Spring Skiing in Aspen
Apr 04, 2007 · 10:23 PM · permalink
When I had to move our Aspen ski trip from mid February to late March, I was a bit worried that we wouldn’t have any snow. On the trip from up I-70 we were getting snowed on from Evergreen until Vail Pass and I knew we totally lucked out.
Even with a little fresh snow, the crowds were nonexistent at both Aspen Highlands and Aspen Mountain. Our first few runs at the Highlands on Saturday were spent on wide open runs that had been groomed before a couple inches of fresh snow landed on top. They were great fun and they were completely empty. It was like having your own private ski resort.
Hiking to the Highland bowl from the top of Aspen Highlands is a must-do. Oddly enough, it was really the only place where we encountered crowds. There was a line of people walking along the ridge and braving the strong winds. By the time we reached the summit, clouds had rolled in and there was 10-20 feet of visibility. Kind of a drag for a bit, but once we got a little lower we could see again and enjoyed the best snow I’ve had all year at a resort. (Which isn’t saying too much with the paltry amount of skiing I did this year.)
I liked that both mountains seemed small compared to something like Vail. It made the mountain seem easier to navigate. At Aspen mountain we even managed to go from one side of the mountain to the other and ride every lift that was in operation. With the small crowds, parking was a dream. Both days we were parked within a block from a lift.
The night life in Aspen was lacking, but I’m willing to chalk that up to it being late season. We walked around looking for a lively bar and didn’t find much activity.
This was my first time skiing in Aspen, and I look forward to going back. Next time I probably won’t have the luxury of small crowds, but I still think the mountains are great and the scenery is unbeatable. Everyone from the parking attendants to the rental shop, to the lifties were friendly and helpful. (The rental shop was especially great. They spent an hour with my wife getting some boots the fit her small feet.)
When you go to Aspen Mountain, be sure to step in to the 11,200’ Sundeck at the top of the mountains take in the amazing view of the Highland Bowl and Aspen Highlands while you down some shots and beer. (Don’t forget you still have to get down the mountain after that.)
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