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By: Grace O. – Grace writes for The Crestwood, sharing insights and travel tips to help you plan unforgettable vacations to Snowmass!

Aspen Snowmass is one of the top ski destinations in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With four incredible mountains in the area, a long season, and an après-ski scene that’s hard to beat, it’s no wonder travelers love returning here year after year.

Since our rentals are located on Snowmass Mountain, today we’ll explore the ultimate guide to skiing in Snowmass, and everything that goes along with the experience when you stay with us here at Crestwood. From the best runs for beginners to information on the terrain park and the best spots to grab dinner after a day out on the trails, we’ve got you covered!

Before we fully dive into our guide to skiing in Snowmass, make sure you’re signed up for our Crestwood mailing list so you don’t miss out on any updates from us, including upcoming specials and other news!

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In this Guide:

When is Ski Season In Snowmass

It varies by year, but ski season typically runs from late November to mid-April. You can check the dates for the current year on gosnowmass.com.

What Are the Four Mountains?

skiing in snowmass

You may hear people talking about the “four mountains” and feel slightly confused. There are four mountains in the Aspen Snowmass area: Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, the Highlands, and Snowmass Mountain. Snowmass Mountain is the only one of the four actually located in Snowmass Village, but if you want a change of scenery, the other three are only about a 10-20-minute drive away. Lucky for you, though, Snowmass actually has the largest ski area (3,300+ acres) and has incredibly diverse terrain, so you won’t even need to visit the other mountains unless you want to venture into Aspen. You could spend entire days skiing here without encountering crowds or repeating trails!

Snowmass Mountain

Okay, let’s talk Snowmass Mountain. As we noted, it has the largest ski area of the four Aspen Snowmass resorts, and that’s not where its perks end. It’s a great destination for families, with beginner trails and a large selection of intermediate trails.

Here’s a rough breakdown of Snowmass’ Trails:

Spring Skiing

Spring skiing in Snowmass is a favorite for many visitors thanks to longer days, warmer temperatures, and a more laid-back vibe on the mountain. As the season winds down, you’ll often find fewer crowds, softer snow in the afternoons, and plenty of sunshine. Snowmass’s high elevation helps preserve great conditions well into the spring, making it one of the best places in Colorado to extend your ski season. Plus, spring brings a fun, festive energy to the village, with après-ski patios, special events, and the chance to enjoy both mountain adventures and mild mountain weather in the same day.

Snowboarding vs. Skiing

If you’re a total beginner, you may have some curiosities about snowboarding versus skiing. Is snowboarding safer than skiing? Is one more fun than the other?

Honestly, there’s no one true answer as to which is better. Some people love skiing, and others prefer gliding down the slopes on a snowboard, but it really comes down to personal preference. If you’re an experienced skateboarder, you might find it easier to snowboard since it’s a familiar motion.

Either way, though, learning how to ski downhill or snowboard as an adult feels intimidating, but it’s not bad at all once you get the hang of it! Snowmass has a great range of trails, so there are plenty of beginner-friendly options to test your skills. Hey, it’s even a great place to try snowboarding for the first time if you’re an experienced skier, or vice versa!

Après Ski in Snowmass

After a day out on the slopes, there are still plenty of options for how you want to spend your evening! Apres-ski (or after-ski, après is the French word for after) culture is huge in Colorado!

While our neighbors in Aspen may be known for their lively parties and nightlife, the après ski scene in Snowmass is nothing to scoff at. Here are our favorite après ski stops in Snowmass Village:

Whether you’re looking for a full meal or a quick drink, these spots are wonderful for meeting fellow skiers and having fun at the end of the day! After all, that’s what vacation is for.

Ski-in Ski-out Rentals in Snowmass: Book Directly with Crestwood

book ski in ski out rentals for skiing in snowmass

The number one reason so many folks choose to stay in Snowmass rather than Aspen is our ski-in/ski-out lodging. 95% of rentals in Snowmass are slopeside, because the less time you spend traveling to the mountain, the more time you spend on the mountain!

That being said, when you’re looking for the best vacation rentals in Snowmass, you can’t beat our selection of Crestwood Condos. Whether you’re heading out on a group trip and want to rent units close to one another or you’ve been searching for the best place to have a family-friendly ski getaway, you’ll find the perfect fit for you amongst our catalog. We have 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom options that accommodate up to 8 guests, so there’s plenty of room!

