Telluride is a hub of great music during the summer. The town kicks it off each summer with Telluride Bluegrass Festival in June, follows with The Ride Festival in July, and closes the summer with Telluride Blues & Brews in September. Each festival has its own distinct personality,  and The Ride Festival highlights folk and rock music.

And while camping is available for the festival, you will enjoy the event much more by finding lodging through Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals. The event takes place July 13 – 14, so come up for a few days before and/or after to make a nice little vacation out of it! Hurry up and call our Telluride Destination Specialist today, as lodging for the event weekend will fill up fast!

(877) 399-0152

The Ride Festival 2013 – Lineup

• David Byrne & St. Vincent
• Big Head Todd and The Monsters
• Cake
• Steve Earle
• Son Volt

More bands will be announced soon…check back soon for details!

The snow has continued to fall over the last week throughout Colorado ski country, and a good amount of snow over the weekend gave President’s Week vacationers something extra to be excited about. The snow has been great February powder – light and fluffy. It looks like we are set for a great March, and there is more snow in the forecast this week! Oh, and it’s snowing in Vail right now!

Here is the snow report:

Aspen/Snowmass: 24 hr: 9 in, 72 hr: 9 in

Aspen/Snowmass received 9 inches of snow overnight, allowing President’s Day visitors to get some powder skiing in while on vacation. Head up to Aspen/Snowmass to ski 4 great mountains – all with powder!

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 327/329
• Lifts Open: 36/43
• Skiable Acres: 5,303

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

With over 10 inches of snow falling this weekend, Beaver Creek has some great powder to ski. To find the deep snow, head to Rose Bowl or Grouse Mountain!

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 149/150
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Skiable Acres: 1,831

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 8 in

Breckenridge has been getting consistent snow over the last week, allowing and inch or more each night to build up to some great powder skiing. The Imperial Bowl is open for you extreme skiers, and even the groomers are coated in some nice snow.

• Terrain Open: 95%
• Trails Open: 142/155
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Skiable Acres: 2,222

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 4 in

Copper Mountain has been steadily increasing the amount of open terrain with each snowfall. Copper has some great runs for beginners, intermediates, and the most advanced skiers.

• Terrain Open: 70%
• Trails Open: 127/140
• Lifts Open: 21/22
• Skiable Acres: 1,729

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

Now with all 20 lifts open, there is plenty of terrain to explore at Keystone! And with 4 inches of fresh snow, there is plenty of powder to be found!

• Terrain Open: 94%
• Trails Open: 119/135
• Lifts Open: 20/20
• Skiable Acres: 2,946

Telluride: 24 hr: 5 in, 72 hr: 5 in

While Telluride did not get 20 inches of snow like they did last weekend, they still got a solid 5 inches. The snow has been steadily building up over February, which should make for great conditions for your spring vacation!

• Terrain Open: about 90%
• Trails Open: 92/93
• Lifts Open: 18/18
• Skiable Acres: about 1,700

Vail: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 9 in

9 inches of new snow fell over the weekend, making Vail a great choice for your ski vacation. With extensive back bowl skiing and the infamous Blue Sky Basin, Vail favors intense skiers with a sense of adventure. To get an idea of the vastness of Vail, to get from the front of the mountain back to Blue Sky Basin and back to the front takes about 2.5 hours.

• Terrain Open: 98%
• Trails Open: 190/193
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Skiable Acres: 5,163

The snowfall over President’s Day Weekend gave skiers something to smile about, with every mountain in Colorado getting at least some snow. As March approaches, the mountains are in great shape for your Spring Ski Vacation! Be sure to contact one of our  Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to start planning your Colorado Ski Vacation  to any of our destinations today! (855) 210-2469

After spending the first 30 years in Vermont, the Burton US Open is coming to Vail. Plans are to keep the Burton US Open in Vail into the foreseeable future, which has created quite a buzz in the Vail Valley – well really throughout the state of Colorado.

Each year, the Burton US Open brings together over 100 of the world’s best snowboarders to compete for over $340,000 in cash prizes over the 4 day competition, featuring events for men and women in Slopestyle and Halfpipe. This year, some world-renowned athletes will be participating in Vail, including Danny Davis, Louie Vito, Scotty Lago, Shaun White, Mark McMorris, Torstein Horgmo, Gretchen Bleiler, Kelly Clark, Torah Bright and Jamie Anderson. With such a star-studded list of athletes, this is sure to be an eventful showdown for Gold.

