Adventure, Curated
Explore 5,000+ human-powered experiences — handpicked outdoor adventures for all skill levels with max stoke, zero hassle.
Local Legends, Real Reviews
We partner with the best in the business — trusted local outfitters and guides who know the trails, tides, and terrain. Backed by 185,000+ reviews, averaging 4.8⭐
Book Direct, Best Price Guarantee
Get the best price, availability, and flexibility you need by booking directly with the outfitter or guide.
Protect What You Love
Your adventure gives back. Every booking supports conservation and keeps wild places wild.
Aspen Ski Rentals
Aspen Ski Rentals - What to Know
Aspen, Colorado is a world famous ski destination, partly because of it's four separate ski mountains, all accessible with the same ski pass. The combined area has a massive amount of terrain at 5,527 skiable acres.
The most family and kid-friendly of the four Aspen resorts is Buttermilk Mountain - a relatively easy, beginner-friendly resort. Snowmass is a great resort for all levels, and is most notable for its wide cruiser runs & family-friendly atmosphere. The resort also contains several terrain parks, extensive extreme skiing terrain, mogul runs, and gladed terrain. Aspen Mountain (often called by its former name of Ajax among locals) is the oldest of the four area ski resorts, and is known for its black diamond terrain which covers over 50% of the mountain. Aspen Highlands is most famous for the Highland Bowl, with a skiable vertical descent of 4,343. Most of Highland Bowl is accessed only by hiking from the top of Loge Peak.
The town of Aspen sits at the foot of Aspen Mountain. The mountain rises from the vibrant heart of downtown Aspen where it all began in 1946 with the single-seat Lift 1, which immediately became the longest chairlift in the world. That mentality of "go big or go home" has always been at the foundation of the mountain they still call Ajax. This quintessential ski town has it all for your next ski trip - four ski mountains, stunning scenery, and many other types of outdoor recreation including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Top it off with boisterous après-ski parties, excellent hotel and dining choices, and possible celebrity sightings, and you have the makings of an unforgettable mountain getaway.
With TripOutside, you can compare Aspen’s best rental shops based on prices, equipment, location, and customer reviews, making it easy to find the ideal gear for your needs. Booking online with the outfitter ensures a hassle-free rental process while securing the best deals and flexibility. We recommend reserving your ski equipment in advance to guarantee availability and the best rates, especially during the peak ski season.
Aspen Ski Rental Options
Ski rental packages typically include demo (premium), performance (mid-range), and sport (basic) gear. Packages generally come with skis, bindings, poles, and boots, although you can also rent just skis and poles if you already have boots. Youth rental packages are also available.
Ski technicians will ensure you get the right fit based on your preferences, size, and skiing ability. Ski brands offered include Rossignol, Salomon, Blizzard, Nordica, Atomic, Head, and more.
Top Tips for Ski Rentals in Aspen
- Book in Advance: Reserving your ski rentals online before your trip to Aspen not only saves you time but can also provide discounts and ensure equipment availability during busy times.
- Compare Rental Shop Locations: Choose a rental shop that’s convenient for your plans, whether you're skiing at Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, or Buttermilk.
- Know Your Skill Level: Make sure to communicate your skill level and preferences when booking. Rental shops will use this information to recommend the right size and type of skis, boots, and poles for your abilities and skiing style.
- Arrive Early or Choose Early Pickup: Arriving at the rental shop early can help you avoid crowds and get on the slopes faster. Many Aspen shops also allow early pickup the afternoon before, as early as 3 p.m., giving you more time to enjoy your ski day.
- Choose Delivery: For an even smoother experience, choose delivery for your Aspen ski rentals. Your gear will be delivered directly to your accommodation, saving you time and effort. Booking on TripOutside also gets you a 10% discount!
Why Choose TripOutside
- We hand-select the best activity providers based on customer reviews and ratings.
- Save time by comparing prices, ratings, and locations on one platform.
- Book directly with the provider for the best pricing and flexibility for changes or cancellations.
- No additional booking fees or restrictions from third-party services.
Aspen Snowmass Skiing
Aspen, Colorado, is home to four unique ski resorts, all accessible with a single ski pass. This makes Aspen Snowmass one of the most popular skiing destinations globally. The combined terrain offers over 5,500 acres of skiable area, with an average of more than 300 inches of annual snowfall, ensuring plenty of fresh powder for your trip.
Aspen Snowmass Mountain Stats
Click here for the interactive Aspen Snowmass trail map.
All four of Aspen Snowmass’s mountains are connected by a convenient free bus system, so you can ski multiple mountains in a single day.
Aspen Mountain
Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax, is the oldest of the four ski resorts, with a base located right in downtown Aspen. Known for its challenging black diamond terrain, Ajax offers stunning views and a unique skiing experience. Over 50% of its runs are designated for advanced skiers.
Aspen Mountain Stats
- Base elevation: 7,945 ft
- Summit elevation: 11,212 ft
- Vertical drop: 3,267 ft
- Longest run: 3 miles
- Skiable acres: 673
- Annual snowfall: 300 inches
- Beginner: 0%
- Intermediate: 48%
- Advanced: 26%
- Expert: 26%
Snowmass Resort
Snowmass is known for its wide groomers, family-friendly atmosphere, and extensive terrain, which includes multiple terrain parks, extreme skiing areas, moguls, and glades. Snowmass has the most vertical feet of skiing in the U.S. when the Cirque Poma is running.