Enjoy full kitchens where you can cook a meal, unbeatable mountain views, and the best part—unrivaled access to one of the top mountains in North America. All at a reasonable rate!

Ready to book your Snowmass Ski vacation? We can’t wait to host you here. Browse our available Snowmass vacation rentals now and book your trip directly with The Crestwood!

Frequently Asked Questions About Skiing in Snowmass

Where should beginners start skiing on Snowmass Mountain?

Beginners should start in the Elk Camp area, which has dedicated learning terrain and gentle green runs. This zone is well laid out, easy to navigate, and close to on‑mountain dining and rest areas.

What should first‑time visitors know about altitude in Snowmass?

Snowmass sits above 8,000 feet, so hydration matters. Drink water consistently, take it easy on day one, and limit alcohol the first night to avoid altitude fatigue.

Is Snowmass manageable for groups with mixed ability levels?

Yes—this is one of Snowmass’ biggest strengths. The mountain’s layout allows advanced skiers to take steeper lines while intermediates cruise groomers that rejoin at the same lifts.

Where should beginners start skiing on Snowmass Mountain?

Beginners should start in the Elk Camp area, which has dedicated learning terrain and gentle green runs. This zone is well laid out, easy to navigate, and close to on‑mountain dining and rest areas.

 

So, you’ve heard about the incredible mountain getaways of Aspen Snowmass, but you’re not sure what the difference is between the two destinations. That makes a lot of sense! Oftentimes, many people use the terms interchangeably, but the truth is, there are some distinct differences between these mountain towns. There’s really no wrong decision when it comes to Snowmass vs. Aspen, but some people prefer one to the other, depending on what they’re looking for.

We live and work in Snowmass, so our passion lies here, but we do know quite a bit about Aspen, as well. After all, it’s only a fifteen-minute drive between Aspen and Snowmass! If you’re trying to decide which destination is better for your vacation, you’re in the right place. In this piece, we’ll dive into everything Snowmass vs. Aspen, so you can make an informed decision on where you want to stay. Let’s get to it!

 

To learn even more about Snowmass, check out our blog!

Snowmass Blog

 

In this blog:

 

Which is a Bigger Town, Aspen or Snowmass?

This is more of a complicated question than you might think at first! Aspen has a larger population (roughly 7,300 people versus Snowmass’ 2,700), but Snowmass is significantly larger in terms of geography. Snowmass Mountain is the largest of the four mountains in the area, spanning over 3,300 acres!

Which Destination is Better for Skiing?

Of course, both destinations are fantastic for skiing, but Snowmass takes the win here. As we noted, it’s the largest of the four mountains in the area, and it’s the best destination for people focused on skiing! In fact, many of our accommodations are ski-in/ski-out, so they’re as close to the mountain as you can get.

Snowmass Mountain is truly something to behold. It has a nice mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert trails, so you can visit with kids and still get in a few challenging runs of your own. The trails here are really wide and filled with fresh, powdery snow, so they’re perfect for a ski getaway! Plus, there’s so much skiable terrain that you could spend all day on the mountain and never have to repeat a trail. Now that’s variety! Its size also means that it rarely gets crowded, so you don’t have to worry about too many people out on the trail with you.

Is Either Destination More Expensive?

Yes, Aspen is generally more expensive than Snowmass. Aspen has a high-profile, luxurious reputation, and that comes with a price tag. Over here in Snowmass, we have access to everything in Aspen, plus Snowmass Mountain—all at a reasonable price.

Where Should We Go for a Family-Friendly Vacation?

snowmass vs aspen

Snowmass is our choice for a family-friendly vacation. Kids are still welcome in Aspen, of course, but it’s a destination you might want to return to when you don’t require a babysitter. The apres-ski scene in Aspen is all about late-night parties and, honestly, a lot of not-quite-so-family-friendly activities. Snowmass tends to go to bed a bit earlier, which makes it easier for little ones (and you!) to get to sleep after a day on the slopes.

Does Snowmass Have Good Nightlife?

Yes! While Aspen is better known for its nightlife scene, there are still things to do in Snowmass. During peak ski season, Ullr Nights are a highlight here in Snowmass. There are plenty of exciting activities happening every Friday, including the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, tubing, snow biking, s’mores, and live music.

