Aspen!

COLORADO’S JEWEL REIGNS SUPREME IN THE WINTER GAMES.

IN the realm of American skiing, Aspen, Colorado reigns supreme, its allure amplified by a steady stream of celebrities who grace its wintry slopes. The winter of December 2023 bore witness to an avalanche of stars – Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Rihanna, Kaia Gerber, and Mariah Carey all hit the slopes in the Rocky Mountain enclave. Amidst the snow-laden streets, a parade of luxury boutiques, from Bottega Veneta to Gucci to Ralph Lauren, stand testament to Aspen’s opulence.

Yet, beneath the veneer of celebrity lies Aspen’s true charm, a narrative woven deep into its roots as a former silver mining town, tracing back to the storied era of the 1880s. With the establishment of the Aspen Skiing Company in 1946, the town emerged as a pioneer in American skiing, drawing leisure seekers and athletes alike to its pristine slopes. Around this nucleus of winter sports, Aspen blossomed into a haven of art, culture, and culinary delights, weaving a tapestry of sophistication and allure.

As 2024 unfolds, WILD curates a compendium of Aspen’s hidden gems and bustling rendezvous, offering a winter guide to skiing, lodging, dining, and après-ski indulgences in the heart of Colorado’s alpine paradise.

Where to Ski

Aspen Mountain stands as the beating heart of Aspen itself. Back in the 1940s, this resort sprouted right in town, allowing folks to amble from Main Street’s shops to the mountain’s base in mere minutes. Fast forward 77 years, and the scene remains remarkably unchanged – each morning sees eager patrons queuing up for breakfast at the beloved mid-mountain spot, Bonnie’s, just as they did in the swinging ’60s.

Yet, amidst the nostalgia, Aspen has embraced modernity. This year witnessed the addition of 153 fresh acres to its skiing domain, courtesy of the swift Hero’s quad. Named in homage to the visionary minds behind the endeavor, including the late Jim Crown, a managing partner at Aspen Ski Company.

Aspen Highlands beckons adventurers with its legendary Highlands Bowl – a sprawling 270-acre powder haven that demands a hearty 45-minute hike for those up to the challenge. Recommended by the Aspen-Snowmass brass to allocate a solid three hours for the feat, it’s an adrenaline-seeker’s paradise. Meanwhile, Highland’s High Temerity lift unlocks access to double-black diamond glades and chutes, reserved for those truly confident in their alpine prowess. Enter Snowmass, the colossal titan of Aspen’s ski scene. Boasting a whopping 3,332 skiable acres and 91 trails, it rightly earns the moniker “Snowmassive”. With such expansive terrain, it caters to skiers of all stripes, from fledgling novices to seasoned pros, making it a magnet for families and groups alike.

Buttermilk, on the other hand, serves as the gateway to the slopes for beginners. With a preponderance of green and blue runs, it’s the ideal training ground for aspiring skiers or those seeking to refine their technique before venturing to more demanding locales. Despite its novice-friendly vibe, Buttermilk also plays host to the annual Winter X Games, drawing thrill-seekers far and wide with its world-renowned terrain parks.

Accommodation in Aspen

The Little Nell

Once a humble railroad depot, The Little Nell ascended to the zenith of Aspen’s opulence upon its transformation into a five-star sanctuary in 1989. Its prestige remains unshakable, especially after a recent interior rejuvenation helmed by the renowned designer, Holly Hunt. Positioned at the very base of the Aspen Gondola, it offers skiers unparalleled convenience, a mere 30-second (perhaps 45 in cumbersome ski boots) stroll to the lifts. Even for those inclined towards après-ski leisure, The Little Nell beckons with its new spa boasting treatments by Dr. Barbara Sturm, and the Ajax Tavern, an idyllic spot for savoring Aperol spritzes while observing skiers gracefully descend the slopes.

Hotel Jerome

Established in 1899, Hotel Jerome’s interiors pay homage to its historical role as a rugged mountain retreat. Plaid curtains, a warm candled chandelier, and plush leather couches adorn the living spaces, while Wild West-themed artwork and cowhide chairs grace the guest rooms. During winter, the Library bar metamorphoses into a chic hub of post-skiing and pre-dinner gatherings, exuding an atmosphere of refined conviviality.

