Situated in between Aspen Mountain and Buttermilk, you will find a true original – Aspen Highlands. Rising 3,635 feet from the base area, this narrow ridge presents a dramatic reveal as you ride the chairlift up – blue and black runs dive down its flanks, while glimpses of the iconic Maroon Bells in the distance leave little doubt that you are on the one-and-only Aspen Highlands. Once you are at the top, you’ll find the real reason why this mountain is adored by locals: the hike-in terrain of Highland Bowl, rising another 717 feet above the last lift. Over at the newly renovated Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro – where the après ski scene goes into overdrive around 2pm – rub elbows with an eclectic mix of locals, international skiers and the occasional celeb over pots of steaming fondue and glasses of champagne.