Also, the Burton US Open will bring a concert series to Vail, featuring Macklemore & Ryan Lewis on Saturday and Santigold on Sunday. There will be a variety of other events and apre specials going on in Vail during the event, and the Golden Peak Terrain Park is shaping up nicely for the event. Vail, not typically known for its terrain parks, has really stepped it up this year and created a 22-foot superpipe and professional slopestyle course for the event.

Here is the Burton US Open Schedule of Events:

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

• 9am – 10:20am: Women’s Slopestyle Semi Final @ Golden Peak
• 11:20am – 3:00pm: Men’s Slopestyle Semi Finals  @ Golden Peak
• 3pm – 5pm: Vail Village Apre @ Vail Village Burton Store

Thursday, February 28, 201

• 9am – 10:20am: Women’s Halfpipe Semi Final @ Golden Peak
• 11:20am – 3:00pm: Men’s Halfpipe Semi Finals  @ Golden Peak
• 3pm – 5pm: Vail Village Apre @ Vail Village Burton Store

Friday, March 1, 2013

• 10:30am – 12pm: Men’s Slopestyle Finals @ Golden Peak
• 1:30pm – 2:30pm: Women’s Slopestyle Finals  @ Golden Peak
• 2:45pm – 3:15pm: Slopestyle Awards Ceremony @ Golden Peak
• 3pm – 5pm: Vail Village Apre & Burton Rider Signing @ Vail Village Burton Store
• 6pm – 9:30pm: FREE Concert – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis @ The Solaris

Saturday, March 2, 2013

• 10:30am – 12pm: Men’s Halfpipe Finals @ Golden Peak
• 1:30pm – 2:30pm: Women’s Halfpipe Finals  @ Golden Peak
• 2:45pm – 3:15pm: Halfpipe Awards Ceremony @ Golden Peak
• 3pm – 5pm: Vail Village Apre & Burton Rider Signing @ Vail Village Burton Store
• 6pm – 9:30pm: FREE Concert – Santigold @ The Solaris
• 10pm – 1am: Burton US Open After Party – Skratch Bastid + Cosmo Baker @ Dobson Ice Arena in Vail

And with lots of snow falling over the last few weeks in Vail, the Burton US Open is shaping up to be a great event for Vail, and a great weekend to visit! Be sure to plan your stay for February 26 – March 3 to catch all of the action for the event, and contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for all your lodging and concierge needs. (855) 210-2469

It has been snowing on and off for the last 2 weeks throughout Colorado Ski Country, with a few big storms traveling through that left Colorado Resorts with 6″ or more overnight. This consistent snowfall ensures that Colorado will have a great spring skiing season, so be sure to plan your March – April ski vacation today! Oh, and its snowing more as I write this post…

Here is the snow report:

Aspen/Snowmass: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 9 in

Aspen/Snowmass has the Power of 4® Mountains and with 99% of terrain open, you can easily access great skiing at all 4 mountains when you purchase a lift ticket at any of the 4! Take the free bus to all 4 resorts, and enjoy The Cirque at Snowmass, the Highland Bowl at Aspen Highlands, or runs at Aspen Mountain or Buttermilk Mountain!

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 328/329
• Lifts Open: 35/43
• Skiable Acres: 5,303

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 5 in

I had the opportunity to ski Beaver Creek yesterday, and the snow was fantastic. I did find a few patches of powder, but even the groomed runs had nice and soft snow, making for a great Sunday on the mountain.

• Terrain Open: 94%
• Trails Open: 143/150
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Skiable Acres: 1,710

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 9 in

With significant snowfall over the weekend, Breckenridge is in great shape moving towards the spring season. And with over 2,000 acres of terrain available, skiers are able to explore beginner groomers or the advanced Imperial Bowl.

• Terrain Open: 94%
• Trails Open: 141/155
• Lifts Open: 28/31
• Skiable Acres: 2,214

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 3 in

Copper Mountain has a variety of terrain to offer guests, and with frequent “Kids Ski Free” promotions, the mountain is great for families. Come visit Copper to experience a unique base area and a variety of terrian!

• Terrain Open: 65%
• Trails Open: 119/140
• Lifts Open: 19/22
• Skiable Acres: 1,599

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

While Keystone has a reputation for its great Terrain Parks and fun kids area, Kidtopia, when snow falls there is great powder skiing in the trees and runs on Outback Bowl!

• Terrain Open: 90%
• Trails Open: 118/135
• Lifts Open: 19/20
• Skiable Acres: 2,884

Telluride: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 19 in

Telluride received more than a foot of snow in the last 2 days, and 19 inches in the last 3 days, providing for some great powder skiing conditions! Be sure to visit Telluride this season for a quaint mountain town experience and some of the best skiing in Colorado!

