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Blog Post: Weekly mountain recap June 17, 2013

Tristan Chan — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 20:35:00 GMT

Each Monday we'll bring you a weekly roundup from our resorts. Share your Epic Moments through photos and stories and we’ll feature you in our next recap. Use #epicmoments or tag @snowdotcom on Instagram or Twitter.

This week's roundup salutes our mountain fathers, commemorates opening weekend at our resorts, and recaps Beaver Creek's Tough Mudder.

A beautiful father daughter moment at Vail.

This latergram won Heavenly's #HeavenlyDads competition.

The gondolas are in full operation for the summer at Breckenridge.

Northstar offered a little something for everyone this past Father's Day.

How does Breckenridge kick off summer opening day? Out house races of course!

Tranquil moments at East Vail dog park.

Joe V shared this #epicmoment at Beaver Creek's Tough Mudder.

#definitelyroughingit

@powderplanners took to the trails this weekend at Keystone

Heavenly also celebrated opening day this weekend with summer tubing.

Blog Post: Chairlift Chat: At Vail with The McGees

Anonymous — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 19:00:00 GMT

In honor of this Father's Day, we wanted to revisit a special ski day that took place this past season with Frank McGee and his son Jack. Happy Father's Day!

Frank McGee and his teenage son, Jack, almost made first chair and here they were skiing almost to last chair. It didn't take much for Cleveland resident, Frank, who was on a business trip in Denver, to convince his son Jack to play hooky, hop on a plane mid-week and join him in Colorado … with dad’s ski gear in tow.

It was Jack’s first trip to Vail and although he had only sampled the front side of the resort he was already declaring it his “favorite mountain ever.” “I’m very impressed,” was the teenager’s decisive assessment. “I think it’s the size, especially when you find a run with nobody on it that you can ski down with nobody around you, you don’t have to worry about anything but skiing. It’s peaceful.”

Frank’s last trip to Colorado – last season – was to Keystone. Enjoyable as that was, he likes to mix it up and knowing there is nothing quite comparable to Vail, he wanted to show his son the country’s most sprawling terrain. As you heard, the younger McGee was sold. Just wait until you hit the bowls, kid. You ain’t seen nothin’ yet.

Frank McGee, Cleveland, Ohio

Why first chair? Make the most of the day, beat the crowd.

What does skiing mean to you? I first came to Colorado after college as a graduation present. The skiing was just incredible. I fell in love with it. It’s just love.

When did you start skiing? When I was 4 or 5 years old.

Favorite run? All of [Vail’s] Back Bowls – I skied them with my brother after about a foot of new snow and he killed me by about 10:30.

Mittens or Gloves? Gloves

Prediction for number of ski days this year: 10 to 15

Favorite person to ski with: I’d have to say him (son Jack), although it’s getting harder and harder to keep up with him. He disappears in the woods and I just listen for the ‘oohs and owes’ and cracking noises.

Blog Post: This Epic Weekend: June 14-16

Tristan Chan — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:29:00 GMT

Here's your last-minute reminder: This Sunday is Father's Day. If you're looking to get outdoors with Dad, check out all the opening day events our resorts have to offer. Whether it's outdoor concerts, volleyball tournaments, adventure centers, or golfing, we've got you covered.

Friday Afternoon Club

Resort: Keystone

Date: Friday, June 14

This club is neither secret nor exclusive. Starting this week, come out every Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. through the end of the summer, for a free party with live music at the top of the mountain. Free gondola rides begin at 3 p.m. To read more about Friday Afternoon Club, check out last year's event preview.

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Breckenridge Summer Opening Weekend

Resort: Breckenridge

Date: Friday, June 14

Looking for some high energy summer activities, look no further. The Breckenridge Summer Fun Park features activities for all ages, like the Alpine SuperSlide, Gold Runner Coaster, Breck Treks guided hikes, 4x4 off-road tours, climbing wall, mini golf and more.

The Fun Park opens this weekend, and operates daily from 9:30am - 5:30pm through Sept. 2; then Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only through Sept. 15.

