Skiing and Snowboarding at Buttermilk Mountain in Aspen, Colorado

At first glance, Buttermilk Mountain might seem like Aspen’s quiet, understated sibling—but don’t let its gentle reputation fool you. This is the training ground of champions, the home of the Winter X Games, and a canvas for those learning to carve their way into skiing or snowboarding lore.

The day begins with the first lift spinning, whisking you up buttery-soft groomers that seem made for perfecting turns. Beginners will feel at ease on Panda Peak, a mellow slope that doubles as a confidence booster. Meanwhile, intermediates flock to trails like West Buttermilk, where the wide-open runs provide the perfect playground for carving long, flowing arcs.

Then there’s the allure of Tiehack, Buttermilk’s wilder side. For seasoned skiers and snowboarders, Tiehack offers steeper pitches, tree-lined runs, and a sense of escape. It’s the secret gem hiding within the mountain’s approachable demeanor—a reminder that Buttermilk caters to all.

But the real showstopper? Buttermilk’s terrain parks, meticulously crafted to challenge riders from novice jibbers to Olympic-level freestylers. The Winter X Games Park, with its towering jumps and iconic superpipe, is a masterpiece of adrenaline and precision. You might not drop into the 22-foot superpipe yourself, but just standing at its edge is enough to make your heart race.

By day’s end, Buttermilk’s slopes glow under the fading sun, the perfect backdrop for après-ski stories. Families gather around fireside tables, beginners celebrate their first runs, and thrill-seekers recount moments of airborne glory. Buttermilk isn’t just a mountain—it’s an experience that leaves no one out, from first-timers to seasoned pros.