• Terrain Open: about 90%
• Trails Open: 92/93
• Lifts Open: 18/18
• Skiable Acres: about 1,700

Vail: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 7 in

With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain open and 7 inches of new snow over the weekend, it is hard to deny yourself a trip to Vail. I skied Vail this Saturday, and while some of the back bowls were a bit crunchy, Blue Sky Basin was in great shape. I also took some great runs on Chair 11 – Northwoods Express – and if you enjoy a variety of terrain and endless runs to choose from, I must recommend Vail.

• Terrain Open: 96%
• Trails Open: 189/193
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Skiable Acres: 5,077

The recent storms and snowfall throughout Colorado have allowed resorts to open most of their terrain and allowed skiers to enjoy some great powder, so be sure to contact one of our  Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to start planning your Colorado Ski Vacation  to any of our destinations today! (855) 210-2469

The snow is falling throughout Colorado today, so it seemed like a good time to update everyone on the terrain. Tree runs are getting a bit more coverage, some resorts are opening their Bowls for skiing, and Holiday Cheer is in the air. The groomed runs have been great, and there is not much concern for ice. Overall, I would say we have favorable snow conditions throughout Colorado.

Here is the snow report:

Aspen/Snowmass: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 12 in

Aspen/Snowmass opened up over 2,000 acres in the last 10 days, and with a foot of new snow in the last few days and more on the way, snow conditions in Aspen/Snowmass are great!

• Terrain Open: 73%
• Trails Open: 249/329
• Lifts Open: 33/43
• Skiable Acres: 3,877

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 10 in

It hasn’t stopped snowing in Beaver Creek over the last few days, and all 25 Chair Lifts are up and running. Grouse Mountain and Larkspur Chairlift opened over the past weekend, so Beaver Creek has plenty of room to explore for all skill types.

• Terrain Open: 78%
• Trails Open: 128/150
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Skiable Acres: 1,412

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

When the T-bar is open, you know there is good snow in Breckenridge! And with Peaks 7, 8, 9 and 10 all open, while you ski it will be hard to believe that only 60% of the mountain is open.

• Terrain Open: 60%
• Trails Open: 86/155
• Lifts Open: 18/31
• Skiable Acres: 1,420

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 5 in

Copper Mountain is off to a slow start this season, but with new snow over the last few days and more on the way, ski conditions at Copper are pretty good.

• Terrain Open: 28%
• Trails Open: 63/140
• Lifts Open: 16/22
• Skiable Acres: 691

Keystone: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 8 in

Keystone got a couple new inches over the night, which should help cover some of the brush and fallen trees in the woods. However, groomers are great, all 20 lifts are running and the Keystone Area 51 Terrain Park is in full effect.

• Terrain Open: 40%
• Trails Open: 68/135
• Lifts Open: 20/20
• Skiable Acres: 1,266

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

Telluride is not far from opening some of their more advanced terrain, which will really boost the number of trails open on the Mountain. Luckily, if you get tired of the limited terrain, Telluride is a great town to explore and spend a day at the spa, on a hike or walking around town.

• Terrain Open: about 25%
• Trails Open: 31/125
• Lifts Open: 12/18
• Skiable Acres: about 450

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

Vail has been getting snow consistently through December, and now the Back Bowls and parts of Blue Sky Basin are open! With over 3,500 acres open to skiers, you could ski all day and not ski the same area of the mountain twice. The flakes are still falling, and all lifts should be running in the next week or two.

• Terrain Open: 18%
• Trails Open: 155/193
• Lifts Open: 28/31
• Skiable Acres: 3,618

Colorado is shaping up for a great holiday season, and 2013 will start off on a great note. January, February and March are the 3 biggest months of the season for snowfall, so be sure to contact one of our  Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to start planning your Colorado Ski Vacation  to any of our destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

Vail and Beaver Creek Mountains are making some Christmas wishes come true this weekend, as they both will be expanding their terrain significantly.

On Saturday, December 22, 2012, Vail Mountain will open Sun Up Bowl and, appropriately, Sun Down Bowl. This is a great development for Vail, and will open up hundreds of acres of untouched snow to skiers and snowboarders. To get the freshest snow, I would advise showing up to the mountain around 8 o’clock (lifts start running at 8:30). Check out the trail map below to pick your runs in advance!

Vail Mountain Back Bowls will open this Saturday, December 22nd, 2012. Chair 5 and Chair 17 will open first, and we’ll see what else opens on Sunday.

