Aspen Mountain Re-Opening for Memorial Day Weekend 2011

Since this winter has been especially persistent and has left much of the CO mountains with record breaking snow totals,  Aspen Ski Co has decided to re-open Aspen Mountain for the Memorial Day Weekend May 28-30, 2011. 

So dig out that ski gear and head to Aspen. Aspen has over 71" inches for a base and the snow just keeps coming.  There will 25 runs open all accessible from the Ajax Express Chairlift.

Aspen/Snowmass Premier, Premier Silver and 6-and-under passes can ride for free. All other passholders will be charged — $19 for adults 18-69, $15 for those 70 and older, $13 for youth passholders 13-17 and $10 for those 12 and under. Single-day lift tickets will be $32 for adults, $25 for youths and seniors and $15 for seniors.

Save on lodging at the Inn at Aspen! Rooms start at $129/nt! After your day of late spring skiing head into town for mud-season specials or grab the golf bag and play a round!

The last time Aspen re-opened for Memorial Day was back in 1995 and it might be another fifteen years before it happens again! Don't miss it!

Survival Guide to Aspen’s Food & Wine Classic 2011

It’s almost here! One the most prestigious foodie and wine lovers gatherings: The Aspen Food & Wine Classic. This year’s event comes to life with cooking demonstrations and wine tastings. Seminars led by wine and food superstars such as Mario Batali, José Andrés, Jacques Pépin, Gail Simmons, and Joshua Wesson provide a world-class experience.  This three day weekend is a full treat for the senses.

So how to survive a food & wine festival that will host more food, wine and celebrities than you’ve see before? Here are the tips that will make your Food & Wine experience the best.

1.Do a Little Research.  With over 50 different Speakers, multiple wine presentations every half hour and tons of cooking demos you will need to know what you would like to try otherwise you will be overwhelmed with the choices.  A good resource is the Food & Wine Classic Speakers page – You can sort through all the different Speakers and find their sample itineraries!  Pick someone you love and see what their “can not miss” things are!

2.    Eat First then Drink: If you (for some unforeseen reason) get a dish that you just don’t love, don’t eat it all! Also look for some of the up & coming chefs at the festival! They are there for a reason- they are good!  By eating first you won’t so severely suffer from all the amazing wine you’ll try later.

3.    Don’t taste every wine.  It sounds shocking but really you don’t have to try them all! Ask the distributor what their favorite wine is.  It is great way to see a big wine and get the feel for what the winery is really striving for.

4.    Water! Aspen is high altitude and the sun will be strong and hot.  Make sure you get in some good gulps of water between tastings and you’ll be good to go all day!

Make sure you also get your Food & Wine Lodging for the weekend! The Inn at Aspen still has rooms available. See the current rates and book online now!

Aspenite Chris Klug Inducted into Skier Hall of Fame

Aspenite Chris Klug will be inducted into the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum Hall of Fame in November! Klug will be one of the youngest people inducted and to receive this honor, The Aspen Times reported on April 27, 2011.

“I was blown away,” Klug said. “I’m so proud to join such a great group of riders and skiers who have contributed so much to Colorado.”

The nomination was written by Bill Tomcich, president of Stay Aspen Snowmass, and seconded by Aspen Skiing Co. President Mike Kaplan and David Perry, SkiCo senior vice president.

“Chris is an inspiring ambassador to the sport of snowboarding, our resort community and the state of Colorado, and we believe a most deserving candidate for the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame,” their letter read.

Klug’s snowboarding career included 20 years on the World Cup tour and finishing his professional career by winning the U.S. title for snowboard parallel slalom in 2010.

In the 1990s, Klug contracted a liver disease and underwent transplant surgery in 2000. In the years since, he has devoted his time to his foundation that he started in 2003, which spreads awareness about organ donations.  The Chris Klug foundation hosts the annual Summit for Life race.

Klug will join 30 or so other Aspenites, including Walter Paepcke, Fred Iselin and Klaus Obermeyer, that make up the nearly 200 inductees in the hall of fame.

Congrats Chris Klug!

Get to Aspen and see what we are all about. Stay at the Inn at Aspen for the best lodging deals.

Best Events in Aspen for Week of April 4, 2011

Aspen is always hopping with amazing art, music, sporting events, restaurants and more but here are some of our suggestions for the best happenings in Aspen in this Spring week of April 4th, 2011.

1. Ski Ski Ski! Its the last few weeks you get to ski at Aspen, Highlands and Snowmass (Buttermilk is already closed).  And all the ski resorts are having spring skiing hours! See the spring lift times- you'll get over another 30 min of ski time.
2. Aspen Film's Shortsfest! Recently named by indieWIRE as one of the world’s top-50 leading film festivals, Aspen Shortsfest is widely recognized as a premier North American showcase for short film and video, including documentary, animation, and live action.  Aspen Shortsfest’s centerpiece is the juried International Competition, which may qualify award winners for Oscar eligibility. The lineup includes premieres as well as award-winners from the international festival circuit.  Shows take place in Aspen at the Wheeler Opera House and in Carbondale at the Crystal Theatre.  Don't miss it!
   
