The Ascent: melin’s Guide to Aspen
Welcome to The Ascent, your ultimate guide to Aspen. When the cold demands more, our THERMAL Collection delivers. Built to keep you warm from mild, colder temps to the harshest Winter conditions yet designed with luxury in mind. The collection blends performance with elegance - perfect for embracing Aspen’s Winter beauty.
Join us as we explore the best of Aspen, from the slopes to après-ski, and beyond. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, let us help guide your journey to where luxury meets performance. Ready to take on Aspen in style? Let’s begin!
When the Cold Calls, the THERMAL Collection Answers
Aspen is more than just a destination - it’s a state of mind where the pursuit of elegance and outdoor adventure converge. Our THERMAL Collection is the perfect companion for this landscape. From durable fabrics to high-end craftsmanship, each piece is engineered for those who demand more from their Winter gear, without compromising on style.
Best Spots in Town: The Must-Visit Places
Aspen’s charm doesn’t end with its stunning ski slopes. It extends into the heart of town, where you can find world-class dining, après-ski lounges, and 5-star accommodations. Here are a few must-visit spots:
- Limelight Hotel Snowmass Village Lounge
- Ideal for après or a cozy date night, this lounge offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for winding down after a day on the slopes. Great hotel for couples and large groups alike with options in both Snowmass Village and Downtown Aspen.
- Little Nell Hotel, Downtown Aspen
- This iconic 5-star hotel overlooks the Silver Queen Gondola at Aspen Mountain Ski Resort. Whether you're staying here or just visiting for an afternoon, the view is unbeatable. If you’re in town for a romantic getaway, this is your spot.
- Mid-Day Après at Ajax Tavern
- With prime views at the base of the gondola, this is the spot to refuel with delicious bites while taking in the action on the hill. Perfect for mid-day or late-afternoon relaxation.
- Madame Ushi Aspen
- For a dinner that pairs elegance with creativity, this restaurant is a standout option. A must-visit for those who appreciate fine dining in a luxurious setting.
Secret Spots on the Hill: Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
While Aspen’s main attractions are well-known, there are a few hidden gems that locals and seasoned visitors love:
- Cloud 9 Aspen
- An on-mountain restaurant with a lively après-ski vibe, known for its champagne spray and party atmosphere. Get ahead and make reservations!
- Sundeck
- Located at the top of the Silver Queen Gondola, this is the place for lunch with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Snap a few photos, because you won’t want to forget this!
- Snowmass Village
- Not just a ski destination, Snowmass is a hub of shopping, dining, and après-ski activities. Make sure to explore its boutiques and cafes for a laid-back vibe after a day of adventure.
Into the Backcountry: Get Away From It All
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Aspen offers incredible backcountry experiences. Here’s our top recommendation:
- Cross-Country Skiing at Ashcroft Skiing Tour
- Escape the crowds and explore the serene wilderness of Aspen’s backcountry with a cross-country skiing tour. Ashcroft offers well-maintained trails with some of the best views you can imagine, making it an unforgettable experience for those who love outdoor adventure.
Palm Tree Festival – Aspen
Aspen doesn’t just shine on the slopes. The Palm Tree Festival brings a vibrant mix of music & culture to this snowy town. To get into the festival spirit, check out our curated playlist: here.
Whether you’re vibing on the slopes or dancing in the après scene, this festival soundtrack will be the anthem of your Aspen adventure.
They just released the lineup for next year’s festival, take a peek here and grab your tickets!
How to Get Around: Arrive and Ride in Style
We all wish we could arrive like Mariah Carey does every Winter, but that’s not in the cards for everyone. If traveling private is your preference, our go-to for reliable and safe flights is Flex Jets. A variety of plane options to accommodate your group size, along with jets stationed across the States ready to go at a moment's notice. We know flying private is not for everyone, American and United operate multiple daily flights in and out of Aspen from major cities like Denver, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco and more. There’s no shortage of ways to get to Aspen!
No matter how you get to Aspen, the best place to get your rental car is Go Rentals. They aren’t the run-of-the-mill car rental company, they are much, much better. You can get your casual car to get around, a full-scale SUV to haul the family or a high-end car or SUV to impress your crew. No matter what you rent, we suggest an all-wheel drive or 4x4 option as storms can roll in with little notice.
Aspen is waiting, and with the THERMAL Collection, you’ll be ready for whatever Winter throws your way. From the luxury of the town to the raw beauty of the backcountry, we invite you to experience Aspen like never before and of course, Have More Fun while doing it.