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!

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 is the 37th Anniversary of the Annual Telluride Film Festival, which is held every year during Labor Day weekend. As if the town of Telluride didn’t already have enough attraction due to its beautiful surrounding peaks, outdoor activities, and rich history, the annual film festival draws a crowd every year filled with avid film lovers from around the world. However, like every other year, the itinerary of the films and guests themselves is not revealed until the festival actually begins, leaving an air of suspense for guests.

Each year’s festival consists of a variety of films, ranging from old classics to brand new premieres in the film industry. Each festival also features a wide variety of seminars and discussions with guest speakers from around the world and some of the industry’s most respected actors and film makers. But, these features are not the only things that make the festival such a unique experience. The location of each film and activities during the festival also draw people to the festival.

Going back into the early history of Telluride, one of the places this festival is held is the old Nugget Theatre. This theater is located inside the Old First National Bank Building, built in 1892 by James Murdoch. The theater is located right on Main Street of Telluride, and has all of the look and feel necessary to make you feel like you’re right back in old time Telluride.

Films will also be shown in the historic Sheridan Opera House, which has a bit of history all to itself. Given the rich mining history of the town of Telluride, this theater was built in 1913 by none other than the miners themselves. The opera house is small, housing just 240 people, adding to the quaint and intimate feel of the theater during showings and events. The theater was designed by the miners to host orchestras and touring theater companies as a form of entertainment in the town. Being able to witness modern films in such a historic place and venue is truly a unique experience not to be missed.

For those looking for something a bit more modern, some of the events for this year’s festival will also be held in the Michael D. Palm Theatre. This is, to put it simply, a state of the art theater. The 30,000 square foot theater features dual film projectors, a digital projector, surround sound, nearly 300 lighting options, and much more. The theater opened in 2004, and also features a full stage with a Steinway Grand piano, and occasionally hosts Broadway style performances. These are just a few of the many venues being featured during this year’s Telluride Film Festival, occurring September 2nd through September 5th.

This year’s festival is filling up fast, so buy your tickets and reserve lodging today! Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals offers many different Telluride lodging options designed to suit any and all needs during your stay. We can help you find nanny services for the kids, offer grocery delivery services, private shuttle services to and from the airport, and so much more! Contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals. ® today to find out how we can help you build a customized vacation in Telluride for your stay during this year’s Film Festival!

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!

At age 26, I’d hardly call myself a wine or food connoisseur, but nevertheless, I’ve always appreciated a delicious meal paired with the perfect glass of wine. Haven’t you ever wondered about the science behind the preparation of a meal or how to choose the right wine to go with your food? I certainly have, so when I found out about the Aspen Wine and Food Classic on June 17-19, I immediately marked it on my calendar.


I’ve always felt that I have a more mature palette and adventurous personality when it came to trying food, so after seeing the itinerary for the week, it piqued my interest even more. The weekend will be filled with chefs, wine experts, and crowd-pleasing speakers. World-class chefs will be coming in from around the world to share a sampling of their life’s work. Even if I go for just a day, I’m sure I’ll come away with an abundance of knowledge on anything from cheese, family cooking, and of course, wines.


So, whether you want to learn about wines, find some new recipes, or just appreciate good food and company be sure to get your ticket to the Aspen Food and Wine Classic today! 2% of every Classic ticket sold will go towards the Grow for Good campaign. The Grow for Good Campaign is a national initiative dedicated to supporting local farms and encouraging sustainable agriculture. Lastly, don’t forget to contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for your lodging needs.

Come to Telluride this summer to experience all the festivals, mountains and beautiful scenery. If pairing the beauty of mountains with the indulgence of fine wines interest you then you will be sure to enjoy the 2011 Telluride Wine Festival. This is just one of the unique festivals Telluride has to offer this summer. The wine festival takes place on June 23rd-26th.

This year there will be more chefs, more experts, more wine, and more cocktails than ever! This is an event you cannot miss! New to the festival this year will be Chef and Food Network Star Aaron Sanchez, Chef and Author John Sedlar and Chef Sue Torres, as well as Wine/Spirits experts F. Paul Pacult and Andrea Robinson, MS. Returning favorites Doug Frost MS, MW; Steve Olson, Greg Harrington, MS; and Andy Seymour will also be part of the all star lineup, as well as many others!

The Wine Festival has amazing food, great music, and fabulous wines from across the country. You will not be bored with all the nonstop entertainment! Make sure you don’t miss out on this weekend! Contact your Friendly, Knowledgeable, Locals at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for your lodging information.

