If you are familiar with mountain towns, you are aware that most suffer with some seasonality issues. The winters are awesome and often fly by way to fast, and as the quote goes “We come for the winter and stay for the summer“. Thus, summer is equally as awesome as winter and we just have to find something to do for those dreaded months of May and October. Luckily, May is typically very nice weather and the leaves start to change in October and it is quite beautiful. But back to the point…

 

Summer is equally as awesome as winter. May is half way over, and summer will officially begin in the mountains on Memorial Day Weekend. Be sure to come out early for the best rafting conditions, or wait until August to escape the heat around the country. Whenever you decide to come this summer, be sure to take notice of these Local’s Tips about mountain living:

 

1)      Wear sunscreen – It doesn’t matter what time of year, always wear sunscreen. In high altitude you get an additional 8 to 10 percent increase in sun exposure for every thousand feet at elevation you climb.  This is because there is less atmospheres to absorb the sun’s damaging rays the higher in elevation you go.

 

2)      Planning on rafting this summer?  98% of Colorado is currently in a drought.  That means rafting season is going to be short and sweet!  Unlike winters with heavy snowfall, last year was a doozie, which means less snow run off and a short window to get some good turns out in the river.  We recommend The Adventure Company’s full moon rafting trip they offer!

3)      Hiking?  I hope so! Typically in the summer you can expect afternoon thunderstorms, so start your hike early so that you are finished by 3:00pm before the storms roll in.

 

4)      Rent a bicycle.  With so much to see amidst beautiful weather, renting a bicycle is the best way to make the most of your stay in the mountains.  Local outfitters offer bicycle tours, rentals mountain biking adventures and all sorts of other ideas to explore via bicycle.  Talk to a local Destination Specialist today so we can recommend a reputable company to rent from or take a tour with.

 

5)      Take a ride on the Gondola!  Take a ride up the Gondola during the summer to see your favorite destinations from a bird’s eye view.  Depending on the resort you can play Frisbee golf, hike, mountain bike, go on a picnic and whatever else your heart desires.  It’s always fun to see how your favorite ski runs transform during the summer months.

 

5.5) Many mountain towns have a frisbee golf, or disc golf course at the top of the mountain. While taking a scenic trip on the Gondola has the same views, taking part in a game of disc golf seals the deal.

 

Be sure to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® if you plan on visiting this summer to any of our destinations, and we can’t wait to hear from you!

 

Summer is our favorite time to be in the Colorado Rockies.  Call a local Destination Specialist at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals today to find out the scope on lodging and activities during your stay!

After hearing many rumors of its greatness and procrastinating for months, I finally packed my bags and headed up to Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat, Colorado. Many friends and co-workers have been telling me that I need to get up there for a while now, and this past weekend turned out to be a great time to make the trip. While the Hot Springs operate year-round and are beautiful every time of year, it is better to go during the off season – May, September, October -  mainly to avoid crowds. But every time of year is guaranteed to be a great experience.

The Hot Springs were acquired by the city of Steamboat in the 1930′s, and were finally sold to a private owner in the 70′s – who developed it into what it has become today. Today it is a small and private hot spring, with multiple pools and a massage center to optimize relaxation. There are 2 large hot pools, a couple of smaller overflow pools, and a cold pool that connects with the river flowing alongside the Hot Springs. The river is all snowmelt, so it can get quite cold.

The Hot Springs are about 7 miles from Steamboat, and require a 4 wheel drive vehicle during November – April, but can be accessed by a 2 wheel drive vehicle during the other months. Guests also have the option of taking a shuttle from Sweet Pea Tours – who will take you “door to door” from Steamboat to the Hot Springs – Prices range from $15 – $40 for the round trip. The drive to the Hot Springs is windy and steep, but only takes about 20 minutes from Steamboat.

• If driving into town, turn right on 3rd Street, take your first right on Fish Creek Falls Road, take your second left on Amethyst Rd., and follow it until you hit a dirt road, which you then take to the end.

The walk from the entrance down to the Hot Springs is only a couple hundred yards, but if you visit in the winter (or any time for that matter) coming fulling dressed is not a bad idea. There are public changing rooms and restrooms above the hot springs, and there is also a warming hut and tepee by the pools so that guests are able to get changed. From here, let the relaxation begin.

After getting your suit on, start down the stairway towards the pools, cross the bridge over the river, and you’re there! There are plenty of chairs and benches on which you can put your things, or you can put them in the tepee or warming hut. The first, and main pool is the hottest. It has a direct feed from the hot spring that makes certain areas of the pool get quite hot.

The next pool downstream is a bit cooler (in the shade in the picture below) and is a nice change of pace if you begin overheating in the hot pool. Continue further downstream and you will go in the cold pool, which is fed by the river – which consists of snow melt. Unless you like ice baths, I strictly advise staying out of the river. It felt like a bunch of needles going in my skin. But if you happen to like the hot/cold mix, the river can be quite refreshing. There are a few other side pools, and exploring the Hot Spring area is an adventure in itself.

There are also plenty of hikes and trails in the nearby area, so remember to bring your hiking boots. The wilderness surrounding Steamboat is beautiful and the landscape is filled with Aspens and Evergreens – so also remember to bring your camera when you go out for a hike.

