Just what is it that makes Aspen the most magical place to visit in the winter?
The Scenery
While an in-person wintertime visit to the “most photographed mountains in the world” (via nordic skiing or snowmobiling, since the road is closed to traffic during the winter) might be on your bucket list, you’ll never tire of the magical views you’ll find up and down the Aspen valley.
The History
Whereas some ski towns, like Vail, were built to be resorts, Aspen began as a small mining town in 1879, and was home to the Ute Indians for more than 800 years before. Aspen’s history contains many colorful stories. The Aspen Historical Society offers all sorts of winter tours both in town and on skis to help you connect with the area on a deeper level. The Society also presents numerous performances and talks, including series such as History on Tap, History on Stage, and Time Travel Tuesdays. The more you learn, the more you’ll fall in love with the charm of this gorgeous historical place.
The Variety and Convenience
Aspen isn’t a one-hit wonder in the winter; believe it or not, skiing isn’t the only draw. That said, there’s variety even in the skiing, with four well-respected ski areas boasting a variety of terrain, all within an 8-mile radius. The best of everything’s at your fingertips during the winter in Aspen. Because it’s a small town with an exclusive reputation, you’ll have access to world-class art displays, live music, exclusive performances, and more – all in the downtown core. Assuming you book your Aspen vacation rental downtown too, of course! And when you’re wanting to be active, you can try everything from biking to skiing to skating to sledding… You’ll be amazed how much you’ll find — and how easily — in such a small mountain town!
The Toys
Because Aspen is part of a bona fide winter wonderland, you’ll have access to all kinds of magical winter experiences and their toys. Think snowmobiles, sleigh rides, and dog sleds. Ski lifts, gondolas, and snowcats. Fat bikes, snow bikes, snow tubes, and an alpine coaster. You won’t have to go far to try something new — Aspen’s definitely got the gear for grand winter adventures!
The Events
No matter when you visit Aspen in the winter, there’ll likely be a unique event taking place. From early season holiday events like the 12 Days of Aspen to more traditional annual celebrations such as Wintersköl™, Gay Ski Week, Ullr Nights celebrations, and the X-Games Aspen, winter is full of entertainment and celebration in our valley.
The Quiet
Once Independence Pass is closed for the winter, Aspen becomes a dead-end and the only way in and out of the valley (and back to “civilization”) is Highway 82. This means that Aspen doesn’t attract the masses of more convenient, state-highway-accessible mountain resorts like Vail. People don’t arrive in Aspen by accident! It’s a bit of a secret haven that requires motivation to seek out. As a result, you won’t spend your time waiting in long lines (they’re rare), and you can always find space when you need it!
The Homey Feel
Aspen is a premier international vacation destination, providing magical and memorable vacation experiences — especially during the winter. The place you choose to stay during your Aspen vacation is just as important as the things you choose to “do” — convenience, coziness, and charm are all key. Staying in this small mountain town feels more personal than staying in a big city or high-rise condo — it’s easy to feel “at home.”
Let us help you find the perfect vacation rental to enhance your Aspen memories. We offer vacation rentals, home rentals and condo rentals in Aspen, Snowmass Village, and further down the Roaring Fork Valley.