Tucked into a narrow valley in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. The city is home to two world-class ski resorts — Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands — and nearby Snowmass Mountain offers additional runs. When the temperatures rise, Aspen turns into a hiking and mountain-biking mecca, with frequent gondola rides for travelers who simply prefer to enjoy the view. When you rent an Aspen vacation rental, you can choose from cozy cabins, modest apartments, and luxurious mountain mansions. Here are the nine best spots to search for vacation rentals in Aspen.
1. Aspen Mountain
If youÂ’re dreaming of unspoiled powder and fresh lines, look no further than the neighborhood at the base of Aspen Mountain. Many vacation rentals in this bustling neighborhood allow you to ski-in and ski out, while others place you just a short walk from Aspen Mountain Ski Resort lifts. Ride the Silver Queen Gondola to the summit, where you can eat lunch with a view on the Sundeck or access any of the mountains ski trails. If you prefer a more beginner-friendly ski experience, the Little Nell Lift and the Shadow Mountain Gondola also sit close by. Stroll to City Market for kitchen essentials, and stop for dinner at the many downtown restaurants.
2. Aspen Highlands Village
For skiers who prefer a more low-key experience, vacation rentals in the Aspen Highlands Village are a perfect choice. Removed from the bustle of downtown, this quiet neighborhood offers slopeside condos with beautiful views of the Maroon Bells and the Aspen Highlands. Grab a casual lunch between runs at the family-friendly Merry-Go-Round, or sip cocktails in your ski boots at Cloud Nine. Parking is plentiful and affordable in the neighborhood — or, if you want to get around like a local, rent a bike and store it in your vacation rentals garage for easy access.
3. West End
Experience classic Aspen luxury in the West End, rich with tall pine trees and palatial Victorian homes. If youÂ’re traveling with your family or a group, this is a great place to start. Many vacation rentals in this area are large, detached homes with multiple bedrooms and ample parking. The West End is popular with out-of-town owners, so the neighborhood provides a quiet, peaceful escape for most of the year. During the summer, check out the classical music series in the stunning open-air Benedict Music Tent at the Aspen Music Festival and School.
4. Red Mountain
When it comes to mountain views, it’s hard to beat the Red Mountain neighborhood. Tucked at the base of Red Mountain, this exclusive and lightly populated area boasts luxury mansions with gated access. After a long day of skiing, enjoy a bonfire or a barbecue on the deck of your vacation rental while you gaze at Aspen Mountain across the valley.
5. East End
With its eclectic blend of mansions and locals-only residences, the East End provides an intriguing glimpse at both sides of Aspen. Snyder Park sits a short walk from most of the neighborhoods vacation rentals, so you can take the kids to the playground or enjoy a picnic by the picturesque waterfall. Nearby Highway 82 allows fast access to Snowmass or day trips to Grizzly Lake or the Grottos.
6. Cemetery Lane
When you want to experience life like a full-time Aspen resident, Cemetery Lane is the place to start. Lined with modest, comfortable homes, this curving street has a welcoming vibe that suits families and low-key travelers. A wide sidewalk lines the street, so you can enjoy walking and biking right outside of your vacation rental. Feel free to leave your car at home; the free RFTA bus runs down Cemetery Lane, providing access to downtown, ski resorts, and the Rio Grande Trail.
7. Smuggler
Enjoy a quiet wilderness setting with fast access to downtown in the Smuggler neighborhood, which lies just southeast of central Aspen. Many vacation rentals provide panoramic views of Aspen Mountain, so you can get a glimpse of snow conditions before heading out to ski. In the summer, the nearby Smuggler Mountain Trail provides a challenging hike and panoramic valley views.
8. Snowmass Village
Snowmass Village provides fast access to Snowmass Mountain, which is well-suited to beginners and families with children. Here, a blend of condo and townhome vacation rentals cater to groups of all sizes, and many offer ski-in/ski-out access. When the snow melts, take advantage of 75 miles of mountain biking trails. Downtown Aspen lies a 15-minute drive southeast.
9. Downtown Aspen
If you want to be in the center of the action, downtown Aspen provides fast access to nightlife, shopping, and restaurants. The majority of vacation rentals in the neighborhood consist of apartments and condos, so theyÂ’re a great choice for couples or small groups. The Aspen Highlands Ski Resort sits within walking distance, and the convenient RFTA bus system makes it easy to leave your vehicle at home while you head out for a day of skiing.