If you are visiting Steamboat this summer, I would strongly recommend reserving a day just to relax at the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Even if you live in Denver, visit Vail or Breckenridge, or even just visit Colorado, Strawberry Park is worth the trip. Here are a few details about the Park:

• Cost: Adults – $10, Teens (13-17) $5, Kids (3-12) $3 [cash only]
• Hours: Sun – Thurs (10am – 10:30 pm), Fri – Sat (10am – 12am)
•  No entry after 10:30pm, Pools cleaned 7am-10am every Thursday
• 18+ after dark
• Open year round
• No glass, alcohol, food, or smoking
• No pets

After a weekend at Strawberry Park, I felt refreshed and rejuvenated and was ready to take on the world. Sometimes you just need to get away from everything, and I found Strawberry Park to be the perfect retreat. If you are planning a vacation to Steamboat or any of our destinations, be sure to give a Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® a call today and see how we can help you plan your trip! (855)210-2469

One of my favorite things to do during the summer months is get in my Jeep and explore Colorado.  Everywhere offers something new to discover and the beauty of the mountains literally takes your breath away.

This time, my good friend Sean agreed to make the 4.5 hour drive with me to Telluride – the most magical place in Colorado!   If you haven’t ever been, you don’t know what you’re missing.  With 100’s of hikes to be discovered amidst spectacular scenery you just can’t go wrong.  We arrived late, camped and woke up with no plans other than to take a little hike and maybe check out the Telluride Film Festival going on in town.  That “little” hike turned into a 6 hour, highly rewarding journey that I recommend to all!

One of the  unique features of Telluride is the Gondola that connects Historic Telluride and Mountain Village.    Right in the middle of the two, the Gondola allows passengers the option to get out at mid mountain (10,554ft) which is where Sean and disembarked.  Mid mountain is also home to Allred’s Restaurant, one of the most popular places to grab a drink while watching the sunset.  Having skied Telluride in the winter, I was stoked to take a walk up one of my favorite alpine trails, See Forever.  See Forever took us on a fairly steep incline passing us through numerous trail intersections and landmarks.  When we stumbled upon the Tempter House at 12,200 feet we were blown away.  This architectural wonder is nestled atop a ridge beside the famous Gold Hill and is one of the highest elevation homes in North America!  You just can’t find the privacy and views offered here at any other rental property.  That’s right you can rent this property out, just give Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals a call!

Sean and I finally reached what we felt was the top of our journey, but then we noticed that the trail seemed to keep going so we followed it up to the Revelation Bowl (12,570ft). At the top of Revelation Bowl we paused a moment for a photo and took a second look at our trail map.   We have two options- Turn around or continue onward across the Wasatch Connection down to East Bear Creek Trail into the Town of Telluride.  The answer was an obvious choice and we continued onward! Bear Creek Trail takes you down into the lush valley along the river to Bear Creek Falls putting you in Town Park in historic Telluride.  Lucky for us we brought sunscreen and water because we didn’t reach Town Park until 4 hours after we first reached Revelation Bowl.

The moral of the story is this – Get outside and explore!  When you need a place to rest your head, call on Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to find you just the comfort you’re looking for in a Telluride vacation rental.

When you arrive to your vacation destination, do you find it confusing? Do you have no idea where anything is or what is going on (or is that just me)? One thing that I have found helps ease this confusion is checking out the local paper. Up here in Vail, it is the Vail Daily. Thus, I present the local tip for today:

Not only does the local paper help you get situated with the area and learn about what’s happening in town, but you learn about all the best deals in town – the best happy hours, apre specials and dinner specials. You may find 50% off sushi one day, $2.99 steaks the next, and a sale at the local sports shop the day after that – or all of these on 1 day!

 

Recently, Minturn Country Club has been running their $2.99 NY Strip special – it is at night on Wednesday, April 18th this week. While this deserves a “Local’s Tip Tuesday” in itself (you get to pick your steak and grill it yourself!), I thought I would throw it into this tip. So whatever mountain town you may vacation in, check out the local paper and you will be surprised with the information you find.

Breckenridge has long been a favorite vacation destination during the winter and summer months. Originally founded as a mining town in the 1850’s, Breckenridge has become one of the most popular mountain resorts in the nation. But what is it that keeps drawing people back to Breckenridge? The quaint mountain town? The great dining options? The great skiing? The convienent lodging? The family friendly activities offered year round? The special events?

 

I could try to answer this question all day, but in reality, all of these things combine together to make Breckenridge a unique and fun destination:

And while I could write a post on each one of these topics, today we’ll take a look at the convenient lodging.

 

Breckenridge has become well known for its ski in/ski out and village lodging thru conveniently located properties, friendly family services and great value. Let’s go ahead and check out 1 hotel, 1 condo and 1 home that have helped Breckenridge grow to be one of the best resorts around.

1 (hotel). The Beaver Run Hotel, located at the base of Peak 9, is a great ski in/ski out property for families and groups who want to stay on the mountain. With the Beaver Run Super Chair and Quicksilver Super 6 chair located just outside the hotel, guests have instant access up the mountain. There is also a selection of hiking and biking trails located just outside the door, great for taking in some of the beautiful scenery of the area. Not to mention, the hotel is just minutes from down town Breckenridge, where there are plenty of shops, restaurants and boutiques to keep you busy.

 

The property has studio to 4 bedroom suites, with a variety of room types to match your needs. The hotel also has a full service restaurant and spa, and equipment rental is on-site. The hotel is also pet-friendly, and offers multiple pet services to make sure your dog has a great vacation too! If you want to stay on the mountain and are looking for convenient hotel accommodations, this is the place to stay.

2 (condo). One Ski Hill Place, Breckenridge’s newest condo property, opened up last year at the base of Peak 8. This prime-time location is great during the summer and winter, as it is located right next to the gondola to town and next to 3 different chair lifts up the mountain. Also located at the base of Peak 8 is Breckenridge’s Gold Runner Coaster, a 2,500 ft coaster that weaves in and out of the trees of Breckenridge. This location simply can’t be beat, and the full spa, aquatic center and restaurants on-site ensure that you don’t even have to leave (even though your should go explore) the residences during your stay.

