Aspen Snowmass Invests $80 Million in Resort Upgrades

Aspen Snowmass Unveils $80 Million Improvement Plan

Aspen Snowmass has announced a substantial $80 million investment in upgrades across its ski resorts, with a focus on enhancing the Snowmass experience. The improvements, slated for the 2025-26 ski season, include new lifts, lodge renovations, and increased snowmaking capabilities. These changes aim to improve access to popular terrain and modernise facilities for skiers and riders.

A high angle view of Aspen Snowmass. Credit: Aspen Snowmass

At Snowmass, two significant lift upgrades are planned. The Elk Camp high-speed quad will be replaced with a detachable six-pack chairlift, increasing capacity for both winter skiing and summer biking. The Cirque surface lift will be upgraded to a T-Bar, doubling its capacity and reducing queue times for accessing advanced terrain.

Lodge improvements are also a key part of the investment. The Ullrhof lodge, a fixture at Snowmass for over five decades, will be demolished and rebuilt as an electric-powered facility with expanded seating and amenities. This project is expected to be completed for the 2026-27 season. Additionally, plans are in place to expand the Elk Camp Restaurant with an outdoor deck, pending approval from local authorities.

The current Aspen Snowmass Trail Map. Credit: Aspen Snowmass

While Snowmass will see the majority of improvements, other Aspen Snowmass resorts will benefit from this investment as well. Snowmaking upgrades are planned across Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. These enhancements will feature low-energy, high-efficiency snow guns to enable earlier terrain openings. Forest health projects covering 40 acres will improve glade skiing at Alpine Springs (Snowmass), Temerity (Aspen Highlands), and Hero's (Aspen Mountain).

These upgrades continue Aspen Snowmass' recent trend of significant investments, following expansions and renovations at various resorts in the group. The comprehensive improvements demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the overall ski experience and maintaining Aspen Snowmass' position as a leading ski destination in Colorado.