   
3. Sunset Skiing and Moonlight Party on Aspen Sundeck. Enjoy a nighttime ride on the Silver Queen Gondola and enjoy superb dining and drink specials...all at 11,212 feet!  The price for the gondola is $10 for non-season pass holders, $5 for picture pass holders and kids ages 4-12, and FREE for children ages 3 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the Aspen Mountain Ticket Office. Upload from 5:30 - 8 p.m. and download until 9:30 p.m. Food is served until 8 p.m.
   
   
4. Scheentag This hilarious event is one not to miss.  The 4th annual Schneetag event (pronounced Sch-knee Tog) invites teams of four to create a craft that they will pilot down a slope in front of Bonnie's and attempt to float across a 75x20 foot pond.  Every team has a theme and will perform a skit before they descend. This event is just as ridiculous and entertaining as it sounds.  Last year prizes included a trip to the ESPN X Summer Games in Los Angeles, tickets to a professional sporting event in Denver and skis and snowboards.

Get to Aspen to play all Spring and get incredible lodging deals at the Inn at Aspen.  All spring get 20% each night you stay.  View the Deal online now!  

Spring Jam in Aspen- Big Events, Big Music Big Fun

Spring has officially sprung in Aspen and don’t miss this weekend of Spring Jam events presented by the Aspen/Snowmass Ski Resort and Bud Light.  This premier event is spread out over two weekends with free Bud Light Hi-Fi concerts, big air competitions, racing extreme events and terrain park boot camp lessons. 

Coming up for this weekend starting Friday March 25, see the unforgettable Big Air contest on Snowmass Mountain.  These local athletes love to fly and you’ll be amazing at how big these riders and skiers go off a 40ft. jump!   After you’ve witnessed these flying stunts, head to the base village for an après drink and some dinner.

At 8pm don’t miss the free concert- Pepper at the base of Aspen Mountain. Pepper is comprised of guitarist/vocalist Kaleo Wassman, bassist/vocalist Bret Bollinger and drummer Yesod Williams, formed in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii in 1997. Having grown up surfing on the island, it’s not a wonder that they would mix their rock “shock and ah” flare, along with their mellow island rhythm roots to create their own truly diverse sound.

Saturday March 26, 2011-
Get up to see the Fallen Friends Memorial event- teams of skiers and riders come to compete in the obstacle course of jumps, rails and park features- all proceeds benefit the fallen friends memorial fund. See full event schedule!
Sunset skiing is also going on Aspen Mountain! Extended gondola hours will let you ski till 6pm!  Then have dinner, drinks and dancing at the Sundeck!

There are so many events – check out the full schedule.  But a new event we have to tell you about is the Red Bull Buttercup on Buttermilk closing day April 3, 2011.  Don’t miss this snowboard jam contest that invites riders of all levels to come show off their most creative skills on a custom butter park. Only trick sequences that feature buttering will count and riders will be judged on style and creativity. Registration is only $20 and will take place on the day of the event.

Get to Aspen where we are celebrating spring! Stay at the Inn at Aspen and have ski-in ski-out accommodations to Buttermilk and be just minutes away from all the other ski resorts and Spring Jam action!  Book now and get free nights!

Sunset Skiing in Aspen-Spring Ahead with Extended Lift Hours, Parties and More!

Our blog post about a month ago highlighted the extended spring skiing hours at all Aspen/Snowmass ski resorts.  But now just to add an extra special something to the Spring Celebrations in Aspen, the ski company has announced Sunset Skiing! For all those extra minutes of beautiful sunshine at the end of the day you can now ski until 6pm on a handful of days throughout March and April!  Enjoy the gorgeous views, sunsets and on-mountain dining option! See other Spring Jam events!

• Thursday, March 17 – Buttermilk – Lifts open until 6 p.m.
  The Summit Express lift and the Buttermilk Terrain Park will be open until 6 p.m.  The theme will be St. Patrick’s Day. The Cliffhouse will be open for food and beverage options until 6 p.m. and then the party moves down to Bumps at Buttermilk Mountain Lodge. 
• Saturday, March 26 – Aspen Mountain – Silver Queen Gondola open until 6 p.m
  Lift served skiing/riding will continue until 6 p.m. and the party continues with the Sundeck Moonlight Dinner, featuring dinner and drink specials and live music starting at 5:30 p.m.  The last download is at 9:30 p.m. 
• Friday, April 1 – Snowmass – Lifts open until 6:30 p.m.
  Village Express, Big Burn, Coney Glade and the Snowmass Terrain Park will be open until 6:30 p.m. The Cirque will run until 6 p.m. conditions permitting. Sam’s Smokehouse will host a party from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m. and then the party will head down to Sneaky’s Tavern in Snowmass Base Village. The event theme is April Fool’s Day Luau. 
• Friday, April 8 – Aspen Mountain – Silver Queen Gondola open until 6 p.m.
  Lift served skiing/riding will continue until 6 p.m. and the party continues with the Sundeck Moonlight Dinner, featuring dinner and drink specials and live music starting at 5:30 p.m.  The last download is at 9:30 p.m. 
• Saturday, April 16 – Aspen Highlands – Lifts open until 6:30 p.m.
  Exhibition and Loge lifts will be open until 6:30 p.m. and Highland Bowl will be open until 5 p.m.  The Merry-Go-Round will be open until 6:30 p.m.

