Aspen, Four Mountains Area , United States

Aspen is one of the greatest American ski resorts. It has a reputation for being a star-studded place, expensive and a poseur's paradise. This is partially true, but Aspen can also be enjoyed by those on lower budgets, while decent snow is almost always guaranteed.

Aspen includes 4 mountains in its pass - Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. These combine for 200km of runs, with skiing for just about all standards. It is a relatively expensive lift pass. The mountains are separate, but linked by an efficient bus system, with Snowmass 12 miles away. Buttermilk suits beginners, but all of the resorts offer a vast array of ski tuition and childcare. Aspen Mountain, which bans boarders, has some fantastic blacks, moguls and tree-line powder. Snowmass also has the biggest vertical drop in the US (1342m). Intermediates will prefer Snowmass and Highlands for cruising, while Buttermilk is excellent for learning to mogul. Boarders are spoilt in the other 3 domains, with half-pipes and specialist parks. There is skiing for everyone, with limited queues, great lifts and friendly staff.

Aspen town is beautifully restored to its Victorian best and there is a fantastic range of restaurants, shops, non-skiing activities, and nightlife. Much of this is expensive, but there are cheaper options, particularly in terms of accommodation. Everything seems to get just a little bit better every year, as the Aspen Ski Company continues to improve on a resort that is already one of the best in the world.

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