A Day at Buttermilk

Buttermilk opened in 1958 as a place for children and beginners from all over the world to learn to ski. Conveniently located between the towns of Aspen and Snowmass, the mountain offers moderate rolling trails with a gentle pitch, as well as an extra-accessible base area with lessons, rentals, and delicious food all available within steps of each other. Nearly 470 skiable acres of perfectly groomed blue and green trails weave down the mountain, but don’t let that fool you—the mountain’s mix of exceptional, uncrowded black diamonds, moguls, and tree skiing keep even experts entertained.

In the morning, easy, curbside skier and rider drop-offs make getting the kids to Ski & Snowboard School a breeze. Little ones will love learning at The Hideout, one of North America’s most renowned centers for ski and snowboard education, connected to the Guest Services building. This newly renovated space, right at the base of the mountain, acts as a one-stop shop to purchase tickets, rent gear, shop for any last-minute on-mountain needs, or simply relax in the day lounge. Those brand-new to skiing or snowboarding can enjoy their first turns off Panda Peak—a short chairlift delivering you to a mellow, forgiving ski hill at the bottom of the mountain.

If you’re a more experienced skier or rider, take Summit Express to the top of the mountain and get your blood pumping by popping into the trees between Savio and Friedl’s before arcing some turns down Lover’s Lane to Columbine. Ride the lift back up and test your legs on Ptarmigan Glade or Racer’s Edge off Tiehack Express. Be sure to drop into Timber Doodle Glade to find powder stashes that often remain untouched for days after a snowstorm. Looking to try something a little different? Throughout the day, uphillers climb the mountain for fitness and fresh air while skiers and riders of every level—including professionals—can be found in any of the mountain’s five impressive terrain parks, including the one that has hosted the world’s greatest athletes at X Games Aspen for nearly 25 years.

When it’s time for lunch, fuel up at the mountaintop Cliffhouse Restaurant, featuring a Mongolian Grill, Vietnamese Pho, and panoramic views of Pyramid Peak and Maroon Creek Valley. The Cliffhouse is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing the setting for community-centered uphilling events including the Friday Uphill Breakfast and Full Moon Dinners, where a hike up the mountain is followed by an incredible feast. You can also cruise down to the main base for a meal at Buttermilk Mountain Lodge, serving Mediterranean-inspired pastas, salads, house-made soups, and more. After you’ve had your fill, head back out to explore the various runs off West Buttermilk Express in the afternoon. If you’re with the whole family, laps down any of the kids trails like Toad’s Road, Moose Alley, or Wookie Woods will include cutout creatures and critters greeting you along the way. When the day is done, make your way to The Backyard at Buttermilk Mountain Lodge, which boasts an indoor bar and heated outdoor seating on a patio with views of the X Games superpipe and big air jump line. Sit back and enjoy cocktails and shared bites—it’s time to swap some stories.