The uphilling community in the Roaring Fork Valley is strong and dedicated, and it is an activity that the four-mountain resort of Aspen Snowmass embraces. Skiers are allowed to uphill designated routes at Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. Be sure to read each mountains policy and follow the designated route.
Aspen Snowmass on a Budget
Aspen Snowmass may be known for spare-no-expense experiences, but there are plenty of options for travelers on a budget. In fact, some of our most quintessential experiences on this list below.
Save money on dinner by doing what the locals do. See our tips below.
Published December 2022
Updated January 2024
Known for their cosmopolitan vibe in the laid-back setting of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, the towns of Aspen and Snowmass Village have long been synonymous with blending the best of both worlds.
Because of this, it is also easy to stretch your dollar and find plenty of fun, engaging and enriching things to do on a budget. Here are a handful of ideas to help you plan your winter vacation for less.
Because of this, it is also easy to stretch your dollar and find plenty of fun, engaging and enriching things to do on a budget. Here are a handful of ideas to help you plan your winter vacation for less.
Recreation
Earn Your Turns with Uphilling
Two uphill skiers at Buttermilk
On-Mountain Activities
Some of the best bargains are actually right on the mountain. Throughout the year, Aspen Snowmass offers a series of free special events that might have you timing your visit just to partake in them.
Snowmass Luminescence
Winter nights seem extra dark, unless you are in Snowmass of course. This slope side light installation is not only jaw-droppingly beautiful, it is also free to explore.
Shopping on the Cheap
Sure, you’ll find a few noteworthy fashion houses in downtown Aspen, selling the latest fashions fresh from the runways of Paris and Milan. But because of their high-end clientele, you will also find a handful of exceptional consignment shops, offering high-quality second-hand goods at great prices.
Arts and Culture
Tips and Tricks for Dining on the Cheap
Scope Out Happy Hours
Save significant cash by stopping in for happy hour and après ski specials. Happy hour is so robust here that many of Aspen’s top restaurants participate, offering deals between 4pm and 7pm.
Bar Menus
You can find a lot of delicious dishes at reasonable prices simply by cozying up to the bar at many of Aspen and Snowmass Village's dining establishments. The service is often very prompt as well.
Get Social
Do a little research on which restaurants interest you most and then follow them on Instagram, where they frequently post news about daily specials.
Limelight Lounge's Live Music
One of the top hangouts for locals in both Aspen and Snowmass Village, the two Limelight Lounges frequently offer live music to accompany daily drink and dining specials.
CP Burger
From cheeseburgers and salads to falafel burgers and milkshakes, CP Burger is a casual eatery perfect for the whole family. Located right downtown (next to the skating rink) and serves burgers, shakes, and more.
Woody Creek Tavern
Situated outside of town—and residing in its own unique orbit, you'll see—the eclectic Woody Creek Tavern is an ideal go-to for no-frills American cuisine and an authentic Western ambiance.