Being someone who has spent numerous years in the service/retail industry, I’ve developed a great appreciation for service with a smile. As a new snowboarder, I knew I was going to be doing some serious shopping for new snow gear. Not totally familiar with the area, I was directed to a sporting goods store called Venture Sports. At Venture Sports in Avon, they truly embody what it means to value excellent customer service.

As soon as I entered, I was warmly welcomed and asked if I needed assistance with anything. I was in the market for some new gloves and a helmet, but I decided to take some time to myself just to browse and see what else they had to offer. I quickly realized that I had no idea what I was looking at so I asked for some assistance. Though there were other guests in the store, they were never too busy to answer a quick question about recommended gloves or share their specials and sales with me.

Overall, I walked out of the store with a new pair of quality gloves and a solid new helmet. I was ready to get out on the mountain. Before leaving, I took some extra time to browse and I noticed some sick looking bikes mounted to their ceiling. During the summer they become a full service bike shop, tune shop, and tour operator. Covering cycling from very high-end road and mountain bikes to base model serious bikes. If you aren’t sure about your purchase, they feature try before you buy. What more can you ask? Venture Sports is truly a one stop shop where you develop a trusting and lasting relationship as well as superior customer service.

The stressors of work are easily combated when living in the Vail Valley.  Yesterday during lunch, a few of my coworkers and myself walked to a nearby volleyball court and spent our lunch break bumping, digging, and power tipping.  Happy to be out of the office and soaking up rays of summer afternoon sunshine, we didn’t keep a close tab on the actual score, and would only pause once in a while to guesstimate what the score actually was.  My team lost by six, but that is clearly up for debate.  Our lighthearted game of volleyball eventually evolved into gymnastics and then the most basic form of recess.  Though we were sad to return to the office after such an active lunch break, I can personally say that I found myself to be much more productive than I normally would have after 1 pm.

There are a plethora of volleyball courts to choose from in Vail, so there’s probably one closer to you thank you think, no matter where you work.  Volleyball isn’t just for the athletic either…none of us were especially skilled, and some were downright uncoordinated.  And by ‘some,’ I mean myself.

To schedule lodging in Vail, or to challenge us to a game of volleyball, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305.

Episode V

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.

Over the last few weeks, I finally obtained a vehicle after four months without transportation.  Sadly my previous vehicle, a 2004 Ford Focus was totaled by someone I do not know and will never know because they fled the scene.  I thank you stranger, not that I don’t miss my Focus, but now I am a proud owner of a Jeep Cherokee!  The excitement that went through my body when I purchased this beauty was off the charts.  Having a jeep in the Rocky Mountains will be a blessing when the snow finally gets here, but for now it’s just extra fun!

There were a few things that needed to be fixed, such as my rusty shocks, so I brought my new friend to get a check up and get her roadworthy.  The next day when Emmi (yes, I named my Jeep) was feeling healthy, I couldn’t say no to my building temptation to take her on some dirt roads.  My roommate and I took her to Edwards to tackle Berry Creek Road.  This road is located off the Edwards exit; take a right once off the exit then another right at Moon Ridge Road.  Berry Creek Road will be an immediate left onto a dirt road, and you’re there!

This road is ideal for mountain bikes, dirt bikes, or any other motorized toys because there are a lot of smaller trails that become quite precipitous.  Berry Creek starts out as an easy climb with a lot of rocks gradually starting to appear on the ground. I listened to Emmi’s tires rip through the dirt was proud she climbed the rocks with no problem.

“When should we stop?” my roommate asked.

“When we can’t go any further,” I replied, joking at the time.

When we got about six miles into Berry Creek Road, the road rapidly became steeper.  Emmi was doing better than I thought she would, until we got to a part in the road that made all three of us very skeptical.  We pulled the E-brake and stared at the road as if it was a dragon we needed to slay, but unfortunately the dragon won this round.  The road was way too steep and too many gigantic rocks lay in the way and I was afraid of breaking Emmi.

We knew we lost the battle so we had to turn around.  This turned out not to be an easy process, but after about twenty minutes of great driving skills and communication between my roommate and I, we finally got Emmi facing down the mountain.  The entire time down Berry Creek Road, I had my breaks slammed to the floor; not a fun experience for me.  We made it back to the paved road before it got dark, and headed home with no injuries!

