Mountain Mayhem: Closing Day

Parties percolated all over the slopes Sunday, April 10, for Aspen Highlands’ closing day. From the first seating till last call, Cloud Nine’s dining room and deck were filled to the brim with brightly clad, costumed guests dancing to YMCA and other hits from the ’70s to the aughts.

Throughout the day, streams of hikers marched up the ridge to the top of Highland Peak where a record number congregated until ski patrol politely sent them down for the last run.

At the base, DJ Naka G celebrated his birthday behind the decks, alternating with DJ Dylan, as they churned out tracks as guests danced on the deck and the snow. As always, characters came dressed in costumes ranging from superheroes to food. The Schneetag cardboard race kept all entertained as teams of four made their way downslope in an attempt to skim the pond at the bottom. Then all turned their attention and applause toward Thunderbowl for ski patrol’s last sweep of the season (though the mountain reopens thanks to the bonus weekends recently announced for April 23-24 and April 30-May 1.

Aspen Mountain’s closing day is up next on Sunday, April 17. Don’t-miss traditions include the Buck-Off at the top of Ridge of Bell run at 1 p.m. and apres-ski events at the base and around town.

Contact May with insights, invites or info: allthewaymaymay@hotmail.com