General

There are four major ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk. There is something for everyone on one of these mountains, no matter if you are a pro or a beginner. Aspen is incredibly convenient, serviced by a gondola in the heart of town. The apres ski scene is incredibly easy to access here. The terrain is steep, and there are no beginner runs on the mountain.

Aspen Highlands is more a local mountain. With a new base, the apres ski is pleasant here as well. The mountain itself is also rather steep, with good back country access. Snowmass is the most family friendly of the resorts. The largest of the mountains in the area, it's well known for an extensive ski-in/ski-out lodging and wide, open trails. Buttermilk is known as the beginner's mountain, with a great deal of easier terrain and highly rated ski school. It is also very snowboarder friendly, with 5 terrain parks.