If Aspen Gay Ski Week is on your winter radar, you’re already onto something special. This iconic January event is one of the longest-running LGBTQIA+ ski celebrations in the country, bringing together great skiing, unforgettable parties, and an incredibly welcoming mountain vibe.
While events span the entire Roaring Fork Valley, many guests choose to stay in Snowmass for its outstanding mountain access, more laid-back atmosphere, and easy connection to everything Aspen Gay Ski Week has to offer (plus some distance from the main festivities in Aspen, so you can take a rest!). From daytime turns on the mountain to nights filled with music, drag shows, and themed parties, the week delivers a perfect balance of adventure and celebration.
In this piece:
- What Makes Aspen Gay Ski Week So Special?
- When is Aspen Gay Ski Week?
- A Quick Look at the History
- Skiing During Gay Ski Week
- How Much Are Aspen Lift Passes for Gay Ski Week?
- Snowmass Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss
- Après-Ski & Nightlife
- Where to Stay: Crestwood Condominiums in Snowmass
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Aspen Gay Ski Week So Special?
Honestly, everything about Aspen Gay Ski Week is special! Aspen Gay Ski Week isn’t just about skiing, it’s about community. Every January, the area comes alive with events that welcome LGBTQIA+ travelers and allies alike. You’ll find everything from on-mountain meetups and downhill drag competitions to high-energy nightlife and charity events supporting local causes.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or meeting new people along the way, the atmosphere is open, inclusive, and most of all, a ton of fun!
When is Aspen Gay Ski Week?
Aspen Gay Ski Week usually takes place around the second week of January. It took place from January 11-18, 2026, and dates haven’t been announced yet for 2027.
A Quick Look at the History
Aspen Gay Ski Week dates back to 1977, when a small group of skiers began gathering in Aspen each winter. What started as informal meetups eventually grew into an organized event, helping position Aspen as one of the first mountain destinations in the country to openly embrace LGBTQIA+ travelers.
Over the decades, the event has grown into the largest and longest-running gay ski week in the U.S., attracting visitors from around the world.
Skiing During Gay Ski Week
All four Aspen Snowmass mountains are part of the experience:
- Aspen Mountain
- Aspen Highlands
- Buttermilk
- Snowmass
Each mountain of course offers something different, but Snowmass stands out for its variety of terrain, wide groomers, and convenient village access.
How Much Are Aspen Lift Passes for Gay Ski Week?
Lift ticket pricing varies by date and length of stay. Multi-day passes provide the best value if you plan to ski most of the week. Currently, one-day prices are running around $184. AGSW is offering a special 4th-day free deal on adult lift tickets, as well. So, if you’re going to ski three days, you might as well ski four!
Snowmass Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss
One of the most anticipated Snowmass events during the week is the Downhill Costume Contest. Expect creative outfits, bold personalities, and plenty of laughs as skiers turn the slopes into a moving runway. Past outfits have included an on-slope Elphaba, teams full of Brittany Spears outfits, Taylor Swift impersonators, and more!
Après-Ski & Nightlife
When the lifts stop spinning, the party doesn’t slow down. Gay Ski Week features:
- Large-scale dance parties
- Themed nights like the White Party and Onesie Party
- Drag performances, comedy shows, and live entertainment
Many events take place in Aspen, but Snowmass guests can easily head into town and return to a quieter, more peaceful home base afterward.
Where to Stay: Crestwood Condominiums in Snowmass
For guests who want great mountain access, extra space, and an affordable place to stay during Gay Ski Week, Crestwood Condominiums are a smart choice.
Located slopeside in Snowmass, our Crestwood condos are ideal for groups traveling together or friends booking multiple units nearby. After a full day of skiing or a late night out, it’s the perfect place to return to.
Snowmass also tends to feel less crowded than Aspen during peak event weeks, giving you the best of both worlds: access to the action, without the constant bustle. Ready to book your trip? Browse our available Snowmass vacation rentals today and book your stay directly with Crestwood Condos!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aspen Gay Ski Week only for gay men?
No. Events welcome the entire LGBTQIA+ community and allies. There are also events specifically centered around womxn and nonbinary guests.
Do I have to ski or snowboard to participate?
Not at all. Many events are social and don’t involve skiing, making it easy to participate even if you stay off the slopes.
Should I book early?
Yes. Both event tickets and lodging tend to fill quickly, especially properties near Snowmass Mountain.
Is Snowmass a good option if I want a quieter place to stay?
Yes. Snowmass is ideal if you want easy access to skiing and events while still having a calmer place to unwind. You’re close enough to Aspen for nightlife but far enough away to enjoy quieter mornings and evenings.
How do I get between Snowmass and Aspen during Gay Ski Week?
Free buses run frequently between Snowmass and Aspen throughout the day and evening. Rideshare options are also available, making it easy to attend events without worrying about parking.
Are Gay Ski Week events family-friendly?
Some daytime activities and on-mountain events are appropriate for all ages, but many evening parties and nightlife events are 21+. Always check individual event details before attending.
What should I pack for Aspen Gay Ski Week?
Bring your ski gear, cold-weather layers, and at least one fun outfit for themed parties or costume events. Comfortable shoes are also a must if you plan to bounce between venues at night.