Heavenly Summer Opening Weekend

Resort: Heavenly

Date: Friday, June 14

Heavenly's gondola rides, observation deck, climbing wall, summer tubing, Tamarack Express Lift, Spider Climb kid's zone and more, all open for operation this weekend as well. Get out and take in the beauty of Lake Tahoe while staying active all summer long.

Vail Rocks

Resort: Vail

Dates: June 14-15

Join cancer survivors, supporters and talented musicians on a trek up Vail Mountain. Vail Rocks kicks off with a reception by Vail's own Ryan and Trista Sutter. Then enjoy acoustic musical performances and extraordinary views throughout the hike with performances by event founder, and 2-time Leukemia survivor Mike Peters of The Alarm and Big Country. Other performances feature music from Brett Dennen, Cy Curnin of the Fixx, School of Rock and many more to be announced.

Participants will benefit Love Hope Strength Foundation, saving lives one concert at a time. Learn more and register.

Check out music from some of the artists who will be performing at Vail Rocks above.

King of the Mountain Volleyball Tournament

Resort: Vail

Dates: June 14-16

The King of the Mountain Volleyball Tournament returns for the 40th consecutive year. This family event has something for everyone including Men's and Women's divisions as well as Men's Masters and Seniors, Juniors, and Co-Ed competitions. A juniors beach volleyball camp is held on Friday. A Perfect Father's Day Event.

Free Music at Northstar

Resort: Northstar

Date: Saturday, June 15

Enjoy live music in the Village at Northstar all summer long! Musical performances will take place every Saturday and Sunday from June 8 - August 25, 2013, on the Village stage from 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. All live music is FREE; schedule is subject to change due to weather or events.

Kingdom Days at Breckenridge

Resort: Breckenridge

Dates: June 15-16

Did you know that the Town of Breckenridge is actually a kingdom? It’s true, until 1936, it never appeared on maps. Although there is no official king (although you can make it your dad for this particular weekend), the town is buzzing with celebration including the world’s most exciting Outhouse races, in which teams sprint as quickly as possible down Ridge Street amid hundreds of spectators in self-constructed outhouses on wheels. The celebration is geared around the town’s rich mining history with mine and saloon tours, historic hikes and a concert by the National Repertory Orchestra.

Tough Mudder

Resort: Beaver Creek

Dates: June 15-16

Even if you haven’t signed up to haul yourself through this mountain obstacle course of mud, blood and fire, watching it is equally as thrilling. Plus, enjoy plenty of fun vendors, food and beer tents and free giveaways throughout Beaver Creek Village.

WOO! Golf Scramble

Resort: Keystone

Date: Sunday, June 16

Give dad a memorable Father's Day by spending Sunday on the greens. Don't miss out on opening weekend's WOO (We're Open OPEN) golf scramble at Keystone Ranch golf course! A 2-player scramble, low net/low gross & individual pin prizes. Event gifts, free beer, barbecue,and over $3,000 in prizes. WOO winners also get their names engraved on the coveted We're Open OPEN champions trophy.

Vail Farmer’s Market

Resort: Vail

Sunday, June 16

Looking for the freshest ingredients for that summer salad? Every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning June 16 the streets of Vail are filled wall-to-wall with booths of everything from tin art to crepes, barbecue to German pastries, all on display and packed with shoppers to the soundtrack of free live jazz courtesy of the Vail Jazz Foundation. It’s the best people-watching stop in the Rockies.

Blog Post: Colorado and Tahoe mountain bike guide

Admin — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 21:12:00 GMT

There’s just something about self-propelling two fat tires around switchbacks (tight curves) and over rocks and roots giving you a one-of-a-kind rush that can’t be paralleled on skis, or boards. It’s important to note however, that mountain biking isn’t as simple as riding a roller coaster where you’re safely strapped in for the ride. When it comes to hurdling down the mountain, it’s critical to plan and prepare.

