Last Wednesday Vail Resorts reported that 11″ had fallen in Vail overnight followed by another 12″ on Thursday.  This snowfall caused a frenzy in Vail, which prompted me to write this blog.

 

With the right timing, you can avoid lift lines, get better snow, and ski all day hassle free!

 

So here is a guide of When to Ski (and when to stay home)…

 

1)  Just in Time for the Storm – The weather channel informs you that a massive snow storm is headed for the Rockies.  My advice is to book a room with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals and dip out of town while you still can! Don’t wait for the weekend to make it happen – that’s what everyone else does.

 

2)  On Closing Day – Costumes, drinking, and half-clothed people skiing on the mountain is a good time.  Closing day at any resort is a party that you don’t want to miss! Even though it is crowded, closing days is often the most fun day of the year. Below is a list of when our favorite Colorado Resorts are closing for the 2011-2012 season.  Don’t forget that A-basin stays open until the snow melts each year!

• Vail: April 15, 2012
• Beaver Creek:  April 8, 2012
• Snowmass: April 15, 2012
• Aspen Mountain: April 15, Aspen Highlands: April 22, Buttermilk: April 8
• Breckenridge: April 15, 2012
• Keystone: April 8th, 2012
• Telluride: April 8th, 2012

 

3)  Between opening day and December 17^th (roughly and excluding Thanksgiving weekend) – This is the time for discount lodging leading up to the holidays.  As soon as December 22^nd hits, you’re paying holiday rates that are often much, much higher than normal rates.

 

4) During the Spring! – After March 31^st you’ll typically find cheaper lodging through the end of the ski season and beautiful days on the hill. The weather is often terrific, and sometimes there are even powder days!

 

When you should probably stay home…

 

1)  The Day after Christmas – Enough said.

 

2)  New Years Day (+/- 1 day) – Surprisingly enough people still love to ski on New Years Day.  The truth is, nothing cures a hangover as quickly as some fresh mountain air blowing in your face while cruising down the mountain.

 

3)  President’s Day weekend – Next to Christmas, this is the busiest time of year to be in the mountains.  If you have to ski over President’s Day Weekend be sure to book your lodging early in the season and expect to pay premium prices.  If your trip can wait, then I’d recommend holding off until the holiday passes to go skiing.

 

Hopefully you found these local tips on when to ski and when not to ski helpful.  Rocky Mountain Vacation’s Rentals’ staff is local to each of the destinations we represent, so wherever your ski vacation may be, be sure to give Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals a call! (855) 210-2469

 

Did you hear there was a winter storm warning in effect throughout the Colorado Rockies last night? Well I can settle all the rumors by saying that it is true, a winter storm was here. Most mountains in Colorado got around 6 inches last night and there is more on the way tonight and tomorrow. So if you can’t get up here today, be sure and plan you trip for the weekend now!

Here is the snow report:

 

Aspen: 24 hr: 10 in, 72 hr: 12 in

Aspen got slammed with powder last night, reporting 10 inches in the last 24 hours. Be sure to get to Aspen this week for powder conditions. And more snow is on the way!

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 76
• Lifts Open: 6
• Ski-Able Acres: 675
• Total February Snow: 62 Inches!

 

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 9 in, 72 hr: 10 in

Beaver Creek got 9 inches last night, sure to be a great place to ski for the next few days. And get ready for the weekend, because more snow is expected tonight and tomorrow!

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 146/149
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,797
• Total February Snow: 49 Inches

 

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 11 in, 72 hr: 12 in

Breckenridge got pounded with snow last night, reporting almost a foot overnight. Head up to the Imperial Bowl for some great views and great powder skiing.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 154/155
• Lifts Open: 29/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,358
• Total February Snow: 70 Inches!

 

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 12 in, 72 hr: 12 in

Copper got a foot of snow last night, adding to the list of Colorado mountains that will have powder all day today. Visit Copper for free guided tours of the mountain.

