Snowmass Ski Resort

Don't be fooled by its family-fun reputation--this place kicks.

by Contributor

The Scene
Because it's part of the Aspen complex, Snowmass has a reputation as the ultimate family vacation mountain. But don't turn small kids loose; it's too easy to get lost in the area's vastness. Lodges are almost all ski-in, ski-out--meaning no one schleps gear. Plus, there are plenty of pizza and burger joints, so no one has to cook.

The Slopes
Located anywhere else, Snowmass would be considered a major ski resort in its own right. It boasts the biggest vertical drop in the United States (4,406 feet) and sprawls across four peaks. As such, there's terrain for every level. The huge mountain invites kids to chase one another through magnificent, broad meadows and down powder bowls, bump runs and glades. A platter-pull lift at the bottom of Scooper run serves a ski-school area and group race facility.

Vital Stats
Vertical drop: 4,406 feet
Base elevation: 8,104 feet
Top elevation: 12,510 feet
Number of trails: 90
Number of lifts: 22
Skiable acres: 3,128
Beginner terrain: 6 percent
Intermediate terrain: 50 percent
Advanced terrain: 12 percent
Expert terrain: 32 percent
Snowboarding: Full facilities

01/28/03

You've got to be kidding....

by me_whee

This place might be a "10" for somebody, but that somebody is a homebody. The snow might be natural, but the base is man-made.

11/12/02

The Very Best

by craigdev

I first skied around Aspen in 1964-65. Since then I've been to more ski areas than I can count.

I guess I first skied Snowmass in the late 60's, and I just keep coming back. Wish I would have bought a house here!, but I love to try new things...so I've tried and tried, but everyplace else is just an also ran compared to this place.

I will guaruntee...if you go to Snowmass....you absolutely will not be disapointed. Don't try to save a few bucks by going to the Summit or someplace else...THIS IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT!

• Pros: huge, solitary runs, varied terrain