This road was tons of fun, but gets intense after the fifth mile, so only certain vehicles will be able to continue forward. If you’re planning to conquer this road in your sedan, as a friendly, knowledgeable local, I highly discourage the idea.  Call 1-888-866-2305 to book your trip through Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals if you are planning on visiting the Vail area .  Who knows, I might even let you borrow my jeep!

If you’re unable to make it to Oktoberfest in Beaver Creek next weekend, fear not!  Vail will be continuing the party the two following weekends, the 10^th-12^th and the 17^th-19^th.  Festivities will take place in Lionshead Village the first weekend, and in Vail Village the second weekend.  Both weekends are sure to be jam-packed with activities, with everything from Bavarian music, to bratwurst, to beer, beer & more beer!  The party kicks off at 5 p.m. on Friday both weekends, so head on over straight after work (or maybe cut out a little early!) to start your weekend off right.  Saturday’s festivities last from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday’s last from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Start practicing your yodeling now, and bring your old alpine horn out of hiding, because both are sure to be prevalent throughout the Fest.  Possibly the most exciting event of all is sure to be the Beck’s Keg Bowling Contest.  Contestants can sign up Saturday and Sunday of each weekend.  What does the contest entail, you ask?  Two chances to push an empty keg strapped to a dolly into a pyramid of six more empty kegs.  Participants with the highest total of fallen kegs will advance to the finals!  Entry is free, and there’s a reward for the winner of the finals, so there’s no excuse not to give it a whirl!

If you’re not up for Keg Bowling, try a lighter fare, the Brat-Eating Contest.  This event is also free, so join eight-ten participants and eat as many brats as you can in three minutes to achieve a full belly and a prize for the winner!  Sign-ups are available on site Saturday and Sunday.

The Oktoberfest Fun Run is the perfect opportunity to stave away your guilt from eating all those brats! The race will take place on Sunday, the 19^th, and includes a free commemorative t-shirt for the first 150 registered runners, a 10k, 5k run/walk/blade and kids race, an after party, and awards for the top three overall male and female finishers.  Registration is $20 online and $25 on site.  Participants under 18 are $10 both online and on race day!

To schedule lodging for either weekend, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305.  If your phone doesn’t work, just yodel as loud as you can!

Vail’s popular Bud Light Hot Summer Nights free summer concert series is coming to an end tonight at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater.  This nine-week series has been going on all summer and has brought numerous genres of music to the mountain stage for vacationers and locals alike to enjoy.  Soul, jazz, funk, reggae, folk, dance, and rock ‘n’ roll have all been a part of the schedule and tonight Hot Summer Nights is ending with a Police tribute band. Named after the famous Police song “Message in a Bottle”, this tribute band has been around since 1992, playing at music festivals, concert series, and private events, collecting a loyal fan base over the years.

Don’t be discouraged that tonight is the last night of the free summer concert series, because come this winter, the Vail Valley Foundation will be entertaining again with its winter concert series Street Beats. Similar to the Hot Summer Nights series Street Beats is designed for the winter enthusiast who is begging for more fun as the lifts come to a close in the afternoon. Here in Vail, there is no time to sit around, so come out and enjoy a great summer night tonight and finish off your summer right!

There is a lot more to Vail than just free concerts, so give us a call at 1-888-866-2305 with any inquiries on anything vacation-related. We at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals do a lot more than just give you a great place to stay in beautiful Colorado: We love it here, we know you will too. Don’t miss out.

What could possibly be better than a day of food, beer and live music?  Two days of food, beer and live music!  Add your finest Bavarian costume to the mix, and you just might find yourself at the 10^th annual Oktoberfest in Beaver Creek.

The Oktoberfest celebration will take place in the Beaver Creek Village Saturday, September 5^th through Sunday, September 6^th.  Festivities will kick off at 10 a.m. on Saturday with the third annual Oktoberfest Shuffle, with proceeds benefitting the Vail Breast Cancer Awareness Group.  The Shuffle, presented by the Beaver Creek Resort Company, is a non-competitive 5k or 10k run/walk/hike that will take participants along trails through the resort and along the mountain.  The race is $25 for breast cancer survivors and $30 for all other entrees. Participants can preregister for the race online at active.com or on the day of the race in Beaver Creek Village for an extra $5 charge (day of race registration begins at 8:30 a.m. on race day).