• Terrain Open: 81%
• Trails Open: 128/135
• Lifts Open: 20/22
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,989
• Total February Snow: 51 Inches

 

Keystone: 24 hr: 5 in, 72 hr: 5 in

Keystone got a solid 5 inches last night, putting a nice layer down for some stable powder conditions. Head to the Outback at Keystone for great tree runs and bowl skiing.

• Terrain Open: 89%
• Trails Open: 115/135
• Lifts Open: 18/20
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,799
• Total February Snow: 33 Inches

 

Snowmass: 24 hr: 5 in, 72 hr: 12 in

Snowmass is officially 100% open just in time for March. March tends to be the snowiest month in Colorado, so come out for a great spring ski vacation!

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 92
• Lifts Open: 16
• Ski-Able Acres: 3,132
• Total February Snow: 55 Inches

 

Telluride: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 11 in

Telluride has 3 inches from last night and 11 inches in the last 2 days. While only 80% is open today, expect more to open thru the week and be about 90% ready for skiing by the weekend.

• Terrain Open: 80%
• Trails Open: 102/127
• Lifts Open: 18/18
• Ski-Able Acres: about 1,700
• Total February Snow: 66 Inches!

 

Vail: 24 hr: 6 in, 72 hr: 6 in

Vail got a good 6 inches last night and the mountain is in great shape. Yesterday had no snow reported but it was snowing all day and had great powder conditions. Come ski Blue Sky Basin and you will know what I am talking about.

• Terrain Open: 98%
• Trails Open: 189/193
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 5,164
• Total February Snow: 66 Inches!

 

Well, it looks like Breckenridge’s 11″ of new snow did the trick last night to make them the snowiest mountain in CO this month (from the mountains listed above). It’s been a great month, but lets see if March’s snowfall will top February’s!

Here are the results for February:

 

1st: Breckenridge with 70 inches

2nd: Telluride with 66 inches

3rd: Vail with 66 inches

 

Be sure to visit the Colorado Rockies soon for some great skiing and find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Aspen Street Inn in historic Telluride, Colorado. This charming 17 room Inn provided fabulous service and an experience that you can’t find at other properties. A Gem if I do say so!

Prior to my arrival I was contacted by Heather about what time I would be arriving in Telluride. Since I would be arriving late, she sent me detailed check-in instructions that made getting into our room at 11pm a breeze. When you walk into the Aspen Street Inn you feel like you’re walking into your own home in the mountains. It’s cute, quaint and welcoming. Just through the front doors there is a couch and dining area where complimentary hot breakfast is served daily. This area is a great place to relax and grab some coffee or hot tea while reading the newspaper.

The first morning, we walked outside our room into the hallway and were drawn to the dinning room by a bacon aroma. The eggs and compliments were prepared to our liking and it was just what we needed before a day of skiing the 5″ of powder Telluride would get throughout the day. One of the best things about the Aspen Street Inn is its location – 1 block from the gondola station and a short walk to any of the restaurants and shops in historic Telluride.

 

After an exhausting day of skiing we came back to the Aspen Street Inn to find the most amazing, doughy, hot cookies waiting for us. Additionally, they had set out cheese and crackers for guests to enjoy. The couple who manages the Inn was very friendly and always available for a conversation or to answer any questions we had. They really made you feel like a welcome guest in their home.

 

After a quick nap it was time to hit the hot tub. At the Aspen Street Inn there is an outdoor patio area and hot tub that was PERFECT! We enjoyed another night at the Aspen Street Inn before departing back to Vail. Each of the 17 rooms at the Inn is unique, so I look forward to going back and checking out another area of the Inn. I never thought of staying at an Inn while on vacation, but I had the best time and will definitely  return in the future. Give Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals a call today to book your room at the Aspen Street Inn or to find lodging in all of our destinations. (855)210-2469

It continues to snow! We have had a great February so far, and the snow just keeps on coming (check Total February Snow for each resort). This is great news for those Spring Breakers coming out in the next few weeks, just make sure to be prepared for some powder skiing! Here’s an update on the snow conditions in the Colorado Rockies after the new snow last night:

 

Aspen: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 3 in

Aspen got dusted a little last night, bringing in 3 inches in the last few days. Get up to highlands bowl and you may still find some powder!

