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

 

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

 

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

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

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

This year (well, technically next year in 2012) will mark Aspen Gay Ski Week’s 35^th anniversary of hosting the event. Running from January 15-22 in beautiful Aspen, Colorado, this GLBT friendly event is expected to be a blast as always. They are pulling out the stops this year for the anniversary, and will be celebrating the best of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s by hosting decade themed parties throughout the week. And remember to bring your best and/or most outlandish outfits because there will be prizes given away at the decade themed parties throughout the week! These parties are not the only thing going on for Aspen Gay Ski Week—there is an opening cocktail reception, a pool party, après ski parties, a Downhill Costume Parade and a comedy show.

Here’s some footage from last year’s Downhill Costume Parade (from PlumTV):

Participants are able to purchase a single pass (the Patron Pass) for $750 that will not only include admission to the aforementioned events and activities, but also VIP access to all of the events, a 1 day lift ticket, and a week long pass to the Aspen Club & Spa. Be sure to take advantage of this pass—unpackaged it costs $1025. Also, the ticket price includes a charitable donation to The Roaring Fork Gay and Lesbian Community Fund (RFGLCF), so you can SAVE BIG while knowing that you also made a donation to charity. There are various other passes available as well, and you can also buy tickets to each individual event at the door. Here is a schedule of events to take place during the week:

Sunday

• Hospitality Suite  – 8 am
• Apres Ski Hot Tub Parties @Limelight Lodge – 3 pm
• Friendship Dinner @Ellina – 6 pm
• Opening Party @Baldwin Gallery – 9 pm
• Late Night @Escobar- 11:58 pm

Monday

• Friendship Dinner @L’Hostaria – 6 pm
• Film “3″ @Wheeler Opera House- 8:15 pm
• Late Night: 70s Glow Party @Hunter Bar – 10 pm

Tuesday

• Friendship Dinner @St. Regis – 6 pm
• Film “Going Down in La-La Land” @Wheeler Opera House – 7:15 pm
• Late Night: 80s Prom @Escobar – 10 pm

Wednesday

• Aspen Club & Spa Day – 8 am
• Friendship Dinner @Elevation – 6 pm
• Boutique Night – 6:30 pm
• Late Night @Caribou Club – 10 pm

Thursday

• Friendship Dinner @Gisella – 6 pm
• Play Reading “Unmarried in America” @Wheeler Opera House – 7 pm
• Comedy Night: Demented Divas @Belly Up – 9 pm
• Late Night @Belly Up – 9 pm

Friday

• Downhill Costume Parade & Contest @ Aspen Mountain – 12 pm
• Friendship Dinner @Cache Cache – 6 pm
• Late Night: Studio 2054 Party @Sundeck – 9 pm

Saturday

• Friendship Dinner @Brexi – 6 pm
• Weekend Pool Party @Aspen Recreation Center – 9 pm

 

The Limelight Lodge is the official sponsor of Aspen Gay Ski Week, so this will definitely be where it’s happening. This stylish lodge is located right in the town of aspen and has a pool and hot-tub, free Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping and complimentary breakfast, among other things. Also, the lodge is pet friendly! So be sure to bring your dog along for a great week in Aspen. This property is booking fast, however, so be sure to check out some of our other lodging options just in case.

 

Aspen Gay Ski week is the GLBT travel event of the winter, so be sure to come check it out! Find out more about how our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^®  at  Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals can help you book the perfect Aspen Gay Ski Week vacation!

This past summer, Colorado hosted the 2011 US Pro Cycling Challenge, a bike race covering over 600 miles through Colorado’s mountainous terrain. The magnificent race not only brought the top 3 finishers from the Tour de France, it also lured in over 1 million spectators, creating an electrifying energy throughout the host cities and the entire state. Due to its great success, the US Pro Cycling Challenge will return again to Colorado in the Summer of 2012!

The race will be held from August 20-26, and again will go throughout the state of Colorado, showcasing the beautiful terrain that the state is known for. However, the race will change slightly this year, as new cities have been chosen to host each stage.