Closing Days at the Aspen Ski Resorts

Due to a late Easter this spring, Aspen/Snowmass will have one of its longest seasons to date.  Aspen Highlands will stay open for three more weeks than usual through April 24, providing guests more time to experience spring skiing in Aspen/Snowmass.  Sunny days, spring powder, live music and après parties will keep the 2010-2011 season going longer than ever. 

Stay with us at the Inn at Aspen and have ski-in ski-out lodging till closing day of Buttermilk, then be only minutes away from incredible spring skiing at Aspen, Highlands and Snowmass!

Aspen On the Cheap- Spring Savings and Deals

A trip to Aspen obviously has its luxuries but many of them can be done on the cheap or with added activity benefits.  One of the best times to do this is Spring in Aspen.  While you are enjoying the mild weather, incredible rays of sunshine, spectacular scenery, the food, the nightlife get some stuff for free, find some awesome deals and save some money too-

So What Does Spring in Aspen Have to Offer?

1. Apres Specials and Live Music at Sneaky’s Tavern
   Enjoy daily après drink specials and live music on Fridays and Saturdays. Also, don’t miss $5 Fridays, $5 well drinks, and Sangria Saturdays, $6 red or white sangria. New hours of operation: 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Snowmass Base Village
2. Free Yoga For Skiers at the Sundeck: Daily, 9:30-10:15 a.m. Complimentary yoga at the top of Aspen Mountain at the Sundeck. Must have a valid lift ticket to load the gondola. For more information, call 310-658-0080. Aspen Mountain see more on yoga...
3. Coupons Coupons and Coupons! Pick up an Aspen Times or an Aspen Daily News and get the current deals around town!  
4. More Hours of Skiing: Spring Extended Lift Hours.  The Aspen/Snowmass ski resorts are letting  specific lifts run for 30 minutes more each day! How many more runs can you get in that 30 mins?  Read the full post for lift details...
5. Mardi Gras in Snowmass: Mardi Gras March 8, 2011 in the Snowmass Village Mall is a great way to celebrate this southern tradition for cheap. Nonstop action all day long, including King Cake giveaways (1:00 pm), a bead and prize throw (3pm), crawdad boils, live music, a crazy costumed parade (4pm) and mask-making and face painting for kids (1-3pm).
6. Spring Ski-In Ski-Out Lodging Deals! Get in all the spring skiing, sunshine and apres you can stand and do it for cheap without sacrifice when you stay with us at the Inn at Aspen.  We are Buttermilk Ski Resort's (home of the Winter X Games) only ski in ski out hotel.  Get up in the morning walk out the door and get on the lift. That easy!  And our current Spring lodging deals will make you a happy camper! 

Don't Miss out on the beginning of Spring in Aspen!

Oscar Night in Aspen by AspenFilm - Red Carpet, Live Viewing, Good Cause!

Aspen Film is hosting their Annual Lights Camera Oscars party this year on Feb. 27, 2011.  Get your tickets now to see the very best of the Oscars and of Aspen! Party starts at 5:30 till the last award given!

Join AspenFilm at the Viceroy in Snowmass for a night filled with the glamor of the Oscars.  From red carpet walk ways, live screening of the Oscars on big screens, delicious buffet dinner, silent auctions and prizes you'll feel as if you were at the awards show! Your best Oscar related attire is requested!   Also see the other events Aspen Film has in-store including the spring ShortsFest!

So my favorite categories in the Oscars?

Best Cinematography: Up for an Oscar includes “Black Swan” Matthew Libatique, “Inception” Wally Pfister, “The King's Speech” Danny Cohen, “The Social Network” Jeff Cronenweth, “True Grit” Roger Deakins
Best Lead Actress: Best actress will be a tight race with Annette Bening in “The Kids Are All Right”, Nicole Kidman in “Rabbit Hole”, Jennifer Lawrence in “Winter's Bone”, Natalie Portman in “Black Swan”, Michelle Williams in “Blue Valentine”
Best Lead Actor: Who can pick really? Good thing we have the academy to make all the tough decisions~Javier Bardem in “Biutiful”,Jeff Bridges in “True Grit”, Jesse Eisenberg in “The Social Network”, Colin Firth in “The King's Speech”, James Franco in “127 Hours”
Read more about the Oscars

So experience the Oscars in style in Aspen! Save on your lodging with us at the Inn at Aspen hotel. We are conveniently located just minutes from Aspen and a short drive to Snowmass. After your Oscar party enjoy ski-in ski-out access to Buttermilk Ski Resort- Book now and automatically get the best rates!

