Although Aspen is most famous for its cold, wintry weather, the beginning of spring is a magical time of year. March brings beautiful, warm bluebird days mixed with heavy spring snowstorms for pristine snow conditions on the mountain.
Participate in various experiences, from activities on the mountain to festivals and live music, and enjoy the beautiful alpine scenery while there is still snow on the ground. Don’t forget to take advantage of the springtime deals and discounts.
Here are a few of our favorite reasons to visit Aspen in March.
Longer Days of Spring Skiing
Spring means longer days, with daylight savings time taking place in mid-March for that extra hour of sunshine. Skiers and riders can take advantage of later operating hours with lift hours extended until 4–and sometimes even as late as 6 at the end of the season. Warmer daytime temps also mean the ability to enjoy the day up until the lifts close without worry.
March is also historically one of the state’s snowiest months, meaning a greater chance for some epic powder runs. Springtime snowstorms are a regular occurrence, and skiers and riders will love the soft, fluffy snow of spring.
Skiing or riding in the spring also means having the benefit of the winter snowpack, so no worries about thin conditions. Crowds are also quieter, making for shorter lift lines and the feel of having the mountain to yourself.
Fewer Layers
Even with the potential for extreme temperature changes, multiple layers are rarely needed for spring skiing in March. A typical day of spring skiing usually requires little more than a base layer and top layer (like a hoodie), which means less gear to manage.
Springtime Après
The warmer days of spring kick the après atmosphere up a few notches, with late, sunny afternoons on the Sundeck at Ajax, Elk Camp, the renovated Backyard at Buttermilk, or Merry-Go Round at Aspen Highlands.
Ski or ride right into a sun-soaked patio for some live music, food and drink specials, and an energetic crowd. Wear your best spring attire as you celebrate the oncoming warmer months.
Discounts and Deals
March is a good time to enjoy deals and discounts around town as ski season starts to wind down. Dining specials and open seating are available in the town’s restaurants, and deals and discounts can be found on gear and lift passes. With peak season coming to an end, local gear and consignment shops offer deals on skis, snowboards, boots, and apparel. Take the opportunity to purchase a new setup for the remainder of this ski season and the start of the next.
Uncrowded Slopes
Aspen Snowmass is known for its lack of crowding on the mountains, and spring typically means even shorter lift lines. To best maximize your runs, try to keep your plans flexible on the mountain. Choose runs based on the shortest lift lines, and move around the mountain accordingly.
Fewer people also means an easier time securing a table at one of Aspen’s famed restaurants. Enjoy great springtime deals and open seating during the quiet season.
Spring Events in Aspen
Immerse yourself in the Aspen experience. Aspen’s special events help to enhance the town's vitality and create an atmosphere of enjoyment for locals and visitors alike.
Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series
Head to downtown Aspen for this amazing community celebration of music. From Snowmass Base Village to Gondola Plaza and downtown Aspen, big-name musical artists perform free shows all spring.
Uphill Breakfast Club
The Friday morning Uphill Breakfast Club at the Cliffhouse is where uphill skiers will be able to enjoy breakfast in the restaurant after hiking up the mountain. Breakfast is available from 8:45-10:00 with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, an oatmeal and yogurt station with toppings, and a hot breakfast available. There are bar options, including Bloody Marys and mimosas as well as specialty drinks.
Stifel Aspen Winternational
Aspen Snowmass will play host to the best international alpine racers as they compete in slalom and giant slalom at the Stifel Aspen Winternational in early March. Aspen Mountain will become the stage for competitions among racers from around the world.
Kick Aspen Night Skiing
Skiers and riders are invited to lap the Little Nell chair under the starry night sky. From March 22-23, the base of Aspen Mountain will host live music concerts with opening acts taking the stage at 6:30 and headliners following at 7:30.
Tickets must be purchased ahead of time with all proceeds donated to Aspen Skiing Company’s community employee-led nonprofits, the Environment Foundation, and Caring for Community Fund. Tickets go on sale in March.
Slash the Mass Banked Slalom
The Slash the Mass Banked Slalom snowboarding competition takes over Snowmass in late March. Community riders, families, kids, and even pros will come together for this fun event to celebrate spring and race against other riders within their age division.
This competition is open to snowboarders only with a small registration fee applied. Helmets are mandatory for all participants.
Plan Your Spring Vacation in Aspen
When planning your vacation in Aspen, choosing where to stay is key to maximizing your time. Conveniently located downtown, Aspen Square is just steps away from the base of Aspen Mountain.
Our condominium hotel features full hotel-style services and amenities plus fully-equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, daily housekeeping, and more. When you are finished with a day on the slopes, enjoy our outdoor pool and hot tub, which are heated and open year-round.
Our lodging options, from cozy fireplace studios to larger condominiums, ensure that we have the perfect accommodation for you. Contact the concierge at Aspen Square to plan your next Aspen vacation. Call (970) 925-1000, and let us help you plan your dream spring vacation.