What to Expect

Weather

Be it summer, winter, spring or fall, Aspen offers some of the most desirable weather conditions of any Rocky Mountain destination. Like most of the Colorado resorts, Aspen enjoys an average of 300 inches of snowfall as well as over 300 days of sunshine annually with a very  mild, arid climate. But Aspen's choice location attracts a unique combination of intense snowfall with comfortable wintertime temperatures that makes for the ideal ski and snowboard vacation conditions. Summer in Aspen brings the perfect mixture of sunny, blue sky days with temperatures that rarely pass the 90 degree mark.

The averages are impressive, but be prepared for a range of weather conditions during any season in Aspen. During the Winter months typical daytime temperatures average in mid thirties, although there are many days of 40 degree temperatures. Aspen does experience its fair share of sub-zero days and single digit evenings are not uncommon. But all-in-all, Aspen does offer some of the most comfortable wintertime temperatures of any Colorado ski resort.

Unlike some of the other Colorado resort destinations, Aspen is truly a four season resort. Spring and fall in Aspen are perhaps the best times to visit with days of 60 degree temperatures and an abundance of sunshine. Aspen provides a great escape from the intense heat of the surrounding states during the summer when the air is dry and the temperatures mild. While there are days of 90 plus temperatures, those are few while the typical temperatures hover around 80 degrees. Be sure to bring a jacket as the nighttime temperatures drop to comfortable average of 50 degrees.

Altitude

With a base elevation of 7,945 feet above sea level that peaks at 11,212 feet, Aspen is high up in the Rocky Mountains. Aspen's abundant and extremely dry, fluffy snow is a direct result of this high altitude. While all visitors to the High Country will be affected in some way by the altitude there are precautions guests can take to minimize the negative effects so that you are able to fully enjoy the altitudes positive effects!

Negative effects can range from a mild headache to full blown altitude sickness with more typical symptoms being flu-like with some nausea. There is no way to tell who will be affected by the altitude and to what extent; symptoms usually go away after a day or two.

Below are some tips that should help to make your stay in Aspen more enjoyable:

1. Everyone can and will be effected by the altitude to a certain extent
2. Hydrate! Drink as much water as you can…and then drink some more. Start prior to traveling and drink water heavily throughout your vacation.
3. Do not drink alcohol. O.k., you can drink alcohol if you want, but take it easy. A drink at high altitude will have three times the effect as at sea level. The ill effects on your system will be greatly increased!
4. Take it easy your first day or two and try to get as much sleep as possible.
5. There is less oxygen in the air so your heart and lungs have to work harder and you will feel the effects of things like walking up stairs much more.
6. Eat high carbohydrate foods, bring energy bars and water with you on the mountain.
7. Wear sunscreen and remember to reapply it often, the sun is 40% stronger than at sea level and you will burn quickly.
8. Moderation is the key to an enjoyable ski vacation in the mountains.