The rest of the weekend’s events will include food booths and a beer garden in Beaver Creek Plaza accompanied by live music from Trachtenkappelle and the Helmut Fricker Band.  Special performances will take place by Super Diamond from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and by Beatle Mania Live from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Complimentary children’s activities will be available from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. both days, and will include an interactive children’s theatre, indoor museum and outdoor fun zone.  Make sure you’re present at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday to watch the kid’s European Alpenhorn Contest at the Kid’s Fun Zone.  Youths 16 and under are invited to sign up by 1:30 p.m. on Sunday to participate.

Other free activities for adults include culinary demonstrations both days at the demo kitchen in Beaver Creek Plaza.  Receive free cooking tips and taste a few samples from top chefs!  And of course, the weekend’s can’t miss event is the Bavarian Costume Contest, taking place at 4:10 p.m. on Saturday.  Dress in your finest Bavarian apparel, bring your friends, and prepare to take the main stage to walk the catwalk during judging!

The Beaver Creek Oktoberfest is a weekend you won’t want to miss, so make sure to make your last-minute lodging reservations with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals by calling 1-888-866-2305.

Music will once again be ringing through the mountains.  In less than 24 hours, the Vail Soul Festival will kick off for a jam-packed weekend of gospel, rhythm & blues, alternative rock, and hip-hop.  The festival will include not only live performances at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, but other activities including after parties, cultural seminars, and a youth music and mentoring program.

Fifty children from the Denver Metro and Vail area have been selected to participate in the festival’s first annual day-long “Ultimate Soul Experience for the Younger Souls” this Saturday.  The program lasts from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and participants will have the opportunity to attend performances, participate in music workshops with performers, and learn about the history of implications of soul music.  There will be a family friendly Youth Day Jam Session free to the public from 10:00 a.m. to noon in Lionshead.

This weekend’s line-up will include Grammy-nominated Chrisette Michele, Denver’s Jonathan Bryant, songwriter, producer and musician Dwele, and the winner of the “Show Your Love” contest which invited all local artists to compete for a slot in the festival.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased online or at the amphitheater box office.  Single day tickets range from $35 for general admission to $115 for the Soul Exclusive package, which includes a seat in the first five roads, a special entrance to the concert, access to an exclusive happy hour event with a performer, access to one of the “soul strolling after parties,” and a commemorative 2010 Vail Soul Music Fest T-Shirt.

For more information on the Vail Soul Music Festival, visit their website here.  For last minute lodging deals, please contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305.  If we don’t answer, it means we’re already jamming.

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.

Just as the summer winds down, children start going back to school, and the Aspen trees show a golden leaf or two, one of my favorite events in Vail comes to town: Vail’s Gourmet on the Gore.  Hosted in classic Vail Village, with Gore Creek  meandering through, Gourmet on the Gore is an open-air tasting of food, wine, beer and spirits.  This year they’re also pairing food, wine, beer and spirits with live Jazz music.

This year Gourmet on the Gore will be Labor Day weekend, with events happening on Saturday, September 4th and Sunday September 5th.  Vail Valley restaurants will offer specialty dishes in portions that allow you to taste and sample as you stroll through the Village.  Tents offering pairings of wine, beer and spirits will also be mixed in with the food tents.

Both Saturday, September 4th  and Sunday, September 5th, the tastings are open to the public from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.  Admission is free and includes the live Jazz music.

Grab a friend and come join me in celebrating the winding down of another wonderful summer in Vail at Vail’s Gourmet on the Gore.

Brought to you by Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.  To make plan your next trip to the Vail Valley, please contact us at 1-888-866-2305.

As the sun sets in the beautiful Vail Valley on a perfect summer night, the only place you need to be is at the Gerald R. Ford Ampitheater listening to free music, hanging with your friends, and enjoying some great people watching. Tonight Toad the Wet Sprocket is on stage as part of their summer tour for everybody in The Valley to enjoy. Dancing is encouraged, but not necessary. Food can be brought in, blankets are always a good idea,  and with all these combined, your fun-meter is guaranteed to be overflowing.

If you enjoy any of the following: fun, friends, food, sunshine, mountains, the 90’s, dancing, laughing, music, meeting new people, getting out of your house, or enjoying some local mountain culture, then I should see you at the amphitheater tonight in East Vail. I’ll be there tonight with my friends from here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, and you owe it to yourself to come and enjoy some free music as well.   I see only positives coming from an evening of fun at the Hot Summer Nights concert series this evening.

