Few can agree on the world's greatest ski resort, but most would have Aspen in their top five, like St Moritz, just because of its reputation. Apart from being a remarkable resort, dripping with wealth, Aspen has great skiing over four mountains, a world-class lift system and more alternative things to do (underground loco pulled silver mine tours for example ) than anywhere else. Aspen Highlands, the last to comre under the joint aspen ownership, offers one of the biggest verticals in North America (Snowmass has the biggest in the US), and one of the world's newst lift systems. A base village is currently undrer construction here. Both it and Aspen Mountain have plenty of expert terrain. Beginners have their own mountain - Tiehack. Snowmass Village is a semi-autonomous resort, 12 miles from Aspen valley. It has immediate access to the most black and double black diamond skiing in area and offers 95% slopeside lodging.