 

Here is a list of dates and cities where the

US Pro Cycling Challenge will take place:

 

Stage 1, August 20: Durango to Telluride

Stage 2, August 21: Montrose to Crested Butte

Stage 3, August 22: Gunnison to Aspen

Stage 4, August 23: Aspen to Beaver Creek

Stage 5, August 24: Breckenridge to Colorado Springs

Stage 6, August 25: Golden to Boulder

Stage 7, August 26: Denver

While some cities from last year are not on the route this year, such as Steamboat Springs and Vail, new cities have been added, like Boulder and Beaver Creek. It will be interesting to see if there is ever a permanent schedule, or if the host cities will continue to change.

Either way, if you plan on coming to any of these destinations to follow the 2012 US Pro Cycling Challenge or just to visit any time of year, find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized mountain vacation.

 

Check out highlights from the 2011 US Pro Cycling Challenge:

Every year since 2001, Aspen has been hosting the Winter X Games. And every year, they up the ante and get more creative and intense with their jumps, terrain features and race tracks. This year will be no exception.

Winter X Games 16 will return again to beautiful Aspen, Colorado from January 26-29, 2012. Last year, various milestones were set, including the first triple cork in a snowboard competition, the first 1080 by a woman in the superpipe, the first 4-peat gold by Shaun White in the superpipe, and the Moore brothers did a back flip on a snowmobile—together (however they were disqualified from the event since the event was for “individuals”). The event grows bigger each year as athletes and judges continue to raise their performance expectations, along with the growing popularity of snow sports in general. Last year broke their previous attendance record of 85,100 and reset the bar at 114,200. Attendance is expected to increase again, making Winter X Games 16 the biggest Winter X Games yet.

There are also a handful of returning athletes with big expectations: Shaun White, Scotty Lago, Louie Vito, Gretchen Bleier, Kelly Clark, Hannah Teter, Kevin Rolland, Sebastien Toutant,Torstein Horgmo,  Sarah Burke, Lindsey Jacobellis, Daniel Bodin, and a handful of others.

Here is the schedule throughout the weekend:

Thursday, Jan 26:

10:30 am – Men’s Ski Slopestyle Elimination

1:30 pm – Women’s Ski Slopestyle Final

2:30 pm – Snowboard Street Final

7 pm – Snowmobile Freestyle Final

7:45 pm – Men’s Ski Slopestyle Final

 

Friday, Jan 27:

10:30 am – Men’s Snowboard Slopestyle Elimination

11:30 am – Men’s & Women’s Skier X Qualifying

1:30 pm – Women’s Snowboard Slopestyle Final

2 pm – Men’s & Women’s Snowboarder X Qualifying

3:30 pm – Adaptive Snowboarder X Exhibition

6:30 pm – Men’s Ski SuperPipe Elimination

8:30 pm – Snowbaord Big Air Final

9 pm – Women’s Snowboard SuperPipe Final

 

Saturday, Jan 28:

9:30 am – Mono Skier X Qualifying

11 am – Women’s Ski SuperPipe Final

12:30 pm – Men’s Ski SuperPipe Final

2 pm – Men’s & Wome’s Snowboarder X Final

6:45 pm – Ski Big Air Final

7:30 pm – Men’s Snowboard Slopestyle Final

 

Sunday, Jan 29:

12 pm – Men’s & Women’s Skier X Final

12:15 pm – Men’s Snowboard SuperPipe Elimination

2:45 pm  – Mono Skier X Final

7 pm – Snowmobile Best Trick Final

7:45 pm – Men’s Snowboard SuperPipe Final

 

Television coverage for this event can be found on ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPN 3D. Internet coverage can be found on espn.com/action, xgames.com and espn3.com.  And don’t forget to check out all of last year’s footage to get stoked for this year.

When searching for lodging in Aspen or Snowmass for the X Games, be sure to contact us for the best deals. Also, our complimentary full service concierge will take care of all your ski rentals, lift tickets, and transportation to and from the airport.

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized X Games Vacation today!

