can always easily reach the city center and enjoy the attractions of the city while saving on accommodation costs.
