Winter Paradise
Ski, Snowshoe or Sleigh
Cross Country Ski or Snowshoe
- Explore miles of beautifully groomed cross-country ski and snowshoe trails in the heart of the Castle Creek Valley.
- Perfect for a ski to lunch, all-day adventure, guided tour, lesson, or ACES naturalist experience.
- Warm up in our trail-side huts, pack a lunch, or make reservations at the Pine Creek Cookhouse for a memorable dining experience.
- Day trail access available daily from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM. Dinner tours depart at 6:00 PM by reservation.
- For trail information and day tickets, call 970-925-1971.
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides
- Ride behind majestic Percheron draft horses in a classic wooden sleigh through snow-covered aspen groves.
- Enjoy stunning mountain views by day or stargazing on an evening ride to the Pine Creek Cookhouse.
- Guided by experienced Colorado cowboys for a truly authentic Aspen experience.
- Approximately 20 minutes each way, covering 1.5 miles.
- Sleighs accommodate 15–18 guests.
- Departures daily at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 6:00–6:15 PM for dinner.
- Reservations required. Call 970-925-1044.
ASPEN CENTER FOR ENVIROMENTAL STUDIES
SNOWSHOE TOURS
A must-do Aspen experience! Explore winter in Aspen on this half-day snowshoe tour in the beautiful and pristine Castle Creek Valley. Your Naturalist guide will share expertise on animal tracking, valley geology, avalanches, birdlife, winter habitats, and sub-alpine ecology. You will explore the historic Ashcroft ghost town and walk through serene spruce and fir forests and open meadows on your way to a gourmet lunch at the spectacular Pine Creek Cookhouse. Following lunch, you’ll meander through peaceful aspen groves on your return to the King Cabin.
About the Tour
- Offered every day at 10:00AM. Meet at the King Cabin at Ashcroft Ski Touring Center, located 11 miles up Castle Creek Road from the roundabout.
- 3.5 miles round trip, tours take place on gentle terrain and are held at a leisurely pace.
- Warm boots, winter clothing, sunscreen, and water are strongly recommended.
Booking
- Reservations are required.
- Call ACES at 970.925.5756 during open hours (Monday – Friday, 9AM – 5PM) to book. Alternatively, email guide@aspennature.org
- After hours, please dial 0 and leave a detailed message; we will confirm your reservation the next business day.
- 48-hours notice is recommended for tour reservations.
Tours made possible through a partnership between ACES, Ashcroft Ski Touring/Pine Creek Cookhouse, and the White River National Forest (USFS).