Since 1996, lead ski concierge Ray McNutt has been ensuring guests of The Little Nell have memorable days on the mountain.
Why skiers choose Aspen
Aspen is great for ski lovers due to the wide variety of terrain, minimal lift lines, consistent sun, and, of course, our pristine powder. People especially love staying at The Little Nell for their ski vacation because it’s the only ski-in/ski-out hotel at the base of Aspen Mountain.
Advice for first-timers
A good tip for a first-time skier on Aspen Mountain is to sign up for First Tracks. This exclusive experience allows guests to go up the gondola before it opens to the public and take their first run with an experienced ski instructor. You’ll take a top-to-bottom run on freshly groomed corduroy or, if you’re lucky, you’ll take your first run in deep powder. After your first run, take the gondola back to the top of the mountain and head to Bonnie’s for a wonderful breakfast. Make sure to try the famous oatmeal pancakes.
Most unique request
It was the day before Christmas, and a long-time guest was looking for a specific pair of Völkl skis for their youngest daughter. We couldn’t find the skis anywhere in town but found a shop in Denver that had them in stock. Since it was too late to have them delivered, I arranged for our transportation team to pick up the skis in Denver and deliver them to Aspen. We mounted the skis, had them wrapped, and gave them to her parents on Christmas morning. The girl came down later in the morning smiling ear to ear, telling me that Santa brought her a new pair of skis. If she only knew.
Insider’s tip for skiing Aspen Mountain
I would recommend skiing on the west side of the mountain on the 1A lift for a different experience. The skiing offers a great variety of terrain, and there are considerably fewer skiers there than on the rest of the mountain.
Favorite Little Nell adventure
While I would love to ski powder on our weekly Snowcat Powder Tour, I think the First Tracks program is very special. You’re able to experience Aspen Mountain in a different way. The mountain is quiet, the light is different, and you’re skiing on an untouched, perfectly groomed ski run.
Fondest ski memory
While I’ve had some amazing trips cat skiing in Canada, my fondest ski memory is skiing in northern India. Helicopter skiing in the Himalayas and experiencing the culture of India is something I will never forget.
Go-to mountain in Aspen Snowmass
Aspen Highlands. The Highland Bowl experience is truly unmatched, but the entire mountain offers incredible skiing. The lower section of Highlands has some very challenging and steep terrain, which people often overlook because they’re looking to ski the top of the mountain. And, of course, you have Cloud Nine, which is a must-do experience on every trip to Aspen.
Powder day or groomers?
While Aspen Skiing Company has a world-class grooming operation, and I truly enjoy skiing groomed runs, I will take a powder day any chance I can get. There is just no substitute for skiing the lightest snow in the world.