Game of Stones: Aspen's Coolest Winter Event

When you think of Aspen in the winter, your mind likely drifts to images of world-class skiing, snow-dusted peaks, and cozy lodges. While Aspen is famous for its four incredible ski resorts, there's a unique and growing attraction that offers a different kind of on-ice fun: the Game of Stones. This guide will walk you through what the event is, what to expect, and why it's another reason Aspen is the ultimate winter destination.

What is Game of Stones?

Game of Stones is a friendly competition that brings a twist to the classic sport of curling. Held on the Snowmass Base Village ice rink, it's a game of strategy, strength, and a little bit of luck. The event is organized by Aspen Skiing Company and welcomes participants of all ages, making it a perfect activity for the whole family.

The Rules of the Game

The concept is straightforward, drawing comparisons to "bowling on ice," as one event staffer described it.

• Teams: Players form teams of two.
• Objective: The goal is to slide 40-pound granite rocks, called "stones," down the ice toward a target, known as the "house."
• Gameplay: Each team takes turns sliding their four stones.
• Scoring: Points are awarded based on which team's stones are closest to the center of the target (the "button"). To score, a stone must be within the house. The first team to reach 10 points wins the match.

Unlike official curling, there's no frantic sweeping with brooms, but the spirit of competition and fun is just as high. The event is free, with registration happening on-site on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Experience on the Ice

The atmosphere at Game of Stones is electric and welcoming. On any given event day, you'll find a lively mix of curious tourists and enthusiastic locals gathered around the rink, cheering each other on. For many, it's their first time trying anything like curling.

As reported by the Aspen Times, first-time players often find the sport "humbling" and "way harder" than it looks on TV. Sliding a 40-pound stone with precision takes more skill and strength than one might expect. Bevin O’Brien, a visitor from Napa, was a self-proclaimed curling enthusiast who had only ever played the sport on a Wii video game before trying it in Snowmass. "The whole trip, all I’ve cared about is curling," she said, confirming the real-life version was a fun but challenging step up.

Despite the difficulty, the event is all about having a good time. A 13-year-old visitor from Brazil, Lorenzo Giberti, found it to be a "funny sport" after watching it in the Olympics and was curious to try it. His stoic resolve on the ice showed that while fun is the main goal, a little competitive spirit can emerge in anyone. The event fosters a sense of community, where strangers quickly become teammates and rivals, all sharing a unique and memorable Aspen experience.

Beyond the Stones

While Game of Stones is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, it’s just one of the many activities that make Aspen a premier winter playground. The town and its surroundings are packed with opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Aspen is home to four world-renowned ski mountains, each offering a distinct experience:

• Snowmass: The largest of the four, with vast terrain perfect for all skill levels.
• Aspen Mountain (Ajax): Known for its challenging runs and convenient location right in town.
• Aspen Highlands: A local's favorite, famous for the expert terrain of the Highland Bowl.
• Buttermilk: The go-to spot for beginners and families, and the celebrated home of the Winter X Games.

More Winter Fun

If you're looking for adventure beyond the slopes, Aspen delivers. You can explore serene winter landscapes by snowshoeing through the Castle Creek Valley or along Richmond Ridge. For a faster pace, guided snowmobile tours take you to iconic spots like the Maroon Bells. Families with younger kids will love the thrill of tubing at Snowmass, especially during the festive Ullr Nights celebrations. And of course, a simple evening of ice skating at the Snowmass Base Village rink is a classic winter pastime.

Find Your Aspen Home

With its unmatched blend of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and vibrant community events like Game of Stones, it's no wonder so many people dream of calling Aspen home. The lifestyle here is truly one-of-a-kind, offering excitement and tranquility in equal measure.

If you're captivated by the Aspen lifestyle and considering making this mountain paradise your home, you need an expert who knows the market inside and out. Ryan Schwartz of Aspen Real Estate is a professional realtor dedicated to helping clients find their perfect property in the Roaring Fork Valley. With deep local knowledge and a commitment to personalized service, Ryan can guide you through every step of the process. Whether you're looking for a ski-in/ski-out condo or a secluded mountain retreat, he has the expertise to make your dream a reality.

Ready to explore what Aspen has to offer? Contact Ryan Schwartz today to start your journey.

Your Winter Wonderland Awaits

Aspen is more than just a destination; it's a community and a lifestyle. From the competitive fun of Game of Stones to the peaceful solitude of a snowshoe trail, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. It’s a place where you can challenge yourself on the slopes, create new traditions with your family, and connect with a community that shares a passion for the mountain way of life. Come for the winter, and you just might find yourself wanting to stay for a lifetime.