Snowflakes are already falling in Aspen, Colo. On Oct. 2, over a foot of snow was reported on both Aspen Mountain and Snowmass — and wintery conditions have continued since then.
An encouraging sign for skiers and snowboarders who plan to come out this winter, El Nino conditions have meteorologists predicting at least 100% of typical snowfall this year for the Aspen Snowmass area.
The mountains owned by Aspen Skiing Company (Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk) will start opening on Thanksgiving, with opening dates scheduled into December. Lift tickets and passes (available here) are transferable across all four mountains.
We put together a calendar of opening dates (and other Thanksgiving events in Aspen) so you can start planning your winter getaway.
Aspen Mountain Opening Day — Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 23, 2017)
Aspen Mountain, known as “Ajax” by locals, will open on Thanksgiving Day 2017. The mountain is accessible by the Silver Queen Gondola, which starts in downtown Aspen. Absorb breathtaking views from inside the Sundeck at the top of the gondola, or from Bonnie’s Restaurant below the Ajax Express.
Find luxury vacation rentals available in Aspen.
Snowmass Opening Day — Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 23, 2017)
With over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain, Snowmass is the largest of the four Aspen mountains. The mountain is located approximately 15 miles from downtown Aspen in Snowmass Village, a town with abundant dining options and fun winter activities. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Snowmass, which will be celebrated on Dec. 15 with fireworks and $6.50 lift tickets.
Explore our vacation rentals in Snowmass Village.
Aspen Highlands Opening Day — Saturday, Dec. 9
Aspen Highlands is located a few miles west of downtown Aspen, toward the Maroon Bells. Highlands is known for both its steep terrain and lively social scene. “Feel the burn” hiking the off-piste Highland Bowl, and then celebrate the accomplishment at the famous Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro.
Buttermilk Opening Day — Saturday, Dec. 9
Buttermilk is a family-friendly mountain located a few miles northwest of Aspen. It is most famous for its terrain parks, which host the Winter X Games annually.
Find vacation rentals available during X Games 2018: Jan. 25 - Jan. 28.
Planning a trip to Aspen for Thanksgiving 2017?
Besides fun opening weekend festivities on the mountain…
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Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at one of several local restaurants.
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Attend a concert at Belly Up Aspen, which is hosting Angus & Julia Stone on Saturday, Nov. 25 and Wax Tailor on Sunday, Nov. 26.
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Discover luxury Aspen ski-in ski-out vacation rentals.
We hope to see you in Aspen! If you have further questions about opening dates for skiing or Thanksgiving events, please reach out!