Experience The Mountains of Aspen Snowmass In Winter Without Skiing: A Mountain Vacation for Every Traveler

When people think of Aspen Snowmass, images of fresh corduroy and expert runs often come to mind. But here's the secret: you don't need to ski or snowboard to have an unforgettable mountain getaway here. Whether you're traveling with kids, exploring as a couple, or accompanying loved ones who are hitting the slopes, Aspen Snowmass offers breathtaking winter experiences that celebrate snowy peaks, alpine views, and cozy mountain culture.

1. Ride the Gondolas For Views, Vibes, and Après 

One of the easiest ways to soak up the scenery without skis is by taking a gondola ride. Both the Silver Queen Gondola in Aspen and the Elk Camp Gondola in Snowmass offer foot-passenger access — meaning you can ride up the mountain just to take in the views, snap photos, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at altitude.

Silver Queen Gondola & The Sundeck: Enjoy the view as you ride above snow-covered trees up Aspen Mountain, then step out onto The Sundeck for panoramic vistas and casual mountain dining. It is perfect for warming up with a hot chocolate, hot toddy, or lunch overlooking the valley and surrounding mountains.

Elk Camp Gondola & Elk Camp Restaurant: At the top of Snowmass, enjoy a relaxed meal at Elk Camp Restaurant, known for local, seasonal fare. The spacious lodge and outdoor patio are great spots to watch skiers swoop by below while you unwrap and relax. A welcoming bar and outdoor music are a few other reasons to make this a must-do.

These gondola rides are ideal for families with non-skiers or couples who want mountain immersion without commitment to skiing. Purchase your sightseeing ticket here: Sightseeing Tickets.

2. Find Your Flow: Yoga in the Mountains

Few things pair better with mountain air than a grounding yoga practice. Aspen is home to two exceptional studios worth building your day around. O2 Aspen offers a full range of classes in a beautiful, welcoming space — from energizing morning flows to restorative sessions perfect after a day of adventure. Aspen Shakti brings a more spiritually rooted approach, with offerings that draw on breathwork, meditation, and movement. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just looking for something centering after a big travel day, both studios offer a genuinely special experience that feels very much in the spirit of Aspen.

3. Explore on Foot: Snowshoeing With Guides or at Your Own Pace

If you're drawn to snow but not to ski boots, snowshoeing is one of the most fulfilling ways to explore the winter landscape. One of our many local nonprofits, Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES), offers guided snowshoe tours with experienced naturalists — a gentle introduction to high-alpine winter ecology. For a more personalized adventure, Erik Skarvan and the team at Sun Dog Athletics lead snowshoe excursions tailored to your pace, goals, and group dynamic. Choose from relaxed nature walks to spirited uphill treks with stunning views.

4. Walk the Rio Grande Trail

For a quieter, soul-restoring kind of winter outing, the Rio Grande Trail is one of Aspen's most beloved and accessible paths. Running along the Roaring Fork River, this gentle trail offers stunning winter scenery — snow-dusted cottonwoods, open skies, and the peaceful sound of moving water — without the need for specialized gear. It's an ideal morning walk before coffee or a peaceful wind-down at the end of the day, and a beautiful reminder that some of the best Aspen experiences are completely free.

5. Uphill Hiking to the Cliffhouse on Buttermilk

For something a bit more active but with equally stunning views, consider hiking uphill on Buttermilk Mountain to the famed Cliffhouse lodge. Many non-skiers enjoy the challenge of the uphill route, and once you've soaked in the views and warmed up with a bite, you can ride the chairlift back down. This is a fun and satisfying way to experience the mountain on foot — you will definitely earn the indulgence of the Mongolian BBQ or the Cliffhouse Signature Burger.

6. Shop Aspen Like a Local

Aspen's downtown is a destination in its own right, and a snowy afternoon of shopping is a perfectly indulgent way to spend a mountain day. Stroll along Galena Street and the surrounding blocks to discover an exceptional mix of boutiques, galleries, and flagship stores — from high-end fashion and jewelry to locally owned shops with one-of-a-kind finds. Window shopping here is practically an art form, but fair warning: it's very hard to leave empty-handed.

7. Lose Yourself at Booksellers Library & Café

One of Aspen's true hidden gems, Booksellers Library & Café is the kind of place that makes you want to cancel your afternoon plans. Browse a carefully curated selection of books, settle into a comfortable chair with a warm drink, and let the hours pass in the best possible way. It's a cozy, unhurried refuge — especially wonderful on a stormy day when the snow is piling up outside and you have nowhere you need to be.

8. Evening Fun: Nighttime Events at Elk Camp

Snowmass hosts nighttime events up at Elk Camp, including live music, tubing, the alpine coaster, s'mores, and a bonfire. Grab dinner here or back in the village after building up your appetite.

9. New this Winter!

This winter marks an exciting shift in how non-skiers can experience Aspen Snowmass. Two longtime on-mountain favorites — Sam's and The Cabin — are now welcoming foot passengers, creating meaningful new ways to enjoy the mountains without skis or a snowboard.

Located at the top of the Village Express lift on Sam's Knob at 10,630 feet, Sam's delivers sweeping alpine views paired with an Italian-inspired menu. Guests can savor elevated comfort dishes, including standouts like a luxurious Wagyu Ragu, all while soaking in one of the best viewpoints on the mountain.

Mid-mountain on Snowmass, The Cabin offers a cozy Western atmosphere that feels both timeless and refreshed. Recently renovated and expanded, the space now features a sun-filled extended patio along with an outdoor grill and bar — making it a perfect stop for a relaxed lunch or après-style gathering surrounded by snow-covered trees.

Foot-passenger space is limited and reservations are required.

10. Treat Yourself: Spa Days in Aspen

A winter mountain trip is the perfect excuse to fully commit to a spa day, and Aspen delivers on that front with some truly world-class options. Whether you're looking for a quick recovery treatment after a day of snowshoeing or a full day of facials, soaks, and massage, the spas here are exceptional. Many of the top hotels in Aspen and Snowmass offer spa facilities open to non-guests, so you don't need to be staying at a luxury property to be treated like you are. It's the ultimate non-skier afternoon — and one you'll be talking about long after you've returned home.

Make It Your Own

Whether you're planning a multi-generation family trip, a couple's first winter escape, or just tagging along with ski-loving friends, Aspen Snowmass proves that the mountain experience isn't exclusive to ski boots. From glacier-fresh views and snowy riverside walks to bookshop afternoons and spa retreats, the destination invites everyone — skier or not — to fall in love with the snow.