The scenic ski resort of Aspen has become the place to be seen by the US winter showbiz crowd. The town, named for the region's many aspen trees, is surrounded by mountains and is particularly dramatic in winter.

The small town initially gained its wealth and much of its distinctive architecture from silver production in the late 19th century. However, the silver market crashed and Aspen witnessed a slump until its first ski lift was built in 1936.

Post-World War II, Aspen emerged as one of the world's top ski resorts for active holiday makers, helped by Chicago businessman Walter Paepcke, who created the Aspen Skiing Company and is largely responsible for its intellectual, cultural and free spirited reputation.

Situated in Colorado, 200 miles from the city of Denver, the glamorous resort attracts the rich and the beautiful each year, as well as the serious ski crowd. Film stars Kevin Costner, Jack Nicholson and Goldie Hawn take breaks there and the resort has attracted an upscale crowd since the 1960s. Famous residents include John Denver and Hunter S Thompson.

The holiday resort lies on the Roaring Fork River, a tributary of the Colorado River. Ski facilities are available on four mountains, with varied terrain and excellent snow.

There are runs available for all levels, from beginners to experts, with Aspen Mountain reserved for more experienced skiers and Buttermilk Mountain dominated by beginners and those learning to snowboard.

Equipment rental is easy and lessons can be arranged at numerous ski schools, catering to all needs and tastes.

Covering an area of nine sq km (three sq miles), Aspen has a resident population of just 6,000. Many locals have found it increasingly expensive to live in the town, with a recent boom in property prices and ownership of holiday homes.

Downtown Aspen is a designer shopping district, with a host of expensive restaurants, bars and shops. The resort is renowned for its nightlife, parties and the quality of its restaurants.

For those looking for activities away from the ski slopes, Aspen is an ideal location, with around 30 art galleries and a number of health spas. Dog-sledding and hot-air balloon rides can be arranged and the town has a strong cultural scene, with opera performances and concerts.

Aspen is beautiful in the summer, with its rich foliage and tight planning regulations preserving its picturesque appearance. The Aspen Historical Society Museum organises walking tours of Aspen and the Aspen Art Museum holds lectures, exhibitions and events.

The wildlife sanctuary, the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, also offers a selection of tours of the region for nature lovers. Other summer activities include walking, cycling, kayaking and rafting.

Aspen can be expensive for a winter break and nearby Glenwood Springs is a cheaper option for skiers on a budget. For parents with teenagers, Aspen has the added advantage of special ski courses that allow them to meet people their own age on the slopes.

Flights to Denver and Eagle County Airport are relatively easy to arrange from the UK, though should be booked early for the peak winter season, and accommodation ranges from clean and comfortable to opulent and extravagant.