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 76
• Lifts Open: 6
• Ski-Able Acres: 675
• Total February Snow: 41 Inches

 

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 6 in

Beaver Creek got some snow last night, and now has half a foot in the last 3 days. Visit Beaver Creek if you don’t like waiting in lines and enjoy fresh cookies at the end of the day.

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 146/149
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,797
• Total February Snow: 38 Inches

 

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 5 in, 72 hr: 14 in

Breckenridge now has over a foot in the last 3 days with 5 new inches last night. Breckenridge is a great powder mountain, so go for a hike or take the T-Bar to get fresh lines.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 154/155
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,358
• Total February Snow: 50 Inches

 

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 13 in

Copper may have only got 3 inches last night, but with over a foot in the last 3 days they definitely have some great powder skiing conditions.

• Terrain Open: 68%
• Trails Open: 121/135
• Lifts Open: 21/22
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,685
• Total February Snow: 35 Inches

 

Keystone: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 4 in

Keystone has been getting less snow than most Colorado mountains this month, but this huge mountain has great groomers and is a great resort for families with its unique “Kidtopia” at the top of the mountain.

• Terrain Open: 89%
• Trails Open: 115/135
• Lifts Open: 18/20
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,808
• Total February Snow: 27 Inches

 

Snowmass: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 5 in

Snowmass has steadily been getting snow throughout the month, and the 3,000+ acre mountain has tons of space for skiers to spread out and find some snow.

• Terrain Open: 95%
• Trails Open: 89
• Lifts Open: 16
• Ski-Able Acres: 3,028
• Total February Snow: 40 Inches

 

Telluride: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 3 in

Telluride has been on a bit of a drought as most other mountains in Colorado have received lots of snow. Telluride is further south and in the San Juan Mountains, so it often receives different snow than the rest of the northern and north-western Rockies. Sometimes its good, sometimes not so much.

• Terrain Open: 94%
• Trails Open: 119/127
• Lifts Open: 18/18
• Ski-Able Acres: about 1,800
• Total February Snow: 53 Inches

 

Vail: 24 hr: 12 in, 72 hr: 26 in

Vail got another foot last night! I am starting to be a bit skeptical of their numbers over the last 2 days as there has been little or no snow in town, but there has definitely been powder on the mountain-especially in the back bowls. Maybe this is where they take their readings…

• Terrain Open: 98%
• Trails Open: 189/193
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 5,164
• Total February Snow: 58 Inches

 

Vail takes the cake so far for most snow in February, but Telluride and Breckenridge are close behind. Be sure to check our Terrain Updates to see who gets the most snow this month!

 

Be sure to visit the Colorado Rockies soon for some great skiing and find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

It  continues to snow through the week up here in Colorado, and last night left most resorts with more than 6 inches. I was lucky enough to ride Vail (reported 11″) and the conditions were great. The snow was nice and light and was resting on powder from the week before. Check out whats going on across Colorado, then get up here and enjoy the snow!

 

Aspen: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 5 in

Aspen got a good amount of snow over the holiday weekend, but haven’t got very much this week. Still, 100% of terrain in Aspen is open and much of it is powder.

 

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 10 in

Beaver Creek has gotten 10 inches since Monday, making it a very favorable mountain for skiers and boarders alike. Venture into the Rose Bowl or search the trees at Beaver Creek and you will find some secret powder stashes.

 

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 7 in, 72 hr: 11 in

Breckenridge reported 7 inches of snow last night, which is sure to make the T-bar and Imperial Bowl worth your while. Don’t be afraid to hike around for a bit to find your perfect line at Breckenridge.

 

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 8 in, 72 hr: 11 in

Copper is reporting 8 inches of new snow today, so be sure to make it to the top and catch a Snow Cat ride for some great powder runs.

 

Keystone: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 5 in

Keystone got a little bit of dust last night, but with 5 inches in the last 3 days the mountain is still reporting favorable conditions. Keystone is another mountain where you can hike for 10-15 minutes (off Outback by North and South Bowls) and be able to ski fresh lines.