Aspen Ski Resorts Have Extended Lift Hours for Spring 2011

Spring must be just around the corner... the days are staying lighter later and that means more hours in the day to ski!!!  Starting this weekend Saturday Feb. 19th Aspen Ski Co will extend their lift operating hours leaving you with many more minutes to do some final afternoon laps.

• Aspen Mountain: Silver Queen and Ajax Express Lifts will run till 4pm
• Aspen Highlands: Exhibition and Loge Peak Lifts will run till 4pm
• Buttermilk: Summit Express Lift runs till 4pm (West and Tiehack close at 3:30)
• Snowmass: Village Express, Big Burn and Elk Camp Gondola lifts will run till 4pm

photo by Jeremy Swanson

So with extended lift hours you'll get more play time, more ski time, more sunshine and more terrain! Get to Aspen and stay with us at the Inn at Aspen for perfect ski-in ski-out affordable lodging at Buttermilk Ski Resort- home of the Winter X Games!  Stay with us over Spring Break and Save up to 25%! See our deals and book online!

Valentine's Day in Aspen- Alternative Ideas to Show Your Love

Valentine's Day is here again! It is a lovely time of year to remind those we love just how much we love them!  And sometimes we need some ideas to help jump start the Valentine's Love Ideas- so here are a few ideas from us at ResortQuest Aspen on how you can entertain your loved one!

Take Her to The Ballet!  The Aspen Santa Fe Ballet is performing February 11-12 at 7:30 in the Aspen District Theatre.  Let you and your loved one be fully entertained and immersed in the Encore presentation of Uneven. The performance is in celebration of their 15th anniversary season with ballets from choreographers Jiri Kylian and Nicolo Fonte in a vibrant performance.  Kylian’s Stamping Ground, and a newly commissioned ballet by Fonte will make their Aspen premiere with Cayetano Soto's spectacular  Uneven completing the program.  The evening will showcase the remarkable talents of ASFB's dancers, and exemplify ASFB’s 15 year commitment to commissioning and performing groundbreaking work by both world renowned and up-and-coming choreographers.

Early Chocolate Bliss- Head to the Chocolate Classic Thursday February 10, 2011 6-8:30 p.m. at the Hotel Jerome!  Enjoy the benefits of Chocolate and all it supports early this year. Aspen’s historic Hotel Jerome will show its love for victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault by hosting RESPONSE’s 19th Annual Chocolate Classic – a festive family event.   RESPONSE is dedicated to ending interpersonal violence by providing support, education and direct services – such as confidential shelter – to victims. Chocolate Competition, in which participants vote for their favorites to win, and the silent auction that will offer romantic dinners and enticing items that any sweetheart would adore on Valentine’s Day.   Prominent local restaurants and hotels are well represented at the event, which draws over 600 attendees annually. Advanced tickets $20/adults $10/children at door $25/adults $15/children VIP Tickets $150 Purchase tickets at Alpine Bank, Explore Booksellers, Sundance Liquors,  or call (970) 920-5357

Head to Toe Bliss-  Treat yourselves to massage and healing touch at the Aspen Spa & Club.  Enjoy the bliss of a rejuvenating massage or facials or body masks at the Aspen Spa & Club.  Book your treatments now as they quickly become booked.

Take Her to The Movies- Wheeler Opera House.  Night of Valentine's head to the Historic Wheeler Opera House to watch featured short films n collaboration with Aspen Film.  The night will present this year’s nominated films in the Short Film category in anticipation of Aspen Film’s upcoming Shortsfest 2011.  You’ll want to catch every program. Recently named by Indiewire as one of the world’s top-50 leading film festivals, Aspen Shortsfest is widely recognized as a premier North American showcase for short film and video and is an Oscar-qualifying festival. Its 20th annual edition is coming April 5 – 10. Be among those few who have seen every nominee come Oscar night.

Book a Ski-in Ski-Out Getaway in the Suites at the Inn at Aspen-  Treat your loved one to a nice getaway with Ski In Ski Out lodging to Buttermilk Ski Resort! Stay in the Inn's stylish luxury suites to play the day away and relax by night. See videos and photos of these lovely units at the Inn at Aspen!

Get to Aspen for your romantic Valentine's day and see just how romantic this town can be! Stay at the Inn at Aspen for cheapest and best ski in ski out location to Buttermilk Ski resort! Book Now and get the best prices online!

Aspen Is Number One Ski Town for Après Scene -- by Fodor's Travel

Ajax Tavern at base of Aspen Mtn- Fodors Phots

Aspen just keeps making the top lists for all it's fabulous characteristics!  Fodor's just came out with a Best Après Ski Resorts list and Aspen made the Number 1 Spot! If any of you have ever been to Aspen you know exactly why Fodor's thought of Aspen First!

"You'll see it all in Aspen—Hollywood celebs in cowboy boots, glamorous wives of Saudi royalty shopping, tanned European ski instructors, and fascinating and friendly locals. East Hyman Avenue is the best place for bar-hopping — a cluster of nightspots share the same address and phone number. To stay where you play, consider the Little Nell, where you can ski-in, ski-out and the bar hosts one of town's most fashionable après-ski scenes."- Fodor's

See the Full Article and the other Top Après Resorts

Check out the Aspen Scene — view restaurants, nightlife and more Aspen activities! Book your trip to Aspen asap to discover just what Fodor's and so many others are talking about! The Inn at Aspen is offering discounted rooms — only $195/nt for President's Week and Spring Break — Come play like a rock star!

