If you’re planning a ski trip to Colorado this winter then you’ve come to the right place. After spending an entire winter season in the Vail Valley, I’ve created this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best things to do in Beaver Creek, top tips for visiting the Vail Valley, and what exactly makes this place so special.
The Best Things to Do in Beaver Creek
Located a little over two hours west of Denver, Beaver Creek is an excellent all-around mountain. It’s skiing at it’s finest, and there’s a little something for everyone here.
Beaver Creek is renown for it’s family-friendly atmosphere, but it maintains both a spunk and luxury that appeals to a younger crowd.
Upper runs at Beaver Creek / The magical Beaver Creek Village is something out of a Christmas movie
Because Beaver Creek is one of the farthest resorts from Denver, it ends up being a bit less crowded, as most locals opt for the closer resorts of Breckenridge, Frisco, Keystone and Vail.
It’s a bit more exclusive than other ski resorts – you actually have to go through a guard gate to enter. With this added layer of privacy, you’ll find little to no lines, even around the holidays.
The icing on the cake? Every day at 3 p.m. chefs in white ski suits serve warm chocolate chip cookies at the base of the mountain. Now that my friends is pretty hard to beat.
Cookie time at Beaver Creek is a highlight of the day
When to Go to Beaver Creek
Beaver Creek Ski Resort opens for the season in mid-November and runs until the middle of April.
Naturally, the holidays are the busiest time on the mountain. While Christmas and New Year’s are pure magic, expect more crowds than usual… But even then, Beaver Creek is less congested than most resorts in the area.
Immediately following the New Year, there’s often an influx of visitors from South America there to kick off their summer holiday break. In the same tune, mid-March through early April can be quite busy with families traveling for their kids’ spring breaks.
A bluebird day at Beaver Creek
My advice: For your best shot at great snow and low-season crowds, aim for January and February, baring MLK Day and President’s Day.
But there’s a saying among the locals: “You’ll come here for the winters, but you’ll stay for the summers.”
While we have yet to experience the Rocky Mountains in the summer, we’re already plotting a trip back. Picture low humidity, cool temperatures, and all the outdoor activities your little heart can desire.
Budget Travel Tips for Beaver Creek
With the stunning mountains as your backdrop, there are so many amazing things to do in Beaver Creek. Here are some tips to get you set up and ready to go for the many mountain activities:
Beaver Creek Lift Tickets
I’m not going to sugar coat it – lift tickets at Beaver Creek are not cheap. However, there are a few tricks to save on lift tickets:
Purchase lift tickets at least one week in advance. While they can be purchased same-day, they offer discounts up to 25 percent when bought at least a week out.
Like most of the big name mountains in the American West, Beaver Creek is owned by Vail Resorts. You name it, Vail probably owns it.
The good news is there is some reciprocity that occurs amongst Vail’s mountains within Colorado. When you purchase at least a three-day lift ticket to Beaver Creek you’ll also get access to Vail, Breckenridge and Keystone.
READ MORE: 13 Things to Do in Vail Besides Ski
Keep in mind that this reciprocity does not extend both ways. Tickets to Breck and Keystone do not get you in to Vail or Beaver Creek. #politics
Lucky enough to be able to ski for more than seven days in a season? The Epic Pass is an amazing value, and if you ski for at least a week it will pay for itself. The only caveat – the Epic Pass must be purchased by the end of May, so be sure to plan ahead.
Blue skies for days at Beaver Creek
Ski + Snowboard Rentals at Beaver Creek
Ski and snowboard equipment is available for rent at most any hotel in the area, but you’ll pay a pretty premium for the convenience of renting on-site.
In our experience, Charter Sports at the Christie Lodge in Avon offers the best bang for your buck when it comes to rentals. For another economical option up in Beaver Creek Village, check out RentSkis.com.
Beaver Creek Ski School
Regardless of your skill level, ski school is always a good idea. The ski school at Beaver Creek claims to be “the Ivy League of ski schools,” so if you’re a first-time skier you’ve come to the right place
A lesson is a great way to brush up on your skills, build confidence on the slopes and learn some inside tips on both the mountain and the area.
The icing on the cake? When you buy two days of ski school, you get a third day for free.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List
How to Spend a Perfect Day on Beaver Creek Mountain
When it comes to the best things to do in Beaver Creek, it’s an obvious answer – skiing and snowboarding on some of the finest slopes in North America.