 

Snowmass: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 2 in

Snowmass was one of the few mountains in Colorado that did not get snow overnight. Snowmass still has 3,028 acres open to ski, and more snow is expected through the week.

 

Telluride: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 12 in

Telluride also did not get snow last night, but with a foot of snow in the last 3 days, there is still powder to be had in Telluride. Head over to the chutes for a unique Telluride experience.

 

Vail: 24 hr: 11 in, 72 hr: 18 in

Vail has been getting lots of snow over the past week, and last night added another 11 inches. The back bowls were great today, and I was taking fresh powder turns most of the way down. The snow is still coming down, so expect more powder for the weekend!

 

Be sure to visit the Colorado Rockies soon for some great skiing and find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

Today Vail Resorts announced that it would be purchasing Kirkwood Ski Resort and the base area of the mountain for about $18 million. The Resort, well known for its advanced high alpine terrain, will join Heavenly and Northstar at Tahoe as the 3rd Vail Resort Mountain in California.

Pass holders at Kirkwood will now have immediate access to Heavenly and Northstar, and Heavenly and Northstar pass holders will have immediate access to Kirkwood. This is great news for Epic Pass holders, as there is yet another mountain available to change it up. Also, if you are from Colorado, considering a Spring Break Trip to Tahoe is sounding better and better…

 

So congratulations to Vail Resorts for this new acquisition, and be sure to get out there and enjoy yet another Vail Resort!

Are you ever looking for a quick snack on the mountain? Want something to hold you over before you swing by the lodge for lunch? Forget to snag a granola bar on your way out of the house? It’s okay, grab a Nature Valley bar from the ticket office!

 

All Vail Resorts mountains have complementary Nature Valley bars on the mountain or at ticket offices/windows. So next time you visit a Vail Resort be sure to grab some Nature Valley bars for a quick and easy snack on the chair lift!

Beaver Creek

At Beaver Creek, employees can often be spotted at the base of the mountain handing out Nature Valley bars. If you don’t see anyone handing them out, visit the nearest ticket office/window. *At 3 PM everyday at the Centennial Chair #6 fresh, hot cookies are handed out—a great way to end the day!

Breckenridge

Breckenridge has Nature Valley bars at the Peak 7 and Peak 8 ticket offices, and sometimes they are offered by chair lifts on the mountain.

Keystone

Keystone will give you a few Nature Valley bars for the day at its ticket windows and in the Mountain Service Center

Heavenly

You can grab Nature Valley bars for the mountain at the Stagecoach Lodge at Heavenly.

Northstar at Tahoe

Visit any ticket office/window or the Season Pass office at Northstar at Tahoe for a few Nature Valley bars.

Vail

Head over to the Lionshead ticket office in Vail to get your supply of Nature Valley bars for the day. Also, be on the lookout for Vail employees at the base of the mountain handing out Nature Valley bars.

Next time you visit any Vail Resort, be sure to grab a few Nature Valley bars for a great snack on the mountain. Enjoy the slopes!

 

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

As President’s weekend comes to an end, the snow keeps falling! There has been scattered snow showers throughout the Colorado Rockies over the past weekend leaving many resorts with fresh snow. Check out who got the most:

 

Aspen: 24 hr: 7 in, 72 hr: 7 in

Aspen now has a 32″ base that continues to grow. The mountain now has 100% of its terrain open with 7 chairs, 76 trails and 675 acres. Everything at Aspen is open!

 

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 7 in, 72 hr: 10 in

Beaver Creek got a bunch of snow last night, bringing them to 10 inches in the last 3 days. 96% of terrain is now open with 146 trails, 25 lifts and 1,789 ski-able acres. Beaver Creek is a big mountain, meaning that there is still plenty of powder to be had!

 

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 6 in

Breckenridge has been getting consistent snow this month, and the weekend kept this trend alive. 99% of Breckenridge is open with 152 trails, all 31 lifts and 2,339 ski-able acres for you to enjoy.