Have you been waking up each morning with excitement? Immediately going to the window to see if snow has fallen overnight? Or religiously checking your computer for the snow report, hoping you somehow slept for a month and all the resorts have suddenly opened? Well if you have, you are not alone. I have been impatiently waiting for the beginning of ski season, even though it was only three months ago that I was taking runs at Arapahoe Basin on the 4^th of July.

It was a great day to end a wonderful season, complete with friends and a grill in the parking lot. But as I look out my office window at Vail, I look forward to the coming season, and pray that this year will be as fulfilling as the last.

While Vail is not open yet, the ski season in Colorado has already begun! On October 7^th, 2011, Wolf Creek opened, recording the earliest opening day in Colorado’s history. Arapahoe Basin followed soon after on October 11^th, this past weekend Copper and Keystone Opened! So get out your calendars, put a big red “X” on the following dates, and start the countdown to what is predicted to be another La Nina winter!

 

• ·        Keystone: November 4^th
  
• ·        Copper Mountain: November 4^th
  
• ·        Breckenridge: November 11^th
• ·        Vail: November 18^th
• ·        ***Snowmass: Now December 10^th
•          Beaver Creek: November 23^rd
• ·        Crested Butte: November 23^rd
  
• ·        Aspen Mountain: November 24^th
• ·        Telluride: November 24^th
• ·        Buttermilk: December 10^th
• ·        Aspen Highlands: December 10^th
  

 

Whether you‘re coming to ski on opening day or sometime mid-season  be sure to 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.

 

 

The 29th annual Food and Wine Classic in Aspen will be June 17-19 2011.  This is THE Aspen event to attend; whether you are the supreme foodie in your circle of friends, or you enjoy good company and divine food and drink it’s not to be missed.  Attendees come from all over the country; I will be attending from Vail, Colorado- another culinary hub. Now I cannot say that I am a supreme foodie, but I would like to think that I still know good food.  This is my first time at food and wine and there are a lot of things to consider.  The first and most obvious is where to stay?

Aspen, Colorado Vacation Rentals: Hotels are always a great choice but I am coming with a group of friends and we have not seen each other in a long time.  We want to be able to spend time together and not just hole up in a hotel room at the end of the day. Condos and homes are the answer to the hotel. You will have most comforts of home available and allows my group to be together even after the grills shut down and the wine stops pouring.  I spent time sifting thru several condo and home options and finally found a condo in Snowmass that fit our needs.  Now I know it’s not in Aspen but there is a free bus and we are an easy going group and this works fine for us- it also helps save some money.  Finding a vacation rental that works for you takes time and effort. Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals is a locally based service that can customize your lodging for any family or group looking to make the trip to Aspen for the Food and Wine Classic, but hurry lodging is booking NOW.

Find Aspen, Colorado Lodging now.

I’ve always been a bit of a music fanatic growing up. Though, with parents who are from a small village in China, I didn’t exactly have a broad range of music to choose from. Their music did help me develop an appreciation for cultural tunes though. It wasn’t until recently that I developed a love for jazz. I had an amazing opportunity over the summer to visit New Orleans twice and decided to stop into Preservation Hall, and thus, my love for jazz was born. I had no idea that I would find quality jazz in the middle of the mountains of Colorado, but I was pleasantly surprised by the discovery of Jazz Aspen Snowmass.


Like Preservation Hall, JAS aims to preserve Jazz in its purest form. Since 1991, the JAS hosts a June Festival filled with amazing performances. It is a ten day event with free and paid events featuring world-class musicians at the Benedict Music Tent. The entire line-up for the event hasn’t been announced yet, but it’s sure to be filled with performances that you don’t want to miss. Tickets for the 2011 June Festival will go on sale Monday, March 14, ticket prices are listed below:

June Festival Ticket Pricing (price includes all service charges)


Friday, June 24
Res A – $60
Res B – $40
GA – $20


Saturday, June 25 and Sunday, June 26
Res A – $100
Res B – $80
GA – $60


I can’t wait until the festival! It’s only a few months away and I can already hear the trombones, trumpets, and my favorite, the saxophones. If you’re a fellow music lover, then I highly suggest you get your tickets! Maybe I’ll see you out there in June. Be sure to contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for all your lodging needs!

