Aspen Highlands | Aspen

Information

Landmark: Aspen Highlands
City: Aspen
Country: USA Colorado
Continent: North America

Aspen Highlands, Aspen, USA Colorado, North America

Aspen Highlands is a ski resort located in Pitkin County, Colorado, near the city of Aspen. It is one of four distinct ski areas operated by Aspen Skiing Company.

Visual Characteristics

Aspen Highlands features a varied terrain with significant vertical drop. The resort's base elevation is 8,040 feet (2,451 meters), with a summit elevation of 12,383 feet (3,774 meters). The skiable area covers 1,000 acres, with 18% beginner, 30% intermediate, and 52% advanced terrain. The Highland Bowl, a prominent feature, offers steep, in-bounds backcountry-style skiing.

Location & Access Logistics

Aspen Highlands is situated approximately 8 miles (13 km) southwest of downtown Aspen. Access is primarily via Castle Creek Road. Free shuttle bus service operates from various points in Aspen, including the Rubey Park Transit Center, with routes running frequently during the ski season. Ample paid parking is available at the base area, though it can fill quickly on peak days. Private vehicle access is subject to road conditions and potential closures during heavy snowfall.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Aspen Highlands opened in 1963, founded by Whip Jones. The resort was developed on land that was historically part of the White River National Forest. The ecological environment is characterized by high-alpine ecosystems, including subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, and aspen groves at lower elevations. The area is known for its significant snowfall, averaging 300 inches annually.

Key Highlights & Activities

Skiing and snowboarding are the primary activities. The resort is renowned for its challenging terrain, particularly the Highland Bowl, which requires hiking to access. Other activities include snowshoeing on designated trails and guided backcountry tours (conditions permitting). The Merry-Go-Round restaurant at mid-mountain offers a dining experience with panoramic views.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The base area includes a main lodge with ticket windows, rental facilities, and food services. Restrooms are available in the base lodge and at the Merry-Go-Round restaurant. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the resort, though it may be intermittent in remote areas. Limited food vendors are present at the base and mid-mountain.

Best Time to Visit

The ski season typically runs from late November to mid-April, dependent on snow conditions. For the best snow quality and open terrain, January through March is generally optimal. The Highland Bowl is best accessed after significant snowfall, typically from mid-December onwards. Mid-morning offers good lighting for photography before shadows become pronounced on steeper slopes.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the ghost of a former ski patroller, known as "Old Man Winter," still watches over the mountain, ensuring good snow conditions. A verified historical fact is that Aspen Highlands was the last of the four Aspen mountains to be developed for skiing.