 

The property offers studio to 4 bedroom suites, and has a variety of rooms and layouts to fit your needs. Rooms either receive views up the slopes or out towards the continental divide and town of Breckenridge. As with the Beaver Run Hotel, a variety of hiking and biking trails are right outside the door, leaving all of the Breckenridge area open for exploration. This is a great property for those looking for maximum convenience and outstanding amenities.

3 (home). Now for the house – 31 Riverwood Drive. 31 Riverwood Drive is located on a 1 acre lot just outside the town of Breckenridge. This magnificent 5 bedroom home has a private hot tub and home theater, not to mention the flat screen televisions and fireplaces throughout the house. Guests may take in relaxing views of the wooded surroundings and ski resort from the private decks, or prepare a feast in the gourmet kitchen. The home is conveniently located on the shuttle route and there is also a private shuttle that will provide door-to-door service in Breckenridge. For a luxurious vacation in Breckenridge, this home is the perfect fit. So bring your group or family out for a vacation to be remembered!

 

Well there are 3 of my favorite places in Breckenridge, each with their own pros and cons. Check out the map below to see where all these properties are located on the mountain.

Hopefully this gave you a better idea about how Breckenridge is laid out, and you have a bit of info about these select 3 properties. To continue your search for the perfect fit, check out our Breckenridge hotels, condos and homes, or feel free to give one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® a call today! (855)210-2469

The Dancing Bear Residences in Aspen, Colorado truly encompasses what Aspen is all about. The stylish, luxury residences are in downtown Aspen park side to Wagner Park, and are less than a 5 minute walk from anything in town (including the Aspen Mountain gondola).

 

Nine 3-bedroom units make up the Dancing Bear, each beautifully decorated with handcrafted fixtures and furnishings. Due to the well-designed layout of the Dancing Bear, each unit is located on a corner, so everyone can take in great views of the mountainous area. Another highlight of the building is the Rooftop Terrace, which gives guests a 360 degree view of Aspen and the surrounding mountains. The terrace also has 2 hot tubs, a fire pit and some cozy star-gazing chairs.

Staying at the Dancing Bear, guests also have access to a state of the art work out facility, the Brexi Brasserie Restaurant, complimentary bicycles to ride around town, and a private movie theater.

 The Dinner, Beer and Wine menus

 

Guests who stay at the Dancing Bear also are guaranteed top-notch service. Not only will your shoes be shined and skis tuned overnight, you will be greeted each morning with your favorite newspaper and a full breakdown on the ski report (only during the winter, of course). One great thing about the Aspen / Snowmass region is that the 4 mountains are only about 15 minutes apart. And luckily, at the Dancing Bear a car will be ready to take you to any of the 4 mountains you choose. And don’t worry, all mountains are accessible with the purchase of a pass at any mountain.

 

The 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom units at the Dancing Bear truly separate themselves from the rest. The master suite is equipped with a steam shower and jacuzzi tub. The professional grade gourmet kitchens feature state of the art appliances and are great for cooking meals for the family. Each unit also has a fireplace, private balcony, wireless internet, and high quality audio and video systems. Rooms also feature spacious living areas and plenty of comfortable furniture for everyone.

Whatever time of year you decide to visit Aspen, Colorado, don’t forget to check out the Dancing Bear Residences when searching for lodging. Or, give one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® a call today and have them plan your next Rocky Mountain Vacation for you! (855) 210-2469

Colorado is known for having an amazing music scene.  The artists that come through Aspen’s famed Belly Up are no exception to the rule.  This music venue has been selling out shows since 1979, so  If you plan on traveling to Aspen or Snowmass make sure seeing a show at Belly Up is at the top of your list.  Locals rave about it, while others drive many miles to see their favorite artists perform here.

Belly Up is setup in a tiered manner, making for an outstanding concert experience.  In the far back of the venue you’ll find the bar which provides standing room and limited seating around the perimeter, a few feet lower is the VIP area, and further down is where the main dancing area is in front of the stage.  The venue is intimate (450 people at maximum capacity) allowing for an incredible light show and the opportunity to get up close and personal with your favorite artists. The sound at Belly Up Aspen is not surprising amazing so you can count on an overall stellar experience.  Get your tickets early, because this venue sells out shows fast!

Here’s a look at some of the upcoming shows happening at Belly Up Aspen.

• April 25 – Oakhurst – Album Release Party
• May 16 – Mishka * AnuhaMay 28 – Mt. Eden
• June 8 – Indigo Girls
• June 7 – Jimmie Vaughan and The Tilt-A-Whirl Band Feat. Lou
• June 13^th – The Dandy Warhols
• June 17 – Mickey Avalon

After a night of dancing you’ll want to comfy bed to come home to.  Call Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals today and our Aspen local will help set you up with lodging in Aspen conveniently located close to Belly Up.

The Summer Teva Mountain Games held in Vail, Colorado is pretty much one of the coolest events held all summer.  The Games combine athletes, art, and music, all in the beautiful mountain setting of Vail, Colorado.  This year’s event will kick off May 31 and conclude June 3, 2012.  So I’d like to let you know why the Teva Mountain Games are at the top of my summer hit list.

1) Swag!  Who doesn’t love free stuff?  At the Teva Mountain Games, free is pretty easy to come by.   Being a respected and well established event has its perks when it comes to attracting Sponsors. Whether is free stickers, socks, or Chipotle burritos, – there is swag to be had!  At Teva, the vendors’ line up tents throughout Vail Village, which is better known as “Gear Town”.  Gear Town attracts really cool companies who are there to educate and introduce their products to like-minded consumers.  In fact, I’ve discovered some really cool companies through Gear Town over the years!

