The Ski Slopes of Colorado

Aspen is a ski resort in the state of Colorado in the Rocky Mountains region of the United States. Its little sister is the family-friendly Snowmass Village, which is about 10 miles from downtown Aspen.

In the winter, visitors can ski at the four city’s ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Highlands and Buttermilk. You can also hobnob with celebrities and jetsetters as Aspen also is known for its ability to attract both. Other family-friendly winter activities include sleigh rides, sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

There’s plenty to do in summer as well: mountain bike, hike, golf, take the chair lifts for scenic views, whitewater rafting, fly fishing or hot air ballooning. Visitors can also take in a rodeo, or one of the area’s many outdoor concerts and festivals.

A deluxe hotel in downtown Aspen, just one and a half blocks from the slopes, within walking distance of the town center, and three miles from Pitkin County Airport. Local attractions include skiing slopes and lifts in the winter, the nearest of which is less than one mile from the property. Year round, guests benefit from being within walking distance of the towns distinctive shopping and fine dining.Hotel amenities include Todd English's Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Olives Aspen, the Lobby Lounge, 24-hour room service, fitness center, and a heated swimming pool.Guest rooms feature wireless Internet, CD players, TVs, DVD players, video games, minibars, room safes, humidifiers, twice-daily housekeeping, bottled water, fresh fruit, telephones, bathrobes, slippers, scales, and toiletries.

This area is more of a spine than a mountain, yet it still offers 112 trails. It is a favorite of locals for 47 percent of the trails are expert rated and many feature outstanding mogul runs that soften up nicely in the sun. Even if you are not up for trying an expert run, a chairlift ride to the summit is worth the time for the views of the Maroon Bells are stunning. Beginners and intermediates can find trails to their liking on the lower half of the mountain. The mountain is serviced by four lifts and three restaurants.

A morning paper and patience are essential at this breakfast nook. It is always busy and some waiting is usually involved while trying to snare a table. During ski season it is especially busy, so plan accordingly if you are in a hurry to carve fresh tracks. The breakfast menu is jammed with options ranging from crepes and waffles, to lighter fare such as fresh fruit and bowls of granola. The lunch menu features great spinach salads, hearty soups and sandwiches.

The jewel of Aspen's four ski mountains, Aspen Mountain spills right into the streets, making it very convenient for in-town lodgers. Eight lifts, including the Silver Queen Gondola, service 76 trails, most of which cater to experts and intermediates;this is not a mountain for beginners. If you ski down Little Nell, the main finishing run, make sure to bring your A-game for the whole town will be watching. Three on-mountain restaurants can handle hunger needs, or opt for the Tavern at the base for a prime people watching seat. Lessons are available.

Lost amidst all the Snowmass ski hype is its cross-country center. It offers 80 kilometers of groomed double-tracks, making it perfect for enjoying the area's eye-protruding scenery at a leisurely pace. And better yet, it is free. An on-site pro shop rents skis and snowshoes, and offers demo packages by Fisher and Salomon. Tuning and all-important waxing are available. Even when the shop closes, the course is open 24 hours a day. Skiing under a full Colorado moon is something worth experiencing.

Set amidst the Elk Mountains in the Ashcroft Valley, the only way to get here in the winter is by sleigh, snowshoe or cross-country skis. Considering its unparalleled reputation for top-notch gourmet fare, the common reaction upon finally spotting the place is "this is it?" It looks, on the outside, like a common cabin. The interior, however, blends elegance with rustic, country charm. Dinner features selections like oven-roasted rack of lamb, Pistachio Crusted Caribou, and Barbecued Flat Iron Steak. The menu varies daily. Be forewarned that it is pricey. Reservations are a must.

Steamboat Springs is known as “Ski Town U.S.A.” for its reputation as a breeding ground for U.S. Winter Olympic Athletes, but its also just as popular for its family-friendly hotels, slopes and activities. The town is about three to four hours away from Denver by car in good winter conditions.

The town of Steamboat Springs is essentially separated into several areas. One is the mountain area (known simply as “the mountain” or “the base area”) surrounding the base of the Steamboat Ski Area on Mt. Werner. There are multiple shops as well as dining and nightlife, though the area is currently undergoing a major renovation and reconstruction. The area also includes many hotels, condominiums and rental homes.

In summer, try hiking Fishcreek Falls, Mt. Werner, Buffalo Pass and Rabbit Ears pass. Or visit the Yampa River for kayaking, rafting, tubing or fly-fishing.

Melted snow turns to whitewater fun for the whole family on Northern Colorado rivers.

Located on Main Street, this is one of those places which looks expensive but is surprisingly budget friendly. The interior's dark adobe walls and muted lighting give it a classy, southwest look. There are plenty of window tables for people watching. It tends to be more popular with tourists than with the locals. The servings are generous; Fajitas, quesadillas and enchiladas dominate the menu. A kid's menu is available. Its well-known margaritas are festive fun-fuel. The restaurant opens daily at 11a.

Aspen is a ski resort in the state of Colorado in the Rocky Mountains region of the United States. Its little sister is the family-friendly Snowmass Village, which is about 10 miles from downtown Aspen.

In the winter, visitors can ski at the four city’s ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Highlands and Buttermilk. You can also hobnob with celebrities and jetsetters as Aspen also is known for its ability to attract both. Other family-friendly winter activities include sleigh rides, sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

There’s plenty to do in summer as well: mountain bike, hike, golf, take the chair lifts for scenic views, whitewater rafting, fly fishing or hot air ballooning. Visitors can also take in a rodeo, or one of the area’s many outdoor concerts and festivals.