Aspen Snowmass Unveils Nearly $80 Million in Summer 2025 Mountain Upgrades
Elevating the Aspen Standard: Inside the Vision for Snowmass’ Future
In a bold stride toward redefining the modern mountain experience, Aspen Snowmass—under the direction of Aspen One—is investing nearly $80 million into sweeping infrastructure upgrades across its Snowmass resort for Summer 2025. The initiative marks one of the most ambitious improvement seasons in recent memory, emphasizing enhanced guest access, sustainability, and a long-term vision for excellence that transcends winter sports.
This summer’s construction signals not just change, but deliberate evolution.
“These projects represent Aspen One's commitment to ongoing investment in delivering the most exceptional guest experience possible. They support the continued longevity of our business and our legacy of delivering world-class adventures.”
Geoff Buchheister, CEO of Aspen Skiing Company
High-Speed Chairlift Upgrades: A New Era of Access
Two high-profile lift developments are at the heart of this summer’s transformation. The first, a next-generation Elk Camp 6-Pack, will replace the current quad chair with a high-speed, high-capacity lift that significantly reduces wait times during peak ski season while doubling bike-hauling capabilities for Snowmass Bike Park’s summer operation. This signals a deeper investment in Snowmass’ multi-season appeal.
Complementing this, the new Cirque T-Bar is set to replace the existing platter lift, converting it from a single-rider to double-rider format—effectively doubling capacity and optimizing access to Snowmass’ high-alpine terrain. For a resort celebrated for its expansive and varied terrain, these upgrades promise a more seamless ride to some of the most coveted slopes on the mountain.
It’s the first time in nearly two decades that Snowmass will see two new lifts debut in a single season, joining a lineage of recent upgrades, including the Coney Express and The Cabin lift, the Hero’s terrain expansion at Aspen Mountain, and Buttermilk’s renovated base area.
Redefining On-Mountain Dining: The Ullrhof Revival
Dining on the mountain isn’t merely being refreshed—it’s being reimagined. One of Snowmass’ most iconic mid-mountain institutions, Ullrhof, is slated for a complete rebuild. Originally opened 56 years ago, the venue will be transformed into a modern, all-electric structure with more than 500 seats, a reimagined upstairs bar and lounge, and a refined menu offering. The redesign reflects both the heritage of the original building and a commitment to environmental responsibility, as it becomes Aspen Snowmass’ first all-electric on-mountain restaurant.
Plans are also underway for enhancements at Elk Camp restaurant, which could include a 120-seat deck expansion and the installation of a covered umbrella structure—mirroring The Cabin’s outdoor upgrades. Pending approval from the Town of Snowmass Village, these additions would elevate the summer dining experience while providing a heated refuge during the ski season.
Climate-Conscious Infrastructure: Snowmaking and Sustainability
The upcoming season’s investments also address the foundational elements of mountain operations. Aspen Snowmass is expanding its snowmaking coverage and deploying advanced automation technologies across all four mountains—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—to maintain consistent snow conditions even during less predictable early and late-season weather patterns.
These advancements are designed with sustainability in mind. Enhancing efficiency while conserving resources is a cornerstone of Aspen One’s broader environmental strategy, which continues to position the brand as a pioneer in climate-conscious resort operations.
Protecting the Slopes and the Forests That Frame Them
Equally important are the ecological stewardship efforts underway. Approximately 40 acres of glading projects will begin this season across locations including Alpine Springs at Snowmass, Temerity on Highlands, and Hero’s on Aspen Mountain. These efforts are not only critical for enhancing the skiing experience by refining tree terrain, but also for reducing wildfire risk and preserving biodiversity within the White River National Forest.
Aspen Skiing Company’s continued collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service ensures these projects are approached with integrity and long-term sustainability in mind.
“It is impressive to see this level of investment at Snowmass. I believe visitors will genuinely benefit from these improvements for decades to come.”
Monte Lutterman, Mountain Resorts & Recreation Special Uses Supervisor for Aspen – Sopris Ranger District
Aspen Snowmass’ Commitment: Beyond the Season
This wave of improvements is more than a seasonal refresh—it’s a reflection of Aspen One’s future-forward commitment to Snowmass’ continued evolution as North America’s premier mountain resort. While temporary closures and construction zones may shape parts of the summer guest experience, the long-term reward is clear: faster lifts, smarter snowmaking, elevated dining, and a deeper integration of sustainability and natural preservation.
For those who frequent the mountain—or plan to make their first trip soon—Summer 2025 marks a pivotal chapter in the Snowmass story. And this one is being written with both tradition and transformation in mind.
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