Regardless of your skill level and risk tolerance, there’s a little something for everyone at Beaver Creek. While at first glance the map of an unfamiliar mountain can look intimidating, fear not – I’ve got your day all planned out for ‘ya.
Beaver Creek Winter trail map, courtesy of Vail Resorts
Set Your Alarm
When it comes to skiing, the early bird does in fact get the worm. The mountain is quiet, most people are still asleep and the snow has just been groomed. There’s nothing quite like it.
Catch the first chair at 8:30 when the lifts open, and enjoy an hour or so of blissful skiing. I promise, you’ll never regret waking up early to catch the snow at its finest.
Freshly groomed corduroy in the early morning / A powder day on the mountain
For Beginners
If you’re either just learning to ski or haven’t skied in years, you’ve come to the right place. Beaver Creek has some of the most expansive and enjoyable runs for beginners that you’ll find out West.
Overall, Beaver Creek is a reverse mountain. Contrary to logic, the majority of the green beginner’s runs are found at the top of the mountain, while many of the blues and blacks are in the lower portions.
It’s the perfect mountain on which to learn how to ski. And I should know – I arrived in Colorado as a “self-taught,” beginner skier. After some lessons, a few falls and a lot of practice, those days are long gone.
Green runs for days from Red Buffalo Park
If you’re brand new to skiing or feeling a bit rusty, head up the Haymeadow Gondola from Beaver Creek Village to get warmed up in the beginner’s area.
Once you’ve found your footing, take the Centennial Lift up the mountain to the Cinch Express Lift. Upon ascent you’ll not only be greeted by jaw-dropping views of the Vail Valley, but a plethora of wide-open greens at Red Buffalo Park.
If you’re starting in Bachelor Gulch, take the Bachelor Gulch Express Lift up and enjoy the green runs like Cabin Fever, Sawbuck and Spring Tooth.
For Intermediates
Almost one-half of the runs at Beaver Creek are designated blue for intermediates, so there’s plenty of terrain to explore once you’ve graduated from the greens.
From Beaver Creek Village, ride the Centennial Lift up and veer left towards Latigo. Either continue on Latigo down to the base of the mountain, or check out BC’s signature front face on Centennial.
The Larkspur Bowl on Beaver Creek Mountain
From there, head back up the Centennial Lift and hit either the Rose Bowl or the Redtail Bowl, a long wide blue run with some pitch to it. From Redtail, catch the Larkspur lift up and cruise the wide-open glory of the Larkspur Bowl.
Following Larkspur, ride the Birds of Prey lift back up to central Beaver Creek and go from there.
For Experts
If you’re an expert, first off, congratulations! I certainly do not fall into this category, though I do dabble in the occasional black diamond from time to time.
If black diamonds are your jam, head up the Centennial Lift and catch Willy’s Face to Buckboard, which runs alongside the Centennial group.
Conquering Willy’s Face and Buckboard on Centennial
Head back up Centennial and cruise down the Rose Bowl, then head up again to catch Ripsaw, a long and steep black run.
For another enjoyable, lengthy black run, take the Strawberry Lift up from Beaver Creek Village to President Ford’s. Named after number 39 who called Beaver Creek home for years, this is one of the best runs on the whole mountain.
Feeling extra adventurous? Catch the Grouse Mountain Express up to access the toughest terrain in all of Beaver Creek, including a few double-black diamond runs.
Where to Eat in Beaver Creek
Like in most resort towns, food and drinks prices on the mountain can be a few cents shy of exorbitant, the anticipated high price of prime real estate. That being said, there are some deals to be had, and sometimes it’s just worth it for the splurge.
From lunch to après ski, here are my favorite spots:
The Best Lunch in Beaver Creek
Talons Restaurant – For the best view of the slopes minus the crowds of some of the other spots, head to Talons. My personal favorite spot for a break between runs, Talons is nestled at the base of the Redtail Bowl and Larkspur. The beer is cold, the classic rock is on point, and there are three chairlift options at your fingertips when you’re ready for your next run.
A bloody Mary at Talon’s / Breaking for lunch at 8100 at the Park Hyatt
Coyote Cafe – Head here for the best value lunch on the mountain, like their $4.99 cup of pork green chili.
8100 – Named for the elevation of Beaver Creek, head to 8100 or an alfresco slope-side lunch at the Park Hyatt. Don’t miss the tomato soup and grilled cheese with smoked brisket.
