How to Ski Aspen Mountain
Aspen Mountain Ski Guide (Ajax): How to Ski It Like a Local
The Mountain at a Glance
Aspen Mountain—known locally as “Ajax”—rises directly from downtown Aspen. It delivers 673 acres of challenging ski terrain, a vertical drop of 3,267 feet, and zero beginner runs. This is a skier’s mountain for confident intermediates and experts who want steep groomers, legendary moguls, and a front-row seat to Aspen’s vibrant après-ski scene.
With its unique layout, storied history, and direct lift access from town, Aspen Mountain offers a ski experience you can’t replicate anywhere else in North America.
Getting to the Slopes
There’s no base-area parking lot, so most skiers arrive on foot—straight from their hotel or shuttle stop—a short warm-up before the real workout.
Two main ways up:
Silver Queen Gondola – A 14-minute ride climbing more than 3,200 vertical feet to the 11,212-foot summit.
Lift 1A – A quieter, classic lift serving Ruthie’s terrain and a perfect way to start the day away from the gondola crowds.
How to Ski Aspen Mountain: Step-by-Step Route Guide
Starting with Lift 1A
Warm-Up on Ruthie’s – This high-speed blue offers smooth groomers or blue bump runs like Roch Run.
The Dumps – Steep, sustained lines shaped by Aspen’s silver mining history. Start with Zaug for a technical challenge (and a detour to the Jimi Hendrix shrine). Work across to Perry’s and Last Dollar for slightly mellower pitches. Silver Queen is the steepest and most north-facing, often holding the best snow.
End your lap in Spar Gulch and either loop back via Lift 1A or return to the gondola.
Starting with the Gondola
Warm up on 1 Leaf, 2 Leaf, and 3 Leaf—fast groomers that connect to Chair 3.
If east-facing slopes are wind-loaded, head straight to Walsh’s for powder.
For moguls, lap Midnight → Pumphouse—steep bumps that test stamina and skill.
Bell Mountain: Aspen’s Signature Playground
Bell Mountain sits in the heart of Aspen Mountain and is a must for advanced skiers. It offers three main aspects:
Face of Bell
Located skier’s left as you come off the gondola, the Face drops you straight into Spar Gulch.
Known for its softening snow in the afternoon, it’s a prime choice later in the day when morning chill gives way to perfect edgeable conditions.
On a powder day, expect deep turns and a friendly crowd—locals love lapping this line for quick-hit thrills.
Shoulder of Bell
Runs directly beneath the Silver Queen Gondola, offering a classic Aspen Mountain photo-op backdrop.
The Shoulder often holds chalky snow longer than other aspects, making it a safe bet during high-traffic days.
Great for skiers who like to alternate between steeps and groomed runouts, as it links easily to mid-mountain groomers.
Back of Bell
East-facing and longer than the front, the Back of Bell drops into Copper Gulch, providing a sustained descent that feels more remote than its location suggests.
Ideal early in the day when the sun hits, softening the surface for hero turns. By late morning, you can traverse back toward Lift 1A or the gondola for another lap.
Bell Mountain Strategy:
Powder Days – Hit any face you can get to first.
Sunny Days – Start on the Back in the morning, then move to the Face later.
Linking Laps – Combine Bell Mountain runs with Spar Gulch exits to keep variety high.
The Shrines of Aspen Mountain
Aspen Mountain’s “shrines” are hidden, hand-built tributes in the trees—part scavenger hunt, part local tradition. A few highlights:
Jimi Hendrix Shrine – Access from Zaug in The Dumps; dip left into the trees to find guitars, photos, and rock memorabilia.
Jerry Garcia (Grateful Dead) Shrine – Just off Ruthie’s run, filled with tie-dye, setlists, and band art.
Yankee Stadium Shrine – Off Back of Bell #2; a baseball lover’s trove of Yankee memorabilia.
John Denver Shrine – Near Bellissimo, with lyrics, photos, and tributes to Aspen’s adopted son.
Hunter S. Thompson Shrine – Hidden between Spar Gulch and Walsh’s, this shrine honors the famed gonzo journalist with political posters, quotes, and his trademark sunglasses.
Shrine Etiquette: Stay in control in the trees, be respectful, and remember these are community-built—look, don’t take.
Strategy & Timing Tips
Day One – Consider skiing half a day or taking a long lunch; the expert terrain will work your legs fast.
Snow Management – Follow the sun for softer snow; chase shade to keep it crisp.
Lift Mixing – Alternate gondola laps with Lift 1A → Ruthie’s to keep your runs fresh.
On-Mountain Dining
Sundeck – Summit dining with panoramic views.
Lavazza Café – Mid-mountain espresso stop.
Ajax Tavern – Base-area après with famous truffle fries.
Aspen Ski Rentals & Gear at Miller Sports
Gear up with Aspen’s premier ski rental shop, just steps from the gondola.
Performance Rentals – Kästle, Völkl, and other top brands, expertly tuned.
Apparel & Accessories – Gloves, goggles, and outerwear for Aspen’s varied weather.
Expert Fitting – Staff who ski Ajax daily and match gear to your terrain plan.
Pro Tip: Reserve your Aspen ski rental equipment in advance to secure peak-season availability.
Après & Off-Slope Aspen
Culture – Visit the Aspen Art Museum, browse luxury shops, or step into history at Hotel Jerome.
Adventure – Try uphill skinning or book a guided backcountry tour with an AMGA-certified guide.
