One of the first places many people think of when considering where to head for a winter ski vacation is Aspen, Colorado. Deserving of its stellar reputation, Aspen is the winter playground of the rich and famous since it boasts every snow and ice sport imaginable and some of the best soft powder in the country. Make your way to Aspen this winter and experience a memorable ski or snowboarding adventure at this luxurious world-class ski resort.

First time visitors may be overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of trails and runs since the four mountains of Aspen Snowmass almost always exceed expectations. Aspen Highlands alone features 131 trails that never feel crowded as this mountain averages only two skiers per acre. Best known for its steep, big mountain skiing in Highland Bowl, Olympic Bowl, and Steeplechase, beginners and intermediate skiers should not be scared away since there is abundant mid-mountain terrain to meet their needs.

While the Snowmass hill may give the first impression of being smaller since it “only" has 90 trails, these soft and steep slopes are spread out over three times the space as Aspen Highlands, creating an intense mountain experience that simply cannot be enjoyed in one day. Overflowing with steeps, cruisers, halfpipes, and terrain parks, Snowmass offers wide open spaces that are perfect for a thrilling day of adventure or family-friendly activities.

The other two ski areas, Aspen Mountain (also known as Ajax) and Buttermilk, offer 76 and 44 trails respectively while providing totally unique outdoor experiences. Ajax is designed for more seasoned skiers with its steep, bumpy runs that take visitors right into the heart of Aspen and provide some of the most incredible views of the town. Buttermilk, however, is tailored towards those who have little ski experience and who need practice on wide, rolling terrain before attempting the more difficult runs of the other three mountains.

Although cruising down a challenging mountain can look easy to an onlooker, it is difficult and strenuous work that requires plenty of focus and energy. During your time on the mountain, don’t forget to stop by some of the amazingly delicious restaurants perched throughout the resort so you can stay on top of your game no matter how many hours you’ve been hitting the slopes. If you are starting your day on Snowmass, enjoy an energizing breakfast at Gwyn’s High Alpine to get your day of adventure started on the right foot and be sure to try the Montagna Restaurant and Bar on Aspen Mountain and Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro on Aspen Highlands throughout your trip.

Visitors to Aspen during the second week of January will certainly want to take advantage of their fortunate timing to stop by the Winterskol Festival that takes place from January 11-14. Held in downtown Aspen and on the four ski hills, the event is aimed at entertaining residents and vacationers alike with over 40 organized events. Take in live entertainment, a parade, a dog fashion show, fireworks, interesting competitions, and much more during this always entertaining and amusing event.

Since your vacation in Aspen is certainly going to be centered around your time on the slopes, stay close to all the fun and excitement with a vacation rental that is just steps away from the lifts. There are numerous Aspen vacation rentals located throughout this stunning town so you can enjoy spectacular mountain views and easy access to all four of the hills for the duration of your trip. After a long day on the slopes, retreat to accommodations that provide all the comforts and luxuries of home when you stay in an aspen condo or home rental with more amenities and space than you ever imagined.