I have always enjoyed the adrenaline and excitement of running half-marathons especially in scenic locations. When I found out about the TransRockies Run I could not have been more excited to get a group of friends together and try to conquer this amazing, challenging, and epic adventure.  The fifth annual TransRockies Run will take place August 21st-26th.

The TransRockies Run is 125 miles of trail running! This is reflective of the TransApline Run in Europe! Both one-of-kind courses this is a run you must add to your bucket list. The run begins in Buena Vista, Colorado and ends six days later in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Teams of two will eat, sleep, and compete together as they cross some of the most spectacular terrain in North America.  There will be support staff for each team that will assist with their food, accommodation, and on course support.

If you are thinking about trying this adventure or you are not sure, you can access a free DVD as a first time participant. The pictures on the DVD are the best way to show the camaraderie and adventure that runners experience during the run.  Start your training today because there are over 44 miles of running at high elevation and a 10,000 feet elevation gain during the last two stages.

There is no better place to end your run and meet your family than at Beaver Creek.  Beaver Creek is a remarkable family resort full of summer activities and relaxation for all.  If you are planning on conquering this epic adventure contact your “Friendly, Knowledgeable, Locals ^TM” at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for lodging information at Beaver Creek.

Looking for an alternative to downhill skiing during your stay in Vail? Perhaps something that presents an even greater challenge than shredding the back bowls and returning to the sauna each night of your stay? One cool alternative to consider is the 10^th Mountain Division Hut and Trail System, offering 29 backcountry huts and 350 miles of suggested routes in the Rocky Mountain Region of Colorado.


The trail system honors the men of 10^th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army, who were trained during World War II at Camp Hale in central Colorado. Several backcountry huts are accessible from trailheads located in Vail, Aspen, Minturn, Leadville, Copper Mountain, and other areas throughout the Rockies. The trail system offers great opportunity for backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and during the summer, mountain biking with comfortable shelter to break up the journey. The huts provide beds, some with private bedrooms, and heat including wood burning stoves for all your cooking needs.


The Eiseman Hut is a great option if you plan to be staying in Vail at anytime this winter. Peaks of the Gore Range backdrop the hostel, and the terrain is said by some to be the best skiing of any 10^th hut included in the trail system. There is also a spectacular view of the slopes at Vail Mountain. Two private bedrooms are available if not booked already, and 12 single beds are offered as well. Some of the trailheads to access this hut are the Vail Pass Trailhead, Red Sandstone Creek Trailhead, and Spraddle Creek Trailhead. For directions, maps and details on trailheads, more information can be found here.


It is suggested that at least one experienced individual in evaluating avalanche and snow stability hazards be on board for the journey. A fair amount of the huts across the region are situated in extreme avalanche terrain, so be responsible if your hard-core aspirations wish to indulge! Updated information on avalanche conditions can be found at this website, and you can also access an Avalanche Advisory Report for the Vail/Minturn by calling 970-827-5687.


After some backcountry on the 10^th Mountain Division Hut and Trail System, you will probably enjoy the ease of downhill skiing and comfortable lodging with every amenity upon your return. Make sure to check out Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, with boundless travel options to meet your vacation needs.

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!

Winter solstice will technically arrive on December 21st, but as far as I am concerned, Jack Frost has already graced us with his presence, bringing along with him tons of snow.  The last few weeks, ski resort towns have been receiving snowstorms making them look like the holiday season has already begun.

Last weekend I found myself in the town of Breckenridge, enjoying good friends and spirits while watching the constant flow of snow.  Breckenridge has received 36” of snow in the last 72 hours!

While I was driving back to Vail, my jaw dropped when I stared at Vail Pass.  Pillows of snow covered the entire pass, as if just waiting for someone to ski what looks to be waist deep powder.    I spent the last few years spending my backcountry time in Loveland and Berthoud Pass, so I am really stoked to explore Vail Pass.

If you decide to hit up any pass or other backcountry spots, make sure to be prepared.  The following provides a list of materials that should be brought along on any backcountry journey:

• Make sure to dress warm!
• Skins or snowshoes will allow your hike to be that much easier.
• Small snacks like peanuts or trail mix to satisfy your hunger on the powder.
• A probe, shovel, and beacon to be ready for the worst case scenario.
• Compass and topographical map to ensure you of your location.
• Snow packs are great–they keep all your tools and such safely secured when you need them the most.
• And of course, your skis or board.

