Aspen is a western resort town in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is considered to be one of the top ski destinations in the world, and it is also a popular summertime destination for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. The town is located in the White River National Forest and is home to the Aspen Skiing Company.
The answer to the question “does it snow in Aspen Colorado?” is Yes, it does snow in Aspen Colorado. The town gets an average of 170 inches of snow each year, and it can snow as early as October and as late as May.
Does It Snow In Aspen, Colorado?
If you’re wondering does it snow in Aspen, Colorado, the answer is a resounding Yes!
In fact, this picturesque town is known for its abundant snowfall, averaging over 165 inches of snow each year. Which makes it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
So if you’re planning a trip to Aspen, be sure to pack your skis or snowboard – and don’t forget your camera to capture all the stunning scenery.
The Climate In Aspen
Aspen, Colorado, has a semi-arid climate (Köppen: BSk) with four distinct seasons. Due to its high elevation and proximity to the Rocky Mountains, the city experiences large amounts of diurnal temperature variation.
Average January temperatures range from a maximum of 32.4 °F (0.2 °C) to a minimum of 9.1 °F (-13.3 °C), though extreme cold temperatures can plunge below 0 °F (-18 °C). Summers are warm, with an average July maximum of 83.6 °F (28.7 °C) and a minimum of 42.8 °F (5.8 °C), though altitude and shade keep high temperatures lower than in other resort towns in Colorado and the American West.
So, in short, Aspen, Colorado, is a beautiful place to visit year-round.
The climate of Aspen is mild, with four distinct seasons. Snow is common in the winter months but does not usually accumulate enough to stay on the ground for more than a few days.
During the winter, temperatures usually range from 20 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (-7 to 4 degrees Celsius). Summers are warm, with temperatures typically reaching into the 80s Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius).
In addition, Aspen experiences a larger number of thunderstorms than most of the United States outside of the southeastern states.
Why Is Aspen A Great Place To Visit In The Winter?
Aspen is especially popular with skiers and snowboarders from around the globe, and for a good reason.
The four ski areas in the Snowmass Village/Aspen area offer a combined 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, with Aspen Mountain seeing the most visitors. Of the four areas, Snowmass is the largest, with 3,332 acres of skiable terrain.
When Does It Snow In Aspen?
Aspen generally receives its first snowfall in October, though the snow has been known to fall as early as September. The Snowmass Ski Area generally opens from late November to early December.
The Best Things To Do In Aspen During The Winter
Aspen is one of the most popular winter destinations in the United States, and for a good reason. The picturesque mountain town is home to four world-class ski resorts, as well as countless other outdoor activities and attractions.
Whether you’re an experienced skier or snowboarder looking to hit the slopes or a first-timer looking to enjoy the winter wonderland, Aspen is the perfect place to be. Here are some of the best things to do in Aspen during the winter.
Ski Or Snowboard At One Of Aspen’s World-Class Resorts
Aspen is home to four world-class ski resorts, each with its own unique terrain and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for long cruisers, steep chutes, or gentle slopes, you’ll find them here. And with more than 5,500 acres of skiable terrain, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, or if you just want to brush up on your skills, Aspen also offers a variety of lessons and clinics for all skill levels.
Explore The Great Outdoors
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there are endless other outdoor activities to enjoy in Aspen during the winter. Take a scenic hike or snowshoe through one of Aspen’s many beautiful trails, go ice skating at an outdoor rink downtown, or try your hand at cross-country skiing.
And if you really want to get away from it all, head out on a dogsledding adventure or spend a day exploring Snowmass Island – both are sure to give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Best Places To Visit In Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a beautiful town located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is well known for its ski resorts, but there are many other things to do in Aspen.
In the summer, you can hike, bike, go rafting or kayaking, or take a scenic drive. There are also many great shops and restaurants in Aspen.
The Best Restaurants In Aspen To Visit During The Winter
When the snow starts to fall, and the temperatures drop, it’s time to start thinking about where you want to eat in Aspen. Here are some of the best places to visit during the winter months.
- La Creperie du Village – This restaurant is located in the heart of Aspen and offers a variety of crepes that will warm you up on a cold day.
- Marble Distilling Company – Located in the Carbondale area, this distillery offers a variety of spirits that will keep you warm all winter long.
- The Cliff House at Carbondale – This restaurant is located in the mountains and offers stunning views of the valley below. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal while watching the snowfall.
Top Things To Do In Aspen, Colorado
If you’re thinking of spending some time in Aspen, Colorado, there are a few things you should know.
First, it snows there. A lot. In fact, the town gets an average of over 20 feet of snow each year. So, if you’re not a fan of cold weather, you may want to visit during the summer months.
Second, there are plenty of things to do in Aspen regardless of the time of year. During the winter, visitors can hit the slopes at one of the many nearby ski resorts. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, you can always go for a leisurely stroll through downtown Aspen to check out the shops and restaurants.
Come summertime, there’s no shortage of activities either. Hiking and biking are popular options, or you can take a scenic drive through one of the many nearby mountain passes. White water rafting is also available for those looking for a little more excitement.
No matter what time of year you visit, there’s sure to be something to do in Aspen, Colorado, that will suit your fancy.
Tips For Visiting Aspen On A Budget
Aspen is one of the most popular ski destinations in the United States, attracting visitors from all over the world. The town is also known for its high-end shops and upscale restaurants. However, there are ways to enjoy Aspen without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for visiting Aspen on a budget:
- Stay in a hostel or condo: Hotels in Aspen can be quite expensive, but there are other lodging options available that are more affordable. Hostels start at around $30 per night, and condos can be rented for around $100 per night.
- Ski during the week: Lift tickets during the week are significantly cheaper than they are on weekends. A day passes during the week will cost you around $60, while a weekend pass will cost you $90.
- Eat at local restaurants: There are plenty of great restaurants in Aspen that won’t break the bank. You can find a filling meal for under $15 at many of these places.
- Take advantage of free activities: There are plenty of things to do in Aspen that don’t cost any money. Take a walk through town, go ice skating at the rink, or explore one of the many hiking trails in the area.
Conclusion
In short, Yes, it does snow in Aspen, Colorado! But not as much as you might think.
The average yearly snowfall is just under 300 inches, which means that Aspen sees about 25 feet of snow every year.
However, this number can vary quite a bit from year to year. Some years see closer to 400 inches of snow, while other years may only see 200 inches.
FAQs About Aspen
Does It Snow In Aspen, Colorado?
Yes, it snows in Aspen, Colorado! Aspen is a popular ski destination, so the town sees its fair share of snow each winter. However, snowfall can vary year-to-year. In 2017, Aspen received more than 300 inches of snowfall.
How Often Does It Snow In Aspen, Colorado?
It typically snows a few times each week in Aspen, Colorado. However, like with any location that experiences winter weather, there can be variations from year to year. Some winters see more snow than others.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Aspen, Colorado, If You Want To See The Snow?
The best time to visit Aspen, Colorado, if you want to see the snow is typically from December through February. This is when the town sees the most snowfall on average.