Aspen Mountain (Ajax)
Aspen, CO, 81611
Located just minutes from downtown Aspen, Aspen Mountain—sometimes known as “town mountain” or Ajax—is a skier’s dream come true. Fly down groomed trails and gladed runs all winter long, then return in the summer to bask on the mountaintop sundeck and explore hiking trails studded with wildflowers.
The basics
Aspen Mountain is known for its challenging ski runs and unbeatable location—just a quick shuttle ride from downtown Aspen. Spend the day hitting the slopes, then get back in plenty of time to enjoy Aspen’s restaurants, hotels, and legendary arts scene. Even if you don’t ski, it’s worth it to take a lap on the gondola for stunning views of the Elk Mountain range or to grab a bite at Ajax Tavern, locally famous for its truffle fries.
Things to know before you go
There are four restaurants on Aspen Mountain, ranging from grab-and-go options to 5-star dining.
Aspen Mountain is recommended for intermediate to advanced skiers, as there are no green-level runs.
Gear rentals and lessons are available on-site; booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season.
In addition to skiing, there’s a kid-friendly roller coaster, tubing, ice skating, snowshoe tours, and special events.
Summer activities on the mountain include a zipline and rope course canopy tour, mountain biking, paintball, yoga, and disc golf.
Kids under 6 years old ski for free.
How to get there
One of the easiest ways to get to Aspen Mountain is by using the local Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus system. There are a number of park-and-ride lots within a 10-minute drive from downtown Aspen where you can catch a free shuttle to the slopes. You can also get to the mountain by bike or even by foot. Be sure to check with your hotel, too, as many hotels offer complimentary bus services to local lodging.
When to get there
Prime ski season typically runs from late November through April, depending on snow conditions, but be sure to check Aspen Mountain’s website for seasonal dates before booking. The website also has daily reports on snowfall levels and what is currently open, so it’s the best resource to plan ahead. Time your visit with annual events like the Wintersköl festival—typically in mid-December—to get a taste of local mountain culture.
Explore all of Aspen Snowmass
There are four mountains that make up the Aspen Snowmass resort: Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Snowmass, and Aspen Highlands. Each is located within a short drive of downtown Aspen. Together, they offer a diverse range of terrain, levels, restaurants, and experiences for you to enjoy—visit all four to get the most of your pass.
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