Winter X Games 15 in Aspen –Less than 1 Day Away!

Winter X Games 15 is quickly approaching – just one day away- Starting Jan. 27-30, 2011 Buttermilk Mountain, home to the Winter X Games, is transformed into one of the biggest stages winter sports ever sees!  High flying, fast tracks, super speed and incredible gravity defying tricks are all laid down on Buttermilk’s slopes.  And happy to host the Winter X Games ESPN crew is the Inn at Aspen-

Check out these pictures of the set up- the Inn at Aspen is literally right at the base of all this action!  Also keep an eye out for updates, photos and more-      

• Follow us on Twitter and on Facebook! 

• See the Full Schedule of Events for Winter X Games
• See TV Broadcasting Schedule
• See Line Up of Athletes

Get to the Inn at Aspen and see just where the Winter X Games action is held!  When you visit during President's Week or Spring Break you will save 25%- that is a room for as little as $195/nt! That is the cheapest Ski-In Ski-Out lodging you will find in Aspen!  Book Now!

ResortQuest Welcomes ESPN to The Inn at Aspen for Winter X Games 15

ResortQuest's Inn at Aspen to serve as official host hotel for the ESPN Winter X Games' television production and event staging operations for the 10th consecutive year.

Sitting square at the foot of Buttermilk Mountain, ResortQuest's Inn at Aspen holds a unique position as the only ski-in/ski-out lodging at Buttermilk Ski Resort in Aspen, Colorado. And since 2002, Buttermilk Mountain has been the official home of the Winter X Games. So, it's only natural that ESPN would select The Inn at Aspen as the base of operations for its television production and event-staging operations for a 10th consecutive year.

Weeks of preparation go into transforming The Inn at Aspen hotel into a broadcasting hub for the highly anticipated four-day event, which will run January 27-30. ESPN crews began converging on the hotel in early January, converting virtually every inch of The Inn at Aspen's 5,000 square feet of meeting space into a high-tech media command center. With more than 43 million viewers tuning in to watch the Winter X Games last year, it is imperative that operations inside the hotel run as cleanly as the performances out on the snow.

In addition to procuring the Inn's ballrooms and conference spaces—including the Tiehack Room, Buttermilk Mountain Room and The Station—ESPN sets up trailers around the property and in the parking lots outside. The Inn at Aspen's onsite banquet services provides catering for all the media and TV production staff staying at the hotel, as well as for the Athlete Lounge.

The Athlete Lounge is located in The Inn at Aspen's picturesque courtyard. In this very exclusive lounge, the competitors relax, refresh and take a break from the extreme action on the slopes and in the pipes. Away from the cameras and the crowds, the athletes can hang out, nosh on a hot meal or compete in video games instead of on the slopes.

The Inn at Aspen hotel is sold out for the week of the Winter X Games, and security around the Inn is justifiably tight. But, ResortQuest invites guests to visit after the Games to experience skiing and boarding on the same mountain where the pros ride. Lodging specials for The Inn at Aspen can be found online at http://www.ResortQuestAspen.com.

Yoga Studios in Aspen- Healthy Yoga Classes While on Vacation

Just because you are on vacation does not mean you need to ditch the workout schedule.  Aspen has a wide array of gyms but they also have awesome Yoga Studios! And if you are into Yoga it is always fun to meet new teachers and get a different perspective on your yoga practice, try some new poses and feel even more relaxed while on vacation!

Aspen Yoga Studios

• O2 Aspen – 500 W. Main Street  - Aspen, CO 81611  970-925-4002
  Their motto is “pure indulgence”.  Check out this fabulous studio hosting yoga, pilates, acupuncture and a full day spa.  With over 5 classes a day you are bound to find one that fits your schedule, the type of class you want and match your ability level.  Drop in price starts at $18
• Arjuna Yoga- 517 E. Hopkins Ave. Aspen, CO 81611  970.925.7276
  Hot Yoga! This studio is all about stimulating mind, body and energizing through vinyasa flow yoga. They have a gorgeous studio and with 5 classes a day you’ll be able to get your sweat on! If you are looking for some extra flexibility try the Yin Yoga class.  Drop in prices start at $18.
• Aspen Health and Harmony- 19351 Hwy 82. down valley in El Jebel- across from the City Market at Wind River Tree Farm 970-704-9642
  With multiple classes offered daily this studio offers everything from restorative yoga to amazing yoga retreats. You can also get a great massage after your purifying workout.
• Bikram Yoga – College of India 23300 Two Rivers Rd Basalt, CO 81621 970-927-1230
  The Bikram Yoga Studio in Basalt is a great yoga practice all centered around the Bikram style yoga. Get there early as this class is always packed! Take some deep breaths and listen to the river as it flows by the studio.

