Perhaps a slightly overused phrase, thanks to Game of Thrones, “Winter is Coming” and we sure hope it is nothing like last winter! We southerners are not prepared to deal with snow and ice like our friends in the West. Instead, let us gaze our wanderlust on going to the snow this time, instead of the snow coming to us! Whisk yourself away to the winter wonderland ski resort known as Beaver Creek. Located 10 miles away from Vail, this small ski resort packs a more personal touch to its bigger brother, Vail. In fact, both ski resorts are covered under the same lift ticket, and you can technically ski at both mountains during your vacation. Now, let us turn our attention over to Beaver Creek.
Beaver Creek Ski Resort gains the respect of many ski critics by being deemed one of the best ski schools in America for children and adults. Because of the wide range of amenities this little mountain town has to offer, I will be taking my children here to ski in 2022 for the 4th season in a row.
How to Get There
I highly recommend flying directly into Eagle-Vail Airport. The I-70 corridor between Beaver Creek and Denver International Airport is a coin you don’t want to toss. Even with perfect weather, there could be a wreck or hours of Denver traffic heading to do the same thing as you; ski. On a winter weather day, you could even be looking at road closures and/or more traffic. Flying into Eagle Airport, you’re just 28 miles from Beaver Creek, located near the town of Avon, Colorado. American Airlines has several direct flights a day from Dallas-Fort Worth International and United Airlines has connections through Houston and Denver (time it perfectly for the Shreveport-Denver-Eagle Flight). Delta also operates to Eagle-Vail seasonally. After arriving at the airport, you have the option to rent a car or take a shuttle to your hotel or condo.
For more information on taking shuttles, visit: www.epicmountainexpress.com
Where to Stay
You cannot go wrong by booking your lodging directly through www.beavercreek.com. Many of the condos available for rent on their website offer Dollar Ride shuttles within the village and make getting around very convenient. The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek is ski-in/ski-out and located right next to the Kids Ski School, how convenient! The Westin Riverfront in Avon also offers a gondola from their hotel in Avon to the ski resort, as well as shuttle service directly up to the Beaver Creek Village, if you have little ones to drop off at ski school.
The Ritz Carlton-Bachelor Gulch is also part of the Beaver Creek Resort, but not located in or near the Village. It is 4 miles in separation, but also includes shuttles to the main Beaver Creek Village, or you can ski/snowboard over to the village.
Dining Out
When it comes to Restaurants, Beaver Creek and the town of Avon do not disappoint.
Hooked | I know Colorado is landlocked but trust me when I say this sushi is FRESH. Specialty cocktails and sushi rolls make this place my favorite lunch spot. They offer a kid-friendly menu as well. Located in the Beaver Creek Village.
Blue Moose Pizza | Known for the best pizza in the village. Order early or be prepared for a long wait considering this is the only pizza joint located in the Beaver Creek Village.
8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill | Try to grab a table here for Apres Ski. What is Apres Ski? A French term for After Ski activities, which in this case is eating a before-dinner appetizer (or two) and enjoying a delicious cocktail. It usually begins at 3 p.m. and runs until 6 p.m. (How dare I even give Apres Ski such a time restraint!). This restaurant is located in the Park Hyatt which is conveniently directly in front of the pickup location for Children’s Ski School.
WYLD | This restaurant is located in the Ritz Carlton and serves up delicious lunches and dinners. Reservations are encouraged on Open Table. For a quick lunch, my son and I like to ski over to the outdoor area of this restaurant for lunch. I grab a cup of Elk Chili and he gets the hot dog. We rest our legs for a moment before taking off again to explore the Arrowhead side of Beaver Creek.
Maya | Modern Mexican flair & located inside the Westin, this is the most delicious Mexican Cuisine in the Valley. Reservations are encouraged on Open Table. Try the Crab & Shrimp enchiladas.
Craftsman | This restaurant is located in the town of Edwards, which is 6 miles from Beaver Creek Village. The most casual of all of my picks, this counter-service restaurant has the juiciest burgers and to die for truffle fries.
Lift Tickets and Equipment Rentals
Beavercreek.com is a one-stop-shop for those who like simplicity. You can purchase your lift tickets, sign your kids up for ski school, reserve equipment, all on one simple website. Other equipment rental companies include Christy Sports, Ski Butlers, and Sun & Ski Sports. Advance reservations are recommended.
Let’s Wrap it All Up
What sets Beaver Creek Ski Resort apart from all of the other ski resorts and towns in Colorado? It’s Candy Cabin, which is exactly what the name implies: a cabin full of candy to purchase located on the mountain, but you have to ski to it. This gives my children SO much incentive! It’s the warm chocolate chip cookies that are given out at the base of the mountain beginning at 3:30 p.m. every day to conclude “a fantastic ski day.” Yet, another incentive! The people who work on this mountain are some of the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet. If you need any help at all planning, please give Beaver Creek Customer service a call at (970) 754-4636. I have called many times and they have always been very helpful.
Wishing you a week full of fresh powder and blue skies when you decide to try my favorite ski resort. ~Lori