The Best Après Ski in Beaver Creek
I’m not ashamed to say that après ski is my favorite time of day, and I don’t think I’m alone. When thinking of the quintessential things to do in Beaver Creek, top of the list is to enjoy après ski in the late afternoon. The entire community gathers outside during the golden hour of the afternoon, communing over live music, cozy cocktails and cheap(er) beer.
For the best après ski in Beaver Creek, here are my top picks:
Revolution – For the best value happy hour on the mountain, head to Revolution. Located conveniently near the shuttle stop, their meatball sliders and live music are just what the doctor ordered after a long day on the slopes. Their sister cafe Trax is located down the sidewalk and features $2.50 beers. Need I say more?
Coyote Cafe – A bar so nice, I’ll mention it twice. Head here for Tex-Mex fare, tangy margaritas and a lively local crowd during happy hour.
Happy hour heaven in Beaver Creek Village at Revolution and Coyote Cafe
The Dusty Boot – Head to this roadhouse style eatery for sliders, beer specials and your Western, “I’m in Colorado” fix.
The CBar – Another favorite just steps from the Centennial lift, check out the CBar. Think outdoor tables, live music, and great nachos. My only complaint is they don’t actually have a happy hour, but who needs to with that view?
Hooked – Hungry for something other than nachos and sliders? Hooked’s happy hour from 2 to 4 p.m. features $4 sushi rolls and $3 beers.
Off the Mountain
Maya – For modern Mexican fare at the Westin in Avon, head to Maya for après ski. Ski down from Bachelor Gulch via the Leave the Beav run, then ride the Riverfront Express Gondola down for happy hour. The epic view of Beaver Creek mountain plus live music on Fridays makes this one of my top picks in the area.
Blue Plate – A local favorite, Blue Plate’s happy hour is one that you can actually make a meal out of – think swanky half-priced tapas like elk terrine and stuffed grape leaves.
Maya, Blue Plate and the Minturn Saloon pouring epic après ski concoctions off the mountain
Agave – Another fantastic Mexican après option near Arrowhead Village. The taquitos and live music will keep you coming back for more.
The Minturn Saloon – A Colorado institution, the Minturn Saloon has served food and drinks to Vail’s finest since 1901. Home to arguably the best margarita in the state, John Wayne himself even frequented here back in the day.
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Where to Stay in Beaver Creek
When it comes to options for lodging in Beaver Creek, the sky’s the limit. Here are my top picks:
Splurge
The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek– For the ultimate ski-in ski-out experience in the heart of Beaver Creek, look no further.
Ski-in, ski out at its finest at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek and the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch
The Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch – For an exclusive experience with all of the luxury you expect from the brand, head to the Ritz on the Bachelor Gulch side of the mountain.
Click here to view pricing and availability for hotels in Beaver Creek
Mid-Range
The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa – Thanks to the Riverfront Express Gondola, the Westin in Avon offers the ski-in, ski-out convenience at more affordable rates than their counterparts in the Village or Bachelor Gulch.
All the views and amenities, minus the crazy prices of the village at the Westin Resort in Avon
The Sheraton Mountain Vista Villas – Perfect for families or those wanting to spread out a bit, the Sheraton in Avon is another fantastic option just five minute’s from Beaver Creek.
Save
Airbnb – Looking to rent a condo or house in Beaver Creek? Check out Airbnb – the towns of Avon, Edwards, Arrowhead Village or Eagle-Vail are all chock-full of Airbnb options. New to Airbnb? Here’s $40 off your first listing.
Christie Lodge – While I wouldn’t necessarily put this under the true “save” category (literally nothing is “budget” out here), the Christie Lodge is a great value in a prime location in the heart of Avon. The suite-style lodge also offers long-term rentals, so it can be a great spot if you’re in town for a few weeks or a month.
The Vail Bunkhouse – A hostel in America? Sign me up! The Bunkhouse in Minturn is great option if you’re looking to save some cash.
A sunny day on Larkspur run
How to Get to Beaver Creek
Traveling to Beaver Creek can feel a bit like planes, trains and automobiles. But as I mentioned before, part of the allure of Beaver Creek it’s exclusivity. The best places are not necessarily the easiest to get to.
Flying to Colorado
The most common path of arrival is to fly in to Denver International Airport. Flights into Denver are surprisingly cheap – a number of budget airlines have hubs here like Southwest, Frontier and Spirit.
For a more efficient (and expensive) option, fly directly into the Eagle Airport. While flying into Eagle is by no means a budget option, if you only have a few days and are down for the splurge it is the quickest way to get to there.