Get your yoga on while on vacation!!! We also highly recommend spending some time in the spa too- come on you deserve it! See our Spa recommendation. And while all this pampering is taking place, ensure you have comfortable convenient lodging!  At the Inn at Aspen right at the base of Buttermilk Ski Resort you will be able to ski-in ski-out all day long to Buttermilk.  Don't forget our great lodging deals that will ensure you spend your money on fun!

Inn at Aspen Welcomes ESPN for Winter X Games 15

It is that time of year again when the air around Buttermilk and the Inn at Aspen is filled with the anticipation knowing Winter X Games is only a few days away.  This January 27-30, 201l, ESPN's Winter X Games 15 will flying high with incredible athletes who will be throwing down the biggest newest tricks at an attempt to win gold at X Games!
See the Full X Games Schedule

Winter Women’s Activities in Aspen- Aspen Knows How to Treat a Lady!

Grab your best girls, wing-women, sisters, amigas and head to Aspen- Aspen is an ideal destination with tons of activities and events for women of all ages and interests-  Whether you are stoked to play all day in the snow or need some extra R & R you’ll find exactly what you need.

Get outside and Play- no boys allowed:

• Girls Only Ski and Snowboard Camps- Aspen Snowmass offers an awesome variety of ski classes including women only ski and snowboard camps.  Learn from a women to ski and board like a women all in a comfortable fun learning environment. Visit www.aspensnowmass.com to learn more.
• Guided Hut Trips- See some of the 10th Mountain Division Huts or escape into the wilderness to laugh it up and enjoy the scenery with your buddies-  Aspen Alpine Guides or  Aspen Expeditions are great choices to get you started on your adventure!
• Snowshoe to Infinity-  Whether you want miles of untouched snow and peaceful quite or you want some extreme uphills on Aspen Mountain- you'll find the perfect trail for your snowshoeing experience. Learn more...

Girls –Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice: 

• Shopping- Aspen is a mecca for amazing designer and boutique shopping- From Gucci to Prada or boutique style with Pitkin County Dry Goods you'll find the perfect outfit!~ see a list of recommended shopping.
• Dining/ Restaurants-Your taste buds will be happy too with the amazing gourmet dining options from a quick bit to a fabulous extravagant dinner. See our top restaurant recommendations. 
• Nightlife-  After a delicious meal head out on the town- Aspen's nightlife rocks with great music venues, cocktails galore and funky bars and fabulous art/theatre scene. See our recommendations.
• Arts and Culture-  Need some extra creative inspiration? Aspen is packed full of Art Museums and Art Galleries that host some incredible arts local and from abroad. Check out the Aspen Art Museum
• Yoga – Take a deep breathe and stretch it out.  Yoga Studios in Aspen are plentiful and welcome drop-ins and visitors!
• Spa Day- Its all about being pampered! Take care of your body, mind and attitude with an incredible massage that will the be icing on the vacation cake!

Don't miss out on having your girls only adventure in Aspen- you can do it on the cheap too when you book your stay with the Inn at Aspen with ski-in ski-out access to Buttermilk Ski Resort.  See our current hotel deals and conveniently book online!

Wintersköl Aspen 2011: A Cut Above the Rest 60th Anniversary

Aspen’s Wintersköl Celebrations are the annual “toast to winter” that dates back to 1951 making this year’s 2011 celebration the 60th Anniversary of Wintersköl!  From January 13-16, 2011 enjoy a four day celebration that features all kinds of activities, fireworks and so much fun!

This year’s slogan is “A Cut Above the Rest”.  The slogan is chosen from entries from the community – they were asked to interpret event as the 60th “Diamond” Anniversary of Wintersköl.  And what came out of the rough? A Cut Above the Rest- of course.

So what is all the hype about?  Check out some of this years highlights of events or see the full calendar of events.


THURSDAY 1/13/2011:

• 4:00 p.m.  Anderson Ranch Arts Center's "Wintersculpt": Anderson Ranch selects six teams to participate in this intense 48 hour snow sculpture competition. Teams often work around the clock on Thursday and Friday of the event to transform their 8' x 8'x 8' snow cubes into freestanding creations.

• 7:00 pm: "Ladies and Gentlemen, The Rolling Stones."
  Wheeler Opera House - This film is believed by many to be the finest pure concert film ever produced.  Filmed over four nights during the Stones' monumental 1972 tour of the United States. The movie captures not only "the greatest rock ‘n roll band in the world" at the very top of its game, but also the kind of concert experience that defined stadium rock. Free Admission!