2)  Free Music!
The Vail Valley Foundation never disappoints when it comes to booking amazing artists to perform for free during the event.  Last year at the Teva Mountain Games The Dirty Heads and Xavier Rudd both put on amazing shows!  Organizers haven’t released the line-up for this year’s event yet, but I’m confident that when they do, it will be something to look forward to.

3)   Amazing athletes
No matter what event you find yourself at during the Games, you’re going to have a good time.  Athletes come from around the globe to compete in kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, rafting, and much more during the Games.  There are even competitions for our little furry friends in Golden Peak.  Last year our office dog Aussie got a taste of the action in the Duck Dogs Competition.

4)      Participate!
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to engage in some friendly competition at the Teva Mountain Games.  There is a 10k, Vail Pass Marathon and Mud Run among other events that anyone can register for.  Last year me and a few girls I work with did the Mud Run and has a blast and half!

Lodging in Vail comes in a great price during the summer months.  I recommend calling one of our Destination Specialists today to learn more about the Teva Mountain Games and secure a place to stay!

Are you vacationing in the mountains anytime soon? Planning on doing some skiing, hiking, biking, rafting, climbing or other activities while you are here? Then you know the importance of a good breakfast. Getting something to fill you up in the morning is necessary if you want to last through a day full of activities. And if you’re vacationing to Vail, you’re in luck.

While Vail has a variety of breakfast spots to choose from, it will be worth your while to go to the First Chair Café at the Marriott. I had the pleasure of getting breakfast there this morning, and it was outstanding – definitely my new favorite breakfast stop.

While they have a full breakfast menu with options like Bacon and Eggs, a selection of Signature Omelets and Waffles, I went after the Breakfast Buffet. The Buffet was great, and included almost everything on the main menu (including juices and coffee). There was an omelet bar with an on hand chef and a variety of toppings/ingredients for your omelet, a variety of breakfast meats, a Fat Tire gravy for biscuits and sausage, potatoes with peppers and onions, a waffle bar – also with a variety of toppings/ingredients, a fruit bar, a variety of yogurts, an assortment of breakfast cereals and oatmeal, a variety of breads and pastries, and a locally smoked salmon. I hope I didn’t leave anything out, but even with this list there are plenty of options for everyone.

 

I went straight for the omelet bar, and made a bacon-veggie omelet that was cooked perfectly. While my omelet was being prepared, I filled up my plate with bacon, potatoes, yogurt, fruit and salmon and then went back to collect my omelet and have a nice little feast. While others at the table commented on how great the salmon was, I enjoyed the omelet and potatoes the most. But the whole meal was terrific. Our waiter took great care of us as well, always checking in and topping off our orange juice and coffee.

 

While items off of the breakfast menu range from $10-$20, the breakfast buffet was only $25. To extend our gratitude to The Marriott and our customers, we’ll go ahead and give you some free breakfast buffet vouchers to the First Chair Café in the Marriott if you book your stay to Vail with us. Call one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today to take advantage of this great offer! (855) 210-2469

Well everyone, the ski season is winding down here in the Colorado Rockies. There hasn’t been much snow in the last few weeks, mountains are showing their dirty and rocky base, and spring skiing is in full effect. While I would love some more snow in the forecast, springtime is here and this means it’s time to Spring Back to Vail!

Spring Back to Vail always brings in big crowds, as people gather for great spring skiing, free concerts and the famous World Pond Skimming Championships! The activities last from Thursday, April 12 thru Sunday, April 15. And while there is a free concert Sunday afternoon at the Solaris in Vail, pond skimming is typically the event that brings skiers closure to the season. Pond skimming takes place at the Golden Peak Lake at the base of Vail Mountain, and is open to the first 75 participants who dare to register.

• The event begins at 1:30 pm and costs $75 dollars to participate -the event is free for spectators.

While pond skimming is on the last day of the event, there will be free concerts held all weekend long! Here are details on the concerts:

 

• Thursday, April 12 – Grace Potter and the Nocturnals – At Ford Park Amphitheater
  

- Venue opens at 7 pm  and music starts at 8 pm

• Friday, April 13 – Thievery Corportation – At Ford Pork Amphitheater

- Venue opens at 6 pm and music starts at 6:30 pm

• Saturday, April 14 – JJ Grey & Mofro – At the Solaris

- Venue opens at 6 pm and music starts at 6:30 pm

• Sunday, April 15 – Iration – At the Solaris

- Venue opens and music starts at 4 pm

Come out this year to Vail to check out Spring Back to Vail! It takes place over closing weekend (April 12-15) and will be fun for everyone. We are also putting together a special promotion specifically for this weekend. So keep your eyes open and don’t hesitate to contact a Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today! (855) 210-2469

If you are traveling to Breckenridge and looking for a ski in ski out lodge located right on the mountain, I must recommend to you the Grand Timber Lodge. The Lodge is located on Kings Crown Road in Breckenridge, just a couple blocks from town. Not only do you have ski in ski out access, you are also a short walk from the town (the Lodge is also on the free shuttle route)! This makes the Lodge very convenient for families and large groups, as there is tons to do at the lodge and in the surrounding area.

The Grand Timber Lodge offers studio, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom units, all of which have access to all of the property’s amenities and services. The studio room  features a queen bed, queen sleeper sofa and full bath. Studios also have a kitchenette with a stove top, dishwasher and refrigerator. The studio is a great fit for singles or couples, and can sleep up to 4 people.

The 2 bedroom units at the Lodge feature a king size bed with a jetted tub and separate shower in the master suite, along with a queen size bed and a queen size sleeper sofa (sleeps 8). These 2-bedroom condos also have a full kitchen – along with a kitchenette in the 2nd bedroom – a fireplace, dining room table, private washer/dryer and a private balcony. There is also a large living area for everyone to relax. Quite the upgrade from the studio, these 2 bedroom condos are great for families and groups.

