Experience The Aspen Snowmass Mountains Like a Local With Free Mountain Tours!

For visitors looking to make the most of their time in Aspen, the free mountain tours offered at each of the area's four mountains are an absolute must. These guided experiences combine local knowledge, skiing tips, and historical insights – all at no additional cost beyond your lift ticket.

Aspen Mountain (Ajax)

The most notable of Aspen's ski areas offers its Ambassador Tours twice daily at 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Meet your guide at the top of the Silver Queen Gondola, where seasoned locals will lead you through Ajax's legendary terrain. These tours are perfect for intermediate to advanced skiers looking to discover hidden powder stashes and learn about the mountain's rich silver mining history.

Tours last approximately two hours and cover both the mountain's famous expert terrain and its often-overlooked intermediate runs. Your guide will share stories about Aspen's transformation from a mining town to a world-class ski destination.

Aspen Highlands

Known for the iconic Highland Bowl, Aspen Highlands offers daily tours at 11:00 AM from the top of Exhibition Lift. These tours are particularly valuable for first-time visitors to Highlands, as guides help you navigate the mountain's unique layout and explain the safest ways to approach the Bowl, should you be interested in attempting it.

The tours include tips on accessing Highlands' famous steep terrain and information about the best intermediate routes down the mountain. Guides also share insights about the mountain's development and its reputation as a local favorite.

Snowmass

As Aspen's largest ski area, Snowmass offers the most comprehensive tour program. Free tours depart daily at 10:30 AM from the top of the Village Express lift. The mountain's ambassadors specialize in helping visitors navigate this vast terrain, which can initially seem overwhelming with its 3,332 acres of skiable terrain.  After the tour you will feel comfortable exploring easily on your own.

Tours on Snowmass Mountain are tailored to the group's ability level and typically last 2-2.5 hours. Guides highlight family-friendly zones, hidden intermediate trails, and the mountain's extensive glade skiing areas. They also share information about the area's ice-age discoveries and the mountain's environmental initiatives.

Buttermilk

Perfect for families and beginners, Buttermilk's mountain tours depart at 11:00 AM daily from the base of Summit Express. While Buttermilk is known as the beginner-friendly mountain of the four, tours here reveal much more than just easy groomers.

Guides show visitors the mountain's terrain parks (home to the Winter X Games), family adventure zones, and scenic intermediate runs. Tours typically last 1.5 hours and are a great way for newer skiers to learn the area and get comfortable enough to explore on their own.

Making the Most of Your Tour Experience

Tips for Participation:

• Arrive 15 minutes early to sign up and meet your guide
• Tours are available to intermediate skiers and above (except at Buttermilk)
• Bring water and weather-appropriate gear
• No reservations required – tours are first-come, first-served
• Consider taking tours early in your visit to enjoy the comfort level of knowing the mountain right away.

What to Expect:

• Professional, knowledgeable guides who are passionate about their mountain and their community
• Insider tips on the best places to eat 
• Information about current snow conditions and where to find the best terrain for your ability
• Historical and geological information about the area
• Recommendations for the rest of your stay

The free mountain tours represent one of Aspen's best values and provide an experience that can transform your vacation from great to extraordinary. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning guest, these tours offer new perspectives on each unique mountain. Take advantage of this complimentary service to enhance your Aspen skiing experience and create lasting memories of your time in this world-class destination.