Insider, local knowledge is key if you’re looking to tick off all the must-do activities, see all the highlights and have an authentic experience on your next ski trip. Locals are chock full of ideas and inspiration to make your ski trip unforgettable, so who better to tap for insider guidance, than the local lodging concierges? That’s why we’ve created a new Ski.com Blog series: Concierge Conversations, where you can glean great destination-based tips and recommendations and learn a bit more about some of the area’s top lodging options.
We tapped Wesy Armour-Cook—who has been a concierge at The Gant and an Aspen local for 11 years—to answer a couple questions about her favorite aspects of her hometown and her place of work.
A few of Wesy’s favorite things
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- Skiing right down into town from Aspen Mountain is pretty darn convenient. | Photo: Aspen Snowmass
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- Keep your eyes peeled for the tree shrines on Aspen Mountain. The John Denver shrine is located just off Bellissimo Trail.
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- The Gant’s hot tub and heated pool are the perfect post-skiing ritual. | Photo: The Gant
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- A Deluxe unit at The Gant. | Photo: The Gant
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- The Gant is one of the largest condo properties, but it’s tucked away in quiet corner of downtown Aspen. | Photo: The Gant
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- A Premier unit at The Gant. | Photo: The Gant
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- Winterskol is held in mid-January and is not to be missed. Celebrations include a soup contest, fireworks, ice sculptures and free concerts. | Photo: Aspen Snowmass
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- Enjoy a glass of bubbly and some classic Alpine cuisine at Cloud 9 Bistro at Aspen Highlands. | Photo: Aspen Snowmass
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- The 35+ minute hike to the top of Highland Bowl is worth it, but not for the weak. | Photo: Aspen Snowmass
Ski.com: What drew you to Aspen originally and what has kept you there?
WAC: Initially, after college, I had friends that were enjoying the post-college freedom in this little ski town, and as the saying goes I was only meant to stay for a season…11 years later. The small-town feel, active culture and the off-season vacations keep me loving life in Aspen.
Ski.com: What are your three favorite things to do in Aspen in the winter?
WAC: I enjoy skiing, hiking the overused summer trails and just recently have loved uphill skiing as well (earning my turns). The activity never slows down here. Aspen maybe small, but it is mighty!
Ski.com: In your opinion, what are some secrets or lesser known facts about Aspen that visitors should know?
WAC: Aspen loves to pay homage to loved ones in any way we can. Get lost skiing in the trees on Aspen Mountain and pay tribute to your favorite celebrities or friends at secret shrines. You will find dedicated “shrines” of anyone from Elvis, Jerry Garcia, Jimi Hendrix and John Denver to fallen locals who have left their mark on our hearts here in Aspen.
Ski.com: What are some secrets or lesser known facts about The Gant?
WAC: The Gant was the first condominium resort in Aspen to offer a town shuttle service—thanks to our beloved, former General Manager Molly Campbell. Even today it is one our guests’ favorite amenities (also, when you’re out and you see The Gant Van pass, raise your glass—it’s a fun drinking game for locals)!
Ski.com: If you could only ski or ride one run at Aspen Snowmass for the rest of your life, what would it be?
WAC: Highland Bowl [Aspen Highlands]. If you have done it, then you know. If you haven’t, you should. Not for the weak.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for the local scoop on après-ski/dining/nightlife what do you recommend?
WAC: It depends on the guest, of course, but in general, the beer flights, wood-fired pizzas and live music at the Limelight Hotel are always a crowd pleaser. Also, they offer one of the longer happy hours in town, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. For the rowdier guest, 39 Degrees at the Sky hotel is always a lively spot for après.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for family experiences, what are your don’t-miss spots and restaurants?
WAC: Spend the day skiing together with a private instructor or group lesson at our family-friendly Snowmass then stick around to enjoy snow tubing under the stars with dinner and s’mores at Ullr Nights offered every Friday night through the winter season at Elk Camp on Snowmass.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for upscale experiences what are your don’t-miss spots and restaurants?
WAC: For a scenic lunch, enjoy the authentic Alpine dishes of fondue or raclette at Cloud 9 on Aspen Highlands. Then, relax with a massage at the Remede Spa in the St. Regis, followed by dinner at the popular French restaurant Cache Cache.
Ski.com: What winter event or time of ski season do you look forward to most and why?
WAC: Winterskol! Every year in mid-January we celebrate with a great weekend full of events that gets everyone involved and amped up for the winter season. The ice sculptures on display, free soup competition and hilarious dog show are just some of the fun ways that we celebrate Ullr, the god of winter. Bring on the snow!
Ski.com: What do you think makes The Gant popular?
WAC: We are one of the largest condo properties in Aspen and we’re tucked away in a quiet corner of town. We can accommodate all groups of guests. Ski clubbers love the hot tubs for post-skiing relaxation. Families love the heated pools and shuttle service, and conference-goers love our newly renovated conference center and café space.
More about The Gant
Ready to book your stay at The Gant in Aspen, Colorado? Our 65+ Mountain Travel Experts are standing by for your call at 800-610-8911. You can also get started by filling out a form for a free custom quote.
