Readers agree that Aspen is the ski town, awarding it deserving (and perhaps even underrated) No. 2 rankings in Dining and Après-Ski and No. 4 in Lodging. “There’s lots to do for nonskiers,” says one. But, remarkably, readers don’t have much to say about the skiing itself, except that the “hill is small” and the “runout is crowded” come day’s end. Which leads us to conclude that Aspen Mountain, locally known as Ajax, may be Aspen’s best—no, only—kept secret. Yes, it is only 673 acres, compared to, say, Snowmass’s hulking 3,132. But then again, the mountain feels like “lots of challenge in a small package.” The Face of Bell, which drops magnificently beneath the Silver Queen Gondola, is studded with beautiful bumps. And, no matter how well you think you know the map, International and Gentleman’s ridges somehow offer up new lines. It is not, of course, cheap (“bring what’s left of your 401k,” warns a reader). But hey, it’s Aspen.
/ What’s New / The Little Nell, perhaps the best-known boutique hotel in ski country, unveils an $18 million remodel in December to celebrate its 20th birthday.
/ Mandatory Run / Ruthie’s Run, the Ajax classic that has tested the world’s best racers. Channel Lindsey Vonn—and wear your helmet.
/ Don’t Miss / The Ajax Double hamburger at Ajax Tavern. (The truffle fries aren’t bad, either.)
Photo by Scott Markewitz
