Beaver Creek, Colorado: Paradise In Snow...

We have always spent winter vacations (skiing, snowboarding, tubing) on the East Coast. Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York. They were all fabulous in their own ways. We kept hearing about Colorado and how incredible the skiing was there. Deciding where to spend your cherished winter vacation week each year is an important decision so, after doing lots of research and asking lots of questions, the Beaver Creek seemed to hit the nail on the head for our taste. Nothing prepared us for the stunning and mindblowing scenery that we were about to embark on. From the drive out of Denver through spectacular mountains to our destination, Beaver Creek, our eyes never left the windows because there was always something beautiful to look at. It was everything we had hoped it would be and so much more. It's going to be pretty difficult to go back to the tiny ski resorts and short runs on the East Coast, that's for sure!


Beaver Creek Ski Resort offers breathtaking alpine scenery and premier recreational opportunities in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. It is luxurious, yet it is extremely family friendly with perfectly groomed trails, 150 of them, and nearly two thousand skiable acres served by two dozen state of the art lifts and gondolas. The ride up on the gondolas is like nothing we've ever seen, and so much higher up than we realized with breathtaking views.

There are also so many little things they do at Beaver Creek, which make you feel incredibly welcome, like walking around with homemade chocolate chip cookies every afternoon. And showing spectacular fireworks once a week... the backdrop of snow-covered evergreens is something you can't imagine until you experience it in person. So many delightful extras included for your pleasure.

What we fell in love with is the heart and soul of what makes Beaver Creek so perfect... the Village. Heated sidewalks ensure that no visitor walks around town in snow, and much-appreciated escalators are scattered throughout, making it easier with or without ski boots. Adorable shops and restaurants surrounding two wonderful ice skating rinks really set the tone. These thoughtful, extra touches make Beaver Creek what it is... a winter paradise.

No other U.S. ski resort offers the diversity of terrain (beginners, intermediates, bump skiers, high-speed carvers), spas, restaurants, and such an array of things to do while still providing an intimate experience. Combine your trip to with a day of skiing at Vail (lift tickets are accepted there!) or a shopping/dining excursion to Avon, but there is no need to ever leave unless you desire a change. This will be our new, yearly trip!

Lodging...

The Charter At Beaver Creek.
Look no further than this spectacular resort. Situated in the heart of the Beaver Creek Ski Resort, they are recognized by Condé Nast as a top 50 ski hotel. This European-inspired property is considered one of Colorado’s best lodging options. The Charter at Beaver Creek invites guests to experience the finest in mountain hospitality and luxury. Charter at Beaver Creek has every amenity you desire. A wonderful indoor pool, (seasonal) outdoor pool, outdoor jacuzzi (perfect for relaxing and breathing in the cold, fresh air after a day of skiing), the perfect spa and fitness gym, pool tables, two restaurants (The Terrace and Black Diamond Bistro), a 24-hour front desk, concierge, bell staff, and full meeting and catering services.

Accommodations at The Charter include luxury hotel rooms and individually owned 1- to 5-bedroom condominiums.and an arcade. The woodsy condos are beautiful, cozy, and truly a home away from home. They are equipped with everything you would need... free Wi-Fi, cable, TV, DVD player, a full kitchen, and washer/dryer. Take the five-minute drive down the mountain and fill up the fridge, whether it's for snacks, breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The two-bedroom unit we had was huge and the 2.5 bathrooms made for an easy, stressless vacation. Set on Beaver Creek, The Charter offers ski-in/ski-out access (weather permitting) as well as a very short walk to the ski lifts if Elkhorn chairlift is closed. Renting skis or snowboards is simple and so convenient. Just walk over to Beaver Creek's ski resort, choose skis from one of the many rental facilities, get fit, and you're on your way. You can even store them there for even less hassles. However, if you're going to Vail you'll want to take them with you.

What we loved most is the short walk it took to Beaver Creek Village where you can delight in snowshoeing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, ice skating (loved these, right in the middle of the restaurants and shops), dining, awesome weekly firework displays and fireside chats. There's also plenty of shopping to satisfy your needs (see above for more info).
(https://www.wyndhamvacationrentals.com/colorado/beaver-creek/charter-beaver-creek-resort)

Ski and Snowboard Rentals...

Christy Sports. (www.christysports.com) What a gracious and helpful group of employees they have! We loved every one of them. They treat you like royalty, making sure you are comfortable, happy, and safe. The equipment that they rent out is top-notch and the variety is endless. We couldn't be happier with everything they offered. They are actually a specialty ski and snowboard retailer, offering a huge selection of snow skis, snowboards, ski clothing and accessories to make your favorite winter activities even better. They sell top brands like K2, Volkl, Salomon, Rossignol, Burton, Never Summer, and Lib-Tech. For technical skiwear and the best looking winter apparel, check out their Clothing department for great choices of outerwear from Spyder, 686, Descente, and Arc'teryx. Helmets, goggles, gloves, and other things you'll need to complete your gear can be found in their Accessories section. They also have locations in Vail so you can pick up or drop off at either. Fantastic!!!

On-Mountain Dining...

Spruce Saddle. For lunch, Spruce Saddle can not be beat. The food is exceptional, better than any fast food (not that it's really fast food, but the service is exceptional and you don't have to wait very long) we've ever had, anywhere! Their Prime Rib Sandwich is to die for! Offering international cuisine such as lobster tacos, freshly rolled sushi, pho, and handcrafted pizzas & sandwiches this great lunch hotspot is located at the top of Centennial Express Chairlift #6.


Zach's Cabin. Perched on the mountainside high above Bachelor Gulch with uninterrupted views of the magnificent Gore Range, Zach's Cabin is the epitome of fine dining at its peak. Guests are whisked away for a starlit sleigh ride, pulled by a Beaver Creek Snow Cat. This restaurant is famous for its creative American fare utilizing fresh Colorado produce and a wine cellar full of excellent vintages.

Beano's Cabin. Tucked into an on-mountain meadow at the base of Larkspur Bowl, this luxurious log cabin hideaway is one of Colorado's top restaurants. Your evening begins with an open-air sleigh ride through Beaver Creek's iconic aspen and then groves to an exquisite gourmet meal. There, you'll be treated to a true feast for the senses with our open kitchen where guests can watch their chefs in action as they prepare five-course meals comprised of traditional Colorado fare. It's the most delicious way to end a perfect day on the slopes. Dinner served nightly, accessible by an open-air sleigh pulled by a snowcat. Sleighs begin at 5:00PM, departing every half hour.

Casual Off-Mountain Dining...

Vin48. Conveniently located in the heart of Avon, Vin48 Restaurant Wine Bar serves dinner nightly and is only minutes from Beaver Creek. Their spacious, yet intimate dining room and Wine Bar are the perfect venue for aprés with friends or a romantic evening.


In warmer months, floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to our patio, allowing diners to enjoy open-air dining and spectacular views of Beaver Creek. The food is delicious... small or large plates featuring an eclectic mix of rustic, modern cuisine. From wood-fired steak and seafood to poultry and vegetables, Chef Charles Hays brings his exquisite menu creations to life with a rich, complex, yet comfortable approach. Vin48 features more than 40 wines by the glass, all stored and served via an innovative enomatic wine system. Bottled wine, handcrafted cocktails, more than 30 beers, 50 whiskeys, and 100 spirits round out the full service bar. Vin48 is the creation of Wine Director Greg Eynon, Chef Charles Hays, and Restauranteur Collin Baugh — all long-time locals. Their years of dedication and passion for creating an exceptional destination dining experience have made Vin48 a local culinary icon since 2007.