There are also other apres-ski options like The Cabin that will make your trip a blast! 105 Pizza and Bowl is a great stop too—while Snowmass doesn’t have all the pizazz that Aspen does in its nightlife, you can still have a great time. As another added bonus, the nightlife scene in Snowmass is family-friendly, so you can bring your kids along too!

Can We Go Shopping in Snowmass?

Yes! The Snowmass Mall has plenty of shops to peruse, whether you’re looking for something to eat or want to buy some gear. Many of the shops are catered towards selling ski and other recreational gear, so it’s not necessarily the best place to go if you’re searching for a new outfit for a night out. If you want to get more classic retail therapy in, we’d recommend making the trip to downtown Aspen. There, you’ll find luxury brands like Prada, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and Valentino, plus jewelry stores like Meridian Jewelers and, a bit further out of downtown, fun options like the Aspen Thrift Shop.

Book Your Vacation in Snowmass Directly with Crestwood Condos!

snowmass vs. aspen

There are so many wonderful upsides to staying in Snowmass, especially if you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway. Once you’ve made your decision, choose the best vacation rentals in Snowmass when you stay with us at Crestwood Condos!

We’re the top trusted local source when it comes to outstanding condos in Snowmass, and we’re proud to host return visitors, along with new guests, every year. We can’t wait to host you, too! Browse our available Snowmass condos now and book your stay directly with Crestwood; you won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Snowmass vs. Aspen

If we stay at the Crestwood, do we still have access to activities in Aspen?

Absolutely! Snowmass is only a 15-minute drive from Aspen, so you still have access to all the activities there—with somewhere quiet to return to afterwards!

Snowmass Vs. Aspen: What is the main difference?

The main difference between Aspen and Snowmass lies in each town’s atmosphere and layout. Aspen offers a walkable downtown filled with luxury shopping, fine dining, and nightlife, while Snowmass is purpose-built resort village with ski-in/ski-out lodging and a more family-focused vibe.

Is Aspen or Snowmass better for skiing?

Both are part of Aspen Snowmass and share lift access, but Snowmass Mountain is the largest ski area with more beginner and intermediate terrain. Aspen Mountain is steeper and better suited for advanced skiers. Families often prefer Snowmass, while experienced skiers may lean toward Aspen.

Is Snowmass cheaper than Aspen?

Yes, Snowmass is generally more affordable than Aspen when it comes to lodging and dining. Aspen is known for luxury accommodations and upscale restaurants, while Snowmass offers more mid-range and family-friendly options—like our Crestwood Condos!

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?

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

aspen gay ski week skiers

All four Aspen Snowmass mountains are part of the experience:

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:

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

stay at crestwood for aspen gay ski week

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.

Looking to do something different for Christmas this year? Well, we’re biased, but of course, we think you should come spend your holiday with us in Snowmass Village. Spending the holidays in the mountains is a tradition many families look forward to all year, and Snowmass Village at Christmas is one of the best places to do it. With a winter wonderland of snow, family-friendly ski slopes, and special seasonal events, Snowmass is a fantastic place to experience holiday cheer.

If you’ve been searching for the perfect winter getaway and wondering what makes the holidays here so popular, you’re in the right place. Our Crestwood Condos team knows the area better than anyone, so we’re happy to walk you through what to expect and why so many families choose Snowmass for their Christmas traditions.

Thinking about planning a holiday trip? Let’s take a closer look at Christmas in Snowmass and what makes it such a great fit for families.

 

Want to stay up to date with us? Sign up for the Crestwood Condos newsletter to receive travel tips, holiday updates, and special offers, perfect for planning a trip with the whole family!

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In this piece:

 

What Is Snowmass Like During Christmas?

It’s magical; in December, Snowmass Village comes alive for Christmas! The lights throughout Base Village and the Snowmass Mall really light up the town, and there are plenty of festive things to do, as well.

If you’re traveling with little ones, Snowmass is a great destination because it’s so easy to get around. Ski school, dining, and holiday events are all close by. Kids love the snow, and parents enjoy not needing to plan every detail too far in advance. Everything is designed to make winter travel feel manageable, even during a busy holiday week.

Is There Snow in December?

