Spring Guide to Aspen Snowmass 2026

When the days get longer and the sun hits the slopes just right, something magical happens in Aspen Snowmass. The snow softens, the patios fill up, and the entire valley shifts into a gear that's equal parts celebration and powder-chasing. Spring skiing here isn't a consolation prize — it's the reward for the whole season.

And then there are the closing days. Four mountains. Four legendary parties. One unforgettable sendoff to ski season. Here's your complete guide to making the most of it all.

Spring Jam 2026 — 25th Anniversary | March 27

Kicking off the season's end celebrations, Spring Jam returns for its 25th year during the last week of March. Expect downtown concerts on the Aspen Snowmass Concert Series, on-mountain competitions, and a week-long party atmosphere that spills across all four mountains. It's spring break, ski season, and music festival all rolled into one.

The Closing Day Playbook

Buttermilk — Bacon Appreciation Day | Sunday, April 5

Only at Buttermilk could a mountain closing be defined by one glorious food group. Starting at 8:30 AM, the plaza fills with bacon creations of every variety. Bacon "samplers" are scattered across the mountain all day — consider it a delicious treasure hunt between runs. The Buttermilk Mountain Lodge and the iconic Cliffhouse at the summit host DJ sets, live bands, and libations. Locals bring the energy like nowhere else. 

Aspen Highlands Closing Party | Sunday, April 12

Costumes are basically mandatory at Highlands closing day — the more outrageous, the better. Hike the legendary Highland Bowl and high-five ski patrollers barbequing at the summit. Stop by Cloud Nine (famous for champagne sprays and midday dance parties) and refuel at the Merry-Go-Round with a DJ and daily specials. Cap it all with the ski patrol descent at the base — a beloved tradition where the crowd cheers the team down for another season well done. The dance party at the Merry-Go-Round continues until well after sunset.

Snowmass Surf & Snow Beach Party | Saturday, April 11 (party) · Sunday, April 12 (last ski)

Now in its seventh year, the Elk Camp Surf & Snow Beach Party transforms the mountain into a full-on beach scene — think free leis, margarita blender bikes, hot tubs, and a pond skim competition that draws a crowd of cheering spectators. Break out your swim attire: the daring take to the pond skim while everyone else soaks in the sunshine on Elk Camp's patio. After the on-mountain bash, the party rolls down to Base Village and keeps going. The mountain officially stays open through Sunday, April 12 for one final day of spring turns. 

Aspen Mountain Closing — The Grand Finale | Sunday, April 19

The birthplace of Aspen skiing saves the best for last. At 1 PM, locals gather atop Ridge of Bell for the infamous "Bump Off" — a kamikaze race through the mogul field under the gondola. Spectators crowd Gent's Ridge for prime viewing; whether skiers conquer or cartwheel, the crowd gets exactly what it came for. Head up to the Sundeck (11 AM–3:30PM) for bubbly, dancing, and a costume contest. At the base, Ajax Tavern turns up the volume on its sunny patio well past the last lift spin — and it's officially the end of the Aspen Snowmass 2025–26 season.

 Tips

Dress in Layers — and a Costume Spring mornings are crisp and afternoons get warm fast. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses. For Highlands and Ajax closing days, a costume earns serious social capital on the mountain.

Hit the Slopes Early Spring snow is best in the morning before it turns to slush. Carve your hardest runs first, then ease into bluebird-afternoon cruise mode. Perfectly soft afternoon turns are a spring skiing rite of passage.

Plan for All Four Stagger your stay to catch multiple closing day parties. Buttermilk closes April 5, Highlands and Snowmass on April 12, and Aspen Mountain last on April 19 — giving you two great closing weekends.

Book Early — It Sells Out Spring and closing weekends are among the most popular of the season. iTrip Aspen Snowmass properties fill up quickly — locking in your vacation rental early means you get the best selection and a true home base for the festivities.

 Explore the Après Scene Cloud Nine, Ajax Tavern, and the Highlands Alehouse are legendary après spots year-round — but on closing day they're electric. Build extra time into your mountain day to linger with the locals.

Your Perfect Spring Base Camp Awaits

iTrip Aspen Snowmass offers handpicked vacation rentals steps from the slopes — with the space, comfort, and mountain character to match every closing day adventure.