Toad the Wet Sprocket is one of the most popular alternative rock/folk bands of the early 90’s, with two platinum albums and multiple chart topping hits, and you can see them FREE tonight.

For more information regarding the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, the Vail Valley or on finding lodging in Colorado, contact Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals at 1-888-866-2305. See you there. You owe it to yourself.

Jazz Aspen Snowmass’ (JAS) mission is to “present and preserve jazz, American and popular music through world-class festivals, performances and education programs.” And that’s exactly what they’ve been doing since 1991. The organization’s modest beginnings were marked by their first festival in June 1991, which was inspired by one of the world’s finest jazz festivals in the medieval town of Marciac, France. Since then, JAS’s festivals have gained national recognition for their world-class music set in a unique, natural location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, attracting crowds from all over Colorado and America.

JAS’ 20th season kicks off with the 10-day June Festival on June 25. There will be four days of concerts by world-renowned performers, including Harry Connick Jr., Natalie Cole and Pink Martini. During the rest of the days, band from the JAS Academy will be performing, and some of the events will be free. September 3 to 5 belongs to the Labor Day Festival. So far the only artists to be announced have been Wilco and The Black Crowes. But keep checking the Web site for new updates. In celebration of JAS’ 20th anniversary, three day tickets are on special for $145. But hurry because this deal ends May 31. The most beloved JAS event is Snowmass Villages’ Summer of Free Music series. Every Thursday night, crowds gather at Fanny Hill to watch artists perform all kinds of music, from Latin to blues to reggae. And it’s all free!

Besides its exceptional festivals, JAS also dedicates itself to educating the public about jazz, spreading jazz throughout the community and helping out young talent. They have a multitude of local programs set up that accomplish their mission of preserving the music. The JAS in Schools program places professional jazz musicians and educators in local schools to introduce middle and high school bands and ensembles to jazz. JAS also has set up a private lesson fund called Pays to Play that provides three free private lessons to Roaring Fork Valley youth in any instrumental discipline. Through Stuff for Students, JAS donates instruments to schools that wouldn’t be able to afford them otherwise. Their most prestigious program is the JAS Academy, the nation’s only all-scholarship jazz residency program. Now in its 15th year, JAS collaborated with the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, Washington D.C. to make the Academy a dream come true. JAS has another half-a-dozen programs that spread education and love of jazz to young generations.

JAS’ pioneering efforts to the preservation of music in the community have been beyond influential. To come see first-hand what one organization can do to a community, contact Rocky Mountain Group Travel to find lodging in the area that meets your budget and convenience 1-866-348-5129

Visitors of Vail, you don’t have to choose between an expensive cab ride and getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. Thanks to Andy Zenor and Shane Ward, the geniuses behind the better option: the Turtle Bus Bar. This retired school bus painted green and turned party bus has been transporting locals to and from the hottest bars, apres ski locations, and rivers of Colorado in a safe and unique way. To put it into perspective, the bus is outfitted with neon lights, a disco ball, a stripper pole and a bar in the back. It’s definitely a party on wheels.

During the season, the Turtle Bus runs Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights until around 2 a.m. depending on the location. Departure and arrival locations include the Vail Transportation Center, Loaded Joe’s in Avon, Woody’s in Edwards, Covered Bridge in Beaver Creek Village and Sandbar in West Vail. A full schedule of times and locations is available. It costs $5 to ride one way, making it about five times cheaper than a cab. The bus is also available for private parties of large groups, costing $15 per person.

With Summer right around the corner, Turtle Tubing invites guests to “experience nature’s water park” through a float with the Turtle down river.  Don’t forget to bring a extra tube for your cooler full of beer and water!  You’ll be glad you did and we’ll be waiting for mid June when Turtle Tubing gets back in full force!

If you’re in search of a great night out, a day in the sun, hop on the bus and have the time of your life in Colorado!

Why come to Colorado over summer? Why NOT come to Colorado over summer? With so much to do and see, it’s no wonder the local joke is people come for the winter but stay for the summer. From adrenaline junkies to families to those in search of tranquility, there is something for everyone. Kayaking, white-water rafting, zip lining, rock climbing, fishing, paragliding, mountain biking, caving and hiking are just the tip of the iceberg of things to do in the summer. With so many options, you’ll be scrambling to try and do everything!