 

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 2 in

Copper now has 88% of their terrain open with 119 trails, 21 lifts and 1,755 ski-able acres. Its still snowing in Copper today, so don’t let these low ‘powder’ stats fool you.

 

Keystone: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 4 in

Keystone has been getting consistent snow over the weekend, leaving 2,809 ski-able acres, 18 lifts and 115 trails open for great Colorado skiing. *Go for a quick 10 minute hike off North Bowl or South Bowl (or take the Snow Cat) for some great back-country style riding.

 

Snowmass: 24 hr: 7 in, 72 hr: 7 in

Along with Aspen, Snowmass got hit with some snow last night. Powder hounds will enjoy 95% of open terrain with access to 16 lifts, 89 trails and 3,028 ski-able acres. Visit Snowmass for great ski conditions and relax for some Apre Ski at Base Mountain Village.

 

Steamboat: 24 hr: 27 in, 72 hr: 28 in

Steamboat takes the cake for snow in Colorado this weekend, racking up 27 inches overnight. Steamboat now has 97% of terrain open with 161 trails, 15 lifts and 2,864 ski-able acres. Get out your powder snorkel and head up to Steamboat while the fresh snow is still there.

 

Telluride: 24 hr: 9 in, 72 hr: 9 in

Telluride almost got double digits last night, pulling in 9 inches. The mountain now has 80% of terrain open, 18 lifts and 116 trails. So come and enjoy some great bowl and chute skiing in Telluride!

 

Vail: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 5 in

Vail got a decent amount of snow last night, and its still snowing today! Enjoy the new snow on 98% of terrain, 189 trails, 31 lifts and 5,164 ski-able acres. The largest resort in Colorado always seems to have secret powder stashes, so come out to take advantage of  the new snow!

 

Be sure to visit the Colorado Rockies soon for some great skiing and find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

February has been a great month throughout Colorado. Denver kicked it off with a huge snow storm dumping 2′ or so feet throughout the city, and the mountains were soon to follow. There has been consistent snow over the last few days, opening up the best ski conditions of the winter. Get out here and enjoy!

 

Here is a quick update about whats going in the Colorado Rockies:

 

Aspen: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 13 in

Aspen now has a 36″ base that continues to grow. The mountain now has 100% of its terrain open with 6 chairs, 76 trails and 675 acres. Aspen is well known for its steep skiing and hike-able terrain, and now everything is open!

 

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 10 in

Its been snowing every night in Beaver Creek for the past few days, allowing 96% of terrain to open up with 145 trails, 25 lifts and 1,750 ski-able acres.

 

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 10 in

Breckenridge now has a 59″ base after the recent winter storms. 99% of Breckenridge is now open and their Imperial Bowl Lift and T-Bar are now open. These both offer great ‘backcountry’ style skiing with only a short hike. 153 trails are open with 29 lifts and 2,347 ski-able acres.

 

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 10 in

Copper has been getting hit with snow in the past week as well, bringing the mountain a 47″ base. Copper has 65% of terrain open with 116 trails, 20 lifts and 1,642 ski-able acres. Get to Copper and take the Snowcat up to the top for some great powder runs.

 

Keystone: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 7 in

Keystone now has a 38″ base and 89% of terrain open. Keystone is a huge mountain, now with 2,809 ski-able acres, 18 lifts and 116 trails open for some great Colorado skiing.

 

Snowmass: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 13 in

Snowmass now has a 43″ base with 95% of its terrain open. With 15 lifts, 89 trails and 3,028 acres open for business, what’s keeping you from heading over to Snowmass?

 

Telluride: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 16 in

While Telluride only got a couple inches last night, there is plenty of powder to be had from the past week of snow. The mountain now has a 63″ base with 91% of terrain open, 18 lifts and 116 trails.

 

Vail: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 13 in

Vail got pounded over the weekend, and is finally starting to open all of their terrain. 98% of Vail is now open, with 189 trails, 31 lifts and 5,164 ski-able acres. Come visit the largest mountain resort in Colorado to take advantage of all this snow!