March 1st is quickly approaching and my mind is slowly filling with thoughts of spring.  Melting snow, blooming flowers, less clothing, and warmer weather.  Overall, I’m going to have to start thinking about how I’m going to loose this holiday weight.  What better way than to start training for the Aspen Cycling Festival?  Taking place this year on May 20-22, the festival is a combination of two popular events, Ride for the Pass and the Aspen Cycling Criterium.  With exciting new additions this year such as special lodging rates, Sundog Athletics Criterium skills clinic, kids races/activities and over $7000.00 in cash prizes, the weekend is perfect for any cycling enthusiasts and their family.

If you’re looking for an endurance challenge, Ride for the Pass will definitely be that.  The course spans over 10 miles and gains approximately 2,500 feet of elevation from 8,500 feet to 11,100 feet.  Not only will this event help me shed those unwanted pounds, but it also allows me to fulfill my new years resolution to be more charitable.  Ride for the Pass is a charity bike race to benefit the Independence Pass Foundation.  Day two of the festival is the Aspen Cycling Criterium.  Sure to get your heart pumping, athletes race around the heart of downtown Aspen at average speeds of 28mph and higher.  The track spans .9 miles and is full of sharp curves to keep you on your toes.

So, if you’re new years goals are anything like mine, or if you’re just looking for a challenge this spring, head to Aspen for the Aspen Cycling Festival.  Registration for the event doesn’t begin for another couple weeks, but it’s never too early to start training.  Be sure to contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for your lodging needs.

This year at the X Games in Aspen, there will be some big, local names. Seth Wescott, winner of two Olympic gold medals and three X Games silver medals. Gretchen Bleiler, Olympic silver medalist and four-time X Games gold medalist. Nate Holland, winner of five X Games gold medals. There will also be some big ideas going around, and the International Olympic Committee will be paying attention.

Superpipe skier Jen Hudak will be practicing her Russian behind the scenes, as rumor has it the IOC is adding the competition to the 2014 Sochi games. The women’s ski superpipe final is tomorrow in Aspen, and the men’s final is on Friday. Men’s and women’s skiing slopestyle and snowboard slopestyle are other events being considered for the next Winter Olympics, and you can catch a preview at this year’s X Games. All the events are taking place on Buttermilk Mountain and are open to the public.

Skiing slopestyle men’s elimination and women’s final take place tomorrow, Thursday, January 27 at 1:00 pm. If you can’t make it up the mountain until the weekend, make sure you catch the men’s final on Saturday at 2:30 pm. The snowboard slopestyle men’s and women’s finals are both on Sunday. Check out ESPN for the complete schedule and get some help with your accommodations from your friendly, knowledgeable locals at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

Nothing is more exciting than watching winter sports live.  The incredible talent and dedication these athletes have is unbelievable.  I am so excited to be going to the Winter X Games in Aspen. I have only seen winter sports on TV and I have always thought how amazing it would be to actually be there. Seeing the energy and excitement at these events I cannot wait to experience this myself!

ESPN Winter X Games 15 is right around the corner.  Two weeks marks the start of the X Games in Aspen/Snowmass.  This event brings in more than 250 ski, snowboard, and snowmobile athletes from across the globe!  The X Games are held at the base of Buttermilk Mountain and is free to the public, so there is no excuse to miss this awesome event in Aspen! The event beings on Thursday January 27^th and ends on Sunday January 30^th. In addition to the X Games there will be a complimentary Bud Light Hi-Fi concert at the base of Aspen Mountain featuring Big Boi on Saturday January 20^th.  If you cant make it to this awesome event check it out on ESPN an ESPN2 for 24-hour live coverage of the games.

It is not too late to plan your trip to the Winter X Games in Aspen/Snowmass. For lodging, lift tickets, and much more contract your Friendly, Knowledgeable, Locals at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to help you plan your trip!

