Both Vail and Aspen Snowmass are world-class ski resorts offering a wide array of terrain and amenities. Vail stands out for its superb terrain variety and dependable snow conditions, while Aspen Snowmass offers an incredible variety of terrain across four mountains, making it suitable for all skill levels. Vail is generally considered more affordable for lift tickets, but both resorts can be crowded and expensive, especially during peak season. The choice between the two depends on individual preferences, with Vail being a great option for advanced skiers and those seeking a vibrant apr ès-ski scene, while Aspen Snowmass is ideal for those looking for a diverse ski experience across multiple mountains.
| Attribute | Vail | Aspen Snowmass |
|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Snowfall | Ranges from 354 inches to 370 inches. Some sources report 254-257 inches. | 300-307 inches (some sources cite 176-179 inches) |
| Skiable Acreage | 5,289 acres to 5,317 acres. | Over 5,600 acres (Snowmass alone has 3,332 acres) |
| Number of Lifts | 31 to 34. This includes gondolas, high-speed six-packs, high-speed quads, and surface lifts. | 38-43 lifts (Snowmass has 20-22 lifts) |
| Vertical Drop | 3,450 feet. Base elevation is 8,120 feet, and summit elevation is 11,570 feet. | Snowmass has 4,406 feet |
| Number of Trails | 193 to 278. There are 195 trails. | Over 332 trails (Snowmass has 94-98 trails) |
| Terrain Park Features | Two terrain parks, including Golden Peak, and one Superpipe. | Snowmass has 3 terrain parks (Snowmass Park, Makaha, and Lowdown), a 22-foot superpipe, and a beginner pipe |
| Beginner Terrain Percentage | 18% | Buttermilk 35%, Snowmass 5-6%, Aspen Highlands 18%, Aspen Mountain 0% |
| Intermediate Terrain Percentage | 29% | Aspen Mountain 48%, Aspen Highlands 30%, Buttermilk 39%, Snowmass 47-48% |
| Advanced Terrain Percentage | 53%. Other sources list advanced terrain at 48% and expert terrain at 4%. | Aspen Mountain 52%, Aspen Highlands 52%, Buttermilk 26%, Snowmass 47% |
| Lift Ticket Price (Peak Season) | Around $200 a day for an individual pass. Prices vary from $159 - $226 for a 1-day adult ticket, and are subject to change. The Epic Pass can be a more economical option for frequent skiers. | $254 (can reach $264) |
| On-Mountain Dining Options | Vail has a wide variety of on-mountain dining options, including Two Elk Lodge, The 10th, Bistro Fourteen, and Belle's Camp. | Variety of options, ranging from casual to fine dining |
| Apr ès-Ski Scene | Vail is known for its vibrant apr ès-ski scene with many bars and restaurants in Vail Village and Lionshead. Popular spots include The Red Lion, Los Amigos, and Garfinkel's. | Vibrant, with many options for drinks, food, and music |