 

Be sure to visit the Colorado Rockies soon for some great skiing and find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. Call today! (970) 477-1777

March 29^th – April 1^st marks the 9^th annual Vail Film Festival taking place in beautiful Vail, Colorado.  Presented by Cadillac, this year’s festival promises to deliver a screening platform that showcases filmmakers’ work and inspires viewers. Festival activities include film screenings, panel discussions, parties, live music, and a filmmaker’s reception.

 

On March 1^st the Vail Film Festival will announce what films will be screened during this year’s event.  This event will be the world premier for many films, while some will have debuted at other film festivals around the globe. There will be a variety of films showing ranging from documentaries to short films to student and adventure films.  While the majority of the screenings will be shown at the host hotel The Sebastian, producers will also utilize Cine Bistro and Vail Mountain School fir screenings.  The Sebastian is a great host hotel for the Vail Film Festival due to its premier location in Vail Village and the luxurious amenities that are inherent of the property.  At the property there is Block 16 restaurant, Frost bar and lounge, Bloom Spa, a business center and a market where you can grab a snack to go.  The Sebastian Vail offers both hotel and condominium style residences to accommodate different a variety of guests.

 

Attendees have the option of purchasing a variety of festival passes, depending on what they want to get out of the festival.  While some might be interested in just the screenings, other attendees will take advantage of the unique opportunity to participate in panel discussions with film makers and lead actors, or mix and mingle with others in the industry at the parties and in the hospitality lounge.

 

Last year I had the pleasure of attending various screenings and event parties and I loved every minute of it.  I saw some incredibly memorable films and was thoroughly impressed with the Vail Film Festival.   I look forward to another great event in 2012!

 

If you’re coming out for the Vail Film Festival and have yet to secure your lodging, give one of our local Destination Specialists a  call at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals so they can help find you the best lodging in Vail for your Film Festival experience.

Welcome to Avon, Colorado, the host of the 2012 Snowball Music Festival. Last year was the first year for the Snowball Music Festival and it went so well that the event will be happening again this year!

Scheduling

Snowball Music Festival will be taking place from March 2 – 4 in Avon, Colorado.  Avon is the town just outside of Beaver Creek and Down the road from Vail. The festival will be hosting a variety of shows ranging from Rock to Rap to Electronic: check out the full lineup and schedule. Snowball Music Festival will kick off on Thursday, March 1^st at the Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek including performances by Trampled by Turtles, Elephant Revival and Bonfire Dub ($30). The festival will continue on the next day and last throughout the weekend of March 2^nd as follows:

• Friday, March 2^nd: 1pm – 10pm

• Saturday, March 3^rd: 12pm – 10pm

• Sunday, March 4^th: 12pm – 8pm

 

Transportation

Avon is located just off I-70, making it a very accessible location. If you are staying up in the mountains for the weekend, Vail, Beaver Creek and Avon are all accessible and convenient. If you need transportation from the Vail Transportation Center, there is a $35 3-day shuttle pass available here. If you are more budget conscious, staying in Edwards or Eagle may be a better option. There is also the Eco Bus, that can transport you to and from the Eagle County Airport, Eagle, Edwards, Avon, Eagle Vail, Minturn, Leadville and Vail. The Eco Bus has various fares, depending on your trip.

 

Tickets

Tickets to the event are sold as 3-day passes. Currently, the pass is going for $159.50 right here. They have let out a few different levels of passes, so who knows if this pass will sell out or if there will be another price increase. There are also VIP tickets available today for $299.50 which includes preferred viewing areas, a tented heat lounge, full bar access and private restrooms.

After Parties

Each night when the festival winds down around 10pm, the party has just begun. There are various bars/restaurants that will host parties after the festival. These parties will have live music and/or DJs performing to keep the party going. These shows often sell out fast, so keep up with these restaurants to find out when tickets are going on sale:

• Samana Lounge (Vail Village)

• Vendetta’s (Vail Village)

• Agave (Avon
  

  Head to Agave on Saturday, March 3rd @ 9pm after the Snowball Music Festival

 

• Loaded Joes (Avon)

 

Local Tips

A music festival in the mountains…in the winter…There are a few things you need to know before trekking out here to see the show.