In addition to Vail, on Saturday Beaver Creek Mountain will be opening Grouse Mountain and the Larkspur Area – that’s Chair 10 and Chair 11. This makes Red Tail Camp [mountain cam] the place to be in Beaver Creek, where you can access 3 different lifts, which allows guests to really explore all of Beaver Creek Mountain. I rode Chair 9 – Birds of Prey all last weekend and it was awesome! Again, get to the mountain early to get the best powder (this terrain hasn’t been touched yet!)

Beaver Creek will open Grouse Mountain and Larkspur Express Lift on Saturday

Well, have fun out there this weekend, and remember to ski safe and dress warm! It is still ‘early season’ and tree runs may be a little sketchy.

Happy Holidays to everyone, and be sure to enjoy all the snow and new terrain this week and through into the new year! Contact a Destination Specialist today to plan your stay in any of our Destinations. (855) 210-2469

Snow has been falling consistently for the last 3 days in Colorado Ski Country, providing Mountain Resorts with some much needed snow! With a foot of snow falling over the last few days throughout these resorts, Mountains will continue to open new terrain in the coming weeks. The snow has been a bit heavy, but its exactly what we need to form a nice base throughout the mountains. Be careful in the trees this week – the snow is heavy and some rocks and fallen trees are still exposed.

The snow keeps falling outside our Vail Office – December 17, 2012

Here is the snow report:

Aspen/Snowmass: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 4 in

With Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk Mountain opening up last week, all 4 mountains of Aspen/Snowmass are open! And with new snow over the weekend, all 4 mountains are in great skiing shape!

• Terrain Open: 33%
• Trails Open: 123
• Lifts Open: 23/43
• Skiable Acres: 1,764

Beaver Creek: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 10 in

It hasn’t stopped snowing in Beaver Creek over the last few days, and with more terrain opening daily, there is still fresh snow to be found. The Rose Bowl opened this past weekend, and the snow at Beaver Creek was great!

• Terrain Open: 43%
• Trails Open: 60/150
• Lifts Open: 22/25
• Skiable Acres: 778

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 4 in, 72 hr: 7 in

While Breckenridge only has 379 acres open, the recent snow storm will allow them to open a good amount of terrain by Christmas. Breckenridge was awesome this weekend, as the Dew Tour rolled through town and snow fell throughout the event!

• Terrain Open: 16%
• Trails Open: 17/155
• Lifts Open: 9/31
• Skiable Acres: 379

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 9 in

With lots of snow accumulating over the weekend, Copper has a bright future. And while only 14% of terrain is open today, expect this % to increase in the next week,

• Terrain Open: 14%
• Trails Open: 33/140
• Lifts Open: 13/22
• Skiable Acres: 353

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

Keystone got some much needed snow over the weekend, which should help cover up some of the more exposed terrain, and allow the mountain to open much of their terrain in the next few weeks.

• Terrain Open: 9%
• Trails Open: 22/135
• Lifts Open: 16/20
• Skiable Acres: 288

Telluride: 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 11 in

Snow also fell in the San Juan Mountains over the weekend, leaving Telluride with a nice blanket of snow. Telluride is off to a slow start, but is sure to open much of its terrain before the New Year!

• Terrain Open: 10%
• Trails Open: 7/125
• Lifts Open: 5/18
• Skiable Acres: about 200

Vail: 24 hr: 6 in, 72 hr: 12 in

Wtih more snow than any mountains in the area, Vail has opened only a fraction of its terrain. In the next 2 weeks, look for Vail’s back bowls to open, and maybe even Blue Sky Basin before the New Year.

• Terrain Open: 18%
• Trails Open: 75/193
• Lifts Open: 16/31
• Skiable Acres: 950

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

Vail Mountain Opening Day is TODAY! Vail Mountain opened at 9 am this morning, and was preceded by the opening of Vail’s new Gondola, Vail Gondola No. 1., at 8:30 this morning. Today marks the beginning of Vail’s 50th Season, and the opening of the new Gondola is just one of the many events that will make this 50th year for Vail a special one. The opening of the new Gondola was quite an event, as guests were greeted with cookies, hot chocolate and commemorative pins. After the Gondola was switched on, hats and mittens were thrown to the crowd as well in celebration of Vail’s 50th season. The gondola is at the base of the mountain in Vail Village, replacing the old #16 Vista Bahn Express Lift.

The Vail Lift Crew prepares to open the new Vail Gondola – Gondola No. 1

Some Fans of Vail dressed in costume for the Opening of the New Gondola – nice costumes guys!

