Whether you’re a first timer to Aspen, Colorado, or a seasoned veteran, there’s no better way to experience this majestic mountain than by staying at a beautiful resort like Aspen Highlands Ski Resort Lodging. Featuring a world-class ski area, the Aspen Highlands offers a variety of lodging options from luxury ski chalets to budget-friendly hotels. Plus, with access to the legendary Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro and a host of other amenities, you’ll find plenty of ways to make your stay in Aspen even more special.
Aspen Mountain Lodge
The Ritz-Carlton, Aspen Highlands offers guests a luxury hotel experience, free private parking and accommodations with an outdoor hot tub and fitness center. All of the lodging at this luxury ski resort is located at the base of a 12,500-foot mountain.
Aside from the upscale accommodations at the Ritz-Carlton, Aspen Highlands, there are a number of high-end hotel options in Aspen. These include the Elegant Traditional Red Brick Hotel and the Scenic Intimate 5-Resort Hotel. They offer panoramic views of the mountains, and both hotels are just a few steps from the Silver Queen Gondola.
Another great place to stay is the Aspen Mountain Lodge. This lodge is just a short walk from the Aspen Gondola, and features a hot tub and 24-hour business center. It also provides free Wi-Fi and daily housekeeping.
For skiing enthusiasts, the Aspen Highlands Ski Resort is the best in Colorado. The resort boasts sweeping views of the Maroon Bells. There are over 100 trails, including a few rated expert. The resort is part of the Mountain Collective, which means you can ski any of the slopes in the collective.
While most other Aspen resorts are expensive, Highlands is affordable. You can find a room for under $100 during peak season.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
The Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro is an elegant and impressive restaurant located on the uppermost level of the Cloud Nine ski lift at Aspen Highlands. This mountain restaurant offers a slew of tasty and fun dishes, ranging from scotch eggs to wagyu beef with a twist.
The Cloud Nine’s dining room was upgraded in recent years, allowing more guests to enjoy its culinary creations. During the evening hours, this alpine eatery is the scene of epic revelry. Guests can choose from a range of specialty cocktails and fine wines. A plethora of memorabilia showcasing the rich history of the mountain is on display.
One of the more impressive perks of the Cloud Nine is the apres-ski experience. Located in an old ski patrol hut, the place is an ideal location to relax and mingle. Not to mention, the view is unparalleled, particularly if you’re on the Maroon Bells side of the mountain.
The Cloud Nine is a well-respected restaurant that is a hit with locals and tourists alike. There is no question that the Cloud Nine is the apres-ski hotspot in Aspen. However, this posh establishment does require a bit of planning. In order to ensure that you don’t miss out on the fun, make sure you reserve a table!
Apres-ski experiences
After you’ve spent the day on the slopes, Aspen is a great place to enjoy the apres. Its mountain town atmosphere, snowy beauty, and great food and drink options make it a top destination in the winter.
Ajax Tavern is a great spot to enjoy après ski. This tavern is located in the base area of Aspen Mountain. You can enjoy delicious gourmet burgers, truffle fries, Veuve Clicquot, and Colorado microbrews. The patio is also a great place to wait for the gondola.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro is a slice of Switzerland in the Rocky Mountains. It’s known for its bacchanalian apres scene. They offer a menu full of fondue and other hearty fare to fuel your snowboarding sessions.
Another place to check out is Mi Chola, a popular north side apres spot. They serve margaritas, chicken tortilla soup, and kombucha on tap. If you’re into a little bit of dancing, you can dance on their tables when the music is high.
Base Camp has an epic second-floor deck. They also have a slope-side bar, the New Belgium Ranger Station, that serves locally-sourced cocktails and beer.
Vogue has recently featured some of the new post-slope hot spots in Aspen. One of the places is Bad Harriet, a new resident bespoke cocktail experience. Located under the historic Aspen Times building, it’s managed by master alchemists.