While Vail Resorts are home to some of the most epic trails in the world, the rating system for bike trails and ski trails are not one and the same. While a green ski trail is easy, a green mountain bike trail is still relatively challenging – especially if you’re going uphill. And unless you’re a true expert, black bike trails are really designed for proficient downhill riders.

Luckily Shauna Farnell and Cody Hanson have compiled our guide guide of the top beginner, intermediate and expert bike trails for both our Colorado and Tahoe resorts.

Colorado Trails

BEGINNER:

Trail name: Let it Ride

Resort: Keystone

Location: Top of River Run gondola

Distance: 1.25 miles

Elevation change: About 300 feet of trail all downhill, 2,000 more riding down the road

Notes: While all four of Vail Resorts’ Colorado locations have spectacular mountain bike trails, Keystone takes it to a whole new level with 100 miles of singletrack, including nine beginner trails, most of which can be combined for a thrilling ride from the top to the bottom of Keystone Mountain. If you’re just getting started however, Girl Scout is a gorgeous introduction, a winding, smooth singletrack that opens to incredible views of Lake Dillon and finishes at Jacksaw Road, which allows an easier, wider, less technical ride down.

Trail: Lucy’s Loop

Resort: Vail

Location: Just to the east of the top of Eagle Bahn gondola.

Distance: 2.4 miles

Elevation change: about 200 feet

Notes: The perfect introduction to singletrack, this smooth ride takes you through sweeping views of the Gore Range Mountains, mostly traversing the green, wildflower-filled meadows on the slopes of Vail Mountain. There's one tricky section – a pair of wide switchbacks in a pine forest. Remember – stay focused on where you're biking to, not on the actual curve of the switchback!

Trail: Village to Village

Resort: Beaver Creek

Location: Starts near the base of Larkspur lift in Red Tail Camp and climbs through Bachelor Gulch to finish on Arrowhead Mountain.

Distance: 3 miles each way

Elevation Change: about 1,000 feet

Notes: Best ridden as an out-and-back from the start, near the base of Larkspur lift. A large part of this “singletrack” is actually as wide as a bike path and is marked with benches for catching your breath. Village to Village is an exhilarating traverse through lush pines and aspen glades, across bridges and shadows until you reach a couple of short uphill switchbacks. This ride will hit you in the lungs in places, but for every uphill, there’s a downhill, and you end at a high point on Arrowhead Mountain.

INTERMEDIATE:

Trail: Big Mamba

Resort: Vail

Location: About 100 feet below the top of the Eagle Bahn gondola

Distance: 3.75 miles

Elevation change: about 1,200 feet

Notes: This trail was carefully sculpted for pump-track style riding – meaning that pedaling is required even though you’re going downhill – and is full of banked curves and roller coaster-like crests. The top section winds down the open slopes of Vail Mountain, and as you go lower, you dip into aspen glades and lush forests. For an extra challenge, continue the remainder of the way down on the bumpier, rougher and generally more technical Hank’s Hideaway.

Trail: 11-7

Resort: Keystone

Location: At the top of River Run gondola, the southwest summit of Dercum Mountain

Distance: 1.75 Miles

Elevation change: about 400 feet (climbing!)

While downhill is arguably the most exhilarating aspect of mountain biking, all-around riders go uphill too. If your lungs are up for it (remember – you’re getting close to 12,000 feet), this smooth loop makes you feel on top of the world with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, including Breckenridge.

Trail: Klinko Falls to Swinger

Resort: Breckenridge

Location: Starts on the service road just under the Vista Haus on Peak 8

Distance: 4 miles

Elevation change: more than 2,000 feet

Notes: This combination of trails will take you from the top of Peak 8 to the bottom, starting with the relaxing traverse of Kinko, then shooting downward and back and forth around tight switchbacks. Those tight turns can get steep and technical in places but afford you a stunning view of Bald Mountain in the distance throughout the trip.

