By The Thirst Team
It’s that time of year when people from across the globe dream of dining, drinking and shopping in Aspen, after blazing down Aspen Mountain.
Snowmass and Aspen Mountain kicked off the season on Thanksgiving, opening limited terrain to thrill-seekers looking for a bluebird day on the hill.
Because it’s early in the ski year, expect to find the upper slopes of Aspen Mountain skiable, as well as Elk Camp Meadows at Snowmass.
The new CEO at Aspen Skiing Co. sounded as giddy as the powder buffs when announcing opening day.
“This will be my first opening here at Aspen Snowmass and I couldn’t be more excited to join the team on kicking things off for another exciting winter season,” Geoff Buchheister said. “We’ve had a couple of recent storms and the crews have been working hard making snow and getting the mountains ready for our guests.”
Single-day lift tickets are currently $169 for adults and $124 for seniors, teens and children, and season passes are still available.
Aspen enthusiasts should download the Aspen Snowmass App. Users can get push notifications about mountain updates, alerts and when the fresh stuff will fall.
For those whose boards and skis are waxed and ready, the area has a few more details on what’s available currently. Aspen Mountain offers 41 acres served by the Silver Queen Gondola from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for skiers. The Ajax Express chair will provide access to Dipsy Doodle, Silver Bell, Deer Park and Tortilla Flats. If the snow flies, more terrain will open quickly.
Snowmass opens with 16 acres at Elk Camp Meadows beginner’s area. The Sky Cab, Meadows chair and Magic Carpet will also be open. The Sky Cab gondola will start running at 8 a.m.
For the most up-to-date terrain openings, download the Aspen Snowmass app or click here. Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk are scheduled to open Dec. 9.
Ski and Snowboard lessons are offered at Aspen Mountain and Snowmass. For more information, click here.
The Sundeck will be open for dining on Aspen Mountain, as well as Elk Camp at Snowmass from 9:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Ajax Tavern at the base of Aspen Mountain will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.