Logistics may be a bit different this winter, but, thankfully, many things remain the same in Snowmass Village. Expect to find lots to do on and off the slopes—including some cool new interactive art displays and free stuff like skating, snowshoe tours, and s’mores—plus the welcoming, family-friendly vibe that makes the Village and the ski area one of North America’s favorite resorts. Here’s what’s on tap for the season in Snowmass.

On Mountain Skiing, Riding, and More

Something to be grateful for: COVID has no effect on snow, sunshine, and ski runs. You’ll find all 3,342 acres of terrain at the ski area as enjoyable as ever (check out the new six-seater, high-speed lift up the Big Burn). That said, be mindful of this winter’s health safety protocols, which include wearing your mask in lift lines (and while getting on and off the lift), in on-mountain restaurants, and throughout the Village.

You’ll even discover that some things are more streamlined. For example, rather than waiting at the ticket office, buy your lift ticket online, then swipe the emailed QR code at one of the new outside pickup boxes. It’ll spit out your printed ticket and, presto, you’re off to the slopes.

If you’re new to Snowmass and are at least an intermediate-level skier or rider, get oriented through one of the free on-mountain tours, whether it’s the three-times-a-week early morning First Tracks (reservations required), daily Ambassador Tours, or twice-daily nature-focused runs hosted by the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies.

Unlike many ski resorts, which are only offering private lessons this winter, Snowmass continues to have ski-school groups, though with a max of five students per ski pro. 

And when you want to stay out on the mountain—taking in the views and fresh air but giving your ski legs a break—head to the multi-lane, lift-served tubing hill and the thrilling Breathtaker Alpine Coaster at Elk Camp (buy tickets in advance). 

Good Eats

While only limited indoor dining is available (as of Feb 2nd) outdoor and takeaway dining is going strong!. But sit-down lunch-lovers, don’t despair. The cafeteria-style Ullrhof, High Alpine, and Elk Camp restaurants have all added more sit-down space in large, heated tents, and you can save time in line by ordering grab-and-go options beforehand via the Aspen Snowmass mobile app. Sam’s still serves its delicious Italian fare, and Lynn Britt Cabin offers hearty but refined mountain cuisine on its outside patio.

Capacity limits also give you all the more reason to ski down to the Snowmass Mall or Snowmass Base Village for lunch. Grab a panini or a wrap at Fuel (we love the avocado and sweet potato with tahini–poppy seed spread), warm up with a bowl of chili from the Stew Pot (a go-to for more than 50 years), or awaken your taste buds with a curry or noodle bowl from locals’ favorite Grub Thai, all on the Mall.

In Base Village, find fast and easy options at the Crêpe Shack (the chicken Florentine, with spinach, mushrooms, and Alfredo sauce, is a winner) or mix6, which creates salad or grain bowls with your pick of toppings. Duck into just-opened JUS for a healthful and yummy smoothie or the adjacent GG’s Market for grab-and-go staples. The Limelight Lounge now serves lunch, too—though you may just want to order up a fennel sausage pizza to-go on your Aspen Snowmass app and split it on the Elk Camp gondola. That’s hardcore and indulgent at the same time.

Be sure to check out Snowmass’s 30-plus restaurants for great dinner options, too.

Après Ski

Okay, so you won’t be sipping margaritas in a crowded bar or elbowing others while jockeying for the best s’mores-roasting position around a fire pit—at least not yet this season. But Snowmass Tourism has graciously filled the s’mores void by handing out two tasty, ready-made alternatives created by local restaurants mix6 and Slow Groovin’ Chophouse (from 3:30 p.m. on); oh, and the cost (free), is pretty sweet, too.

As you stroll the Snowmass Mall, munching on your s’mores bar, listen to live performances from local musicians from the Tower Stage every Thursday afternoon.

Out of doors is the best way to go for celebrating your time on the hill this winter, including near-to-the-slopes spots like the Ranger Station (which specializes in New Belgium Brewing beer), Venga Venga, MoxiBar, Base Camp Bar & Grill, and the Artisan. The Viceroy’s poolside Nest Bar is even conveniently ski-in/ski-out.

Off the Slopes

Whether you’re taking a day or an afternoon off from skiing, there’s plenty to tempt you out of your hotel room or condo (though we’ll never deny the appeal of a good nap).

The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, which has long offered popular mountain-top snowshoe tours and ski tours, added free, twice-daily snowshoe treks that start at the edge of the Mall and traverse a pair of local trails—once you see an ACES naturalist point out critter tracks or ID the trees you normally whiz past on skis, you won’t look at the mountain environment in quite the same way.    

Test your local knowledge with the new Snowmass Mountain Mission, an anytime app-based scavenger hunt that will take you all over the village and ski area. Challenges range from answering trivia questions about the resort to snapping photos and videos in designated locations. Get enough points and you’ll win a Snowmass Buff, not to mention eternal bragging rights.