Colorado has a lot to offer, from amazing backcountry to the top ski resorts in the country.  Whatever your choice may be, make sure to be properly prepared and remember to book your vacation with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

This weekend I made my first trip to Breckenridge with some friends. We were hanging out by the pool in Vail when we decided we should mix it up and head to our friend’s Breckenridge house. We stopped at the grocery store to pick up some food to grill and we were on our way. The drive alone was amazing; all the Aspens are bright yellow at this time in the season and make the mountains look like they are on fire. Once we arrived at the house we decided to head out on a nature walk. While we didn’t come across any wildlife, there were a few spots where we had to cross a stream on some makeshift bridges. After a while we were all pretty hungry and decided to head back to the house for some food.

The night could not have been more perfect. After our delicious meal of pork, steak, and chicken we all grabbed some drinks and headed into the hot tub. If there is a better view of a mountain from a hot tub, I have yet to find it. We hung out in the hot tub all night gazing at the stars and the slopes directly in front of us. On the way out of Breckenridge we decided to stop at Daylight Donuts for breakfast. It was amazing; great prices, great service, and amazing food. I recommend stopping by whenever you are in Breckenridge. Our one friend who knew the area the best took us to a peak overlooking Dillon Reserve; the view was unbelievable. The chipmunks there are so tame that if you put some food in your hand they will literally walk right into your hand and take it.

Even though I spent less than 24 hours in Breckenridge, I had an amazing time and can’t wait to head back. To book your stay in Breckenridge make sure you call Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1.888.866.2305.  You won’t regret it.

This post brought to you by Andrew.

This weekend was an encouraging reminder of the fact that I am proud to call Colorado my home. I’ve lived in a few places – New England, New Orleans, the DC metro area – and I’ve made it possible to travel in and out of the country. Every place that you go to, or community you become a part of, becomes a place that represents the unique meaning to the story of your life.

As I become older, one birthday at a time, the places I live and see become more emotionally involved in the greater picture of my experience. Like falling for that special someone, or craving the comfort of feeling nurtured by my mother, places become an infatuating addiction, and a soothing bowl of soup. When you’ve lived somewhere long enough to know most faces that work in the community, and when those faces know you, you’ve established a belonging.

I always felt a mother-like feature with every return I made to New Orleans. Something was comfortable about the sweet smell of jasmine, warmth of the delta, and the subtle tones of saxophone and brass, lingering from some nearby block around the bend. Like Colorado, the people of New Orleans are friendly, and absolutely invigorated to be alive. When the city was challenged, and feeling pain, it reminded me of the first time I saw my mother cry. Mom sprained her ankle down the stairs, and I ran to the neighbor’s house confused, vulnerable, in tears. In the case of New Orleans, it was not possible to consider a permanent relocation after the storm. I had to be there for her.

I still think about NOLA pretty often, but my time in Colorado has been the start of another blooming relationship. The diversity of landscape, the power of open space, and the community of Coloradans make up for an eclectic ecosystem of belonging to a place. I often compare living in Louisiana to living in Colorado – for the attitude that exists in each part of the country. In New Orleans, the city motto is “Laissez les bon temps rouler,” meaning “let the good times roll.” I believe that this is present in Colorado as well, but the richness in culture from a melting pot like New Orleans transfers to a richness in appreciating all forms of life. There is a rich culture out here too, but in addition to our relationship with local people and art, we feel a connection to the land.

My birthday was Saturday, and I drove back to Boulder to see another network of friends that I care about and my old stomping ground for some familiar service at the bars downtown.  I couldn’t have asked for a better turnout, considering how many people went out of their way to celebrate. On Sunday morning, I had the urge to drive up to the Flagstaff summit, take in the open air, and admire the view facing west. Before moving to Vail, I did this often – counting down the days that I would be out there, up in those mountains.

When comparing the Rocky Mountains to another kind of relationship, I think it would have to be that helpless attraction to being totally immersed, to being close to an individual that you desire.  The drive back up highlighted my complex relationship with Colorado – I have a family in Boulder, a developing family in Vail, and I am helplessly falling for the Rockies.

