Explore Snowmass: The Ultimate Winter Destination
In the winter of 2018, the town of Snowmass debuted its brand new $600 million Snowmass Base Village development – a move which positions it as a serious stay-and-play destination to rival Aspen.
When it comes to acreage and varied winter terrain in the Roaring Fork Valley, Snowmass ski resort has long been the winner, hands-down. It stands as the largest of the four ski areas owned by Aspen Skiing Company in the region. However, when it came to dining, lodging, and entertainment, Aspen previously held the upper hand. Fortunately, this has changed dramatically.
Best of all? Snowmass is more affordable than Aspen, catering to families and making it the perfect choice for those in search of a more budget-friendly winter holiday.
What’s New in Snowmass
Limelight Hotel
The Limelight Hotel Snowmass is a key feature of the new Base Village. From here, visitors can access the Village Express, Elk Camp Gondola, and Sky Cab ski lifts, all leading directly to the Snowmass ski area. This family-focused and affordable yet luxe property even welcomes four-legged companions.
The hotel boasts a children’s play area and a 5-story indoor climbing wall, keeping kids entertained when they’re not on the slopes. Moreover, adults can enjoy a relaxing soak in the onsite hot tubs after a day of skiing.
Additionally, a free ice skating rink next door to the hotel provides complimentary skate rentals from a vintage Airstream trailer, enhancing the family-friendly atmosphere.
The Collective Snowmass
The Collective Snowmass, located just steps from the Limelight, is an indoor venue featuring an art gallery and a spacious lounge area that showcases entertainment, speakers, and live music throughout the winter season.
Kids will love the Collective Game Lounge, which features neon foosball, classic arcade games, artistic ping pong, and a Ziegler reservoir-shaped ball pit. Meanwhile, adults can unwind at Moxi Bar, where inventive cocktails, a curated craft beer list, and renowned wines await.
Onsite dining includes MixSix – a new fast-casual concept restaurant by award-winning Aspen chef Martin Oswald. Guests can mix and match up to six seasonal ingredients, prepared from scratch daily, into a healthy meal of their choice. On Sundays, they offer a brunch with a Bloody Mary bar.
Try Cross Country Skiing
Cross country skiing emerges as an exciting and affordable alternative winter sport that offers an excellent workout. With over 60 miles of Nordic trails, Snowmass is one of the largest free groomed cross country ski systems in North America. The only expense you’ll incur is for gear rental, if you don’t already possess your own equipment.
Local Secret: Ski Uphill at Snowmass for Free
If you’re willing to exert some effort and hike up the mountain without relying on chair lifts, you can ski down all day at no cost. This is known as “uphilling,” which involves hiking up designated routes on the mountain while using skis or a split board with skins — a special covering that allows for uphill gliding while preventing slipping backward.
Snowmass Ski Area permits uphill skiing for free; however, gear rental does incur a fee. The optimal time to enjoy this activity is early in the morning before the lifts open, allowing you to experience fresh snow before it gets crowded.
What to Do if You Don’t Ski
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your forte, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. The newest attraction on the mountain is the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, an elevated roller coaster that delivers an exhilarating ride down the mountain at speeds up to 28 miles per hour, all while navigating through lush forest terrain.
If you prefer to stay warm indoors, consider visiting the nearby Anderson Ranch Arts Center. Founded in 1966, it serves as a creative hub for adults and children alike, offering a multitude of interactive art workshops, art aprè series on Tuesdays, lectures by influential artists and curators, weekend classes, and children’s art workshops.