Wintersköl, the 60th annual “toast to winter” in Aspen, is set to launch on January 13, 2011. The four day event is a massive celebration, created in 1951 by Aspenites who wanted to celebrate the unique Nordic lifestyle of Aspen. The celebration is made up of multiple festivities such as a parade, a canine fashion show, the soupsköl competition, live music, WinterFest, fireworks, and much more.

The slogan for this year’s 60th “Diamond” anniversary was selected through a contest held by the ACRA and Wintersköl Committee. The conditions for the contest asked the entrants to consider what they love about the Aspen community and the impact of the event’s 60th “Diamond” anniversary. The winner of the contest, from over 115 entrants, won a pass to the 2011 Food & Wine Magazine Classic in Aspen, as well as the glory of having their slogan boasted for all to hear: “A Cut Above the Rest,” was the winning slogan.

There is a hefty schedule of events lined up for the four day celebration. Here is a quick glance at the activities happening each day!

Thursday, January 11th

12-1:30pm: ARCA Luncheon Opening held at The St. Regis. $40 for members, $50 for non-members

4pm: Aspen Ranch Arts Center’s “Wintersculpt” Begins! Located in the Aspen Mall Area, this is a 48 hour snow-sculpture competition. Sculptors work around the clock to shape 8x8x8 cubes of snow into freestanding creations in hopes of being one of the Top 3 winners who take home a cash prize. The competition will be judged on Saturday afternoon by a panel of judges from the community who will rate the pieces on creativity, technical execution, and compliance to rules.

6pm: Special Arts Museum Wintersköl Events at the Aspen Art Museum:  First up, Soups On: The AAM and four-time soupsköl competition winner, Chef Clark Church of Garnish Café, will host a free preview of Friday night’s soupsköl competition. Second, don’t miss “Radical Transformations” presented by Frederick Gregory who will be exhibiting sculptor Roger Hiorns.

9pm: No Use for a Name with Dead Country performing at the Belly Up Aspen. Tickets are $15

Friday, January 12th

9am-2pm: Anderson Ranch Arts Center’s “Kidsculpt” at Aspen Mill Street Mall

10am-5pm: Men’s Health & Women’s Health at Aspen Wintersköl taking place at Aspen Gondola Plaza. Party in the Snow! Free and open to everyone.

10:30am-12pm: Apple Strudel Downhill: free to everyone! All participants receive complimentary apple strudel with whipped cream and a drink!

5:30-7:30pm: Soupsköl (Located at Cooper Ave. & Hunter St.) A soup-making contest judged by the public to determine which restaurant has the best soup. Each restaurant offers a FREE sample of their soup.

8pm: Nathan McEuen and Friends at the Wheeler Opera House. Free admission, no tickets required.

Saturday, January 13th

10am-5pm: Round 2! Men’s Health & Women’s Health at Aspen Wintersköl taking place at Aspen Gondola Plaza. Party in the Snow! Free and open to everyone.

10am-11am: Introduction to Skijoring with your Dog presented by Aspen Animal Shelter. Classroom education session before an activity at the McBride Ranch.

12pm-1:30pm: Skijoring with your Dog: A Healthy, Safe Way to Exercise and Bond Together at McBride Ranch. Presented by the Friends of the Aspen Animal Shelter. (Popular in Scandinavian countries and in a few spots in the United States, skijoring is a sport that combines nordic skiing and dog sledding).

11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. Wintersköl Public Skate at Lewis Ice Arena. Free admission.

WINTERFEST at Cooper Ave Mall. WinterFest brings fun for the whole family including: clowns, face painters, live music, Aspen Kettle Corn, POP! cotton candy, hot chocolate & cookies, the torchlight decent, and the fireworks over Aspen Mountain. This is free and open to everyone.

12pm-1pm: Canine Fashion Show – Registration

1pm-2pm: Canine Fashion Show

2pm-3pm: Performance by the K9 Kings

3pm-4pm: Live performance by the US AirForce Drum & Bugle Corps and the El Jebel Shriner Pipe Band

4pm-6pm Family Skating Party at CP Burger on the Silver Circle Ice Rink. Free skate rentals!