People began to show up around 8 this morning, and the excitement grew until 8:30 when the ceremony began. A few fans showed up in costume to support the opening of the gondola, and others stood in the crisp morning air waiting for the gondola to open so they could take advantage of the heated seats – one of the major selling points of the new gondola. Christopher Jarnot, COO of Vail Mountain, said a few words to start and thanked all the staff and crew that helped this project become a reality. And it has been truly amazing watching the progress of the new Gondola, and finally seeing it in action. Soon after, Rob Katz, CEO of Vail Resorts, spoke and communicated his excitement about the new Gondola to the crowd, and made sure everyone knew that Vail has been here for 50 years now!! What an accomplishment!

This 50th Anniversary is a bit more special to some than others, mainly for the ones that were here on opening day 50 years ago. Some veterans did show up today, including members of the 1962 Ski Club Vail. The Ski Club was also founded in 1962, and helped produce many athletes that went on to join the US Ski Team and even win Olympic Medals.

Some of the original members of the 1962 Ski Club Vail

And here is what the Gondola they rode in 1962 looked like

The christening of the new Gondola and the inaugural “First Chair” ride took place shortly after the ceremonial ribbon was cut, and the Gondola was opened to the public shortly thereafter. Check out these pictures of the opening of Vail’s newest improvement, Gondola No. 1.

And the Ribbon is getting cut!

The Inaugural “First Chair” ride on Vail’s new Gondola No. 1

The members of the Inaugural Ride included Rob Katz, and friends and family of the founders of Vail

And they’re off! Congratulations Vail on opening the new Gondola No. 1!

This crowd of people were the first 100 or so to ride the Gondola!

View the complete photo album on the Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals Facebook Page – and if you like any of the photos, please “Like” or “Comment” on them!

Be sure to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today to plan your Winter Vacation to Vail to ride the new Gondola No. 1 – with wi-fi and heated seats!

The 2013 US Alpine Ski Team was just announced at Lionshead Square in Vail Village! And with Vail’s 50th season beginning tomorrow, there is tons of energy in the Vail Village. There was quite a crowd that showed up for the event, and many fans went home with free ski socks, goggles, ski hats and other swag from the US Ski Team.

A large crowd showed up for the US Ski Team in Vail

The event opened by introducing some of the original members of Ski Club Vail, an organization that started in Vail’s first year of 1962. Some of the members reminisced of sleeping in the gym, and followed by joking about how Vail’s Lodging Options have improved dramatically for athletes and guests alike.

Some Original Member’s of Vail’s 1st Ski Club

Billy the Kid enters the stage – the first American to earn an Olympic Medal in Alpine Skiing.

The first Ski Club Vail Coach, Bob Beattie, spoke of the Original Vail after starting Ski Club Vail 50 years ago

After geting an intersting history lesson and some laughs from the 1962 team, the crowd started to get excited for the 2013 US Ski Team to be announced. Next up was Vail’s own Mikaela Shiffrin,

A Vail Local, Mikaela got on stage and sparked a few laughs

who got on stage to energize the crowd a bit and vioce her excitement about being a new member to the US Ski Team. At 17 years old, Mikaela is the youngest member on the US Ski Team, and has big aspirations for the 2013 Ski Season. The US Ski Team was announced shortly thereafter, and members of the D, C, B and A team crossed the stage and received a warm welcoming from the cold Vail audience.

Julia Mancuso looked excited to be in Vail, and raffled off the autographed helmet in her hands later in the event

After being asked to tell a secret, Olympic Gold Medalist Bode Miller notified the crowd that he is “a cat person.”

The event was quite entertaining, and afterwards the crowd was allowed to meet the team and get some autographs. And with the FIS Alpine Championships returning to Vail in 2015, everyone is getting excited for the near future of all athletes on the US Ski Team.

Colin, our web developer, gets his jacket signed by Julia Mancuso

Be sure to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today to plan your Winter Vacation to Vail or any of our Rocky Mountain Destinations!

IT HAS ARRIVED!!! The 2012 – 2013 Ski Season officially begins TODAY with the opening of Arapahoe Basin Ski Area! Arapahoe Basin is a ski area located on the Continental Divide in Summit County, Colorado. The Mountain opens today with 9 ski-able acres and 2 trails – so don’t get out those new powder skis quite yet! Arapahoe Basin fights each year to be the first mountain in Colorado to open, and they have achieved this feat yet again this season. Hats off to the crew over at Arapahoe Basin for getting everyone on the snow early this season!!