When the snow melts, the water sports aficionados come out to play. Kayaking and white-water rafting businesses

open their doors once again to welcome a new season of people eager to get out on the water. White-water kayaking requires skill and experience, but rafting is available to all ages and skill levels and it’s great to do with a large group of people. Some companies offer the chance to combine rafting with other activities, such as horseback riding or rock climbing. So if you’re pressed for time, this is a great opportunity! With a handful of rivers to choose from, each with a different level of rapids, you have the option to do mild (class I-II) or wild (class IV-V) trips, depending on your skill level. The Arkansas River, the most popular in Colorado, offers some of the best white-water rafting in the nation. The Colorado River offers a more relaxing alternative for those with small children. Whichever river you choose, you’ll be amazed by the beautiful canyon and mountain scenery. Nothing beats a day on the river surrounded by the Rockies!

For those who prefer a less energetic activity, the area offers hot air balloon rides through the glorious Rockies. Imagine being in the air surrounded by snow-capped giants, getting an aerial view of Colorado’s beauty. Colorado Hot Air Balloon Rides, located in the middle of Colorado in the South Park Valley, boasts the highest altitude hot air ballooning in the country. Their hour-long flights depart at sunrise and guests get views of the Continental Divide, Mt. Elbert, Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Pikes Peak and South Park Valley while eating a hot breakfast and sipping champagne as classical music softly plays in the background. It’s no wonder NBC Today ranked hot air ballooning number 18 of 50 things to do in your lifetime.

Maybe being on the water or up in the air isn’t for you. Well, how about going underground? You will have the chance to go caving in Glenwood Caverns, the largest show cave open to the public in Colorado. Glenwood Caverns offers three kinds of tours: walking tour, adventure tour and wild tour. Don’t like tight places? That’s OK. Sign up for a walking tour. You’ll still get to see the beauty of an underground cave but without having to squeeze through any tight spaces. Besides the caves, you will also go to a cliffside balcony where panoramic views of Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado River will surround you. For the daring and non-claustrophobic, the wild tour is the way to go. You will venture to rarely visited parts of the caves, but be prepared to crawl, squeeze and get down and dirty. You will be on your belly and squeezing through crevices as small as 18 inches during the 3-hour tour. It’s not for the faint of heart.

Many companies do group discounts. Contact Rocky Mountain Group Travel for help planning, booking and organizing your next Colorado vacation! 1-866-348-5129

Memorial Day may be just a week away, but it’s not too late to make it a weekend to remember! With large vacation homes still free, your family (aunts and cousins included) can come to the Vail Valley for a vacation you’ll be talking about for years to come. So grab your bags, pack the kids up and hop on the next flight to Colorado!

The Enclave

238 N. Fairway Drive

Beaver Creek, CO 81620

$695/night

This 5 bedroom 5 bath private house sleeps 12 and consists of 3 king beds and 4 twin, perfect for families with children. Wood floors, granite countertops, a fully-equipped kitchen, satellite cable and WiFi create a comfortable and efficient household.

The house has two large decks that overlook a creek. The decks have an outdoor gas grill and a hot tub, perfect for soothing body aches after a long day of hiking.  In the summer the property opens up the pool and tennis courts. Close proximity to shopping, hiking, golfing and fishing ensure that you won’t go lacking in things to do. Also, located in Beaver Creek, you have prime access to Beaver Creek’s Blues, Brews and BBQ festival going on over the weekend, an event you won’t want to miss!

Lionsridge Loop

1650 Lions Ridge Loop

Vail, CO 81657

$590/night

This tastefully decorated, newly remodeled 5 bedroom 4 bath house sleeps 11 comfortably. High-end finishes throughout the property, great mountain views from the back deck and all the essential amenities ensure that you will love your vacation home. With its convenient Vail location, you can take advantage of the free Town of Vail bus shuttle. The property is directly on the bus route so you won’t have to worry about driving or parking hassles. Guests of the Lionsridge Loop also have free unlimited access to the Aria Club & Spa, Vail’s most extensive workout facility and spa.

St. Moritz

2199 St. Moritz A Drive

Vail, CO 81657

$650/night

The St. Moritz is the definition of sophistication. You and nine other people can spend the weekend on the lap of luxury. With beautiful furnishings, expertly executed building design and stunning views of the mountains, this property will not disappoint. Other features include a kids media room, outdoor hot tub, outdoor fire pit, washer and dryer, DVD movie library, free access to the Aria Club & Spa and the Town of Vail bus shuttle, a balcony, gas grill and two car garage.

For more information or for help booking any of the above properties, contact Rocky Mountain Group Travel. They also have summer packages available. 1-877-510-2640