Finally, the Grand Timber Lodge has 3 bedroom units. These units are a bit more spacious, and feature a king bed with a jetted tub and separate shower in the master suite, a king bed and full bath in the 2nd bedroom and a queen bed and queen sleeper sofa in the 3rd bedroom (sleeps 10). The 3rd bedroom also has a kitchenette and full bath. The rooms open up to a large living room, full kitchen, dining area and private balcony. This condo also includes a washer/dryer.

The Lodge has some great rooms to choose from, but the main reason to stay here is for the convenience. Not only is the lodge ski in ski out and walking distance from town, it also has the full service Grand Victorian Day Spa and Salon, the Lodgepole Bar and Grille Restaurant, Indoor/Outdoor pools and hot tubs, a fitness center that offers exercise classes, a small general store, a children’s playground and an arcade. Also, right in Breckenridge you have access to skiing, cross country skiing, ice skating, snow shoeing, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, ATV tours, road and mountain biking, golf, disc golf, mine tours, and historic train rides. Staying at the Grand Timber Lodge, you can really find something for everyone to do.

With a variety of rooms to choose from and endless amenities, the Grand Timber Lodge is the perfect choice for people who want to stay on the mountain in Breckenridge. You could literally not leave the Lodge for the duration of your stay-no matter the length, but I would recommend exploring the historic town of Breckenridge to get the full Breckenridge vacation experience.

 

To plan your Grand Timber Lodge vacation, Breckenridge vacation or vacation to any of our destinations, don’t hesitate to browse our site or call one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today! (855) 210-2469

Last week, myself, John, and our accountant Deanna traveled up to Aspen to check in on our Aspen office and get in some spring skiing. I had never been to Aspen during to ski before, and was excited to embark on this journey.

 

We started from Vail after work, which is about 100 miles away from Aspen. We made a pit stop at Phat Thai in Carbondale for a delicious Thai dinner before continuing on to Aspen (I recommend the Sweet Potato Fried Rice). The drive was beautiful, as we drove through a mountainous landscape with bits of snow here and there. Finally we arrived in Aspen and went over to meet up with Tyler, our Aspen Destination Specialist. After sharing a few laughs, we decided to go experience the night-life in Aspen, which it has grown quite famous for.

 

We started off at Eric’s Bar, right in the heart of Aspen. The bar had 3 separate areas: a dance lounge, a cigar bar and a billiards room. After shooting a few games of pool and decided to continue on to the next spot. After wandering around looking for an appealing bar, we decided to head down to Escobar.

This place was truly unique, and the entire bar seemed to be modeled after the inside cabin of an airplane.We stayed here for a bit, until we decided to turn in for the night – we had big plans for the next day!

 

We wanted to fully experience the Aspen/Snowmass area, so we decided that we should ski at a couple of mountains in the area. The Aspen/Snowmass region has 4 mountains – Aspen Mountain (Ajax), Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. When you buy a lift ticket at 1 of these mountains, you have access to all 4 of them! And since the mountains are only 8 miles apart at the furthest point, we figured we would ride Aspen Mountain in the morning and then move over to Snowmass after lunch.

This plan couldn’t have worked out better, as we got a half day of skiing in at each mountain. Aspen Mountain has 675 acres while Snowmass has 3,132. You could spend a full week exploring Snowmass and not get sick of it. On the other hand, in the half day we were at Aspen Mountain, we rode every lift and did almost every run on the mountain. While Aspen Mountain is much smaller, it is just off the heart of the town and has some steep and thrilling runs. But again, a pass to 1 of these mountains gives you access to all 4 of them! And since they are so close together, you can never get tired of the Aspen/Snowmass region.

It was also quite nice to experience a variety of terrain and get a few different views of the surrounding mountains. The mountains up in this region are very beautiful, and have a deep red color that really stands out (partially covered by snow right now). You get some great views from the peaks of both mountains:

When you hear someone talking about a Ski Town, common associations come to mind – Skiing; winter; snow; mountains.  It’s true that most people, in fact, move to a ski town just in time for the snow to start falling and the ski resort to kick start their lift operations.  However, interestingly enough, once spring comes along the locals, who moved here specifically for the ski season, find themselves eagerly awaiting the summer. This phenomenon is due to the fact that summertime in these mountain towns (mainly in the Colorado Rockies) is AMAZING!

Colorado is the sunshine state – not Florida – as Colorado receives 300+ days of sunshine a year!  Pair that up with perfect weather, very low humidity and incredible natural terrain and you’ve got yourself a glorious climate!  On the weekends I have to make a choice on how I want to spend my perfect day… Should I go hiking? On a bike ride? Rafting? Camping? Play golf? Pitch a BBQ?  – It’s a tough decision because every one of these activities is at my disposal in no more than a 20 minute drive!  Forget the malls and your television, we get outside in Colorado!

Not outdoorsy?  No big deal.  Ski towns host a multitude of special events during the summer aimed at driving tourism to these destinations.   Some of my favorite summer events are the Teva Mountain Games, Aspen Food and Wine Classic, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Vail International Dance Festival and the list goes on and on!

 

Trying to stay low budget?  Great news!  Lodging rates dip down significantly in the summer months.  There are deals to be had everywhere and the rooms are cheap enough to make you want to extend your stay a week longer.

If you come to places like Vail, Breckenridge, Telluride or Aspen to ski and love it, I invite you to discover just how amazing these places are during the summer.  Although most locals prefer that this be kept a secret, I had to offer it up as a local’s tip, because it’s something everyone should experience.  Call Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to start planning your trip today. (855) 210-2469

Finally some snow! There has been a drought throughout most of Colorado over the last 2 weeks, but the snow if falling again! The snow is a bit wet still and may blend nicely with the slush that has accumulated over the last 2 weeks. And while warmer temperatures are expected towards the end of the week, there should be some snow over the next couple days. Check out the weather forecast and try to get up here in the next few days for some spring powder!