I am proud to consider this place my home, and strongly encourage traveling out here to see why. Whether it’s for skiing, rafting, or hiking while the Aspens have turned to gold, I’m pretty certain that a vacation to Colorado will inspire emotion, and be careful – you might just fall in love.

This post was brought to you by Nika.

A month ago I decided it was time to uproot from my home on Long Island and move out west. My college roommate had spent the summer working for Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals in Vail, Colorado and had nothing but great things to say not only about the people he worked with, but also about Vail itself. He told me all about his experiences hiking in Breckenridge, going out in Aspen and camping in Beaver Creek. With his help, I was able to secure an internship with the Business Development Team at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals. While I’ve only been here a week, I’ve loved every minute of it, from my friendly coworkers to the beautiful surroundings of the Rocky Mountains. This weekend I’m going hiking with friends and I’m counting down the days until I can hit the mountain with my snowboard.

Don’t miss out on all that the Rocky Mountains have to offer. Call Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305 to book your vacation today! Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage or book your winter getaway early for peace of mind.

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.

One of the best things about living in the Rocky Mountains is also one of the most overlooked. We all know about the majestic snow capped peaks just waiting to be skied and the gorgeous back country scenery perfect for a relaxing hike. Go ahead and take in the crisp mountain air, but don’t let the fall season in Colorado pass you by. The picturesque views and the crunching of dead leaves beneath your feet, not to mention that distinct Autumn smell, bring you a sense of calm and clarity that seems to come only with life above 8,000 feet.

The changing of the leaves is one of the most beautiful sites to see in a land that is known for its unbelievable views. I have been to New England in the fall and the entire feeling is just amazing, but when it’s that time of year in the Rockies, the mountains are on fire, figuratively speaking, of course.

So, grab yourself a mug of hot cocoa or, better yet, apple cider, and breathe in: The smell, the green and golden laden views, the gentle sounds of leaves falling and rustling, the sunny warming days, and the cool nights – it all comes together in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Life was meant to be enjoyed – what better place is there to do just that?

While the changing of the leaves and just the overall feeling of being in the Rockies during this special time of year should be enough to lure you to the mountains for at least a weekend getaway, the pot is sweetened when you take into account the fact that you can view all of this in breathtaking fashion by visiting Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone, Aspen, and many of the other destinations that Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals offers. It’s no secret that Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals provides unrivaled service in premier destinations throughout Colorado and the rest of the Rocky Mountains, and the fall is no exception. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to enjoy peacoat weather in the Rockies for affordable off-season rates. Visit Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals or call 1-888-866-2305 now to enjoy the fall foliage.

Episode VII

Welcome to the weekly blog that reports my adventures throughout the general area of the Vail Valley.  I am recently new to Vail and have a passion for exploring the beautiful nature while also informing anyone planning to visit the Valley, or even current locals, of the incredible activities the Valley has to offer.  Every week I plan on going somewhere remote to experience the Rocky Mountains by participating in activities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, tubing, cliff diving, and whatever else I can think of.  During these activities I will be capturing the nature around me with my camera to produce breathtaking photos and informative videos if possible.

Recently, I decided it was time to venture to other areas of the Rocky Mountains to expand my knowledge of the beautiful state of Colorado.  The destination I had in mind I had passed through a few times, but had never had the opportunity to do proper exploring during the summer months.  This destination is the beautiful Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where I decided to do some mountain biking in Strawberry Park Hot Springs.  Strawberry Park Hot Springs has to be one of the most surreal natural landscapes I have ever seen.  Though the Hot Springs are known as a lodging destination, I found great trails in Strawberry Park leading into Routt National Forest.

To get to Strawberry Park Hot Springs from Denver, hop onto I-70 West to Exit 205 merging onto CO-9 N towards Silverthorne.  Take CO-9 N towards Kremmling then take a left at US-40/Park Ave.  Continue on US-40 until reaching Elk River Road.  There will be a few trails on this road, any of which are good for a daily hike or bike ride, but the Hot Springs particularly are located on USFS Trail 1100.  Personally, I had to take in the beauty first before I exerted any energy.  This trail is very popular for locals and you will other mountain bikers as well as casual runners with their dogs; be sure to be courteous of everyone on the trail.