Arapahoe Basins Front Side and East Wall (top left)

During its peak season, the mountain boasts a vast East Wall with hike-to and backcountry style skiing, along with the Montezuma Bowl off the back side, which is great for some backcountry style tree runs and open terrain. A-Basin is one of my favorite mountains to explore during the peak season, but I would also love to get out there today to shake of the cobwebs. A-Basin is also located about 7 Miles from Keystone, and about 15 miles from Breckenridge – and the best part – you can ride all 3 mountains with just 1 pass!! Call a destination specialist today to start planning your 1 or 3 mountain vacation! (855) 210-2469

Where will you ski opening day this winter?

With other mountains blowing snow and working to get a solid base layer down, there should be a few mountains in Colorado opening up in the coming weeks. Below I have listed the projected opening date for all of the mountains serviced by Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals – so check out when each mountain is opening, and browse our website to find out about the best vacation rentals, promotions, events and activities in your favorite Rocky Mountain Destination!

• Aspen Mountain  -  November 22
• Beaver Creek  -  November 21
• Breckenridge  -  November 9
• Copper Mountain  -  November 2
• Keystone  -  November 2
• Snowmass  -  November 22
• Telluride  -  November 22
• Vail  -  November 16

We’d love to see you out here this winter! Give one of our Local Destination Specialists a Call today to start planning your winter ski vacation to the Colorado High Country!

At the 9 Vail Road Condominiums, the location for the price is unmatched. Located in the center of Vail Village on the in-town shuttle route, 9 Vail Roadis a short ride from Lionshead Village to the west, or Golden Peak to the east.

A View of 9 Vail Road Condominiums with Vail Mountain in the Background

While the condos are centrally located in Vail Village, they manage to remain fairly quiet – it is off the main road in Vail, and avoids night life traffic. A treat for winter visitors, each condo includes one parking spot in the building’s heated, underground parking garage. If you rent or drive your own car to Vail during the winter months, you will understand why this is so great!

On the lower level, the property features large ski lockers as well as laundry facilities, so you don’t have to worry about lugging the skis up to your room or about having clean clothes to wear (those ski socks and long underwear need some love too!). In addition, the property boasts an outdoor heated pool and hot-tub, both of which are open year-round.
The rooms themselves are all similarly equipped with the amenities that one would find necessary in a ski town – each featuring a fireplace in its living area and full kitchen. Apart from these standard amenities, each room has its own personalized style. This can range from heavily modernized to a more rustic, classic ski chalet design. This property’s variety ensures that it can accommodate just about any taste for any budget.

Unit 13 – A traditionally styled unit at 9 Vail Road

Unit 17 – This luxurious unit is great for adult groups

Unit 30 – this kid friendly unit has plenty of space for the little ones

Unit 22 – This modern-styled unit is great for some!

There are plenty more styles of Condominiums at 9 Vail Road, so be sure to inquire with one of our Vail Destination Specialist to find which units’ style you like the best! (855) 210-2469

For those unfamiliar with Vail Snow Daze, it is an annual winter festival put on by Vail that includes a variety of events and activities, the biggest of which is the concerts held for the last 3 days of the festival. For 2012, the festival will be held from Monday, December 10^thh – Sunday, December 16^th and the concerts will be on Thursday the 13^th, Friday the 14^th and Saturday the 15^th. And this year, as part of Vail’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, they are making Vail Snow Daze bigger than ever.

One of the Many Concerts at Ford Park in East Vail

While there will be events and afterparties going on all week, the real party starts on Thursday, December 13^th with a concert featuring The Shins.The Shins have been around for around 15 years, and recently released a new album titled Port of Marrow. The indie-rock group has been Grammy nominated for their sounds, and are sure to provide a lively show.

Michael Franti & Spearhead venture to Ford Park on Friday, December 14^th to get the crowd moving with mixes of rap, reggae and dance music. The authentic sounds of Michael Franti & Spearhead have developed quite a following, and the concert will definitely be full of life.

Another fantastic group to see live is Wilco. The well-seasoned band constantly tours the country and has established a reputation for delivering a terrific show. They are set to play Saturday, December 15^th on Vail’s official birthday. Also with a developed following, this band will make a great show for the whole family.

A typical After Party in Vail – photo: Vail Resorts

With a variety of other parties and events, these concerts will help create a booming atmosphere in

Vail this winter, and be a great way to boost us into Vail’s 50^th Season.

Details will be released about other events as we approach the ski season, so be sure to check back soon for more details – including opening acts. Anyways, here is a brief schedule for the weekend:

Thursday, December 13, 2012

• Concert from The Shins – at Ford Park in East Vail

Friday, December 14, 2012

• Film Premier of a full-length documentary covering Vail’s 50 Years – at The Marriot in Lionshead Village
• Concert from Michael Franti & Spearhead - at Ford Park in East Vail

Saturday, December 15, 2012

• Vail’s Official 50^th Birthday – Celebrations culminating in a fireworks show – at Mountain Plaza in Vail
• Concert from Wilco – at Ford Park in East Vail

Be sure to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today to plan your Winter Vacation to Vail or any of our Rocky Mountain Destinations!