6pm: “Wintersculpt” judging and awards – Main Stage, Galena and Cooper. Judging at 4 p.m. Awards at 6 p.m.

6:15pm-8:15pm: Live music by Slightly White – Main Stage, Galena and Cooper.
6pm-8pm: Beer Garden at Bad Billy’s
8pm: Torchlight Descent – Little Nell – Aspen Mountain
8:15pm: Fireworks Extravaganza – Little Nell – Aspen Mountain

5pm-6pm: Aspen Skating Club Wintersköl Skating Exhibition at the Aspen Ice Garden. Free Admission.

10:00 p.m. Super Diamond at the Belly Up Aspen. Tickets are $30 pre-ordered/$35 day of.

Sunday, January 14th

7:30am: Wintersköl Hike for Hope Uphill at Buttermilk Mountain. 7th Annual Family Charity Event, 100% of funds raised go to research a cure for Muscular Dystrophy. Registration is $25.

8:00am: Pancake Breakfast
Cliff House Restaurant, $5, Top of Buttermilk Mountain

10am-5pm: Round 3! Men’s Health & Women’s Health at Aspen Wintersköl, taking place at Aspen Gondola Plaza. Party in the Snow! Free and open to everyone.

With so much to do for all ages, you won’t want to miss out on the 60th Annual “Diamond” Anniversary Wintersköl!  Come one, come all, just be sure to come prepared to have fun!

Today is my last day at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals and I could not have had a better experience. Living in Vail has truly been amazing. I’ve been hiking, camping, visited Aspen and partied it up in Breckenridge (multiple times). I’ve met some great people and made friends I’ll never forget.

Moving out here from Long Island, I had no idea what to expect, but the results have been all I had hoped for and more. I’ll be moving in Denver after Thanksgiving, so I won’t be too far away. Today is opening day in Vail, so to say I’ll be going out on a perfect day is an understatement. I’ll be heading out at noon today to hopefully get some fresh tracks. So for everyone who follows the RMVR blogs, I hope to see you out on the mountain this season and enjoying all Colorado has to offer!

Ready for some super sweet competitions this winter? I know I certainly am.  For years I was an alpine ski racer, and I think it is fair to say I have never let my competitive blood run dry.   Growing up on the east coast, there is not much for freeride racing, although I really wish there were because I would have loved to get into it while I was still in my racing career.  Although I may not be racing anymore thanks to a few knee injuries, I still love going to competitions of all types. One event in particular I am extremely excited about is the Colorado Freeride Series & Championship, which will be held February 25-27, 2011 at Snowmass in Aspen, CO.  Alpine racing is much different from freeride racing; there is no course to follow, you choose your own line and interpret it as best possible. Personally, I think the freeride competitions are much more exciting than any other type of competition.  Given that each racer picks their own line, it truly makes it a game of strategy for both the mind and body.

The three-day competition includes skiers and snowboarders each divided into two actions – men & women. Some of the biggest names in the industry hit the mountain to show off everything they’ve got on Snowmass’ cliff-littered experts-only terrain. Last year’s competition rang in over 100 riders, giving a stunning show to all spectators. Each rider has two runs and is judged on a point system by five judges over a three day period.

The Colorado Freeride Series is one of the stops on the IFSA North American Freeride Tour.  Therefore, the competitors are able to gain points overtime for a national title. Winners for last year’s competition were Patrick “Packy” Wesfeldt (Men’s Skiing), Liz Norton (Women’s Skiing), Dave Watson (Men’s Snowboarding), and Ivana Crone (Women’s Snowboarding).

The Aspen Winternational Audi FIS Alpine Cup is being held on Aspen Mountain November 27th and 28th. The fastest female skiers in the world will once again be hitting the slopes to participate in the Giant Slalom on Saturday and the Slalom on Sunday for a chance to claim the cup. Prime viewing from the grandstands of the finish line will be at the base of Lift 1A, and there will be television coverage on both NBC and Versus for those who are unable to attend this thrilling event.