FRIDAY 1/14/2011:

• 10:30 a.m. - noon    Apple Strudel Downhill: Apple Strudel Trail, Aspen Highlands. Free to everyone! All participants receive complimentary apple strudel with whipped cream and a drink, and bragging rights at finish line! 
• 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.    "Soupsköl," Aspen's 8th annual soup cook-off Cooper Ave. Hunter St. Soupsköl is a soup-making contest judged by the public to determine which restaurant has the best soup in our valley. Each restaurant offers a FREE sample of their soup. The public casts a vote for their favorite and the winner gets the coveted Soup Bowl Trophy and bragging rights for the next year! Free to everyone. To register, call ACRA, 970-925-1940 or visit www.aspenchamber.org

SATURDAY 1/15/2011

• 11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. Wintersköl Public Skate Lewis Ice Arena.  Free admission. Aspen Recreation Center, 970-544-4100.
• Noon - 8:30 p.m. WINTERFEST: Cooper Ave Mall.  Come join in the festivities!  WinterFest brings fun for the whole family including: clowns, face painters, live music, Aspen Kettle Corn, POP! cotton candy, hot chocolate & cookies, the torchlight decent, and the fireworks extravaganza over Aspen Mountain. Free and open to everyone. See the Full List of Winterfest activities 
• 8:00 p.m.  Torchlight Descent Little Nell - Aspen Mountain 
• 8:15 p.m.   Wintersköl Fireworks Extravaganza Little Nell - Aspen Mountain
• 10:00 p.m. Super Diamond- playing at Belly Up Aspen
  

SUNDAY 1/16/2011

• 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Men's Health & Women's Health Village at Aspen Wintersköl Aspen Gondola Plaza. The Ultimate Party in The Snow - Check out our schedule of events and carve your trail through Aspen Winterskol 2011.
  RECOVER from your day on the slopes with tranquil spa services and new products to try in the Men's Health/Women's Health Sanctuary. Lower Gondola Plaza, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.   LOUNGE between runs in the Men's Health/Women's Health Lodge featuring games, sweeps, and Internet Café. Men's Health/Women's Health Lodge, Upper Gondola Plaza, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
  SIP beer and wine, munch on snacks and groove to the sounds of some of Aspen's hottest DJs at our Après Ski Parties in the Men's Health/Women's Health Lodge, Upper Gondola Plaza, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. (21+ Event)

So if there were only a few events that you could make it to I would have to insist that you go Saturday eve for the incredible torchlight parade and the absolutely amazing fireworks display.  These fireworks are better and longer than Aspen’s 4th of July show- the whole valley gleams with glittering fireworks and loud echoing ka-booms!  Then dance in the streets to live music!  Cheers to Winter!

Stay with us at the Inn at Aspen located slopeside to Buttermilk Ski Resort- Ski all day and play all night, while you stay for cheap!  Check out our great lodging deals!

Aspen Insider Tip: Best Slopeside And Apres Ski Restaurants

The entire town of Aspen sits right below the incredible Ajax Ski Mountain and most of the places host a pretty good sight of the ski hill and gondola. However there are some killer slopeside restaurants and après scenes that you will not want to miss!  View our other Aspen Restaurant Top Recommendations  or our Aspen Nightlife Guide

Top Slopeside Restaurants for Après

1.    Ajax Tavern: This tavern right next to the Little Nell takes a French twist to fine dining right at the base of Aspen Mountain!  It is perfect for people watching, après drinks and appetizers and catching a few rays of sun with the patio seating!   Don’t miss the Truffle Fries and the cheese fondue~

2.    Sundeck on Aspen Mountain –Top of Aspen Mountain- take gondola The Sundeck offers an array of perfect afternoon fare to get to you revitalized but what really makes the Sundeck are the views! Look out over the valleys to check out the incredible mountains and bask in the sun while drinking your favorite après cocktail or hot chocolate.

Top Apres Restaurants (just a little further from the mountain)

1.    Red Onion – This old establishment with a new vibe offers great bar fare, TVs all around and great drink specials that are extra happy for happy hour!
2.    The Cantina- enjoy some fabulous margaritas in downtown Aspen! You might have to wait for a table but it is always worth it! 

3.    Aspen Brewing Co.- The Aspen Brewery Tasting Room offers the freshest, best priced, locally brewed pints in town. You'll find a wide selection of craft beer for every palate from light lagers to dark ales.
4.    Zane’s Tavern- Happy Hour daily from 4-6pm with cheap cheap wings and beer- and you won’t miss a minute of the game with 6 TVs and more!

Check out our full list of Top Aspen Restaurants for Dinner!

Or See our Nightlife Guide for other places you have to visit!

Book your Aspen accommodations with a great location for cheap! See our deals-  That way you can spend all your money playing in Aspen! And in the morning wake up to ski-in ski-out location at Buttermilk Mountain! Enjoy studio rooms to deluxe suites at the Inn at Aspen!

Aspen Insider Tips: Best Ski Runs on Snowmass for December

Aspen’s Power of Four Ski Resorts host incredible terrain that is diverse and plentiful! Snowmass is on our radar today for the best ski runs. Snowmass Ski Resort is a wide sprawling resort that can entertain all levels and abilities from the expert Big Burn Cliffs to the awesome soft rolling runs on Elk Run.

Here are our recommendations for the best ski runs right now on Snowmass.

• Beginner (Green): Scooper is a fun green run accessible from the midway station point. This easy gentle sloping run also goes by the kids ski racing area.



• Intermediate (Blue): Naked Lady run is an infamously fun rolling ski run that allows for lots of turns and rolling terrain that swoops around to meet up with the Alpine Springs lift.