I headed up the somewhat steep beginning of the trail and ventured far into the wilderness.  On the journey, I stumbled upon many places to utilize as a pit stop to enjoy the beauty and catch my breath.  These pit stops included a great river with plenty of boulders to walk along the river, an old historical barn you can go inside of and imagine the life of an old pioneer, and an area with  cows we saw hanging out on the trail.  Cows are great animals to stumble upon in the wilderness as they are very calm and will cause you no harm and will eventually get out of your way; or you can just go around them.  Coming back was an intense experience, as the majority of the trail was downhill; screaming, brakes clutched, hoping my bike didn’t fall apart underneath me, I made my final decent back to my vehicle.  Good news: I made it and my bike is still in decent condition.

This adventure was so much fun and the natural scenery was incredible.  I recommend this trail to all, as it has something for everyone: different levels of trails, plenty of great scenery, the option of taking a dip in the hot springs, or simply enjoying the town—it’s a full experience, no matter which option you take.  Steamboat Springs has an all-around friendly atmosphere with great dining and shopping opportunities for a great vacation or just an enjoyable daytrip.  If you are planning on visiting the Rocky Mountain area make sure to book your trip through Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, your friendly, knowledgeable locals.  Call us at 1-888-866-2305 to reserve your lodging today!

I think I speak for a lot of people when I say that sometimes, nature calls to you. When nature calls to me, it’s not really a matter of deciding whether or not to act on it; I have to get out. I have to feel the sun on my face. I have to immerse myself into open space and solitude; otherwise, the rest of my day just might not feel complete.

Yesterday, my roommates and I were heading back to our house in Avon from the office here in Vail, and it was that time of day – about 5:30 p.m. – when the sun is a little bit more gold in color, igniting the sloping mountain sides I-70 curves through. When there’s a blue sky allowing warm sunlight to boldly cut through the air, the force I feel to be a part of it becomes even stronger. I decided to embark on a self-induced adventure to Beaver Creek.

After touching base at home, I set off and drove in the direction that seemed right. I was told at the entrance of the mountain to have fun, was given two maps, and directions to park in Ford Hall. I was well-equipped in jeans, sneakers, and a flannel, with my ipod and notebook in the passenger’s seat. I parked my car, and walked towards elevation.

I’ve done my fair share of hiking and everything, but man, the first stretch I took went straight up from the bottom of the mountain, and I began to feel incredibly out of shape.  Once I got to a leveled out area, it was a good time to sit down, take a swig of hydration from my Sigg bottle, and admire the view of rolling mountains right before me. I had a sudden urge to pump up the volume of my music and listen to The Band’s classic, “The Weight.” Maybe it’s the influence of Easy Rider, but the song reminds me of all the ground I’ve covered over the last few years. As I stared out ahead, the comfort of recognizing my newest surroundings became apparent.  I’m not exactly roughing it – at least not when it comes to the overall satisfaction a beautiful setting provides. In fact, that’s exactly what the trail map that I was given says on the front: “Beaver Creek. Not exactly roughing it.”

Having this moment to chill and recollect my energy, I stood up and ventured on. Now listening to my favorite fall-back, Radiohead (especially when the sun starts to go down), I continued to climb upward to gain more air and a greater view. Although strange to be on a bare mountain with runs marked for skiing, I was nostalgic for last year’s season, and my adrenaline started pumping thinking about the ski season to come.

This Labor Day weekend, many events are lined up in the Vail/Beaver Creek areas. Kicking off with the final Friday Afternoon Club at the top of Eagle Bahn Gondola, and continuing on with Oktoberfest in Beaver Creek and the 16^th annual Vail Jazz Party this weekend, it’s a good time to celebrate being up here. For details on events this weekend, or to purchase an Epic Pass to get pumped for the upcoming season, visit Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals’ website, or call 1-888-866-2305.

Having grown up in Colorado, I’ve spent my whole life hearing about Telluride from the perspective of others. You can dream, read and hear about a place all you want, but until you experience something for yourself the magic’s not realized. Recently I joined Steffi and Holly from Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to explore the depths of Southwestern Colorado on a four day road trip.