St. Regis Aspen

Embracing a “modern mountain” aesthetic, the ski-in, ski-out St. Regis envelops guests in luxurious comfort with sumptuous materials like boucle, mohair, leather, wool, and velvet. Indulge in relaxation at the RAKxa Wellness Spa, the sole U.S. outpost of the famed Bangkok healing retreat, or opt for a more social experience with an après-ski concert at The Snow Lodge. Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner at the lodge’s namesake restaurant, completing a day of indulgence and leisure.

Mollie Aspen

Welcoming visitors this winter is Mollie, a charming boutique hotel nestled on the outskirts of town. Featuring Japandi-style interiors adorned with Noguchi lamps and accentuated by shearling chairs in the lobby, Mollie offers a refreshing departure from traditional mountain aesthetics. The hotel’s culinary offerings, curated by the esteemed team behind Death & Co., promise an unparalleled gastronomic experience, with their hot toddy standing out as a beloved local favorite.

Where to Savor

Matsuhisa

In the realm of sushi and spectacle, Matsuhisa rules, nestled within a centuries-old Victorian residence under Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s watchful eye. Indulge in the black cod and rock shrimp tempura, all while keeping an eye out for the elusive celebrities that grace its corners.

Spring Café

Venture into the bright, airy haven of Spring Café, where vegan comfort food takes center stage. The Superhero burrito stands tall, offering a healthier yet satisfying option for those gearing up for a day on the slopes.

Meat and Cheese

No reservations, no problem. Dive into the culinary treasure trove of Meat and Cheese, an Aspen gem celebrating locally sourced, sustainable meat, and cheese, ever-evolving with the seasons.

Casa Tua

Nestled in a chalet near Aspen Mountain lies Casa Tua’s vibrant Colorado outpost. Secure your spot well in advance and indulge in their fresh pasta offerings, with cacio e pepe and pappardelle coming in as crowd favorites.

White House Tavern

Amidst Aspen’s glitz, White House Tavern offers a laidback escape. Renowned for their French dip and crispy chicken sandwich, a queue is almost guaranteed, but trust us, it’s well worth the wait.

Bonnie’s

A pilgrimage for skiers, Bonnie’s timeless 1960s chalet beckons with its legendary pancakes and apple strudel. Bask in the sunshine on a bluebird day, relishing a stack of freshly flipped delights on the deck, generously drizzled with maple syrup.

Betula

The deck at Betula offers more than just a view – it’s an experience. With a fusion of mountain and French-island cuisine, indulge in their tantalizing crudos before splurging on the bison ribeye steak, a culinary journey not to be missed.

Felix Roasting Co.

At Felix Roasting Co. nestled within Hotel Jerome, coffee is not just a pick-me-up but a decadent winter treat. Try their signature hickory smoked s’mores latte, crowned with a roasted marshmallow, amidst the opulent designs of Ken Fulk.

Where to Après Ski

The Snow Lodge, the Rocky Mountain sibling to Montauk’s famed The Surf Lodge, emerged in Aspen in 2019, initially gracing the base of Aspen Mountain before relocating to the St. Regis in 2021. Despite its relatively short tenure, it swiftly entrenched itself as a premier hotspot, boasting a vibrant après-ski concert series headlined by the likes of Diplo and Carlita. Don your winter gear (many performances unfold in the St. Regis courtyard) and secure a table at the restaurant for a postconcert indulgence of freshly-made pasta.

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro epitomizes the Aspen ethos of going big or going home. Nestled mid-mountain on Aspen Highlands, this cabin retreat is renowned for its exuberant Champagne-shower lunches, where Veuve Clicquot cascades from spray guns amidst pulsating beats and strobe lights. (If you’re seated indoors, consider a wardrobe change.) And let’s not forget the fondue – an irresistible treat amidst the revelry.

Ajax Tavern is the quintessential après-ski haven in Aspen, conveniently positioned at the base of the Silver Queen Gondola. Store your skis, gather your friends on the patio, and indulge watching the (hopefully) graceful descent of skiers down the slopes.

Belly Up, Aspen’s premier 450-seat music venue, has hosted illustrious acts since 2005, including the likes of the Killers, John Legend, and Kacey Musgraves. This New Year’s, the Chainsmokers graced the stage. With concerts typically commencing later in the evening – doors opening for an upcoming Bob Moses performance at 8pm. – Belly Up is the ultimate choice for an après-après-ski night out.