Aspen has long been a place for relaxation, cultural and recreational enrichment, and new and exciting experiences. It is the only destination where you can hike the 14,000 foot peaks of the Maroon Bells during the day and sit down to a luxurious gourmet dining experience that evening at any one of its renowned downtown area restaurants. But there lies in the wilderness, not ten minutes from the heart of Madame Aspen and all her splendor, a gem nestled in the valley at the gateway to the Maroon Bells/Snowmass Wilderness.

Since the late 1950s and through the 60s and 70s, the Aspen Highlands ski area has been hailed as one of the worlds best ski destinations and has continually made headlines for its groundbreaking endeavors and maverick style. Since it's opening in 1958 it has embodied the pioneering spirit of the West and the romantic and ambitious ideals that go hand in hand. Highlands has always pursued the timeless aspects of living well and enjoying life instead of merely the most fashionable.

When Whip Jones first bought the land that was to become the Highlands he knew that the area could become one of the greatest ski mountains of all. There have always been doubters, but Highlands did indeed emerge as one of the premier mountains in the United States and the joyous, personal and eccentric spirit imparted by Whip Jones is, in large part, responsible for making Highlands what it is today: a wonderful place to live, visit, play, relax, enjoy yourself and the magnificent beauty that exists all around.

In 2001 when Gerald Hines and his extraordinary team of developers started construction on the present day's Village they too envisioned something truly special. In keeping with the tradition of intimacy and sense of originality from Whip Jones' days, the Hines group created a uniquely suited retail area at the base of the mountain which complemented the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains while bringing a new and energized feel to the area.

The people, residents and visitors alike, are also uniquely matched to the area. Here you can discuss architecture with your waiter at lunch, run into your neighbor at a physics lecture, and partake in numerous educational and musical events that enrich your spirit and soul. Highlands has and will continue to be a friendly place where you will always find a friendly face.

Aspen Highlands Village is an exciting yet relaxing alternative to the traffic and crowds of Downtown Aspen. Not only is it just minutes away, the Village offers a variety of shopping and dining experiences and, like Aspen proper, its interesting and rich history have shaped this area into a truly unforgettable place to be.

Originally a winter-oriented destination for years, Highlands is now a year round destination offering shopping, a rich gallery experience, a feeling of neighborhood intimacy and a sense of safety and community that is unique to the area. Highlands has long been the favorite mountain of locals as well as visitors in the know. Come discover it for yourself. We know you will love it too.