Aspen Mountain Colorado (US)

Aspen Mountain has a variety of steep runs at the intermediate and advanced levels, lots of mogul runs and steep mogul runs. It is a small mountain which can be covered in a day or two. Luckily there are three other Aspen resorts nearby to explore.

Beginners and Intermediates:

There are no beginner "green" runs. Most of the intermediate "blue" runs are fairly easy and some might even qualify to be rated a beginner "green" but you will find a steep section somewhere along the way which may be troublesome to beginners.

Advanced Ski Terrain:

Aspen Mountain has an abundance of short mogul runs with steep inclines rated as black diamond and double black diamond. The most difficult include a lot of trees and moguls. The run "S1" (off to the right from the top of F.I.S. lift) was notable for its extreme nature. Most advanced runs here are of limited length so there is never a situation where you are stuck on a tough run for very long.
Tip: Note that the double black diamond run "Walsh's" leads to "Lud's Lane", a cat-track that is uphill in both directions. To avoid a hike, carry enough speed at the bottom of "Walsh's" to ski out (this should be re-graded).

Tree Runs:

Aspen Mountain has runs with trees rather than dedicated tree runs and glades. If you want to ski trees, head off the main trail to the trees. Most of the mountain is below the tree line so there are plenty of opportunities.

Mogul Runs:

Mogul runs can be found all over this mountain. Some are not marked on the trail map and will have to be found by skiing the mountain.

Out of Bounds Skiing:

Aspen is the gateway to the Sawarch and Elk mountain ranges. The adjacent Conundrum Valley and Castle Valley is an avalanche prone area and last took a life of an experienced local in February 2015. Check the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) Aspen Colorado avalanche conditions before heading out. There is also a network of cabins which are part of the Colorado Rocky Mountain hut system maintained by the 10th Mountain Division Hut Association. They are self sufficient and well equipped for overnight boarding. Reservations are required. Luxury Aspen Mountain Snowcat tours are available from the top of the Silver Queen gondola. These "Aspen Powder Tours" are available by reservation: 970-920-0720 or 800-525-6200 x3720
See Aspen Powder Tours

There are a number of guided lift-served back-country descents offered by Aspen Expeditions: 970 925-7625

Other guided backcountry tours and guides:

• Aspen Alpine Guides - hut skiing (six days to Vail), AT ascents, lift assisted backcountry via a Forest Service access gate, ...
• Backcountry Skiing Colorado - Nordic cross country as well as alpine, AT rentals etc.

The village at the base of the mountain is the town of Aspen and everything can be found here. Equipment rental and sports shops, art shops, clothing, restaurants and lodging can be found in town, walking distance from the base.