Trail: Allie’s Way to Village to Village to Elkhorn

Resort: Beaver Creek

Location: Bottom of service road next to base of Centennial Chairlift in Beaver Creek Village

Distance: 6 miles

Elevation change: about 1,500 feet

Notes: Get ready for a workout. We’re starting at the bottom of the mountain this time and going up. Riding past Beaver Creek stables and the top of the bunny hill, once you have pedaled through the third curve and about 300 feet up the mountain, you’ll see Allie’s on your right. Now the climbing becomes easier and infinitely more fun through the lush pine forests, over roots and rocks and then through an aspen glade to Red Tail Camp. Continue on Village to Village trail, riding nearly to Bachelor’s Gulch before taking a right down Elkhorn. Tight switchbacks on the open slope pitches you into a dark, rich forest of wide switchbacks and spectacular straight-a-ways, taking you all the way down to the parking lots in Avon.

EXPERT:

Trail: Grand Traverse to Magic Forest

Resort: Vail

Location: Top of Eagle Bahn Gondola, Start of Game Creek road.

Distance: 7 miles

Elevation change: 2,800 feet

Notes: This route is for cross country riders and if you truly want to make it expert, you’ll double your mileage by starting at the bottom of the mountain rather than taking the lift up (in which case, ride up from Lionshead or Vail Village on Lion Down). Grand Traverse takes you on a gradual climb through the thick pine woods of Game Creek Bowl, then around to the exposed ridge of Sun Up Bowl and through the woods again. You’ll be surrounded by an explosion of wild roses, Indian Paintbrush, Columbines and every other variety of Colorado wildflower imaginable. Turn around and ride back the way you came, to head down the mountain via Magic Forest, a technical downhill trail with steep plunges plus bridge and log features that are suited more for skilled riders.

Trail: Cowboy Up to Paid In Full

Resort: Keystone

Location: Top of River Run Gondola

Distance: About 3 miles

Elevation Change: 2,400 feet

Notes: Whether you’re on a cross-country bike or decked out in pads and armor for full downhill, this combination will allow you to put your bike’s suspension system to the test. This one’s short, steep and thrilling. Don’t clinch your teeth too hard through Cowboy Up’s rock garden, or you may leave a filling behind. Paid-in-Full is less steep than Keystone’s other black trails, winding in and out of pine forests with alternative lines either over logs and rock drops or around them.

Trail: Sanitarium

Resort: Keystone

Location: Just east of River Run Gondola Midsation

Distance: .8 miles

Elevation change: about 500 feet

As the name implies, you have to love a dose of adrenaline, which some people might equate to insanity, to tackle this downhill-only (full face helmet and body armor highly recommended) stretch of trail. It begins fast and smooth, but then takes you down a long, winding, narrow bridge, up and over a human-made corkscrew (like a roller coaster that you control … or don’t), 14 feet off the ground.

Vail, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, and Keystone all offer rental options for biking in all terrains and occasions.

Tahoe Trails

Beginner Trails

Trail: Easy Rider

Resort: Northstar

Location: Top of Big Springs gondola

Distance: 1.8 miles

Elevation change: 439 feet down

Easy Rider travels from mid-mountain down to the Village at Northstar. Designed specifically for families, Easy Rider is a great way to get a taste of off-road riding without getting in over your head. This beginner trail is perfect for taking in the scenic views, while also enjoy a smooth, gentle ride.

Trail: East Meadow

Resort: Kirkwood

Location: East Meadows Drive, on the North side of the road between Kirkwood's summer HQ and Glove Rock Road.

Distance: 2.5 miles (out and back)

Elevation change: 100' down/100' up

East Meadow trail is an easy single track route that winds through the beautiful Kirkwood Meadow. The lower elevation change makes it a great option for families and beginners alike. As the trail nears highway 88 it becomes Red Cliffs, a popular advanced trail. Turn around here and return the way you came, or continue on to make an advanced-level loop back to headquarters.

Trail: Tryumph

Resort: Northstar

Location: Top of Tahoe Zephyr Express chair lift.

Distance: 3.4 miles

Elevation change: 1,070 feet down

Tryumph is a relatively long beginner-level downhill trail and is one of the few beginner trails that begins at the top of Zephyr Express above the mid-mountain lodge, offering better views and a bigger overall experience of the mountain. The trail winds throughout the resort, winding down to the lodge at Big Springs, creating much more mileage than some of the other steeper, shorter alternatives.