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Beaver Creek by Car
Door to door, it’s about a 2 hours and 15 minute’s drive from Denver International Airport to Beaver Creek. If you’re driving from the Eagle Airport, it’s just a quick 30 minute drive to Beaver Creek.
But bear in mind, this is Colorado. To say the weather is unpredictable is an understatement, so account for delays in both directions.
Heading back to Denver from Beaver Creek, even the savviest traveler will be hard-pressed to make an early morning flight out of DIA. On the fence? Head down to Denver the night before.
Upper runs on Beaver Creek Mountain
Beaver Creek by Shuttle
The Epic Mix Shuttle – Epic is the big name in town for all things skiing, and their shuttle service is a great option for airport transportation. Depending on the weather (of course), the shuttle takes around three hours door to door and starts at $85 per person.
Uber – In lieu of renting a car, catch an an Uber from DIA to Beaver Creek. While it sounds pricey at first – about $120 each way – it about evens out once you factor in the cost of a rental car. You can use the free shuttles when you arrive to Beaver Creek anyway.
The Train + The Bustang – If you’ve got some time on your hands and are up for an adventure, catching the commuter train then the Bustang is the most economical option to get from Denver to the Vail Valley. Take the A Line Commuter train to Denver Union Station, where you’ll catch the Bustang to the Vail Transportation Center. Not only will it cost you a mere $8.50, you’ll get bonus points for using green transportation. You are in Colorado, after all!
How to Get Around Beaver Creek
By Shuttle
The easiest way to get around Beaver Creek is by shuttle, and lucky for all of us, the city of Avon has an extensive (and free!) shuttle system that runs regularly throughout the area.
The Avon Skier Shuttle is your best bet to get to and from the mountain. Parking is free at any of the locations in Avon Village, and the shuttle will drop you off at the foot of Beaver Creek mountain.
By Car
Parking on the mountain is very limited, and thus quite pricey. For parking in Beaver Creek Village, ” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener” aria-label=”the Gerald Ford Hall Parking Garage (opens in a new tab)”>the Gerald Ford Hall Parking Garage is your best bet. If you’re parking here to ski, be sure to arrive early – it fills up quickly on holidays and weekends.
If you’re staying outside of the village and don’t have any luck in the free public parking in Avon, head to the Elk or Bear Lots. For $10 for the day, you can then catch the shuttle that runs every 15 minutes up to the mountain.
Pro Tip: For the elusive, non-advertised shuttle service to Bachelor Gulch, park in the Bear Lot and hop on the Employee Shuttle up to the Ritz… Just don’t say you heard it here!
Uber Ski
Much to my excitement, Uber Ski is real a thing. It’s exactly what it sounds like – all the perks of Uber, plus a small up-charge for a vehicle equipped with a ski rack. If you’re in a pinch to get to the mountain quickly, this is a great option.
Snowy nights at Beaver Creek
I hope that this guide on what to do in Beaver Creek has proven helpful as you navigate the mountain. If you haven’t been yet, definitely add it to your list!
Have you ever been skiing? If so, where is your favorite mountain to ski? Share below in the comments!
Cheers,
Meredith
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Amazing article and very helpful for our first-time visit. We can’t wait to check it out this weekend!
Hey,
I read a lot of your articles and all the articles are very informative. I’ve got a great idea for a post that I believe would do well. Are you looking for more contributors to write for your blog right now? If so, I’d love to send some original content your way.
I’m already writing regularly. Let me know if you are interested.
Hope to get a positive response from you.
Thanks
Hey,
I’ve got a great idea for a post that I believe would do well. Are you looking for more contributors to write for your blog right now? If so, I’d love to send some original content your way.
I’m already writing regularly. Let me know if you are interested.
Hope to get a positive response from you.
Thanks
Heading to BC for 1 day while in Breck, and I’m PROBABLY using this blog for the whole time I’m there. Thanks for the detail, the parking, the multi-meal dining options, and THE TRAIL RUNS! EEEK SO EXCITED!
I would love to explore Beaver Creek. I love the idea of getting there early and getting the fresh powder even though I really have no idea how to ski.
Kelly, Thank you so much for the comment, you would love it! The early bird always gets the worm! 😉 Meredith
Such a great itinerary! And the idea of warm cookies at 3pm is FANTASTIC 😀
Thanks so much, Flora! Those cookies are the things dreams are made of! 😉 Meredith