• Stay hydrated—staying hydrated is always the key to a good time, especially when traveling to high elevation (Avon is 7,340 ft above sea level). The air is thinner up here so your body needs more water, its that simple. And if you’re drinking, it is even more important to mix in some water now and then.

• Stay warm—don’t try and be the cool kid in a t-shirt. You may ne able to get away with this if you are in the DJ tent the entirety of the festival, but it is not recommended. Temperatures will be below freezing for most of the concert, especially after the sun goes down around 5-6. Dress for winter weather and bring a hat and gloves to ensure a good time.

• Don’t sleep in the car—while sleeping in the car has been a music festival pastime, it might not be the best idea for Snowball. With temperatures in the single digits at night, sleeping in your car is neither fun nor safe, and after partying hard getting a good night’s sleep is necessary if your want to continue partying through the weekend.

 

Well, there is a summary of what will be going on Snowball weekend, so be sure to take note of the aforementioned tips and have fun! And if you need lodging for the Snowball Music Festival be sure to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals. today to see what we can do!

What draws people to Aspen? This has been an age old question that only visitors of Aspen know the answer to. Is it the variety of terrain? The fabulous lodging options? The special events? Well, all of the above.

Aspen – Founded during the silver boom in 1879, this Colorado Ski town has solidified its’ place on the map as one of the most renowned ski destinations in the world. When I used to hear someone talk about “Aspen”, Hollywood, high-society, and world-class skiing often came to mind. While, yes, Aspen does encompass all of these things, behind the glitz and glam Aspen is a true locals’ town. Its down to earth vibe and unique mountain culture make it a place that is hard to resist for locals and visitors alike.

 

The Power of Four: A weekend trip simply isn’t going to do it here. At Aspen/Snowmass there are four mountains to ski! Right out of the center of town there is the Silver Queen Gondola that takes you up to Aspen Mountain, best known for its steep, black-diamond terrain. Just outside of town you have Aspen Highlands, a locals’ favorite for over 50 years. At Highlands you can hike to the summit of Highland Bowl at 12,392 feet and reap the benefits by skiing fresh powder. At Buttermilk Mountain, home to the Winter X Games, you can take it easy or challenge yourself at the park which was voted by Transworld Snowboarding Magazine Reader’s as the Best Park. Buttermilk not only hosts some of the best riders and skiers in the world, but also serves as a great mountain for beginners and families to ski due to its smooth and easy rolling trails. Fifteen minutes away is Snowmass, the mountain you can’t discover in just one day of skiing. Boasting a massive 3,132 acres of terrain, Snowmass also providers skiiers with the most vertical feet in the country (4,406 ft).

World Class Lodging: Aspen’s lodging collection promises to inspire even the most discerning traveler. At the luxury end of the spectrum, the Dancing Bear Private Residence Club is one of a kind. The Dancing Bear blends Aspen’s sophistication into a luxurious downtown retreat, offering guests nothing but the finest resort amenities and personal service. Another favorite is the Little Nell and Residences at the Little Nell. Located slope-side on Aspen Mountain, the Little Nell collection features private condos and hotel style residences, all boasting state-of-the-art amenities in a location that can’t be beat. Aspen ski in ski out lodging and Snowmass ski in ski out lodging options are quiet impressive, spanning to offer private homes, condos and hotels to fit most budgets and all lodging desires.

Special Events: With such an incredible landscape and set-up, it’s no surprise that Aspen is host to a multitude of special events throughout the year that draw in spectators and participants from around the globe. Some of Aspen’s featured events are the Winter X Games, FOOD & WINE Classic of Aspen, and 12 Days of Aspen. However, Aspen also hosts smaller, unique events throughout that year that make for a truly special experience for visitors to Aspen. Learn more about events throughout the year in Aspen at www.AspenChamber.org.