Intermediate Trails

Trail: Mineshaft

Resort: Northstar

Location: Across Village Run just downhill from the top of Big Springs Gondola.

Distance: 0.9 miles

Elevation change: 520 feet down

Mineshaft is a fun downhill single track trail, built solely for mountain bikes (no hikers allowed). This trail begins at the Lodge at Big Springs and winds through dense forest, down to the Village at Northstar. Mineshaft is great for those transitioning from the beginner level, or for more advanced riders who need a warmup before heading to the upper part of the mountain.

Trail: Robey Wolfe

Resort: Kirkwood

Location: Suggested beginning of the loop is up the Hole 'N Wall fire road from Kirkwood Meadows Drive at the Timber Creek area on the north side of the valley.

Distance: 2.5 miles (loop)

Elevation Change: 330 feet up/330 feet down

Robey Wolfe is a flowing intermediate downhill trail accessible via a fire road climb that provides great views of Kirkwood Valley and the surrounding ridgelines. A cross country bike is recommended to make the ascent enjoyable, luckily Kirkwood does offer rental options. From Timber Creek (on Kirkwood Meadows Drive), head up the Hole 'N Wall fire road. Take a left on Solitude and climb until you see the turnoff for the Robey Wolfe singletrack on the left. The descent ties into the bottom of Snowkirk and is a direct route back to the main village.

Trail: Powerline Trail

Resort: Heavenly

Location: End of Saddle Road, accessible from the top of Ski Run Boulevard near Heavenly's California base.

Distance: 6.2 miles (out and back)

Elevation change: 1,131 feet up/1,131 feet down

Powerline trail begins near Heavenly's California base (at the end of Saddle Road) and rises along a rolling singletrack above the city of South Lake Tahoe. This smooth singletrack is easy riding, but requires a solid level of fitness. Powerline Trail can be ridden on its own or used as a connector to other, more difficult trails.

Expert Trails

Trail: Livewire

Resort: Northstar

Distance: 1.8 miles

Elevation change: 1,070 feet down

Location: Top of Tahoe Zephyr Express chair lift.

Livewire is one of the classic Northstar downhill trails. As one of the only fully irrigated trails in the country, Livewire always features stunning scenic backdrops. The trail is built to be fast and flowing with plenty of exciting jumps along the way. From mid-mountain, take the Tahoe Zephyr Express lift to the top of the trail.

Trail: Cold Creek Trail

Resort: Near Heavenly

Location: Parking area on left side of High Meadow Road, about 1.5 miles in from Pioneer Trail (a major road).

Distance: 5 miles (out and back)

Elevation change: 1,600 feet up/1,600 feet down

Cold Creek Trail is a steep and technical trail that makes for a challenging ascent and an equally tricky, yet beautiful descent past aspens and waterfalls. This trail can be accessed with a quick jaunt on Pioneer Trail from High Meadow Road, or coupled to Powerline Trail for a longer, more challenging ride.

Trail: Sentinels

Resort: Kirkwood

Location: End of Danburg Drive, accessible from Fremont Road off of Kirkwood Meadows Drive on the north side of the valley.

Distance: 4 miles (out and back)

Elevation: 755 feet up/755 feet down

This trail is an excellent ride, but includes a difficult climb and technical descent. The trail rises out of the valley to the stunning ridgeline above. Here, it connects with Thunder Mountain, a hiking-only trail. Recover here, take in the views and grab some water before lowering your seat and descending back to the trailhead.

Northstar, Heavenly and Kirkwood all offer various levels of mountain bike rentals, from cross country to downhill. Lift-accessed terrain at Kirkwood is only available on weekends. Check websites for current trail openings, conditions, hours of operation, and pricing.

