* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 6 and 12 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph. * WHERE...Gore and Elk Mountains/Central Mountain Valleys and West Elk and Sawatch Mountains. * WHEN...From 11 PM Friday to 11 PM MST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Travel over mountain passes could be very difficult.
Aspen Mountain kicked off December with crisp winter air and an overnight low of just 5.4°F, setting the stage for a chilly day on the slopes. Aspen Mountain ski resort in the United States is known for its challenging terrain, from the bumps on the Bell Mountain to the steeps on Ruthie's Run.
Wind
Humidity
The snowpack sits at 7 inches—61% below average for this time of year—but there’s hope in the forecast, with 6.1 inches of fresh snow expected over the next 72 hours and an additional 6 inches likely by early next week. While the current base isn't deep, conditions remain rideable, especially on groomed runs and north-facing terrain. Skiers should expect early-season variability and bring rock skis if venturing off-piste.
Local buzz is alive with excitement following Aspen Mountain's early season launch alongside Snowmass, opening a day ahead of schedule to help spread out the crowds. Expansion plans in Pandora’s terrain are moving forward, and guests are already enjoying a new, hand-drawn trail map celebrating the mountain’s analog charm. Meanwhile, artistic flair hits the slopes with Rashid Johnson’s specially designed lift passes, and climate awareness takes center stage with a symbolic “melting gondola” installation perched atop the summit. Despite the lean snowpack, Aspen’s spirit is full-throttle, with early-season energy and snowy skies promising a much-needed refresh just in time for the weekend.
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Independence Pass.
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Aspen Mountain.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Aspen Mountain impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
The Aspen Mountain ski resort in Colorado is located in the Elk Mountains range of the Rocky Mountains. The resort is known for its challenging terrain and steep slopes, with the summit of Aspen Mountain reaching an elevation of 11,212 feet. The mountain features several iconic runs, such as the Silver Queen Gondola and the Ruthie's Run. Aspen Mountain is also known for its stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak.
For beginners, a great option is the Little Nell run, which offers a gentle slope with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. An interesting fact about Aspen Mountain is that it was the first ski resort in the world to have a chairlift, which was installed in 1946. For apres-ski, the Ajax Tavern is a must-visit, with its legendary truffle fries and lively atmosphere. Overall, Aspen Mountain is a great choice for advanced skiers seeking a challenging mountain with stunning scenery.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 8 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 10755 per hour |
Base Elevation | 2422 Meters |
Terrain Park | No |
Acreage | 673 Acres |
Established | 1946 |
Run Count | 76 Trails |
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 20. wind chill values as low as -15. blustery, with a northwest wind 10 to 20 mph.
Aspen Mountain is expected to receive up to 6.94" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Aspen Highlands
Buttermilk Mountain
Snowmass
Heavy snowfall is expected across northern Colorado in the coming days, especially near Steamboat Springs, where nearby sensors like Dry Lake and Tower forecast up to 22–23 inches over the next 5 days. Elk River and Columbine are also projecting significant snowfall totals (17–23 inches), suggesting Steamboat Resort could see some of the best powder in the state. Ripple Creek ... Read more