Aspen Snowmass with Strafe Outerwear
We’ve partnered with Strafe Outerwear, our Aspen, CO neighbors, to craft the ultimate itinerary for the mountains we both proudly call home—Aspen Snowmass. Known for their performance-driven gear built for all conditions, Strafe’s love for the mountains shines through in every detail of their modern apparel. With our combined local knowledge and insights, this itinerary is your guide to experiencing Aspen Snowmass like a local.
Day 1:
Start your day by waking up in your cozy, luxurious room at Limelight Snowmass, a slope side gem nestled right in the heart of Snowmass Village. Grab a hearty breakfast at the incredible breakfast buffet before heading to the slopes, just outside the door. Snowmass Mountain is renowned for its impressive vertical drop and terrain that will satisfy any skier, so you'll want to fuel up. While the mountain is famous for its size and vertical, don’t overlook the expansive blue runs that weave throughout the terrain. Locals often say, “The more you explore the mountain, the more you fall in love with it.” Be sure to pop into Strafe's Outerwear store in the Snowmass Mall to score some quality outwear.
STRAFE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Après-Ski: Venga Venga, the quintessential sunny deck to grab a beer - Pia Halloran, VP of Product and Design
Restaurant: Stew Pot for creative warm soups (order the chocolate cookie for dessert) or Up for Pizza at the top of the Big Burn chairlift if you're on the mountain - Steve, Karczewski, Strafe Athlete
Strafe Staff Favorite Runs: Coffee Pot 🟢 Long Shot 🟦 Hanging Valley Headwall ⚫
Insider Tip: Before you hit the slopes, be sure to have your Mountain Travel Expert make a reservation at Sam's Italian Restaurant for your first day on the mountain. There's nothing quite like a hearty midday meal to fuel your adventures and help you continue to catch fresh tracks!
Day 2:
Aspen Mountain, affectionately known as Ajax by the locals, is a true paradise for skiers and snowboarders. Fuel up with Bonnie’s legendary oatmeal pancakes and soak in the cozy, nostalgic vibes that make this spot a local favorite. With breakfast settled, start the day with a few warm-up laps on Aspen’s blue runs to get your blood pumping and soak in those morning views. A fan favorite is taking gondola laps from top to bottom, a fun way to explore the mountain, known as a "full facial." Whether you’re here for the thrill of the steeps or the smooth cruisers, Aspen Mountain offers the perfect mix to keep you smiling all day long.
STRAFE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Après-Ski: B.U.C.K. for draft beer, the heart and soul of any ski town - Victor Major, Marketing Manager
Restaurant: Meat and Cheese for unique fare or Sway for Thai food enjoyed family style - Whit Boucher, Strafe Athlete
Strafe Staff Favorite Runs: Ruthie’s Run 🟦 Jackpot ⚫
Day 3:
Today, Aspen Snowmass’ luxurious side takes center stage. Start with a laid-back morning enjoying a latte while browsing Aspen’s chic boutiques. Treat yourself to a spa day at either the St. Regis or Little Nell, where you can fully unwind. Lunch is a refined experience at Matsuhisa Aspen, known for its Japanese cuisine and vibrant ambiance.
STRAFE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Après-Ski: Chair 9 at the Little Nell - Pete Gaston, Strafe CEO
Eat: Matsuhisa for Japanese food with a lively ambiance, Element 47 for world-class flavors and class
Day 4:
Begin with a breakfast burrito from Big Wrap, then take on Buttermilk, famous for its freestyle terrain parks, beginner terrain and family appeal. New to the slopes? Buttermilk is the perfect place for your first ski lesson. Before descending the mountain, make sure to stop by the Cliffhouse for a relaxing and indulgent lunch and epic views. Spend the afternoon exploring Snowmass Village’s art galleries, boutiques and outdoor installations.
STRAFE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Après-Ski: Bumps - Shane Serrano, Strafe Athlete
Eat: Hometeam BBQ for a sunny patio and BBQ staples, Cliffhouse for one of the best views in the valley - Jacob Douthit, Customer Success Manager
Favorite Runs: Larkspur 🟢 Ptarmigan 🟦 Racers Edge ⚫
Day 5:
Today’s all about testing yourself with the legendary hike up The Highland Bowl. This iconic mountain serves as the home mountain of Strafe. After a fueling breakfast, ride the lifts to the base of the hike, then start the climb—it’s steep, challenging, and absolutely worth it. Earn your street cred by boot-packing it all the way, or take the cat halfway for a boost. As you reach the top, pause to take in panoramic views of the Maroon Bells before you drop into some of the steepest, fun and powder-packed terrain Aspen has to offer. After carving your way down the bowl, head straight to Cloud Nine or the Alehouse for some well-earned après. There’s nothing like toasting a hard-earned day on the mountain with a cold drink and good company. Before heading home, check out the Strafe store at their home mountain.
STRAFE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Après-Ski: Alehouse - The spot for a filling lunch or après after as many bowl laps as you can handle.
Favorite Runs: Apple Strudel 🟢 Scarlett’s Run 🟦 Mushroom ⚫
Insider Tip: Not ready for the steep and deep? Hike to the summit and ski down skiers right, where the terrain offers a more gentle slope and playful run. This area is ideal for advanced-intermediate skiers looking to push their limits.
Day 6:
On your final day, balance early-morning skiing with a bit of peaceful winter exploration. Start with fresh morning runs right out your door at Snowmass Mountain, then recharge with coffee at Elk Camp Coffee. That afternoon try a snowcat tour or snowshoe hike, soaking in Aspen Snowmass’s tranquil beauty. As the day winds down, relax by the Base Camp Bar & Grill fire pit in Snowmass Village, savoring your last après moments. End the trip with a farewell dinner at Home Team BBQ, where modern mountain cuisine and Aspen’s cozy charm provide the perfect send-off.
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