Aspen is truly a gem in the mountains of Colorado – A place that seems to get better every time I visit and always leaves me wanting more. Learn more about Aspen lodging, skiing and special events by calling our local, Aspen Destination Specialist at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals today.

Breckenridge, Colorado is home to one of the most popular ski resorts in the nation. The resort has now been around for 50 years, and has become one of the ‘go to’ destinations for mountain-lovers year round. Breckenridge continues to raise the bar for vacationers with state of the art lodging properties, great service and unique events.

 

Last November, Rock Resorts opened up One Ski Hill Place in Breckenridge—a ski in ski out complex located right at the base of Peak 8. I had the opportunity to stay at One Ski Hill Place last winter, and it was truly an experience. The ridiculously convenient lodge has 3 dining areas, a full spa and pool (my favorite part-complete with indoor/outdoor hot tubs, a steam room, sauna and pool), a bowling alley, private movie screening rooms, a fitness center, and access to 4 chair lifts right outside the door.

The 3 dining areas include a full service skier restaurant with a grand fireplace, the T-Bar après-ski bar with 40 beers on tap, and a Living Room Café with Slope side Views. The skier restaurant is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, and makes for a great place to stop throughout the day. Each of these dining areas are unique to one another, and there is no better place for après ski than right at the base of the mountain. And to go a step further, a selection of menu options can be brought to your door from One Ski Hill Place’s room service.

 

The lodge is at the center of all the action—the gondola connects to the patio of the lodge, providing guests with access to and from the Town of Breckenridge. And with the ski lifts just outside the door, One Ski Hill Place is truly a ski in ski out property.

One Ski Hill Place provides studio to 4 bedroom condos, offering a variety of options for any group size. The units have the option of a “slope side” view (facing the mountain) or a “Continental Divide” view (facing the Continental Divide and looking out over Breckenridge). Both options are great, it just depends on whether you would rather look up the mountain or out over the valley.

With great views and maximum convenience, the new One Ski Hill Place is a terrific lodge to spend your lunch break, après ski, or your entire vacation. Everything in Breckenridge is at your fingertips from the property, so when booking lodging in Breckenridge don’t forget to mention that you would like to stay at One Ski Hill Place.

 

Submit a Quote Request or Call today to find out how our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals. at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals  can help you plan your summer vacation to One Ski Hill Place today!

Colorado is unofficially the most amazing state there is – one that is generally known for its epic winters.  With 26 ski and snowboard areas in the state it’s no wonder people flock here to vacation during the winter months.  The mountains are huge, temperatures are mild and not to mention, Colorado people are downright awesome. But, winter is not all that Colorado has to offer.

 

Ask a Colorado local about what it’s like here in the summer and you’ll likely get an earful.  This state comes alive!  From the natural beauty to the adventures to the landscape, you just can’t help but dedicate yourself to new hobbies and challenges; they just come with the terrain.   Up in the higher elevations,  the hills become crowded with mountain bikers, backpackers, fishers, rafters, hikers, campers, concerts and everything else that comes to mind when you think of the great outdoors.

 

In recent years, resort markets like Vail and Aspen have invested heavily in marketing their resort as a summer destination.  With that has spurred a lot of development in special events and infrastructure to support these destination drivers.  From participatory sporting events to those focused on culture and the arts, there is something here for everyone.  Check out some the signature events happening throughout Colorado ski towns in the summer of 2012!

Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival – June 25 – August 4^th 2012
Food and Wine Classic in Aspen – June 15-17, 2012
Telluride Bluegrass Festival – June 21-24, 2012
Teva Mountain Games Vail – May 31 – June 3, 2012
Breckenridge Kingdom Days – June 18-19, 2012
Warrior Dash at Copper Mountain – August 18 – 19, 2012
Check out this short teaser of Colorado in the summer, presented by Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

Really, I could go on for days about the amazing things possible during a Colorado summer. However, I think it best that you come experience what it’s like for yourself. Give one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals. at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals a call today to plan your summer vacation to Colorado!