Highland Bowl
Legendary expert ski terrain and iconic mountain vistas, offering both thrilling adventures and breathtaking natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best powder for skiing
Highland Bowl
Best Time
Best powder for skiing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Legendary expert ski terrain and iconic mountain vistas, offering both thrilling adventures and breathtaking natural beauty.
"Top 3 favorite mountains AND overall resort in America! The terrain on Highlands was amazing."
Check Snow Conditions First
Always check the official snow report before hiking or skiing the bowl. :snow_cloud:
Prepare for the Hike
The hike up Highland Bowl is strenuous; wear appropriate gear and bring water. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Legendary Highland Bowl
Aspen Highlands
Expert-only terrain accessed by a challenging hike, offering unparalleled powder and breathtaking panoramic views.
Maroon Bells Scenic Views
Shuttle drop-off point
Iconic, breathtaking mountain vistas accessible via a scenic shuttle ride, perfect for photography and short hikes.
Aspen Highlands Village
Base of Aspen Highlands
A charming village offering dining and amenities, serving as a gateway to the mountain's adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Highland Bowl Adventure
Beyond the Slopes: Summer & Beyond
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Snow Conditions First
Always check the official snow report before hiking or skiing the bowl. :snow_cloud:
Prepare for the Hike
The hike up Highland Bowl is strenuous; wear appropriate gear and bring water. :athletic_shoe:
Shuttle to Maroon Bells
Book shuttle tickets online in advance for Maroon Bells access. :bus:
Consider a SNO-GO
Experience the bowl on a SNO-GO for a unique ride down. :snowboarder:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Snow Conditions First
Always check the official snow report before hiking or skiing the bowl. :snow_cloud:
Prepare for the Hike
The hike up Highland Bowl is strenuous; wear appropriate gear and bring water. :athletic_shoe:
Shuttle to Maroon Bells
Book shuttle tickets online in advance for Maroon Bells access. :bus:
Consider a SNO-GO
Experience the bowl on a SNO-GO for a unique ride down. :snowboarder:
LA's Coolest Bowling
Highland Park Bowl offers a retro vibe with great food and drinks. :pizza:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews highlight the breathtaking beauty of Maroon Bells and the challenging, rewarding experience of skiing Highland Bowl. However, dining at resort locations can be prohibitively expensive, with some visitors finding the value for money questionable. The LA Highland Park Bowl is generally praised for its fun atmosphere and good food.
"Nice village on way to Maroon Bells. Had a superb macchiato and croissant at the Ritz Carlton before boarding 30 minute bus ride up the mountain to the lake. Tough hike to Crater lake and well worth it."
Jeff Cohan
"Pretentious and expensive had lunch $35 for a burger and beer.
Wife ordered a Philly and a side of chips $60. The chips were terrible. Hard and stale. Ps the fries were okay but not the best. The golden retriever next to us had great time with the fries.
It is just not worth the price. Guess it is ski season pricing. No wonder there was barely anyone either here."
Gary Harr
"The view at Maroon Bells is beyond breathtaking. I think my picture do not do justice to it. We made our way there by booking the shuttle tickets online and we drove up to park at the garage for USD42/entry day. From there the shuttle ride is about 30 mins with great view and narration of the view that you are looking. Arriving at drop off is only a mere 5 mins walk to the lake and the view of Maroon Bells in all its glory. Awesome. You can choose to take hike on the various trails available."
Kevin Phang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To ski Highland Bowl, you'll need to access Aspen Highlands. From there, it's a hike up to the bowl itself. Check the Aspen Snowmass website for current conditions and lift status.
Yes, a shuttle service operates from Aspen Highlands to Maroon Bells. It's recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
Highland Park Bowl in Los Angeles is accessible by car and public transport. It's located at 5056 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is parking available at Aspen Highlands, though it can fill up quickly during busy periods. Consider arriving early or using alternative transport.
Private vehicle access to Maroon Bells is restricted for much of the year. The shuttle from Aspen Highlands is the primary way to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A valid lift ticket or season pass for Aspen Snowmass is required to access Aspen Highlands and the base of the hike to Highland Bowl. The hike itself is free.
Shuttle ticket prices can vary, but booking online in advance is recommended. Check the Aspen Snowmass website for current pricing.
