A Perfect Winter Day in Aspen: From First Chair to Fondue

There's something peaceful about watching the sunrise light up Aspen Mountain while warming up with a coffee from Paradise Bakery. The morning crowd gathers at the Silver Queen Gondola – a mix of locals who've done this a thousand times and visitors buzzing with anticipation for their first turns of their ski vacation.  There's an electric energy in the air that only a bluebird day in Aspen can bring.

I grab my skis and head up the Gondy, as locals call it. The first runs down the mountain are pristine – the corduroy groomers offering that satisfying edge-to-edge carving that makes you feel like an Olympic racer.  The mountain is still waking up, but those who made first gondola are treated to untouched groomers, worth getting up early for!

After a few challenging runs on Aspen’s black and double black slopes, the aroma of Bonnie's famous apple strudel starts calling. This mid-mountain institution has been serving skiers since the 1960s. Bonnie’s serves up more than just delicious fare though– it's a dining experience at 11,200 feet that feels uniquely Aspen. Their chicken pot pie warms both body and soul and the views of the Aspen Mountain ski slopes are unsurpassed.  

After a few more runs I head to the bottom to enjoy the sun-soaked patio of the Ajax Tavern at the base of the mountain as it hums with energy.  The staff navigates between tables with trays of their legendary truffle fries and bottles of champagne. It's the kind of scene that makes Aspen, well, Aspen. The people-watching is as good as the slopes I skied earlier.  

After enjoying some fries and champagne (when in Aspen….) I wandered through the charming downtown streets for a bit.  Fat snowflakes fell as I walked past art galleries displaying mountain landscapes and bronze sculptures. The windows of designer boutiques invited me in with displays of trendy winter fashions. The fresh snow was magical as I passed by the many high-end shops and cozy cafes that line the streets at the foot of the ski slopes.

After changing out of my ski clothes I ended my day at the French Alpine Bistro, which honestly feels like being transported to a tiny chalet in the Alps.  The fondue arrives bubbling hot – a mix of Gruyère and Vacherin Fribourgeois that transforms each morsel of bread into a taste of the Swiss Alps.  Enjoying each bite in the cozy atmosphere, I can’t help but think this is exactly why people fall in love with this town.

This is Aspen at its finest – a seamless blend of outdoor adventure, culinary excellence, and cultural sophistication. It's a town that manages to be both world-class and intimate, sophisticated and playful. Whether you're carving through fresh powder or savoring the last bits of fondue, each moment feels uniquely special – the perfect day in a mountain town like no other.