Saturday will also mark the kick off of the Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series with the artists TBD. The US Ski Team will also be available during an hour long autograph session at the Gondola Plaza. A fireworks show will cap off Saturday night after a fun-filled and action packed day.

To make your reservations for Aspen today, call a local at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1.888.888.2305.

Since moving out to Colorado last week, I have been looking forward to exploring the state. Vail, Beaver Creek, and Keystone are all beautiful, but I want to take advantage of all Colorado has to offer. This past Sunday, my roommates and I were debating how to spend yet another beautiful day. After a few minutes we all agreed to take a road trip through Independence Pass to Aspen. The foliage throughout Independence Pass was truly amazing; the colors of the leaves were so vivid, the reflection off of Twin Lakes insanely bright, and the rivers exceptionally clear. We had to stop multiple times on the way so we could take pictures of the scenery. We were all in such awe of everything around us, especially since it was the first time any of us had driven through the pass.

The town of Aspen itself couldn’t have been more beautiful. Sitting at the base of the mountains, the town was action packed since Ruggerfest was in full swing. We actually ran into one of our coworkers who was participating in Ruggerfest. It was my first trip to Aspen and it didn’t disappoint. There are a multitude of restaurants and shops along with friendly locals willing to help you out with directions or recommend their favorite Mexican joint. As the sun began to set on our perfect day, we decided to set sail back to Beaver Creek, all of our minds drifting back to the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and Aspen.

To take advantage of Aspen and all of its surrounding beauty (including Independence Pass) call Rocky Mountains Vacation Rentals at 1.888.866.2305 to book your lodging today.

This post was brought to you by Andrew, a member of the Business Development Team, primarily concerned with marketing, the website, and Google Analytics. Having grown up in Long Island and then escaping up to Vermont for college, it’s no surprise that Andrew ventured out to Colorado for the purpose of “getting away.” Andrew spends most of his free time with friends, snowboarding, being outside, and going for runs. He is passionate about making the most of each day, and can most effectively be summed up as “hard-working,” as he values the concept of getting the job done. In addition to playing lacrosse for the University of Vermont, he graduated recently with a degree in both History and Marketing Business Administration.

As a recent Colorado transplant from Minnesota, I am counting down the days until I get to bust out my snowboard. However, there is another sport that I also happen to be slightly obsessed with…RUGBY! After a quick Google search I was delighted to find that the 43rd Annual Aspen Ruggerfest is coming up in Aspen, CO – September 16 – 19, 2010! One of the many great things about rugby is that you don’t have to be on a team to enjoy it; you can either be a spectator or a whore!  I personally plan on being both at Ruggerfest! Now for those of you who don’t know much about rugby, I highly suggest heading out to Aspen to watch some games, and I should also probably explain what a whore is. A rugby whore is a player that plays for the love of the sport and shows up to tournaments with their boots (cleats), shorts, mouth guard and a desire to play. They’ll play in any position that is available with any team looking for players.

Now that that’s all cleared up, I can safely say I’m pretty excited to whore myself onto the famed rugby fields in the world renowned resort of Aspen, Colorado. Aside from being a world class rugby tournament that attracts nearly 50 teams from all over the continental United States, Hawaii, the southern Hemisphere and Europe, Ruggerfest is also a weekend long party! I am especially looking forward to “The Elvis Aaron Presley Club” party on Friday night at the Hunter Bar, in honor of the Memphis RFC’s 10th Anniversary return to Ruggerfest. Top Prizes for the best themed 60’s, 70’s and 80’s costumes and drinks specials all night! Wherever they may be, Ruggers know how to have a good time, so it’s safe to say that all the Ruggerfest events will be a blast!

If you’re interested in attending Aspen Ruggerfest (I don’t know why you wouldn’t be!), contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305 to book your lodging!

Aspen, Colorado – A small town in Colorado recognized as Hollywood’s ski destination of choice.  The Hollywood appeal makes Aspen the perfect place to hold a film festival that features Independent Films; Films that are less “Hollywood” and more of a direct reflection of the filmmaker’s personal artistry.  In order to be considered an Independent Film, less than half of the film’s financing should come from a major studio.  This typically amounts to lower budgeted films whose success relies more on popularity spread through viral marketing.

