MOUNTAIN TRAVEL
COLORADO MOUNTAIN TRAVEL GUIDE
Visiting the mountains should feel effortless — whether you’re planning a ski vacation, a girls’ getaway, or a family trip. As a women-owned Colorado ski shop rooted in Vail, we’ve spent decades exploring lodges, trails, bakeries, bars and restaurants, shops and après patio in the Rockies. Consider this your curated, local-approved guide to Colorado’s mountain communities.
BEAVER CREEK
Why Go
Beaver Creek is Colorado’s polished, quietly luxurious mountain escape — famous for its perfectly groomed runs, European-inspired service, and a village that feels tailor-made for families and travelers who love the finer touches. It’s intimate, elegant, and incredibly easy to navigate, whether you’re here for first tracks, après, or a long weekend of mountain pampering.
WHAT TO DO
Ski the Classics
Make warm-up laps on Centennial, then head over to Bachelor Gulch for long, rolling blue cruisers with stunning views. When it’s snowing, dive into the trees between Larkspur and Rose Bowl — they fill in beautifully.
Village Ice Rink
Right in the center of the village. Magical at night, especially with hot cocoa in hand.
The Candy Cabin
Located off the top of Strawberry Park — a kid (and adult)-approved stop for handmade treats that make any ski day feel iconic.
DON'T MISS
Cookie Time
Every afternoon at 3 p.m., uniformed bakers hand out warm chocolate-chip cookies at the base. Yes, it lives up to the hype.
Snowcat Dinners (Bucket List Experience)
Beano’s Cabin — A true Beaver Creek trademark. Ride a heated snowcat up the mountain to a log cabin glowing with candlelight and five-star dining. Think elk, Colorado lamb, incredible wine lists, and that classic “only-in-the-mountains” atmosphere.
Allie’s Cabin — Slightly more intimate, perched on the slopes with panoramic views. Known for multi-course dinners and holiday events. Romantic, elevated, and unforgettable.
WHERE TO EAT
On-Mountain Lunch
Spruce Saddle Lodge — Great for quick bites or a warm-up break.
Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch (ski-in) — Perfect for après cocktails or a luxe sit-down lunch on the patio.
Dinner in the Village
Hooked — Modern, creative seafood with an insanely good sushi program.
Toscanini — Cozy Italian overlooking the ice rink — great for families or groups.
Mirabelle — A hidden gem at the base of the resort, tucked into a charming farmhouse. French technique, Colorado ingredients, absolutely worth the reservation.
Après
C-Bar — Slope-side, energetic, great cocktails, always buzzing.
Brass Bear Bar — A chic, cozy spot inside the Ritz with strong mountain-lounge energy.
WHERE TO STAY
Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch — Ski-in/ski-out luxury with an incredible spa, gorgeous patios, and true five-star mountain energy. One of the most iconic stays in Colorado.
Park Hyatt Beaver Creek — Located right at the base of Centennial Express. Outdoor pools, slope views, and instant access to the ice rink, shops, and village.
The Osprey — Boutique, stylish, and famously one of the closest hotels to a chairlift in North America. Warm, intimate, and perfectly placed.
The Pines Lodge — Quiet, slopeside, with beautiful views and easy access to peaceful aspen glades. Great for couples or anyone wanting calm, refined vibes.
The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa (Avon) — At the base of Beaver Creek with direct access to the Riverfront Express Gondola. Modern, expansive rooms, award-winning spa, and walkable Avon amenities.
The Charter at Beaver Creek — Ski-in/ski-out with condo-style options, indoor/outdoor pools, and plenty of space for families or groups.
INSIDER TIPS
Best Tree Runs - On powder days, head straight to the trees off Larkspur or the glades skiers’ left of Bachelor Gulch. They hold soft snow longer than you’d expect.
Parking Hack - If you're early, the Elk or Bear lots are easiest — otherwise, take the free shuttle and skip the stress.
Perfect Half-Day Plan - Ski Bachelor → Snowcat dinner at Beano’s → Stroll through the village under the lights.
Family Perk - Beaver Creek’s ski school is one of the best in Colorado — smaller classes, great progression terrain.