Editor Pick
Aspen Highlands
- March 15, 2006
- Rated 5 of 5 by
KellySenn from New York, New York
Aspen Highlands is known as the locals mountain, with the most extreme terrain of any of the four. The Highlands bowl has a true backcountry feel and must be reached by a combination of snowcat and good old-fashioned hiking. On a day with good snow, there may be nothing that beats it. With a wide-open, steep face often filled with powder, funnelling down to the steep, tight trees below, this is the ultimate.
Besides the bowl, there is a good variety of intermediate and advanced terrain here. With trees, steeps, and some moguls, there is a little bit of everything, especially if you are looking to be challenged.
Highlands is one of the smaller mountains, but the quality of the terrain is outstanding. The vibe of the mountain is much more authentic and laid-back than the other mountains. It feels more like a skier's mountain and less like a resort destination.
It is much less built-up than the other mountains, with only one on-mountain casual dining facility, but this is a part of the charm.
Elevation
Top: 11675 ft
Bottom: 8040 ft
Vertical Drop: 3635 ft
Longest Run: 3.50 mi
Skiable Area: 970 acres Snow Making: 110 acres
Runs/Trails
Beginner: 18%
Intermediate: 30%
Advanced: 16%
Expert: 36%
From journal Skiing Aspen