The Collective’s Game Lounge became a hub when it debuted last winter, offering old-school arcade games, ping-pong, a massive ball pit, and more. It’s open this year with a few understandable modifications: a $15 per person fee for 50 minutes and required reservations. Visit the new Selfie Den (Thursdays to Tuesdays), with multiple interactive stations, and capture yourself with family or friends for a quirky reminder of this memorable winter. The Collective also hosts weekly free entertainment, including comedy night, family chess night, bingo night, and more (public health orders depending). 

Right outside The Collective, in the heart of Snowmass Base Village, the ice skating rink opens daily from 12:00 p.m. to 8 p.m., with free skate rentals (masks on, please) and reservations required. On Saturdays, there’s the DJ-hosted Disco Night (if you do the “Saturday Night Fever” pose for your kids, will they have a clue?). Give curling a whirl on select Friday afternoons during the rink’s cleverly named Game of Stones series.

Things to Ooh and Aah At

Few things say “perfect pandemic arts experience” more than outdoors exhibits. Take a moment to admire the season-long array of ice sculptures in Snowmass Base Village and the Snowmass Mall (and catch a carving demo by a local sculptor every other Wednesday).

Over at Anderson Ranch Arts Center, just about a mile and half down Brush Creek Road, lights are also a thing this winter. In addition to computer-programmed displays comprised of 20,000 LEDs, the Ranch commissioned six artists to imaginatively decorate half a dozen trees. The viewing lasts until 9 p.m. daily (through February 1), but make sure to get there before dark to see “Sculpturally Distanced,” a thought-provoking, campus-wide exhibit of 17 contemporary works by acclaimed sculptors that debuted last summer; if you snap a pic of the earthworks “Love Grave,” you’ll be in good company, as it’s now the Ranch’s most Instagrammed spot.

If all of these vibrant light displays make you think of fireworks, well, Snowmass has those, too, with displays going off monthly over Fanny Hill that you can safely view from the socially distanced confines of your lodge or condo.

While promoting good health this winter has required some changes, the essence of Snowmass—whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time regular—still holds plenty of appeal. Stay safe, and see you on the slopes.

Choosing where to take your children on a ski vacation can be difficult. But in Snowmass, with kid-specific terrain, convenient lodging and transportation, an award winning ski and snowboard school, loads of off-mountain activities and on-mountain food options that the kiddos love, the decision to spend time here with your family is easy. Here are the top 5 reasons Snowmass is perfect for kids:

1. The Terrain

Snowmass offers over 3,300 acres of incredible terrain, including a bounty of beginner slopes designed to help skiers and riders learn faster. The green runs are wide open, perfectly pitched, and allow for quick repeatable experiences (Assay Hill). Also, there are tons of kids' tree trails that bring the sensation of exploration to the youngest of adventurers. While 48% of the mountain is rated blue (more difficult), Snowmass has some of the most forgiving black and double black runs that make the most challenging slopes an accessible experience, theirs for the taking.

2. Slopeside Lodging and Easy Transportation

There is no better way to enjoy a ski vacation than to have the family staying right next to the slopes. Also, Snowmass’ free shuttle service is fast, frequent, and incredibly easy. Slopeside lodging means two things. First, this means at the beginning and end of the day, you don't have to haul your gear plus your kids' gear to the slopes. Second, not having to drive means more time connecting with the family.

3. The Ski and Snowboard School

The Ski and Snowboard School at Snowmass can ensure a kid’s experience is second to none. Don’t want to split up the crew? Consider booking a family private lesson. The instructors and guides will ensure that your family has the best experience possible, together.

 4. Non-Ski Activities

Sometimes, a day off the slopes can do a kid a world of good. The Snowmass Recreation Center has a gym, climbing wall, heated outdoor pools, and a hot tub to provide some off-the-slopes fun. Plenty of kid-friendly events and activities. Need more? Go tubing and ride the Breathtaker Coaster at Elk Camp. Book a dog sled ride with Krabloonik. Go bowling at Slopeside Lanes. Enjoy free ice skating at one of two ice rinks: Base Village and the Snowmass Recreation Center. Try out cross country skiing at the Snowmass Cross Country Center. Take a turn on the new indoor rock climbing wall at the Limelight Snowmass. You will definitely have more options than time.

5. On-Mountain Dining

Nothing perks up a little skier like a warm lunch or a quick snack, and at Snowmass, on-mountain dining for kids is both delicious and affordable. All of Snowmass’ on-mountain restaurants have Kids’ Combos, and you’ll find free hot cider at the top of the Sam’s Knob and Village Express lifts! Looking for kid-friendly après? Check out Snowmass S’mores, free s’mores available 3:30-4:30pm every day in Base Village and on the Snowmass Mall.

