As one of the foothills of the Elk Mountains, seated in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Aspen Mountain, just south of the city by the same name, has long been known as a playground for the rich and famous - and it is. But it is also a great place to take a family for a fun ski vacation.

Christmastime on Aspen Mountain is especially wonderful! Aspen Mountain towers above the town of Aspen, with a top elevation of 11215 feet and the mountain has a vertical drop of 3269 feet. Aspen has four world class mountains containing over 4100 of terrain for skiing on. There are trails for every level of skier: 76 total including trails suitable for beginners, intermediates, and experts. The ski trails are accessible by eight lifts, including seven chair lifts and one cable car line.

Since Aspen is one of the most popular ski spots around and has much to offer skiers, as well as those who enjoy the night life in a ski town, you can expect lots of crowds and long lift lines on the slopes. Remember, this is a playground of the rich and famous, and a lot of people in general choose this ski vacation spot simply for that reason - as well as for the magnificent views, the great runs, swinging nightlife, and the numerous hotel options.

That's right, having your choice of hotels and lodges won't be a problem, since there are a number of different places to stay in and around the Aspen area including everything from cozy and comfortable to extremely elegant, but getting your reservation in might during the ski season be - so call ahead! You might be surprised to find that some lodging is really quite affordable!

On top of having a good amount of lodging choices, you'll find a good number of great food options as well, because the Aspen area has more than 100 restaurants to choose from. We mentioned there's nightlife, too, right? There's a winter concert series in Aspen, and much more to keep you entertained during your stay, including shopping and little stores as well as galleries, browsing bookstores, taking balloon rides, or you could simply observe the Victorian architecture found throughout the area or the breathtaking natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Come prepared for fun, even if you are not completely prepared to ski! Ski instructions and equipment rental are also abundant in the area, and snowboarders are welcome. There are other snow-related activities around Aspen as well, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and guided snowshoe tours.

Aspen is a great destination for the family - even when it's not ski season - this town that started out as a sleepy silver mining camp transformed by entrepreneurs into a cultural hot spot has always had something fascinating to offer its visitors. And the summer view is a gorgeous sight to see as well, and they also have an Aspen Music Festival that lasts all summer long. Whether you are traveling to Aspen for its beauty, its rich history, or its skiing, Aspen is always a great vacation destination!