Aspen Highlands Uphill to MGR
Backcountry Skiing Route
Details
1.9 mi
2,128 ft
The designated uphill route at Highlands that's open all day.
Highlands is famous for uphill access in a certain respect, and that’s the hike-to zone of Highland Bowl at the top of the mountain. Lower down, however, the groomers make just another training ground for Aspen locals on dawn patrol. The resort even allows uphill during operational hours as well, so you can show up with touring gear and earn a free lap anytime on this legendary mountain.
There is a designated route that must be followed during operating hours, which is mapped here. It should also be marked with signage along the way. The route goes from the base area up to Merry-Go-Round Restaurant (MGR) for a total of nearly 1900 feet of vertical. If you get up early enough, continuing above MGR is allowed before 8:30am. Otherwise, you’ll need to turn around there.
Keep in mind that the uphill route is subject to change/closure based on conditions, but you can check the status online before you go. See Highlands’ [uphill policy]( for more information. Written by Jesse Weber
Highlands is famous for uphill access in a certain respect, and that’s the hike-to zone of Highland Bowl at the top of the mountain. Lower down, however, the groomers make just another training ground for Aspen locals on dawn patrol. The resort even allows uphill during operational hours as well, so you can show up with touring gear and earn a free lap anytime on this legendary mountain.
There is a designated route that must be followed during operating hours, which is mapped here. It should also be marked with signage along the way. The route goes from the base area up to Merry-Go-Round Restaurant (MGR) for a total of nearly 1900 feet of vertical. If you get up early enough, continuing above MGR is allowed before 8:30am. Otherwise, you’ll need to turn around there.
Keep in mind that the uphill route is subject to change/closure based on conditions, but you can check the status online before you go. See Highlands’ [uphill policy]( for more information. Written by Jesse Weber
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Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uphill route to MGR | 1.72 mi | 1,847 ft | 20.3% |
| Base to Memory Lane | 0.86 mi | 879 ft | 19.3% |
| below tbowl to stein | 0.45 mi | 554 ft | 22.9% |
| 3 Sisters of Memory Lane | 0.59 mi | 768 ft | 24.6% |
| Highlands Stairmaster | 0.84 mi | 1,004 ft | 22.5% |
| First sunrays to MGR | 0.29 mi | 269 ft | 17.4% |