From the time you walk into Flame at the Four Seasons, you will feel pampered and you (and your taste buds!) will certainly leave even more so. With seasonal fare making use of local produce as much as possible, Executive Chef Jason Harrison blends and tweaks flavors for the ultimate culinary extravaganza.

Whether you join them for a light lunch, après ski snacks or an evening of delicious dining; Flame will not disappoint. Able to offer year round pool side dining with views of Vail Mountain, you can also order room service 24 hours a day – no going peckish in the wee hours of the morning!

The 8 Hour Short Ribs Sliders

Entrée selections come from the many steak cuts and sizes on offer, all grilled to perfection in the 1800˚ char broiler; to ‘as local as we can get’ trout, bass, salmon and halibut. Don’t even dream of departing without trying the lemoncello crème brulee, convinced to return the next night for some more! What about the signature bison potstickers with spicy pinot noir mustard for an après ski snack? Or the magically tender short rib sliders? The Key Lime custom milkshake will surely satisfy any sweet tooth’s craving…

The Key Lime Milkshake

So next time you are in Vail, whether you are staying at the Four Seasons or not, pay a visit to Flame Restaurant for a nice lunch, for some Apre Ski, or for a nice evening out.

If you would like to visit Vail or Beaver Creek, call one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® in Vail to start planning your customized vacation experience – and be sure to let them know to make you a dinner reservati

on at Flame Restaurant!

Beaver Creek is an absolutely stunning resort in the winter and summer!  I was reminded of this over the weekend when friends and I hiked up Beaver Lake Trail, leading us to none-other-than Beaver Lake.  The trail is a mere 3.3 miles each direction with an elevation climb from 10,500 to 11,300 feet, making it a great hike for most hikers.  I will say that towards the end my legs started to feel the burn, making it a hike that I can be proud of, without becoming utterly exhausted.

Beaver Lake Trail can be conquered by horse, foot or mountain bike; although I prefer foot.  Finding the trail-head is easy, as it’s just past the Beaver Creek Chapel where at the road comes to an end.  I recommend grabbing a trail map from the Information Booth prior to your climb, since you’ll have to park in Ford or Villa Montane parking structures.

I enjoyed this hike due to the beauty that surrounded us throughout the hike.  The first part of the hike you are walking along the river cascading through the Aspen Trees.  The further you climb, the better the views and I like nothing more than to see the runs I ski in the winter transformed for the summer!

Call one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^®  in Vail, Colorado to hear more Local’s Tips for the area!

Located steps from the prestigious Cascade Village, this home is a great choice for those wanting the space and privacy of a home a little out of town yet still having access to a variety of amenities. Cascade Village has its own outdoor pool, spa and fitness center; as well as the onsite Atwater on Gore Creek restaurant.

The Cascade Lift, Chair 20, will take you up the mountain and save you the hassle of long ticket queues and lift lines. Charter Sports onsite will happily rent and store your skis, boards and boots, with their wide selection of basic, performance and demo equipment. Feel like an early morning massage? No problem, call for the complementary shuttle service to catch a ride to the Aria Spa! The shuttle service operates 7 days a week, from 7am to midnight (during the winter) and can take you and your guests anywhere you need to go in Vail.

Blue Spruce West has been recently remodeled and feels like the quintessential mountain home. Entering on ground level, the home rises two more stories and features a hard-to-find wood burning fireplace in the central living area. Exposed wooden beams, hardwood floors and the welcoming aroma of timber greet you as you enter this home. With 4 bedrooms that will comfortably sleep 12, and 4.5 bathrooms with a variety of bath/shower combinations; this home is made for the family ski trip to Vail.

The dark wood kitchen with Sub Zero stainless steel appliances, granite breakfast bar and large range, begs for the all day brunch event. A large circular dining table speaks of delicious dinner spreads. The back patio opens onto a secluded outdoor area with a private hot tub, gas grill and luxurious patio furniture just asking to be lazed in.

Surrounded by tall pines, this home gives you a taste of the mountain lifestyle; while secretly accessing all of the Cascade Resort’s nearby amenities.

Call one of our Vail Destination Specialists at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals today to learn more about this home and other great Vail homes.