Written by Jon Delk

Snowmass Mountain Mission: Summer Season May 28th-October 2nd, 2022

To showcase the best of Snowmass, guests and locals are invited to partake in a series of winter long self-guided experiences – activities guests can do at any time, at their own pace. The Snowmass Mountain Mission is a village-wide scavenger hunt designed to challenge your creativity, test your Snowmass knowledge, and enhance your selfie skills.

Each question is assigned a point value. If you reach 3,000 points, you win a Snowmass Buff! Keep playing to finish the game. 6,000 points marks the grand prize! Play against your friends and other Snowmass trivia nuts - be sure to check the leaderboard often.

Have you played before?! Check out the Snowmass Art Walk using this same app!

Get out and enjoy all that Snowmass has to offer and of course, don't forget to tag @Snowmass #Snowmass. Good Luck!

Scavenger Hunt App How To

1. Download the Eventzee app from the App Store   

      2. Enter an email, username and password, and the event code: Snowmass

      3. Challenge your friends, family and tribe. See you on the leaderboard!

Your tickets are booked, rooms reserved, you’ve found yourself on a ski vacation with your tribe… and you don’t ski. Whether it’s an aversion to heights and chairlifts or your knees have had enough downhill for one lifetime, there is no need to feel left out! A ski vacation without the skis – or snowboard – is just as much fun and a lot less exhausting lugging around all that heavy gear. Sometimes the best adventures are off the mountain anyway.

Looking for an up-close experience with the nature of Colorado? The naturalists of Aspen Center for Environment Studies (ACES) lead daily snowshoe tours along the mountain waterways and through the forests of Snowmass. Tours are offered at 10:00am and 1:00pm at the top of the Elk Camp Gondola and start at $41 with a lift ticket or season pass. The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster is also at the top of the Gondola for those with a need for speed.

If that high speed expedition through the woods is more your style, then you and your non-skiing companions will definitely want to head over to Krabloonik for a dog sled ride. Explore the wilderness from a sled pulled by 10 Alaskan huskies, either as a morning or twilight tour. End the day with a gourmet meal at the 100-year-old, gas-lit log cabin restaurant for a dining experience unique to Snowmass.

Ok, so you aren’t into the style of skiing that requires a chairlift but maybe flat land skiing is in the cards. Snowmass is home to one of the largest free groomed cross-country ski systems in North America. Over 60 miles of trails for all levels wind out from the Snowmass Cross Country Center on the Snowmass Golf course. Cross country ski equipment can be rented right there and the center shares a space with the best place to fuel or replenish your day on the track, Black Saddle Bar & Grille.

You may have opted out of skiing but you don’t have to opt out of on-mountain lunch plans. Elk Camp Restaurant and Sam’s are two on-mountain restaurants accessible without skis, via the lift. The new Sam’s features modern Italian with stunning views of the soaring peaks around Snowmass - be sure to make a reservation before you head up. Elevated dining experiences like Lynn Britt Cabin are a snowcat ride away for a unique gourmet meal under the stars.

On Friday night the mountain doesn’t turn in with the sunset. At the top of the Elk Camp Gondola, the mountain comes alive for Ullr Nights. The restaurant serves locally sourced meals alongside live music, while outside there is tubing, s’mores, snow biking and the Breathtaker Coaster. Gondola tickets are $10 for Ullr Nights, while food and activities can be purchased à la carte.

Newly completed Snowmass Base Village is home to The Rink. Open daily from noon-9pm, The Rink features not just run of the mill ice skating, but themed skating nights, Bumper Cars and free curling series, Game of Stones. The Rink is surrounded by cozy fireplaces, perfect for s’mores, which you can get free from 3:30 – 4:30pm every day at the branded s’mores carts. Above it all at The Rink towers Colorado’s largest indoor climbing wall at Limelight Snowmass. Guests of all ages at can test their skills on the wall, which features an auto-belay system with three different lanes and six routes of varying degrees of difficulty. For happy hour specials and live music to round it all out, check out Limelight Hotel and The Collective.

If the weather rolls in and you are looking for some time inside, there are great art classes and speaker series available down the road at Anderson Ranch Arts Center. This historic campus is a premier destination for art making, workshops, lectures even a free tour around the studios or lunch among the artists in the Café. For a more casual creative setting check out Cocktails and Collage or Painting Peaks at Straight Line Studio Thursday nights in Base Village. And don’t miss the eclectic speaker series at the Collective. Throughout the year, local organizations such as Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES), Anderson Ranch Arts Center, Pitkin County Library, the Thunder River Theatre Company, Aspen Film, and more, round out The Collective’s programming, each presented free or for a nominal fee.

No trip to a Snowmass is complete without a little self-care. There are several spa options, yoga classes at Viceroy Snowmass and the Snowmass Recreation Center. Be sure to find some time in your busy schedule to sit back and relax in the mountains.  

While our resort is world-renowned for the on-mountain activities, sometimes time out of ski boots is even more memorable. Your skiing companions may even be jealous of all your non-skiing activities and take a day off the slopes to enjoy all Snowmass has to offer.