Yes! Snowmass typically has snow at Christmas, which is one of the main reasons families plan holiday trips here. Snowmass Mountain benefits from consistent early-season snowfall, and snowmaking helps maintain good conditions throughout December.

If you’re planning a Snowmass, Colorado Christmas, you can plan on skiing, snowboarding, and other snowy activities to be a key part of your holiday! Plus, it’s fun for the whole family—the ski runs vary in terms of difficulty, so no one has to stay behind at the ski lodge (unless they want to, of course).

Is the Mountain Open on Christmas?

christmas in snowmass

Pictured: Snowmass Mountain on Christmas Day. 

Yes, Snowmass Mountain is open on Christmas, including ski lifts, ski school, restaurants, and village activities. Christmas Day often starts quietly on the mountain, so you can enjoy time with family before hitting the slopes, and even once you’re there, your fellow skiers will be few and far between compared to a typical ski day.

What Are the Best Christmas Activities for Families?

One of the biggest reasons families return year after year is the variety of Christmas activities available. You don’t have to ski all day, every day, to enjoy your trip here!

Popular things to do in Snowmass during Christmas include:

Are There Christmas Events?

Yes, Snowmass Christmas events are held throughout December and are designed to be easy for families to enjoy together. Many events take place right in the village, so they’re easy to fit into your schedule. Browse the official Aspen Snowmass calendar for a full list of updated events, including information on Christmas dinner at local restaurants like Ajax Tavern and Element 47.

Holiday events this year include:

What Are the Christmas Lights Like?

Evenings in Snowmass are even more special during the holidays thanks to Snowmass Christmas lights throughout the village. Trees, walkways, and gathering areas are decorated for the season, so you’ll feel extra festive even if you don’t have a chance to make it to Santa’s Village. A walk around town is enough to get anyone in the spirit!

What About Aspen?

Families staying in Snowmass often take advantage of its close proximity to Aspen. Christmas at Aspen Snowmass allows you to experience two holiday settings in one trip.

Aspen features classic holiday décor, seasonal shopping, and winter traditions, while Snowmass focuses more on space, convenience, and family-friendly activities. A quick trip into Aspen can be a fun addition to your Aspen Snowmass Christmas itinerary. Plus, you’re close to Aspen Mountain as well, so you can take your pick of ski terrain.

Why Families Choose Snowmass for the Holidays

Why do families return to Snowmass year after year to celebrate the holidays? Well,  simply put, Snowmass at Christmas is exciting, festive, affordable, and makes holiday travel relatively easy. Ski school, terrain variety, dining, and events are all designed to work well together, which helps reduce stress during an already busy time of year.

Add in dependable snow conditions, kid-friendly activities, and the best vacation accommodations around (at Crestwood Condos), and it’s easy to see why Snowmass Christmas is a favorite for family trips.

Book Your Snowmass Village Vacation at Crestwood Condos!

stay somewhere nice christmas in snowmass

Once you’ve decided on Christmas in Snowmass, choosing the right place to stay is the next step. And there’s no better choice than Crestwood Condos! Our Snowmass condos give families the space, comfort, and convenience they need, with full kitchens, room to relax, and easy access to Snowmass Village activities.

Book your Snowmass Village vacation directly with Crestwood Condos today and start planning a holiday trip your family will remember long after the season ends.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas in Snowmass

Will there be snow?

In most years, yes. Snowmass typically gets snow by mid-December. We also have the ability to make snow if there isn’t enough on the slopes! Because of the natural snow and our snowmaking, you can usually expect good conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and snow play during the holiday season.

Is Snowmass open on Christmas Day?

Yes, Snowmass is open on Christmas Day. Ski lifts, ski school, restaurants, and village amenities operate on Christmas, and many families enjoy a quieter morning on the mountain before gathering for holiday meals or activities later in the day.

Is Snowmass good for families with kids at Christmas?

Yes, Snowmass at Christmas is especially popular with families. The resort is known for wide, beginner-friendly runs, excellent ski school programs, walkable village areas, and holiday events designed for kids. It’s a destination that works well for families with children of all ages.

What are the best Snowmass Christmas activities for kids?

Some of the most popular Snowmass Christmas activities for kids include ski and snowboard lessons, ice skating in Base Village, snowshoeing, and village holiday events like Santa’s Village.

