Located to the southwest of Denver, Aspen Mountain ski resort, known as Ajax by locals, is not for the faint-hearted, being ideal for advanced and experienced snowboarders and skiers. The terrain is one of thickly powdered slopes, bumps and steep descents. The resort also boasts the world’s only skier-only terrain park.

The resort centre of Aspen is five kilometres north along Aspen Mountain road and is accessible by a free bus that runs every 15 minutes. Services and facilities are top notch in this elegant Victorian town of tree-lined and car-free streets. Accommodation-wise, Aspen Mountain has about 8,000 beds available, with a further 6,000 nearby and in the town.

There are 76 slopes at Aspen Mountain that are aimed at experienced sliders and are divided into 35 per cent for intermediates, 35 per cent for advanced sliders and 30 per cent for experts. The longest run here is 4.8kms, and eight very efficient lift systems provide access for over 10,000 skiers per hour. Additionally, there are 80kms of cross-country skiing trails.

Other winter activities and facilities at Aspen Mountain include: ice-skating, mountaineering, sleigh riding, snowcat powder skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling tours, and ice-fishing. There is also indoor tennis and comprehensive spa facilities, as well as some quality restaurants and a pumping nightlife in town.

The late November to mid-April ski season at Aspen Mountain has perfect natural conditions throughout February, and the resort is open daily from 09:00 to 15:30. Denver International Airport is the main point of entry from the air and shuttle companies make the four-hour trip to Aspen Mountain. Those who prefer convenience can take a domestic flight to Aspen Pitkin County Airport, located just north of town.