Love Snowmass Back

Get out and play! Snowmass is surrounded by two million acres of national forest land, with endless trails to hike and slopes to ski.

So be well-prepared.

Prepare for altitude. It takes some time to adjust so take it easy, hydrate early and often, get proper sleep/rest and minimize alcohol and caffeine. Read: Aspen Snowmass Guide to Altitude for Sea Level Guests

Don’t count on cell service. There’s no WIFI in the forest, but you’ll find a better connection.

Bring a map. Plan your route, download a map, or bring a paper one. You can pick them up at Snowmass Guest Services or download here: Trail Maps | Snowmass Tourism

Wear the right footwear. For summer hikes, that means hiking boots or sturdy sneakers. For winter strolls, traction matters more than fashion.

Dress in layers. The weather can change quickly in the mountains. Cozy layers with hats and gloves are obvious for winter adventures, but even in July it gets cold at night, and summer thunderstorms make rain jackets a must-have.

Don’t skimp on sunscreen. Snowmass’ higher elevation increases the intensity of sunlight. Even in the winter there are lots of sunny days and the sun reflecting off the snow can result in some funny goggle burns.

Bring lots of water and snacks to fuel your adventures. You’ll need more than you think.

Snowmass will leave an impression on you, but you should Leave No Trace on Snowmass. Let’s keep this valley safe and pristine for dogs and their humans too!

Follow fire restrictions. Even a small spark can have devastating impact. So before you start that campfire, check Roaring Fork Fire Restrictions.

Never approach wildlife. Keep your distance from wildlife, and never startle, feed, or try to pet animals. Learn more about wildlife you may encounter, how to avoid an encounter, and seasonal trail closures here.

Bring a reusable bottle and enjoy our clean mountain tap water.

Recycle if you can’t reduce or reuse. Here’s info on what and how.

Stay on marked trails to help preserve the delicate ecosystem. Take pics of the wildflowers, don’t pick them.

When you’re here, you’re part of the Snowmass community. Here’s how to treat the valley, and each other, right.

Know who has the right of way. On the ski slopes, the downhill skier has the right of way. On summer trails, horses always have the right of way, followed by uphill hikers and runners, with mountain bikers yielding to everyone. See all the trail etiquette here.

Ring a bike bell or announce your pass – it isn’t rude, it’s appreciated!

Use public transportation. Minimize traffic and parking limitations by using the car-free, cost-free transportation in the valley.

Free Village Shuttles with door-to-door service in Snowmass.

Free RFTA buses to Aspen.

Free e-bikes for rolling around town in the summer.

A free transit app to help navigate them!

Snowmass loves dogs. Follows a few simple rules to keep all four-legged friends safe.

Obey leash laws – especially on trails – to avoid unsafe interactions with wildlife, bikes, horses, dogs, and everyone who enjoys this beautiful place. Mandatory leash areas include: Rim Trail, Base Village, Snowmass Mall, Snowmass Center, Fanny Hill, and the Elk Camp side of Snowmass, including the Elk Camp Restaurant area.

Bring poop bags with you, and always bag and dispose of dog poop. Do not leave dog poop, bagged or unbagged, on any trails. Ever.

Don’t bring your dogs to events where they are not permitted. Don’t bring them to events such as concerts, the Snowmass Rodeo, or the Snowmass Balloon Festival.