For 32 years, Aspen Film, a 501(c)(3), has been enriching the lives of the community through film and educational outreach.  This Labor Day weekend, the Aspen Filmfest kicks off with their Sneak Program Peak and Special Guest Announcements.  However, the public will have to wait until September 8th for the official release of the full program both online and in print.  Tickets don’t go on sale to the general public until September 15^th, just two weeks before Filmfest kicks off!  This year celebrates the 70^th anniversary of John Lennon’s Birth, and what better way to recognize such a day than with a special performance from The Quarrymen, John Lennon’s original band.  Accompanying The Quarrymen will be a sneak preview of the upcoming feature film “Nowhere Boy”, a documentary capturing John Lennon’s growth from a boy, into a young man, to a famous musician in the band that became known as the Beatles.

The Aspen Filmfest will be held September 29 – October 3, 2010.  If you’re looking to catch wind of the latest in independent films from around the world, this is not an event to miss.  Get your tickets September 15 and book your Aspen lodging by calling 1-888-866-2305 to speak to your Friendly, Knowledgeable, Locals at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

September Just Got a Little Bit Cooler…

Adding to the wide array of Labor Day events occurring this year in Colorado is the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Festival.  The festival is sponsored by Jazz Aspen Snowmass, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving jazz music by hosting festivals, performances, and educational programs.

The festival kicks off this Friday, September 3^rd, at 4 pm with Calexio on the Main Festival Stage.  Performances will continue throughout the weekend, with appearances from popular artists including Wilco, Lubriphonic, The Stone Foxes, The Black Crowes, and more.  The festival will come to a close Sunday with a performance by my personal favorite (hitting close to home—I grew up playing in the Ronnie Van Zant playground in Middleburg, Florida), Lynyrd Skynard, at 7:15 pm on the Main Festival Stage.

For those who can’t seem to keep their toes from tapping after the festival, there will be a FREE DJ dance party nightly at 10 pm at the Eight K Restaurant at the Viceroy Hotel.

General admission for the festival is $56 on Friday, $75 each on Saturday and Sunday, or $190 for a three day pass.  Students showing student ID will receive 50% off admission, and children 13 and under will be admitted free of charge.

To book your last minute lodging for the festival, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305, and until then, keep jammin’!

The Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals blogsite has been undergoing construction for the past few weeks, but we’re back and plan to be blogging more than ever!  Stay tuned for the latest information on events and happenings in Vail, Beaver Creek, Aspen/Snowmass, Denver, Telluride, Breckenridge, and more!

Written by Brittney Horn

Cycling enthusiasts in Colorado have Gov. Bill Ritter and seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong to thank for the return of an international pro-cycling race to the Centennial state. Both enthusiastically announced the big news Wednesday morning and are very excited to begin planning for the event. The cycling race is named, “The Quiznos Pro Challenge,” after its sponsor, the Quiznos restaurant chain. The seven-day race will be held August 22-28 of next year and is expected to bring in cyclists from around the world and help Colorado’s economy.

The last international pro-cycling event that was held in Colorado was the Coors International Bicycle Classic, which ended its nine-year term in 1988. Because of the revival of a pro-cycling event coming back to Colorado, cyclists around the Denver area celebrated with Armstrong and Gov. Ritter by taking a ride from the State Capitol to Washington Park in Denver yesterday afternoon.

The course for the race is still yet to be chosen, but it will definitely highlight Colorado’s mountainous landscape and either will beginor end in Denver. The race will also be stopping in several towns and cities during its week-long tour. This tour will be one of two arranged for the United States next year, which makes the competition even more enticing to cyclists.

Armstrong, who owns a house in the beautiful Colorado city of Aspen, got the idea of restarting an international pro-cycling stage race while he was taking a scenic ride through Colorado’s mountains. “What started out as a ‘daydream’ of mine on a long ride outside of Aspen will now become a reality,” says Lance Armstrong energetically.

So get excited Colorado, for the 2011 Quiznos Pro Challenge!