Snowmass Stats
- Base elevation: 8,104 ft
- Summit elevation: 12,510 ft
- Skiable acres: 3,339
- Vertical rise: 4,406 ft
- Longest run: 5.3 miles
- Lifts: 21
- Annual snowfall: 300 inches
- Beginner: 5%
- Intermediate: 48%
- Advanced: 17%
- Expert: 30%
Aspen Highlands Resort
Aspen Highlands is famed for the Highland Bowl, a must-ski for expert riders. Much of its terrain is accessed by hiking from the top of Loge Peak.
Aspen Highlands Stats
- Base elevation: 8,040 ft
- Summit elevation: 11,675 ft
- Skiable acres: 1,040
- Vertical rise: 3,335 ft
- Annual snowfall: 300 inches
- Beginner: 0%
- Intermediate: 23%
- Advanced: 12%
- Expert: 65%
Buttermilk Mountain
Buttermilk is the most beginner-friendly of the Aspen Snowmass resorts, with wide, groomed trails perfect for those just starting out. It’s also home to the Winter X Games and a 22-foot superpipe.
Buttermilk Stats
- Base elevation: 7,870 ft
- Summit elevation: 9,900 ft
- Skiable acres: 470
- Longest run: 3 miles
- Lifts: 8
- Annual snowfall: 200 inches
- Beginner: 35%
- Intermediate: 39%
- Advanced: 26%
Trusted Local Expertise, Verified by TripOutside
All information on this page has been carefully verified and curated by the TripOutside content team in collaboration with our vetted local outfitters, guides, and service providers. Our partners run these tours, lessons and rentals every day and provide firsthand details about the routes, terrain, conditions, safety practices, and what to expect on your adventure.
Before featuring any provider, TripOutside reviews customer feedback, ratings, certifications, and local expertise to ensure accuracy and quality. This means every recommendation reflects genuine, on-the-ground experience and up-to-date information from trusted local experts. If you spot anything that needs an update or correction, please reach out to our team at stoke@tripoutside.com - we’re always improving our guides with help from our community of adventurers.
Our goal is to help you explore confidently, knowing every adventure is backed by real local knowledge, verified data, and a commitment to sustainable, human-powered travel. Adventure Better – TripOutside.
What are the best ski rental shops in Aspen?
- Best Ski Rental Delivery: Black Tie Ski Rental Delivery Aspen or Ski Butlers Aspen. Save an extra 10% by booking on TripOutside!
- Best Aspen Base Village Shop: Christy Sports St. Regis or Aspen Sports Cooper Avenue
- Best Snowmass Base Village Shop: Christy Sports Snowmass Village
What type of skis are recommended for Aspen?
The type of skis you should rent depends on your skill level and the type of terrain you plan to ski. Here are some recommendations:
- All-mountain skis: Ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers, these skis can handle most of Aspen’s varied terrain, including groomed runs, powder, and light off-piste skiing.
- Powder skis: If there’s fresh snowfall, powder skis are a great option for deeper snow and off-piste adventures.
- Freeride skis: For expert skiers planning to explore Aspen’s backcountry terrain, freeride skis offer better performance on steep and ungroomed trails.
Rental shops in Aspen can help match you with the right skis for your skill level and conditions.
What’s included in the Aspen ski rental package?
Aspen ski rental packages typically include skis, bindings, poles, and boots. Helmets and other accessories are available as optional add-ons. Some shops may offer gear for purchase as well.
Is Aspen good for beginner skiers?
Yes! Buttermilk is the best mountain in Aspen Snowmass for beginners, with gentle slopes and wide, groomed runs perfect for those new to skiing. Snowmass also offers plenty of beginner terrain, especially in the Elk Camp area.
Which Aspen mountain is best for skiing?
- Beginners: Buttermilk is the top choice, thanks to its beginner-friendly terrain.
- Intermediate skiers: Snowmass offers a great variety of terrain for intermediate skiers, with wide cruisers and groomed runs.
- Advanced/expert skiers: Aspen Mountain (Ajax) and Aspen Highlands are perfect for more experienced skiers, with steeper terrain and more challenging runs.
How much do ski rentals cost in Aspen?
On average, you can expect to pay between $53-$65 per day for standard/sport ski rental packages, which typically include skis, poles, and boots. Rental prices vary depending on the package type, duration and date of rental. Demo packages are generally the most expensive, while sport packages offer the most affordable rates. Get exclusive discounts and compare prices across shops on TripOutside. Additional discounts are often available for booking in advance.
What’s the difference between demo, performance, and sport ski packages in Aspen?
- Demo skis: High-performance models that allow you to try the latest ski technology, ideal for advanced and expert skiers.
- Performance skis: Quality gear designed for intermediate to advanced skiers looking for reliable performance across different conditions.
- Sport skis: The most affordable option, designed for beginners and casual skiers who want a comfortable, easy-to-use setup.
How long does a ski rental fitting take at Aspen?
A ski rental fitting usually takes around 20-30 minutes. The rental shop staff will assess your needs and help you choose the right equipment, while adjusting the bindings and boots for a perfect fit. During busy periods, such as weekends or holidays, it's recommended to arrive early or pick up your gear the night before to avoid longer wait times.
How far is Snowmass from Aspen?
Snowmass is about 9 miles (14.5 km) from downtown Aspen. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes. A free shuttle bus connects all four Aspen Snowmass mountains, making it easy to get between them without a car.
Is there a free shuttle between Aspen’s ski areas?
Yes, there is a free shuttle service that connects the four Aspen Snowmass ski mountains: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. The shuttle makes it easy for skiers to move between the different resorts throughout the day.
Can I pick up ski gear the night before in Aspen?
Yes, many Aspen ski rental shops offer early pickup options, allowing you to collect your gear as early as 3 p.m. the day before. This can help you avoid the crowds and maximize your ski time the next day.