 

Here is the snow report for 3/19/2012:

 

Aspen (Highlands): 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 3 in

Aspen Highlands got a fresh 3 inches last night, giving them some much needed snow. This should help fill in some of the dirt gaps that have been popping up lately.

• Terrain Open: 89%
• Trails Open: 101
• Lifts Open: 5
• Ski-Able Acres: 891
• Total March Snow: 13 Inches

 

Aspen (Ajax) : 24 hr: 3 in, 72 hr: 3 in

Aspen Mountain also got 3 inches last night, which should help the mountain stay away from “early season conditions.” Be on the lookout for more snow in the next few days.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 76
• Lifts Open: 7
• Ski-Able Acres: 675
• Total March Snow: 13 Inches

 

Aspen (Buttermilk): 24 hr: 2 in, 72 hr: 2 in

Buttermilk got a couple new inches over night, again helping cover all the dirt and lengthen the season. No mountains have reported early closing dates this year, so you still have about a month to take your spring ski vacation.

• Terrain Open: 98%
• Trails Open: 41
• Lifts Open: 7
• Ski-Able Acres: 450
• Total March Snow: 12 Inches

 

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

While it has been warm in Beaver Creek the last 2 weeks, the mountain got 5 inches of fresh last night and there is more expected on the way.

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 148/149
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,814
• Total March Snow: 17 Inches

 

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

Breckenridge got a couple of new inches last night – hopefully it has not gotten blown away yet. And if you haven’t heard, as a part of the 50 Wishes Campaign, Breckenridge has extended the season by 2 weeks! So come check out some spring skiing in Breckenridge!

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 152/155
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,338
• Total March Snow: 14 Inches

 

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

Copper Mountain got a little dusting last night, but the mountain still in “early season” shape. Watch out for rocks and dirt when skiing.

• Terrain Open: 86%
• Trails Open: 124/135
• Lifts Open: 21/22
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,121
• Total March Snow: 9 Inches

 

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

Keystone got a couple inches last night, but the mountain is only about half open due to the hot weather over the last couple weeks. With less than 50% open, you’ve really got to watch out for rocks, dirt, and closed areas. Be careful out there!

• Terrain Open: 46%
• Trails Open: 86/135
• Lifts Open: 19/20
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,451
• Total March Snow: 11 Inches

 

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

With 5 inches from last night and 100% of the mountain open, Snowmass is in great shape for the spring time. I skied Snowmass last week, and was able to summit the mountain and hit some of their back-country terrain. While there were quite a few rocks, the mountain was in great shape overall.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 91
• Lifts Open: 18
• Ski-Able Acres: 3,132
• Total March Snow: 15 Inches

 

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

Telluride got hit with almost a foot of snow last night! While only about 80% of the mountain is open, expect some spring powder conditions. This means a little bit of heavy powder sitting on a slushier base. Telluride is a great place to visit this spring, especially with more snow on the way.

• Terrain Open: 78%
• Trails Open: 99/127
• Lifts Open: 18/18
• Ski-Able Acres: about 1,600
• Total March Snow: 20 Inches

 

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

Vail got 5 inches last night, which should help cover up some of the dirt you’ve been seeing lately. Now 80% of the mountain is open, but we may see some more terrain open up as the snow continues to fall.

• Terrain Open: 82%
• Trails Open: 180/193
• Lifts Open: 29/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 4,329
• Total March Snow: 14 Inches

 

March has kicked back into gear since last night, as snow is expected to fall throughout the Colorado Rockies thru Wednesday. While California has been getting multiple feet per night, Colorado should start to shape up for some spring powder here soon.

 

Telluride and Snowmass are tied for the king of March with 20 inches each this month!

 

Come visit us this spring for a some spring/powder 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

As a part of the 50 Wishes Campaign in Breckenridge this year to celebrate its 50th anniversary, the mountain has granted the wish (put in by numerous people) to extend the ski season! They thought this would be a great way to end the mountains 50th year, and will be staying open for the 2 extra weekends after the former closing date (April 15th).

Here are the details:

 

Breckenridge will stay open for 2 extra weekends (April 20th – 22nd & April 27th – 29th).

• The mountain will be open from 9 am – 4 pm on all 6 of these days
• Lift tickets on these days will be sold for $50 (in honor of the 50th anniversary, of course!)
• There are a variety of lodging options, most of which are also offering special deals  and offers (3rd night free, 30% off) to celebrate the end of a great season!

 

Call one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today to book a nice spring weekend in Breckenridge for a great price! (877) 540-3645

 

Well, we haven’t seen any snow in the Colorado Rockies in the last week or so, and with temperatures in the 50′s and 60′s we can safely assume that spring is upon us. And yes, this means SPRING SKIING!

 

While there will probably be a few spring storms that pass through and drop off some snow in the Colorado Rockies in late March and April, there is slushy snow and blue skies for now. And although skiing when there is tons of snow is great, it doesn’t get much better than skiing in t-shirts under a great blue sky.

 

Spring skiing often resembles “Early Season Conditions,” so be careful out there and watch out for rocks, protruding trees, dirt gaps, and even puddles! And if you are looking to ski through the trees, be cautious because the snow is heavy and planting turns can get a little tricky. So while skiing in the spring is possibly the most fun, there can be some questionable conditions – stay safe and have fun!