It’s official. Burton has decided to move the Burton U.S. Open to Vail, Colorado in 2013. The event has been held in Vermont (location of Burton HQ) for the last 30 years, and is taking a big step to move the event to Vail next season. As a Colorado resident, I could not be more excited to hear this breaking news.

Not only do we host the Winter X-Games  in Aspen, Colorado, but we now have another huge winter sporting event in the Burton U.S. Open. The U.S. Open has three main events – Slopestyle, Halfpipe, and a Rail Jam. There are no races at the U.S. Open, as there are in the Winter X Games, and the event is only open to snowboarders. The event typically draws thousands of spectators, eager to see the best snowboarders in the world compete for the U.S. Open title. One of the best snowboarders in the world at the moment – Mark McMorris – came by Vail to scope out the mountain & the town. Check out the video courtesy of Vail Mountain below:

From the looks of the video, it appears that the course and halfpipe will be in the Golden Peak area of Vail. This is normally where the park is during the winter, so it will be exciting to see how the park is built as we approach February 25^th. And as always, the best thing about events like this is that they bring concerts and other entertainment along too!

A shot from Spring Back to Vail concert series – it occurs every year for closing weekend at Vail.

While concerts and other entertainment has not been announced, they will also most likely be hosted in the Golden Peak area of Vail and are sure to be a good time. And while Golden Peak is very close to Vail Village, it is a bit further from Lionshead Village. So if you would like to come out for this event, consider staying in Vail Village or Golden Peak first, but in the end everything in Vail is connected through their free bus system – making all stops available a short bus ride away.

This event grabs the attention of snow sports enthusiasts around the world, and we are frankly quite lucky to have another great event added to the great state of Colorado, and putting it in Vail will allow easy access for all travelers. So if you have some young snowboard enthusiasts yearning to watch some halfpipe or if you would like to catch some of the action yourself, contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for the best selection of lodging in the Vail area. (855) 210-2469

For an elegant dining experience unique to Beaver Creek, Colorado, pay a visit to Zach’s Cabin. Zach’s Cabin is a fine dining restaurant located above Bachelor Gulch in Beaver Creek, and has just been awarded the Best of Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator for the 8^th straight year!  While we are fortunate to have multiple restaurants in the Vail Valley that received this accolade (Beano’s Cabin, Grouse Mountain Grill, and Splendido at the Chateau also made the list), Zach’s Cabin truly separates itself from the rest.

Zach’s Cabin looks great under an winter evening sky

Offering more than 400 wine choices, this wonderful restaurant prides itself on its Californian, Italian and French wine varieties – specializing in a vast selection of red wines.  The restaurant, and its executive chef, Tim McCaw, have spent a great amount of time on their menu, often varying with the change of local produce. Choose from Veal Piccata, Zucchini Papardelle or the Beef Tenderloin, there is something for everyone on the menu.

The cozy interior at Zach’s Cabin provides for a great dining experience.

So when you visit Vail or Beaver Creek this winter, be sure to take the open air sleigh ride (the only way to get there besides skiing or hiking) up to Zach’s Cabin for a truly unique dining experience with a wonderful wine selection.

• The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday – Saturday during the winter ski season

To plan your vacation to Vail or Beaver Creek and make your reservation at Zach’s Cabin, give one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® a call today (855) 210-2469!

Gore Creek Place is a magnificent summer or winter vacation home, located right along gore creek and a short walk from wonderful skiing on Vail Mountain.

One of the most coveted locations in Vail, these luxury town homes sit front row along Gore Creek and enjoy stunning Vail Mountain views through the wrap around glass windows.  Sit back in your private outdoor hot tub while a private chef (optional – but recommended) prepares a delicious meal for you in the gourmet kitchen; or simply gather a group of friends for a relaxed barbeque on the walk-out patio.

A view of Gore Creek Place from the front – the back opens up a patio to the rolling Gore Creek.

A short walk to the Lionshead (Eagle Bahn) Gondola, there are many shops and restaurants in the area – contributing to make these homes a priceless and worthwhile accommodation for your next vacation to Vail. With 4 bedroom and 5 bedroom homes, each is designer decorated and features the most upscale furnishings to spoil you and your party with the luxury you deserve (there is also a pool table!). Daily housekeeping during the winter and underground parking on site – in the busy Lionshead area – ensure your worry free vacation stay will be private as well.

Warm up next to the fireplace in this spacious luxury home

Imagine the enjoyment your family will receive from skiing the largest mountain in North America, wandering the enchanting village of Lionshead in its entire lit-up evening splendor; and returning to a roomy, cozy home along the dreamy riverside. Make it happen today at one of the Gore Creek Place Townhomes!