Snowmass Colorado Guide | Skiing, Family Fun & Things to Do

Your Guide to Snowmass

Big mountain, family vibe

Snowmass offers more skiable terrain than Aspen Mountain—3,300 acres compared to Aspen's 675. Yet it maintains a family-friendly atmosphere that contrasts with Aspen's glamour. It's where locals often send their kids to learn.

The Base Village underwent a major transformation in recent years, adding modern lodging, restaurants, and an ice skating rink. The Limelight Hotel anchors the development, creating a walkable village at the base.

Located just 9 miles from downtown Aspen, Snowmass provides easy access to Aspen's dining and nightlife while offering more affordable lodging options. Free shuttles connect the two throughout the day.

Explore Snowmass

Vast terrain and village amenities

SKI

Ski Area

3,300 acres of varied terrain. Long cruisers, steep glades, terrain parks, and some of Aspen/Snowmass's best intermediate skiing.

VILLAGE

Base Village

Modern pedestrian village with ski-in/ski-out lodging, restaurants, shops, and an outdoor ice rink. Walkable and family-friendly.

FAMILY

Treehouse Kids

Award-winning kids' adventure center at the base. Ski school, childcare, and activities for children of all ages.

DINE

Elk Camp

Mid-mountain restaurant and activity hub. Gondola access for non-skiers, elevated dining, and family activities.

SUN

Summer Activities

Hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides. Summer transforms Snowmass into a mountain playground.

ZIP

Lost Forest

Adventure zone with zip lines, rope courses, alpine coaster, and climbing. Summer thrills for all ages.

Plan Your Visit

Lodging and getting there

STAY

Where to Stay

Ski-in/ski-out condos, the Limelight Hotel, and family-friendly options. More affordable than Aspen proper.

GO

Getting There

4 hours from Denver via Glenwood Canyon, or fly into Aspen-Pitkin Airport just 7 miles away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Snowmass visit

What's the difference between Snowmass and Aspen?

Snowmass is one of four mountains on the Aspen Snowmass pass, located 9 miles from Aspen town. It has more terrain, a modern base village, and a more family-oriented atmosphere.

Is Snowmass cheaper than staying in Aspen?

Generally yes, though it's all relative—this is still the Aspen area. Snowmass offers more mid-range lodging options and is more affordable for families.

Can I ski all four Aspen mountains from Snowmass?

Yes. Free shuttles connect all four mountains. Snowmass is the farthest from Aspen town, so allow extra travel time to reach Aspen Mountain, Highlands, and Buttermilk.

What's the best terrain for intermediates?

Snowmass excels here. Long blue cruisers like Big Burn and Sneaky's offer thousands of vertical feet. It's arguably the best intermediate terrain in Colorado.

Snowmass, Colorado