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26 Dec 2016
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Aspen Snowmass Vacation Blog

Planning the perfect winter vacation in Aspen is easier than it seems. First, the town itself is a winter wonderland of sights, sounds, flavors and fun. There are plenty of amazing activities and events, and something new is happening almost daily during the winter months. Second, the vacation specialists at Frias Properties are always available to give you the inside scoop from a local's perspective. Guests who want to book an unforgettable Aspen getaway can count on the Frias team for everything from reserving the best vacation rentals in Aspen, to making dinner reservations at a five-star restaurant. 

This week, we sit down for a Q&A with Frias reservations manager Mike Duffy. Mike works directly with Frias guests to ensure that their accommodations are top notch. He also assists many guests in the planning process by quoting rates for lodging options, as well as making recommendations on where to stay. Best of all, he's a local who loves to ski Aspen Mountain, so he's full of useful information on planning a memorable winter trip to Aspen. Let's see what he has to say:



Frias reservations manager Mike Duffy

Here's Mike enjoying a powder day on Aspen Mountain.

Q: When are the best times to visit in winter?

A: "The best times to visit Aspen in the winter would be during the holidays, Wintersköl, spring break, and closing days of the mountains. Couples can enjoy a day of skiing together, followed by après. There is wonderful shopping, restaurants and nightlife in Aspen. Families like Ullr Friday nights at Snowmass, where there is tubing, ice skating, bonfires with s’mores, and live music."

Q: What are some things I’m going to want to do in Aspen during the winter? 

A: "You are going to want to go ski the Power of Four: Aspen, Snowmass, Buttermilk and Highlands. ... You can find information about what is going on in Aspen on our website under Explore Aspen. Our concierge, Mariya Mitsinova-Duchein, can let you know what is going on in town. The women’s World Cup typically kicks off our season, and there are New Year’s Eve fireworks, Wintersköl, and Winter X Games."

Q: What do I need to know before I book a room?

A: "For the largest selection of lodging options you should start researching in the fall. New Year’s will typically sell out before Christmas. You should always be aware of the cancelation policy and consider travel insurance. Our travel insurance partner, Red Sky, has a wonderful Ski Trip Preserver plan that all skiers should consider."

Q: What are some lodging choices that are great for winter?

A: "Mountain Queen, Fasching Haus, and Clarendon. Mountain Queen and Shadow Mountain are the closest to Lift 1A. Fasching Haus, Alpenblick, Durant and Fifth Avenue are great options close to the gondola."



Frias reservations manager

Mike Duffy

Q: Skiing – Tell me what NOT to miss!

A: "My favorite runs are The Dumps on Aspen Mountain. This is where the miners would dump ore during the mining days."

Q: What’s the skiing like in March and April?

A: "The skiing has been good in March and April. Last season, we were lucky enough to have a full-on powder day on April 30th."

Thanks, Mike. We'll see you on the mountain!

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