It’s a wild world out there for snowboarders, with resorts across the globe promising the ride of your life.
But what happens when one of the most coveted resorts in the world slaps a snowboarding ban right on their slopes? No, this isn’t the plot of a new dystopian novel, it’s the reality that Aspen, Colorado riders must face. Don’t fret adventurer, we’ve got you covered with the facts behind the ban, why it all went down, and the top recommendations for alternative resorts to shred. Plus, stay tuned for some insider tips and tricks to make your next snowboarding trip the best one yet. Let’s dive in.
History of Aspen’s Snowboarding Ban
Aspen has always been a hub for ski enthusiasts, but the town hasn’t always welcomed snowboarders with open arms. In fact, Aspen enforced a controversial snowboarding ban in 1984, becoming the first ski resort in the world to do so. The ban was upheld for over a decade and it wasn’t until 1997 that snowboarders were finally allowed to carve their way down Aspen’s slopes.
Why the ban, you ask? Some locals at the time believed that snowboarders were a reckless and dangerous addition to the already crowded slopes. Others argued that snowboarding was a passing fad and that it would never gain the same level of popularity as skiing. It’s safe to say that they were all proven wrong!
Looking back, the history of the snowboarding ban in Aspen is a testament to the evolving attitudes towards the sport. What was once deemed as a nuisance now draws crowds from all over the world. It’s a reminder that change is inevitable and that we should always remain open to new and exciting experiences.
Reasons why snowboarding is banned in Aspen
Aspen, Colorado is known for its world-class ski resorts and breathtaking slopes that attract skiers from all over the world. However, snowboarders are not welcome in Aspen, and there have been many debates and controversies over the years regarding the reasons why snowboarding is banned in the area.
One major reason for the ban on snowboarding in Aspen is safety concerns. According to supporters of the ban, snowboarding is seen as a dangerous sport that poses a significant risk to skiers and other snowboarders on the slopes. Snowboarders might not have the same level of control as skiers, especially on steep and narrow runs, which could lead to accidents and collisions. There is also the concern that snowboarders might damage the trails and the equipment used by skiers.
Another reason why snowboarding is banned in Aspen is for the sake of preserving the traditional ski culture of the area. Many skiers and locals believe that snowboarding represents a rebellious and independent spirit that does not fit in with the traditional skiing community. Some also argue that snowboarding is a passing fad that will eventually decline in popularity, while skiing remains a timeless and classic sport.
Despite the reasons for the ban, some snowboarders still choose to visit Aspen and are willing to risk getting caught or fined. However, for those who are looking for an alternative destination that is more welcoming to snowboarders, there are plenty of other resorts that offer just as much thrill and excitement without any restrictions.
Alternative Snowboarding Resorts to Aspen
If you’re a passionate snowboarder, Aspen’s snowboarding ban may have left you feeling hopeless and discouraged. But fear not, there are still plenty of alternative snowboarding resorts out there waiting for you to explore.
For starters, one of the top destinations for snowboarding enthusiasts is Whistler Blackcomb in Canada. It’s the largest ski and snowboard resort in North America and offers over 8,000 acres of terrain for you to explore. With its high snowfall rate and endless runs, Whistler Blackcomb is definitely worth checking out.
Another great option is Lake Tahoe, which boasts some of the most diverse snowboarding terrain in North America. With over a dozen ski resorts to choose from, you’ll never run out of backcountry powder or groomed runs. Plus, it’s just a short drive from San Francisco, making it a convenient option for those on the west coast.
For those looking to venture further out, Japan’s Niseko resorts are quickly becoming a popular destination for snowboarding enthusiasts worldwide. With a whopping 47.2 feet of snowfall each season, these resorts offer powder runs that truly take your breath away.
Other notable snowboarding resorts to add to your list include Park City in Utah, Zermatt in Switzerland, and Chamonix in France. Each of these destinations offers unique terrain, breathtaking scenery, and world-class snowboarding experiences that you won’t want to miss.
So, while Aspen’s snowboarding ban may feel like a setback, don’t let it discourage you from exploring the many other incredible snowboarding resorts around the world. The possibilities are endless, and each new destination brings with it a fresh set of challenges and experiences. Get out there and start exploring today!
Tips and Tricks for Snowboarders Visiting Aspen
When visiting Aspen, it’s important to be prepared, especially for those coming to snowboard. Here are some tips and tricks that every snowboarder needs to know before hitting the slopes.
First and foremost, always check the weather and snow conditions before heading out. Nothing is worse than arriving on the mountain unprepared for the weather conditions. Additionally, make sure to properly layer your clothing to stay warm during the colder months.
When it comes to buying lift tickets, make sure to buy them in advance online to take advantage of discounts. You can also save money by purchasing a multi-day pass instead of buying individual tickets each day. And don’t forget to bring cash with you since some of the mountain restaurants don’t accept cards.
If you’re a beginner or intermediate snowboarder, make sure to visit Snowmass Mountain rather than Aspen Mountain, as it offers easier runs for those who are just starting out. And once you’re feeling confident, head over to Buttermilk or Highlands for more challenging runs.
Lastly, make sure to take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. The mountains are beautiful and it’s worth taking a moment to soak in the scenery. And at the end of the day, treat yourself to a hot chocolate or a cold beer at one of the mountain’s restaurants.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be sure to have a successful and enjoyable snowboarding experience in Aspen.