Highland Park Bowl in LA is a venue, and entry is typically free, though you'll pay for bowling, food, and drinks.
The Highland Bowl itself is a backcountry area and doesn't have set operating hours, but access is dependent on Aspen Highlands ski resort operations and snow conditions.
Yes, lift tickets can be purchased at Aspen Highlands, but buying online in advance is often cheaper and guarantees access.
🎫 ⛷️ On-Snow Experience
Highland Bowl is considered expert terrain. The hike up is challenging, and the skiing down can involve deep powder and steep pitches.
No, Highland Bowl is strictly for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders due to its challenging hike and steep, often ungroomed terrain.
Conditions vary, but Highland Bowl is renowned for its excellent powder skiing, especially after fresh snowfall.
The hike can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on your fitness level and snow conditions.
While not always formally advertised, local guides or experienced friends can offer insights. Always prioritize safety and avalanche awareness.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The classic view of the Maroon Bells reflected in Maroon Lake is the most iconic. Various trails offer different perspectives.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the Maroon Bells, with soft, warm hues.
Absolutely! The summit of Highland Bowl offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Elk Mountains.
A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive views. Consider a telephoto for capturing distant peaks. Weather-sealed gear is advisable.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national forest areas, including Maroon Bells. Always check current regulations before flying.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Aspen Highlands offers various dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Expect resort pricing.
Yes, dining at resort areas like Aspen Highlands can be quite expensive, with burgers and beers costing upwards of $35-$60.
While there are no restrictions on bringing your own food for the hike, be mindful of packing out all trash.
Highland Park Bowl in LA is known for its delicious food, including pizzas and other classic American fare, alongside craft cocktails.
Designated picnic areas are available near Maroon Lake, offering a scenic spot to enjoy a packed lunch.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Highland Bowl skiing is strictly for advanced skiers, families can enjoy the broader Aspen Highlands resort, which offers a range of groomed runs suitable for different skill levels. Consider lessons for younger or less experienced skiers. The village at Aspen Highlands also provides a pleasant atmosphere for a family meal.
💰 Budget Travelers
For the LA Highland Park Bowl, while food and drinks add up, the cost of bowling itself can be reasonable, especially if shared among a group.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For action and adventure photographers, the Highland Bowl ski area provides dramatic shots of skiers conquering challenging terrain with stunning mountain backdrops.
+1 Capturing the effort of the hike and the exhilaration of the descent offers a different, yet equally compelling, photographic narrative. Remember to be prepared for weather and challenging conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Highland Bowl for Skiers
+2The experience is often described as 'type 2 fun' – challenging in the moment but incredibly rewarding in retrospect. Redditors and social media creators alike emphasize the breathtaking views from the summit, making the strenuous climb worthwhile. While the bowl is famous for its winter offerings, it's crucial to check avalanche conditions and snow reports before venturing out.
For those planning a ski trip, understanding the commitment required for Highland Bowl is key. It's not a casual run but an adventure that demands preparation and respect for the mountain environment. The steep climb and subsequent descent offer an unforgettable challenge for advanced skiers seeking the ultimate backcountry experience.
Maroon Bells: A Photographer's Paradise
Photographers flock to Maroon Bells at sunrise and sunset to capture the alpenglow illuminating the peaks. The calm waters of Maroon Lake often provide a stunning reflection, doubling the visual impact. Beyond the main viewpoint, various hiking trails allow for exploration and unique photographic angles. Visitors are advised to book shuttle tickets well in advance, especially during peak seasons like fall when the aspens turn golden.
While the main view is iconic, exploring the surrounding trails can lead to more intimate and less crowded shots. Remember to pack appropriate gear, including a wide-angle lens for capturing the grandeur of the landscape. Respecting the environment and staying on marked trails are paramount to preserving this natural wonder for future visitors.
Highland Park Bowl: LA's Retro Entertainment Hub
Visitors rave about the quality of the food, with pizzas and other American classics being highlights. It's a place where you can enjoy a game of bowling with friends or family, all while savoring well-crafted drinks and tasty bites.
For those looking for a different kind of 'bowl' experience, Highland Park Bowl provides a fun and engaging alternative. It’s a testament to how the name 'Highland Bowl' can evoke vastly different, yet equally appealing, experiences depending on the context.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit