These girls like black diamonds. Are you ready for some fun in the sun on the slopes? Spring skiing in Aspen is the perfect time to put away those winter blues, grab some sunscreen and break out the skis. With warmer temperatures, sunny skies, and soft snow, spring skiing in Aspen provides the perfect backdrop for a ski trip. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Aspen‘s four ski resorts offer a wide range of terrain for every skill level. We are excited to share spring in Aspen you.
Spring Skiing in Aspen: The Ikon Pass
Ski ya later. Skiing with the Ikon Pass provides access to some of the best ski resorts in the United States, including Aspen, Deer Valley, Snowbird, Snowbasin and Brighton and more. These are just the resorts we visited but the Ikon Pass has over 50 locations. Deer Valley is our home mountain, and it’s very family friendly. Aspen is better as a friends trip because of its vibrant nightlife and plenty of opportunities for après ski activities.
Spring Skiing in Aspen: Checklist
- Get the Ikon Pass. Paying for daily lift tickets can add up quickly. You can get buddy passes for friends at discount too.
- Check the weather forecast: Spring weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and weather patterns. Check the forecast ahead of time to ensure you’re prepared for the conditions.
- Dress in layers: Spring weather in Aspen can range from warm and sunny to chilly and windy. Dress in layers, so you can easily adjust your clothing based on the temperature.
- Wear sunscreen: The sun can be intense during spring skiing, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen before heading out and reapply as needed throughout the day.
- Start early: Spring skiing conditions are often best in the morning when the snow is still firm. Get an early start to make the most of the best conditions.
- Ship your skis and boots with Lugless or rent early.
- Skip the taxis and Uber and take the free bus from the airport to town.
- Book lessors early if you need them.
- Make reservations early for lunch (especially at Cloud 9 and/or Sam’s) and dinner
- Remember to have fun! Spring skiing is all about enjoying the slopes and the beautiful weather. Take it easy, enjoy the scenery, and have a great time skiing in Aspen.
- Beginners should stick to Buttermilk. We recommend Snowmass, our favorite mountain, for Intermediate skiers.
- If you are a beginner and want to go to Cloud 9, you can take a Snowcat down (one of our friends that is a green skier did this)
- Stay in town if you are looking for the Aspen nightlife. If you want to ski a lot of blues on Snowmass, stay in Snowmass.
Spring Skiing in Aspen: Where to Stay
There’s snow place like home. Spring skiing in Aspen typically begins in late February and runs through April, with warmer temperatures, longer days, and plenty of sunshine. Staying in town at an Airbnb offers easy access to all of Aspen’s four ski areas – Ajax, Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass – as well as its vibrant après ski scene. We usually rent cozy condos, but you can also rent spacious homes.
Spring Skiing in Aspen: Ajax
With great powder comes great responsibility. If you are staying in town, Ajax, the mountain formerly known as Aspen Mountain, is a quick walk and must-do for any avid skier. Ajax offers a unique spring skiing in Aspen experience with its steep, challenging terrain and incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
It takes one to snow one. The warm sun and bluebird skies at Ajax make for perfect conditions for spring skiing in Aspen. The mountain’s lower elevation means that the snow tends to be a little softer. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. When it’s time to take a break from spring skiing in Aspen, the base of the mountain offers plenty of options for dining and drinking. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, there is something for everyone at Ajax. The Sundeck, located at the summit of the mountain, offers a variety of food options and a bar with stunning views.
Spring Skiing in Aspen: Highlands
Let’s get this snow on the road. Spring skiing in Aspen Highlands is a truly unique experience that offers a combination of challenging terrain, stunning views, and warm, sunny weather. With its steep and varied terrain, Aspen Highlands is a favorite among expert skiers, but it also offers plenty of runs for intermediate and beginner skiers.
I’m on cloud nine. You’ll want to stop by Cloud 9 not only for its delicious food but also for its lively atmosphere. This popular on-mountain restaurant and après ski destination is located near the Cloud 9 lift. Cloud 9 is known for its European-style atmosphere that will transport you to the slopes of the Swiss Alps. With its cozy wooden interior and incredible views of the mountains, Cloud 9 offers a unique and charming dining experience.
No champagne, no gain. One of the highlights of dining at Cloud 9 is the champagne toast that takes place every day at 3:00 pm. The staff at Cloud 9 pours glasses of Veuve Clicquot for guests to enjoy, creating a festive atmosphere that is perfect for après ski celebrations.
It’s a hard Gnocc life. The gourmet menu at Cloud 9 features a variety of delectable dishes that will satisfy any appetite. Their fondue and raclette are a popular choices. We ordered the Winter Vegetable Gnocchi with truffled mushrooms, mini squash, sauce duxelles and fresh thyme. Cloud 9 also offers a selection of alpine-inspired meat dishes. If you are spring skiing in Aspen, make sure to stop by Cloud 9. It’s quite pricey but the experience is priceless.
Spring Skiing in Aspen: Snowmass
Want a sneak peak? Snowmass, the largest of the four mountains, is our favorite destination for spring skiing in Aspen. This mountain has several long blue runs for us intermediate skiers, so we didn’t have to repeat runs. This mountain is also great for beginners to learn and its steep bowls and tree runs offer a challenge for advanced skiers.
Sam’s is a classic American bistro in Snowmass. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, Sam’s is the perfect place to refuel after a morning on the slopes. The restaurant’s menu features classic American dishes, such as burgers, salads, and sandwiches, as well as a selection of wine, craft beers and cocktails. We highly recommend the lamb burger. Sam’s is also a popular spot for après-ski, with live music and a lively atmosphere. The food and wine is more reasonably priced here vs. Cloud 9.
Another lunch option at Snowmass is Aurum. We ordered the Crispy Curried Cauliflower and the Ravioli with a glass of sparkling rose wine.
For après-ski at Snowmass, head over to Lynn Britt Cabin. The cabin, which is named after Lynn Britt, a well-known Aspen ski instructor, offers a unique mountain dining experience that combines great food, stunning views, and a cozy atmosphere. What really sets Lynn Britt Cabin apart is its stunning location. The cabin’s outdoor deck offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of skiing or snowboarding. The cabin is accessible via the Elk Camp Gondola. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live music performance by one of the cabin’s talented musicians.
We haven’t skied Buttermilk as it’s more for beginners. We have heard that this mountain’s gentle slopes and wide-open runs make it an ideal place for beginners to practice skills and gain confidence on the snow. If you are an intermediate or expert skier, you can skip this mountain.
Aspen Dining Recommendations
Aspen is known for its world-class dining scene, and there are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from during ski season. These restaurants are quite pricey- so budget appropriately.
Here are a few of the best dining recommendations to enjoy while you are spring skiing in Aspen:
- Cache Cache: Cache Cache is a French-American bistro that has been a local favorite for over 30 years. The restaurant is known for its excellent food, lively atmosphere, and extensive wine list.
- Campo de Fiori: Campo de Fiori is a cozy Italian restaurant that has been a staple in Aspen for over 25 years. The restaurant is known for its excellent homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and extensive wine list.
- 39 Degrees: 39 Degrees is a hip and trendy lounge located in the Sky Hotel in downtown Aspen. The lounge serves a variety of small plates and cocktails, and is a popular spot for après ski.
- Duemani: Duemani is an Italian restaurant that features a menu of modern cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Parc Aspen: Parc Aspen is a contemporary American restaurant located in the St. Regis hotel. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including seafood, steaks, and salads, as well as an extensive wine list.
- The Wild Fig: The Wild Fig is a French-Mediterranean restaurant located in downtown Aspen. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including seafood, steak, and pasta, as well as an extensive wine list.
- Chica Aspen: Chica Aspen is a Latin American restaurant located in the base of the Aspen Mountain gondola. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including ceviche, empanadas, and grilled meats, as well as a variety of cocktails and wines.
These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines and atmospheres, so you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy Italian meal, a hip lounge for après ski, or a contemporary American dining experience, Aspen has something for everyone.
Spring skiing in Aspen offers a unique and unforgettable experience for both beginners and advanced skiers alike. With its beautiful scenery, soft snow, and mild temperatures, Aspen provides the perfect environment for a relaxing and enjoyable ski vacation. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, shopping, and après ski activities in Aspen’s charming downtown area. If you have the Ikon Pass, also check out our Deer Valley recommendations.
A bad day in Aspen beats a good day anywhere else.
Anonymous
I love skiing! The last time I went I was 15 and we went to Bulgaria which was a surprisingly amazing place to ski! This post really made me consider booking another ski holiday, it’s just finding the money and time!
Wwwoooaaaahhh….this is so lovely to see, ladies! I love watching people skiing. I look forward to my turn on the ice!
I have never thought about skiing in the spring. This looks like such an amazing experience. I am going to bookmark this so I can remember. I will add it to my bucket list.
I´ve never been skiing and never been to Aspen but this article makes me wanna go so badly! I live in a hot country so anything to do with snow is so exotic!
Your post on spring skiing in Aspen transported me to the slopes with its vivid descriptions and beautiful photos. I especially loved the insider tips on where to find the best views and après-ski spots.
What a great experience. I will definitely look into Ikon pass. It is a great deal especially when I go skiing with friends.
Skiing in Spring? What a breath of fresh air. I would like to experience that.
I haven’t been skiing in aspen but it looks so beautiful! Would love to visit!
aspen is at the top of my bucket list and this article has made me want it even more, cant wait to get there