What are Snowmass Christmas lights like?

Snowmass Christmas lights decorate the village throughout the holiday season. Walkways, trees, and gathering areas are lit in the evenings, so you can enjoy a festive display after a day of skiing.

Can we visit Aspen while staying in Snowmass at Christmas?

Yes. Many families staying in Snowmass take short trips into Aspen during the holidays. Christmas at Aspen Snowmass allows visitors to enjoy Aspen’s holiday décor and shopping while still returning to Snowmass’s family-friendly setting and accommodations.

Is it crowded?

Christmas week is one of the busiest times of year, but Snowmass’s size and layout help spread visitors out. Families often find that skiing early in the day and planning activities in advance helps keep the experience enjoyable during the holiday period.

 

Snowmass and the Roaring Fork Valley (RFV) has been recently named an IMBA Gold Level Ride Center. This accolade is provided to destinations that offer extensive trail networks that appeal to all rider abilities and are dedicated to promoting and cultivating the sport of mountain biking. Our network of trails is one of only seven gold-level ride center is the world and the first in Colorado. Snowmass alone boasts 90 miles of single track of the 300+ miles throughout the RFV. From the lift-served trails of the Snowmass Bike Park to the cross country and flow trails, there are miles of options for beginners, intermediate and advanced riders.

From The Crestwood, guests are able to ride the infamous Snowmass Loop starting and ending at their front door. The Snowmass Loop is one of the best single track loops in Colorado and is made up of all of our favorite MTB trails in Snowmass linked together for a 23 mile ride with over 4K feet of ascent and descent. Check out more details of the Snowmass Loop here.

Here is a video highlighting the RFV Gold Level Ride Center:

 

Our Commitment to Our Guests:

As we open our doors for business, we look forward to providing our guests a safe home-base with access to the wide-open spaces that surround The Crestwood here in Aspen Snowmass. We are committed to your safety and have been diligently evaluating and implementing new operations and policies with the well-being of guests and employees as the top priority.

We have created new operational procedures based on the guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Colorado Department of Public Health and Pitkin County Public Health to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 that are outlined below:

Communication and Implementation of Social Distancing and Improved Hygiene Practices:

Updated Cleaning Policies & Procedures:

Crestwood Reservations Department:

9 AM to 5 PM Monday – Saturday (Closed Sunday)

Reservations Phone: 800-356-5949

Email: [email protected]

 

Crestwood Front Desk Hours:

7 AM to 11 PM – 7 Days a Week Until Further Notice

Front Desk Phone: 970-923-2450

Reservations Phone: 800-356-5949

Email:  [email protected] or [email protected]

 

COVID-19 Updated Policies for Winter 2020-2021: 

Updated Deposits:

Updated Cancellation:

The Crestwood is a proud sponsor of the summer Snowmass Free Concert Series. The series takes place every Thursday night (with a few Saturday events mixed in) on the Fanny Hill stage. The convenient location to The Crestwood allows guests to walk to/from the concerts and enjoy the breathtaking vistas, free entertainment and bustling social scene. Every Thursday from June 8th through August 22nd, we look forward to catching up with friends and family and take in the music and majestic sunsets across the valley. Make sure you check the list of upcoming concerts this summer before your next trip to Snowmass.

 

Thursday, June 27 @ 6:30pm – Orquesta Akokán (Mambo/Son Cubano)

Thursday, July 4 @ 6:30pm – Here Come the Mummies (Funk/Rock)– special 4th of July Community Celebration

Thursday, July 11 @ 6:30pm – Hazel Miller (Jazz/Blues)

Saturday, July 13 @ 6:30pm – Rock for a Reason: Rock for a Reason: The Greatest Hits on Earth – Live! ® presents Spectrum of Soul™ Featuring Skip Martin formerly of Kool & The Gang ™ & Special Guest(s) (R&B/Funk/Jazz)

Thursday, July 18 @ 6:30pm – Satsang (Soul/Folk Rock/Hip-Hop) – in conjunction with Yoga on the Mountain

Thursday, July 25 @ 6:30pm – The Lao Tizer Band (Jazz/Rock/Hip-Hop)

Thursday, August 1 @ 6:30pm – McKenna Faith (Country)