Majestic sums it up. Telluride rests in a box canyon surrounded by cliffs and the largest concentration of 13,000 & 14,000 foot mountains in the state. The San Juan Mountain range that surrounds Telluride resembles similar formations to what you’d find in the Swiss Alps; towering and beautiful in all aspects. The town is separated between Mountain Village and downtown Telluride, connected to one another via a free Gondola ride; a totally unique form of public transportation, if you will. We took a moment to get off the gondola at mid-mountain to do a little exploring. This took us up the ski run called “See Forever”, which literally allows you to see for miles and miles. Telluride’s ski terrain is known for being very steep and challenging and from this perspective I could see why!

Prior to coming here, I had this preconceived notion that Telluride would be an all-around ritzy town, catering to those with money to spend. It didn’t take long to realize that I was wrong; Telluride is designed for all walks of life. The ambiance of the town was very inviting, had a lot character and was just downright beautiful. Chain restaurants and shops were few and far between, which further earned my respect for the town and the people living there. It’s not just a tourist destination by any means. This was very apparent, when right off Main Street, we came across a large donation cubby where residents leave books, clothing, gear and anything else they no longer need for the rest of the town to rummage through. Talk about easy access to hand-me-downs!

I’ve been fortunate to experience most of the ski destinations in the state of Colorado. I find that different aspects of each of them draw me in. My advice for anyone who gravitates towards visiting the same places in Colorado time and time again is to get out there and go somewhere different. You never know what effect a place can have on you until you experience it for yourself. I can say that my time in Telluride left one heck of a lasting impression.

To plan your next trip to Telluride or any other Rocky Mountain destination, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305.

The town of Breckenridge is the most historic town in Colorado, established as a mining town in the summer of 1859 when gold was discovered along the Blue River.  Breckenridge continued to be a mining town until 1942 when World War II efforts required all metal to be melted down; visitors today can view where the development stopped at Maggie Pond, which is located at the base of Peak 9.  The halt of mining almost turned Breckenridge into a ghost town, with a minuscule population of 393 until a company from Wichita, Kansas issued a permit for a new ski area.  In December of 1961, Breckenridge was officially opened as a ski town with a recorded 17,000 visitors during its first season, despite having one chairlift and I-70 not yet being constructed.  Since its first season, Breckenridge has continuously flourished with production for the thousands of tourists who now visit every year.

Today, Breckenridge is one of the largest ski resorts in the country due to the stellar ski terrain, breathtaking views, abundance of outdoor activities, delectable dining, and great places to shop for the whole family.  One great place to find a lot of these amenities is in the center of Breckenridge Main Street.  Find all sorts of dining, from Asian to Steakhouses, as well as great shops, boutiques.  While on Main Street, don’t forget to enjoy a tranquil experience at a day spa!  Main Street is a great place to enjoy a leisurely stroll or to take advantage of the free transportation offered in Breckenridge and Summit County, which is great during those chilly winter months.

Come enjoy the historic town of Breckenridge in any season!  There is never a lack of activities, with special events, concerts, contests, food and wine festivals, product testing, and much more happening on a daily basis.  Contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305 for more information on activities and events throughout Breckenridge and the Rocky Mountain area.

As it snows I’m thinking about all the bike and trail riding out there in the Vail Valley. Just two days ago, the beautiful weather brought out all the bikers soaking up the sun.  Today it rains and snow… For the roadies you should check out the Vail Pass Trail that is mostly paved and runs from Edwards all the way up Vail pass to Copper and Breckenridge.  The best part about riding the Vail Pass Trail is that it is far from the road, offering science views throughout.  Here are some good hiking and biking trails.

• Mesa Cortina
• Bighorn
• Lost Lake
• Booth Falls

Trails.com has some great info on these and other trails, or you could always blaze your own!

And if you’re planning to come out for the Teva Mountain Games check out Venture Sports for bike rentals….  Two years ago at the Teva Games they had Giant Bikes available for Demo, Hopefully they do that again, Nothing like Riding a $4500 Dowhnill Bike around the Village, But be sure to abide by Municipal Ordinance  for dismounting your bicycle on stairs even though the Giant Glory eats them up!

The Teva Mountain Games will take place in just two weeks! Colorado’s fickle weather always surprises….  I’ll just hope we have sunshine June 3-6, for the Teva Games and the Mud Run I’ll be competing in!