 

Here are some mountain stats:

 

Aspen (Highlands): 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

• Terrain Open: 87%
• Trails Open: 99
• Lifts Open: 5
• Ski-Able Acres: 882
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

Aspen (Ajax) : 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 77
• Lifts Open: 6
• Ski-Able Acres: 675
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

Aspen (Buttermilk): 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

• Terrain Open: 96%
• Trails Open: 41
• Lifts Open: 7
• Ski-Able Acres: 462
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

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

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 148/149
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,814
• Total March Snow: 12 Inches

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 152/155
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,338
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

• Terrain Open: 94%
• Trails Open: 128/135
• Lifts Open: 21/22
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,264
• Total March Snow: 8 Inches

Keystone: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

• Terrain Open: 72%
• Trails Open: 111/135
• Lifts Open: 19/20
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,282
• Total March Snow: 9 Inches

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

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 91
• Lifts Open: 19
• Ski-Able Acres: 3,132
• Total March Snow: 15 Inches

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

• Terrain Open: 94%
• Trails Open: 120/127
• Lifts Open: 18/18
• Ski-Able Acres: about 1,880
• Total March Snow: 9 Inches

Vail: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

• Terrain Open: 98%
• Trails Open: 189/193
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 5,164
• Total March Snow: 9 Inches

 

Come on out to Colorado this spring and be sure to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to help answer any questions you have about vacationing in any of our fun-filled destinations this spring. Call today! (855) 210-2469

Since I have moved up to the mountains, one of the things I have come to respect the most is the night sky. Having lived in a city most of my life, I was never truly able to see the night sky. The sky really does light up, and it seems that there are endless amounts of stars. You can see all the major constellations, but then there are tons of stars filling in the gaps – I could lay on the ground staring up for ages.

 

However, on some nights you can’t see the stars. No, I am not referring to when it is cloudy at night, but rather to when there is a full moon. While I miss the stars on these nights, I love looking up at the full moon, a complete circle, as it lights up the night.

While initially I was satisfied with just staring at it, eventually a few seasoned mountain locals let me know about a few activities you can do at night in Colorado – and these activities are especially recommended on full moon nights (for safety and sight-seeing reasons). Here are a few activities that can be done best at night under a full moon:

• Fishing
• River Rafting/Boating
• Hiking (winter and summer)
• Skiing/Snowboarding
• Biking

 

A few of these activities can be done right around your home (hiking, biking, maybe even fishing), but the others require a bit of effort. While I have hiked and fished a bit at night, 2 things I had never done before moving here were Full Moon Rafting and Full Moon Skiing.

 

If you are interested in heading up to the Colorado Mountains for stargazing, moongazing, or any other reason, check out my blogs on Full Moon Rafting and Full Moon Skiing. And don’t hesitate to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to help answer any questions you have about the Colorado Mountain sky in all of our destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

 

A luxury hotel, multiple restaurants, an 1800’s style bar, rumors of tormenting ghosts, and 130 years of history. If you are familiar with Aspen, Colorado then you will know that I am talking about the Hotel Jerome.

 

The historic hotel was built in the 1880’s and is still running today. The hotel has gained notice for its traditional style and welcoming atmosphere. It has been a favorite hotel among celebrities visiting Aspen, and the bars and restaurants have long been favorite hang outs for Aspen locals. Now let’s take a look at all that the Hotel Jerome has to offer:

The hotel has a 4 different room types: Deluxe King (sleeps 2), Premier King (sleeps 2, has a Jacuzzi tub), Junior Suite (sleeps 2-4), and the One-Bedroom Suite (sleeps 2, has a Jacuzzi tub). Each room has deluxe bathrooms, luxurious bedding, plush bath robes, a flat screen television, wireless internet and a safe. While the stylish rooms and historical furnishings are reason enough to stay here, the hotel’s amenities and services really tie the Hotel Jerome experience together.

Whatever time of year you visit, it is nice to have a pool and hot tub to relax in and luckily the Hotel Jerome has a pool and two hot tubs. There is also a poolside menu to order off when you are lounging by the pool. While there is a fitness studio on site, staying at Hotel Jerome gives you complimentary access to the Aspen Club & Spa, a 77,000 square foot fitness and full treatment spa facility. The Hotel also offers complimentary valet, laundry services, twice daily housekeeping and even babysitting arrangement services. Also, the Hotel Jerome offers pet friendly lodging, so that you don’t have to leave Buster behind! Above all, the Hotel has earned fame from its bars and dining options.

J-Bar

 

The J-Bar has been an Aspen favorite for around 100 years now, serving a variety of beers and cocktails in an old-fashioned saloon setting. J-Bar also has a select snack menu and an all day menu. The bar is open daily from 11:30 am – 2 am.

 

Garden Terrace

 

Going by the “Garden Terrace” in the summers and “Jacob’s Corner” in the winters, this on site restaurant is devoted to serving the freshest ingredients provided by local farmers in made-from-scratch recipes. The restaurant is open for breakfast daily, and only opens for lunch and dinner in the summers. Here are the breakfast and lunch menus.

The Library

 

The Library takes guests back in time as it serves a variety of early 1900’s style cocktails, fine wines and premium liquors. The dimly lit lounge is decorated with  a variety of historical artifacts and furniture to truly make guests feel like they are in the early 1900’s. The lounge is open daily from 4 pm – 11 pm.

Café Jerome

 

The Café makes for a great stop in the morning before a day of skiing. Serving pastries and house-baked goods, the Café also takes orders from the Garden Terrace breakfast menu. Open daily at 6:30 am.

 

If you’re not convinced to stay at the Hotel Jerome by now, don’t forget that Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass Mountain are all within a 15 minute drive. When you can stay at a place as cool as this and get to choose from 4 different mountains each day, it’s hard to think of a reason not to visit Aspen.

