Quick Info
Size: 3,332 skiable acres—the largest in the Aspen area. Vertical: 4,406 feet, one of Colorado's biggest. Character: Family-friendly with excellent intermediate terrain. Pass: Ikon Pass.
Snowmass is Aspen's bigger, more accessible sibling. While Aspen Mountain draws experts and celebrities, Snowmass spreads its 3,300+ acres across terrain that welcomes everyone. Families come for the kids' programs and wide intermediate runs. Experts come for the vertical and variety. Everyone benefits from smaller crowds than Aspen proper.
The Terrain
Snowmass terrain divides across several distinct zones:
Big Burn: The signature feature—a massive, wide-open bowl visible from the base. Long intermediate runs through scattered trees. Perfect for confidence-building cruisers.
Elk Camp: Beginner and lower-intermediate terrain around the Elk Camp restaurant. Gentle slopes, magic carpets, and family-friendly vibes.
Hanging Valley: Advanced terrain on the back side. Steeps, glades, and powder stashes when conditions align.
High Alpine: Expert terrain accessed from the top of the mountain. Challenging steeps and the famous Cirque headwall.
The Vertical
At 4,406 feet, Snowmass has one of the largest verticals in North America. What this means practically:
- Long runs from top to bottom
- Significant elevation gain—pace yourself
- Variety of conditions from summit to base
- Legs will feel it by afternoon
The vertical creates a skiing experience that feels big without being intimidating. You can ski top-to-bottom without ever touching expert terrain.
Family Focus
Snowmass has invested heavily in family infrastructure:
- Treehouse Kids' Adventure Center for ages 8 weeks to 7 years
- Dedicated learning areas away from faster traffic
- Kid-friendly on-mountain amenities
- Lost Forest adventure zone in summer
If you're skiing with children, Snowmass is often the better choice over Aspen Mountain.
Tips
Start at Elk Camp. Warm up on the gentler terrain before tackling Big Burn or the upper mountain.
Use the village lifts. The gondola from the village gets crowded. The Assay Hill lift nearby is often faster.
Explore Hanging Valley. When the front is tracked out, the back side often holds better snow.
Book lessons early. Snowmass ski school fills up, especially during holidays. Reserve before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Snowmass compare to Aspen Mountain?
Snowmass is bigger, more family-friendly, and has more varied terrain. Aspen Mountain is steeper and more challenging. Snowmass is better for mixed-ability groups.
Can I ski Aspen on the same pass?
Yes. Ikon Pass covers all four Aspen-area mountains. Free shuttles connect Snowmass to Aspen for easy day trips.
Is Snowmass good for beginners?
Excellent. Gentle terrain, quality instruction, and a welcoming atmosphere. Better than Aspen Mountain for first-timers.
When is the best time to visit?
January-February for reliable snow. Early March for longer days and spring conditions. Avoid Christmas and Presidents' Week for smaller crowds.