TIPS AND RULES:

- The uphill rider has the right of way

- Note that some trails are downhill-only or hiking-only

- Always wear a helmet

- Carry a pump or CO2 cartridge pack and spare tube

- Feather the brakes, don’t slam them suddenly. Slamming them can cause “endos” (you to fly end over end, above the handlebars) and also adds holes to the trail. Use both front and back brakes simultaneously

- When riding switchbacks, look ahead to the finish of the turn where you’ll end up, not at the curve itself.

- Stay on the trail

- Don’t ride on muddy trails

Blog Post: Weekly mountain recap June 10, 2013

Tristan Chan — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 16:37:00 GMT

This week's roundup showcases the GoPro Mountain Games at Vail, the kickoff of mountain bike season at Northstar ,and the stunning summer views from the rest of our mountain locations.

Rafting competitions were in full swing at the GoPro Mountain Games at Vail.

The GoPro Mountain Games included family friendly events including stand up paddle boarding.

Our furry friends also dove into the action at this weekend's GoPro Mountain Games.

This team of thrill seekers caught some serious air above Vail during this weekend's festivities.

Getting airborne was a common theme at Heavenly this weekend.

Summer activities officially kick off this weekend at Heavenly.

There's no better way to get away from it all than walking 9 with Keystone as the backdrop.

This weekend Northstar opened their mountain biking and hiking trails for the summer.

Blog Post: This Epic Weekend: June 7-June 9

Tristan Chan — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 20:58:00 GMT

Are you looking for reasons to get up to the mountains now that snow is melting? This weekend, Vail and Northstar kick-start your summer activities with the GoPro Mountain Games, mountain bike parks and free yoga.

(Please visit the site to view this video)

GoPro Mountain Games

Resort: Vail

Dates: June 6-9

This summer's biggest competition takes place at Vail as hundreds of the world’s best athletes go head to head in a score of the mountain's most rigorous events. The GoPro Mountain Games – formerly Teva Mountain Games – is the most inspiring, all-engrossing four days of the year in Vail. The town transforms into a virtual carnival of bike race courses, kayak parks, climbing walls, dog pools, free concerts, and wall-to-wall tents with free gear, treats and equipment demos. All events are open to spectators and competitors alike – some featuring the world’s best athletes with both pro and amateur categories. The focus turns to the big stage in Vail Village in the evenings with free concerts by Ballyhoo! On Thursday, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears Friday and Anders Osborne on Saturday.

Northstar Summer Kickoff

Resort: Northstar

Date: June 7

Northstar's Mountain Bike and Hike Park officially opens this weekend. In addition to the park, Northstar is also offering FREE yoga this summer, every Saturday from 8 to 9 a.m. at the Patagonia in the village.

Blog Post: Après Adventures: Mountain Biking

Admin — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 21:02:00 GMT

We're compiling our complete mountain biking guide and thought we'd take a look back at last year's Après Adventures with Ryan Ross when he rode Keystone for the first time.

Have a favorite trail at one of our resorts? Weigh in on Facebook and we'll feature notable comments in the upcoming mountain biking guide.

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Blog Post: Top summer mountain adventures

Rachel Walker — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 18:07:00 GMT

It wasn’t my first time strapping into a climbing harness. But it was my first time strapping into a harness that would be attached to an airline cable suspended many feet above the ground. The thought unnerved me.

As I climbed the platform to the zip line, my mind raced through a mental checklist. Harness double backed? Check. Helmet secure? Check. Heart not having an attack? Not yet.

I needn’t have worried. At the start of the zip line a very able and confident worker calmly explained the process as he snapped me into the contraption that would secure me to the thick cable. He twisted the locking carabiner shut and gave me a grin.

“Hang on,” I remember him saying. “This is going to be the ride of your life.”

This wasn’t the riskiest thing I’d done. I’d already straight-lined down narrow couloirs on skis. I’d launched my mountain bike over boulders the size of large children. I’d clung to the sides of a raft as whitewater rapids battered its sides. Heck, I’d climbed up rock faces wearing the same type of harness that was now cinched tightly around my body.

But never before had I felt such apprehension. As I prepared to leap off the platform—from solid footing into thin air—I questioned my sanity. Once airborne, there was no doubt I was relinquishing control.