 

Don’t hesitate to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation to Aspen. Call today! (855) 210-2469

Last night (Thursday, March 8th) we were graced with a full moon. And while the full moon detracts from the stars, it lights up the sky and is quite a magnificent sight. Luckily, the full moon comes around once a month and allows us Coloradans to do a few things we might not normally do…

 

Like skiing at night! (or in the summer rafting at night!)

 

To celebrate this full moon during the winter, there is a gathering once a month at Loveland Pass. Ski and snowboard enthusiasts looking for a change of pace head up Loveland Pass to take shuttle runs up and down the mountain – guided by moonlight. While most use a headlamp or flashlight, one is able to ski down the pass using only the natural light of the moon and stars.

 

For those who don’t know, a shuttle run consists of driving up the pass, dropping off skiers, and then picking them up at the bottom of the run. When there is a large crowd, you don’t always need a driver as hitch-hiking up the pass is always an option.

Last night me and a group of friends traveled over to Loveland Pass to take part in this event, which takes full form a few nights a year when the conditions are right. Last night was one of these nights, as skiers and snowboarders from all over were looking to get some full moon shredding in. It was my first time participating in the event, and it was truly amazing. There is a certain element of risk and excitement added to the riding due to low lighting, but this makes each run that much more of a thrill!

But don’t worry! If you are not comfortable riding in the dark or if you forgot your flashlight, it is worth heading up there just for the views and good vibes. There were plenty of people last night up there just to take photos or act as chauffeurs for skiers and snowboarders. At the lower lot (where people get/give rides) there is often bonfires and people just enjoying the beauty of the night.

Colorado is one of the only places that such an event takes place, and it’s events and outings like these that really make Colorado a special place to visit (or live). Hopefully there will still be some snow around for April’s full moon so I can go and do this again.

 

If you would like to take part in events like this or find out what else Colorado has to offer, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. Call today! (855) 210-2469

Despite the optimistic weather reports for the last few days, hardly any snow has fallen this week in Colorado. Things are starting to even feel a bit like spring skiing conditions…but there are always a few big storms that come through Colorado in March and April, so don’t put away your powder gear just yet!

 

Here is the snow report for 3/8/2012:

 

Aspen (Highlands): 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

Aspen Highlands hasn’t gotten much snow since last week, look for packed powder and warm weather conditions.

• Terrain Open: 96%
• Trails Open: 108
• Lifts Open: 5
• Ski-Able Acres: 969
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

 

Aspen (Ajax) : 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

Aspen Mountain hasn’t gotten much snow in the last week, so be ready for packed powder and possibly some slushy snow.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 76
• Lifts Open: 6
• Ski-Able Acres: 675
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

 

Aspen (Buttermilk): 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

Buttermilk has been dry for the last week or so. However, 100% of the mountain is still open so get on up and enjoy the nice weather.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 40
• Lifts Open: 7
• Ski-Able Acres: 470
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

 

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

It’s been sunny and warm in the Vail Valley the past week, leaving spring-like skiing conditions. Snow is expected to fall in the next few days, so you might need to still wear more than a t-shirt this weekend.

• Terrain Open: 99%
• Trails Open: 148/149
• Lifts Open: 25/25
• Ski-Able Acres: 1,814
• Total March Snow: 12 Inches

 

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 1 in

Breckenridge got an inch of snow last night! This is the first mountain on the report to receive snow last night! But don’t expect powder conditions in Brecken-fridge this weekend, it has probably blown away.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 155/155
• Lifts Open: 29/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,358
• Total March Snow: 10 Inches

 

Copper Mountain: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

Despite the lack of snow in the last week, Copper Mountain has opened up 5 more trails and more than 300 new acres! Congrats to Ski Patrol in Copper for managing to open so much new terrain without the new snow.

• Terrain Open: 98%
• Trails Open: 134/135
• Lifts Open: 21/22
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,400
• Total March Snow: 8 Inches

 

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

Keystone also got a new inch of snow last night! It looks like the only snow fell in Summit County last night, even if it was only an inch.

• Terrain Open: 89%
• Trails Open: 116/135
• Lifts Open: 20/20
• Ski-Able Acres: 2,810
• Total March Snow: 9 Inches

 

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

Despite the lack of snow, Snowmass is still 100% open. Head on up to Snowmass for some spring-like skiing.

• Terrain Open: 100%
• Trails Open: 91
• Lifts Open: 19
• Ski-Able Acres: 3,132
• Total March Snow: 15 Inches

 

Telluride: 24 hr: 1 in, 72 hr: 1 in

Telluride also got an inch of fresh snow last night, adding them to the short list of mountains that did. Even without snow in the last week or so, Telluride has opened up almost 20 more trails, making the mountain 95% open. Way to go Telluride for getting this new terrain open!

• Terrain Open: 95%
• Trails Open: 121/127
• Lifts Open: 18/18
• Ski-Able Acres: about 1,900
• Total March Snow: 9 Inches

 

Vail: 24 hr: 0 in, 72 hr: 0 in

Vail hasn’t seen much snow in the last week, but there have been blue skies everyday! This spring-like skiing is always a nice way to mix things up, but hopefully we will get a few more storms before it’s all said and done.

• Terrain Open: 98%
• Trails Open: 189/193
• Lifts Open: 31/31
• Ski-Able Acres: 5,164
• Total March Snow: 9 Inches

 

March started off great, but has slowed down here over the last week or so. While some say I am optimistic, I believe we are being tricked into thinking it is spring and soon Mother Nature will give us some big powder days for the end of the season. Hope to see you on the slopes!

 

So far, Snowmass is the king of March with 15 inches in this month, Beaver Creek is close behind with 12!

 

Come visit us this spring for a some spring/powder 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