Vail - Beaver Creek
Ski on the pristine slopes of Vail or Beaver Creek. Then return to your hotel for a hot spa treatment, a good meal or an après-ski drink in a cozy bar. Visit in summer for hiking, mountain biking or golf.
Vail and neighboring Beaver Creek have been ski resorts since 1962 and 1980 respectively. The resorts have nearly 350 downhill runs combined, covering over 7,000 acres (2,800 hectares), with cross-country and snowshoe trails as well. The slopes rarely get overcrowded on weekends, making them the perfect place for skiers of varying abilities to enjoy time on the snow.
Head to Beaver Creek for all the luxuries of a modern ski resort. Ride escalators from your hotel directly onto the ski slopes. Enroll the kids in ski lessons or child care. Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment or choose from cosmopolitan menus in the area’s fine restaurants. The connected village of Vail is known for its upmarket facilities but offers budget options too. Regular shuttles run between the two resorts.
Aside from skiing, you can attend a production at the Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek or wander the cobbled streets and explore one of the many area art galleries. Catch an outdoor summer show at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, named after the former president who was a part-time area resident.
Gondola lifts continue to operate throughout the summer; use them to access hiking or biking trails. Enjoy stunning mountainside golf courses or ride horseback, kayak, fish, or whitewater raft.
The best way to reach Beaver Creek or Vail is to fly into Eagle County Airport, 26 miles (42 kilometers) to the west. Rent a car or take a shuttle to the resorts. Another option is flying to Denver and renting a car for the 2-hour drive to Vail. While this is a possible daytrip, the abundance of great skiing, fine restaurants and beautiful scenery will likely convince you to stay longer.