Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek is a piece of nirvana, partly because of its system of trails and partly because of its enviable location two hours from Denver. Although only a third the size of Vail, Beaver Creek is seldom crowded. The skiable terrain extends from the runs down Beaver Creek to the slopes around Bachelor Gulch to the network of trails at Arrowhead. You can easily ski from one village to another. The omnipresent and helpful ambassadors are always willing to point you in the right direction, and carry your skis to the liftside.
Beaver Creek has a little of everything, from smoother slopes for beginners to difficult trails used for international competitions. Grouse Mountain, in particular, is famed for its thigh-burning bump runs. Beginners have an entire peak, at the summit of Beaver Creek Mountain, where they can learn to ski or practice on novice trails. Intermediate-level skiers have several long cruising trails on the lower half of Beaver Creek Mountain and in Larkspur Bowl. Both locations also have black-diamond trails, so groups of skiers and snowboarders of varying abilities can ride uphill together. The Birds of Prey runs, like Peregrine and Golden Eagle, are aptly named, because the steepness of the trails can be a surprise for skiers who mistakenly think they are skilled enough to take on this challenging terrain. Terrain parks like the Zoom Room and The Rodeo bring skiers and snowboarders together to practice tricks on technical rails, boxes, stall features, long slides, and jumps.
The slopes of neighboring Bachelor Gulch are a mix of beginner and intermediate trails. Here you can often find fresh powder hours after it's gone elsewhere. Many skiers plan to arrive in time for a hearty lunch at Buffalos or an après-ski cocktail in the Buffalo Bar or the Bachelors Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton. There are shuttles handy to take you back to Beaver Creek.
Dependent on conditions, the third village in the area, Arrowhead, can have the best and usually the least crowded intermediate terrain. The European concept of skiing from village to village was introduced here in 1996, when Vail Associates decided to connect Arrowhead, Beaver Creek, and Bachelor Gulch via lifts and ski trails. Standard, single-day ski and snowboard rental packages start at $52 for standard equipment. Facilities: 150 trails; 1,832 acres; 3,340-foot vertical drop; 25 lifts. Beaver Creek, Colorado, 81620. 800/404–3535; www.beavercreek.com. Lift ticket $199. Late Nov.–mid-Apr., daily 9–4.
Lessons and Programs
Beaver Creek Ski & Snowboard School. At Beaver Creek's excellent ski and snowboard school, special clinics run throughout the year, like workshops for women, teen sessions, and telemark courses. The school boasts numerous beginner through advanced ski and snowboard lessons for all ages, with a focus on small class sizes. 210 Beaver Creek Plaza, Beaver Creek, Colorado, 81620. 866/231—0667; www.beavercreek.com.