Thursday, August 8 @ 6:30pm – Scooter Brown Band (Country)

Thursday, August 15 @ 6:30pm – The Samples (Reggae Influenced Rock/Pop) – Community Photo

Thursday, August 22 @ 6:30pm – New Orleans Suspects (New Orleans Funk/Jazz)

 

Book your stay here at The Crestwood for the next Thursday Night Concert

New to the Aspen Snowmass scene is the Ikon Pass for winter 2019-2020. The new pass offers pass holders either 5 or 7 days of skiing at all of Aspen Snowmass’ 4 Mountains. The pass has provided access to a new clientele of skiers and opened up the drive market to our resorts for the first time ever to those who always thought Aspen Snowmass was either not affordable or too far away. The most current statistic we have heard was that skiers using the Ikon Pass are accounting for 16% of the paid skier days (excluding season pass holders) in Aspen Snowmass this season. The Crestwood is excited to have these new skiers visiting pour resort and have been offering great pass holder discounts to those new visitors. If you are looking to visit Aspen Snowmass this winter and still need to use those Ikon Pass days, feel free to reach out to our Reservations Department (800-356-5949 or [email protected]) for access to pass holder discounts and stay slope side at The Crestwood and take advantage of our prime ski in ski out location on Snowmass Mountain. Our wide variety of accommodations and price points will provide the perfect match for you and your ski crew during your visit to your new favorite ski destination. Bring on the Ikon Effect!

Every Wednesday night the Rodeo rolls into Snowmass Village and delivers a fun evening for locals and visitors. In it’s 44th year, the Snowmass Rodeo is a summer staple that draws people to the rodeo grounds located at the entrance to Snowmass Village at the Snowmass Rodeo Lot right at the roundabout and offers free parking. The rodeo is held rain or shine every Wednesday from June 14th through August 23rd. The gates open at 5 PM with tasty BBQ plates available for purchase as well as cold beverages (including beer) and the rodeo events start at 7 PM. There are the 6 regular rodeo events (Bareback Riding, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Dally Ribbon Roping, Barrel Racing and of course Bull Riding) but it is usually the kid’s rodeo events (Calf Scramble & Mutton Busting) that steal the show. Mutton Busting is a personal favorite. As the rodeo puts it “Little buckaroos “cowboy up” and hold on to a woolly sheep for eight exciting seconds”. This is true unadulterated fun and gives eight kids (ages 4-7) the chance to ride a sheep like the big boys ride the bulls. This is a must see event while visiting Snowmass Village this summer, so add it to the long list of things to do in Snowmass during your next visit.

General Admission Tickets are available at the gate for $20 (Adults) and $15 (Youth: 11-15 Years Old) with kids 10 and under FREE.

For more info, visit snowmassrodeo.org.

The 41st Annual Snowmass Balloon Festival was held September 16-18, 2016 and the weather for this years event was about as perfect as the festival has ever seen. The Crestwood is the lodging sponsor for all of the balloon pilots and it obviously comes with some perks, like being able to take a hot air balloon ride. I have had to wait 8 years for the opportunity to finally check this experience off of the bucket list and it was well worth the wait.

There is just something special about these flying vessels. The hot air balloon was the first successful human carrying flight vessel in history and the first flight was launched in 1783 in Paris, France. It’s not only the technology that makes ballooning so special it’s the people and places that really make hot air ballooning so much fun. I was lucky enough to fly with new friends from Albuquerque, NM in the “Spirit in the Sky” balloon. The Pendelton’s have been ballooning for close to 40 years and now have three generations of pilots in the family. To say hot air balloons are in their DNA is an understatement. It was pretty incredible to fly with them and see the passion they have for the sport. What was even more impressive was their passion to share the experience with others. It is something I will never forget and hope to do again in the future!

Even if you don’t have the opportunity to take flight in an hot air balloon, the Snowmass Balloon Festival provides attendees with the opportunity to get up close and personal with these gravity defying vessels. There are some great events throughout the weekend like the Carter Memorial Colorado Rat Race (a down valley race to see who can make it the furthest in 3 hours), the X Marks the Spot competition (seeing who can drop a bean bag closest to the center of the X) and the popular Night Glow on Fanny Hill. It is one of the longest running events in Snowmass and we hope it continues to awe for many years to come.