• Advanced (Black): Though its only December the base is quite nice and runs like the Slot on Sam’s Knob provide the steep fun terrain the is not littered with any rocks or bare spots!

So get out there and enjoy the Best Ski Runs of December and when you book your stay at the Inn at Aspen you’ll have ski in ski out access to Buttermilk Ski Resort opening Dec. 11, 2010- save money and have one of the best ski in ski out set ups in town! See lodging deals.

Celebrity Lance Armstrong in Aspen for 2011 Quiznos Pro Challenge

Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong, world champion Thor Hushovd and former world champion Cadel Evans, as well as legendary team directors Johan Bruyneel and Bob Stapleton are among the world renowned cyclists that will compete in the Quiznos Pro Challenge, August 22-28, 2011.

Today the organizers announced the first five teams to join the Quiznos Pro Challenge, including Team Radio Shack whom Lance Armstrong rides for. The tour is being described as the greatest bike race ever to be held on American soil from - and we're so excited to hear that the greatest cyclist of our times, Lance Armstrong will be riding through Aspen!

About the Quiznos Pro Challenge

The Quiznos Pro Challenge is most demanding professional bike race ever held in America, with racers experiencing breathless altitudes and nearly 600 mountain miles, for seven-straight days. The inaugural 2011 Quiznos Pro Challenge will take place August 22-28, traveling through some of the world’s most famous and beautiful destinations, including Colorado Springs, Salida, Crested Butte, Gunnison, Aspen, Vail, Avon,Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge, Golden and Denver. 128 of the world’s best professional cyclists from 16 teams, including Team RadioShack, HTC-Highroad, Slipstream Sports/Garmin-Cervelo and Liquigas-Cannondale, will be put to the test like never before.

To keep in touch with the latest news and updates on the Quiznos Pro Challenge, visit http://www.quiznosprochallenge.com/.

Where to Stay for the Quiznos Pro Challenge
ResortQuest has lodging in 3 of the of start/finish locations for the Quizno's Pro Challenge: Steamboat, Breckenridge & Aspen.

Aspeninfo@ResortQuest.com

Tour Schedule and Route

• August 22 – Stage 1, Prologue time trial, Colorado Springs

• August 23 – Stage 2, Salida to Crested Butte, mountain-top finish
  
• August 24 – Stage 3, Gunnison to Aspen, mountain stage


• August 25 – Stage 4, Vail, time trail, former Coors Classic stage


• August 26 – Stage 5, Avon to Steamboat Springs


• August 27 – Stage 6, Steamboat Springs to Breckenridge


• August 28 – Stage 7, Golden to Denver

About the 5 Teams

Team RadioShack (USA)

Team RadioShack is led by Sports Team Manager Johan Bruyneel, the most winning sports director in history with nine Tour de France victories, including seven with pro-cycling legend Lance Armstrong. The 2010 team was comprised of riders hailing from 16 countries, including Grand Tour leaders, Lance Armstrong, Levi Leipheimer, Andres Kloden, Jani Brajkovic (Slovenia) and Tiago Machado (Portugal).

Liquigas-Cannondale (Italy)

Liquigas-Cannondale is an Italian professional cycling team ranked second in the UCI ProTour for the third consecutive year. Sport team manager Roberto Amadio has many returning stars including Vincenzo Nibali, who took the overall victory at the 2010 Vuelta a Espana, and Ivan Basso, who earned his second career Giro d'Italia win in May.

HTC-Highroad (USA)

Led by Bob Stapleton, the HTC-Highroad team has the most victories in professional cycling with 389 wins since 2008, nine national titles and six world champions on its 2011 roster. HTC-Highroad is comprised of top young talent with 19 riders under the age of 26 making it one of the youngest teams in professional cycling. The team represents national champions of Germany, USA, Sweden, Czech Republic, Ireland, Italy and Slovakia.

BMC Racing Team (USA)

BMC Racing Team finished as one of the top 10 teams in the UCI world rankings, helping them earn ProTeam status for 2011. Competing in its fifth season overall, the team is managed by Directeur Sportif John Lelangue and includes former world road race champions Cadel Evans (Australia) and Alessandro Ballan (Italy), and U.S. national road champion George Hincapie. In addition to many 2010 wins, BMC Racing Team led both the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia in its first participation in both events. As a recent addition, Colorado native and multi-time world and U.S. national champion Taylor Phinney will join the team’s roster in 2011.

Slipstream Sports/Team Garmin-Cervelo (USA)

Headquartered in Boulder, Colo., Slipstream Sports and Team Garmin-Cervelo are managed by CEO and Director Sportif Jonathan Vaughters, a Denver resident who had a 10-year career as a professional cyclist. The 2011 team – a powerhouse in the peloton – includes Ryder Hesjedal, who earned seventh place overall at the 2010 Tour de France; sprint sensation Tyler Farrar; world champion Thor Hushovd and Christian Vande Velde.

We look forward to seeing you in ASPEN for the Quiznos Pro Challenge!