Still, I wasn’t about to turn back. I peered over the edge and noticed the tops of the pine trees gently swaying in the wind before clenching my eyes shut.

Three, two, one. Blast off!

For a split second I flew. Then gravity got involved, and I felt my harness engage with the cable and I zipped down the line like an arrow released from a bow.

The landing platform came into view and I recalled the advice of the man who helped me launch. Hit the platform running. Noted. My feet scampered and my knees absorbed the shock of my body’s landing.

Heart racing and slightly breathless, I looked back to where I’d come from. Nothing but open air, treetops, and mountain views. Back on solid ground, I can safely say that was a ride of a lifetime.

***

This summer the adventure continues at Vail Resorts destinations. Whether you’re looking for the rush of the zip line or something more subdued, you’ll find it here.

Resort: Breckenridge

Adventure: What sounds better—the 2,500-foot elevation drop of the Gold Runner coaster or the Alpine Superslide, with three different 2,600-foot long tracks and speeds? Can’t decide? No problem. For less than the cost of a ski ticket ($68 for adults; $34 for kids), you get all-day access to this high-end “playground.”

This is also the staging ground for Breck Treks guided hikes and 4X4 off-road tours. Open daily from 9:30-5:30 starting June 14, the Fun Park also has a climbing wall, mini golf, and more.

Location: Find the Breck Summer Fun Park at the base of Peak 8, the terminus of the free BreckConnect gondola from town.

Resort: Vail

Adventure: Think you’ve “done” Vail’s Adventure Ridge? Think again. This season, Vail’s unveiling a range of upgrades and additions, the most exciting of which is Adventure Skyway, a four-line 1,200-foot long zip line located west of the current tubing hill lift. There will also be two aerial challenge courses and a large climbing wall. The aerial courses both feature three levels of difficulty; guests progress from beginning to end suspended in the air and traveling via ladders, rope bridges, swinging logs, cargo nets and more. Adventure Skyway also features horseback riding, mountain biking, and top of the mountain tours, as well as disc golf and slacklines.

Location: Adventure Ridge is located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola.

Resort: Keystone

Adventure: The infamous Drop Zone at Keystone’s Bike Park is beastly. But the park itself isn’t as intimidating as it sounds. There’s plenty of terrain for all abilities at the 100-mile, on-mountain bike park. Whether you’ve been riding a mountain bike for decades, or you’re new to the knobby tire world, this is a not-to-miss destination. It’s literally one of the best in the country. Plus, it offers world-class bike clinics. Click here for details.

Location: Ride the gondola to the top of Dercum Summit or ride one of the many trails from the base of the resort to access the park. Pick up tickets at the River Run Lift Ticket Office.

Resort: Beaver Creek

Adventure: Beaver Creek has phenomenal terrain to challenge anyone’s physical prowess. Sign up for one of the sanctioned races—choose from the Tough Mudder or run the Transrockies—for the ultimate adrenaline rush.

Location: Races start at different locations on the mountain. Find your ideal event here.

Resort: Heavenly

Adventure: Ride the 2.4-mile Heavenly Mountain Gondola to Tamarack Lodge and then prepare for a tactile adventure: rock climbing (on a wall), tubing, and hiking. What makes the climbing, tubing, and hiking here unique, of course, are the views.

Location: Drink in Lake Tahoe and get your adrenaline rush at the adventure park at Tamarack Lodge.

Resort: Northstar

Adventure: Looking for great bike trails? Want to experience the best of Lake Tahoe? You’ve come to the right place. Seriously—nothing is off-limits. Always wanted to geocache? They’ve got you covered. They can also book guided hikes, fly fishing instruction, paddleboard, wakeboard and kayak rentals. They also offer scenic lift rides up the Gondola, Tahoe Zephyr Express and Vista Express chairlifts. There’s the STRIDER™ Adventure Zone for kids ages 18-months to 5-years (free use of strider bikes and a bike course) and the Kids’ Adventure Club, a day camp for kids ages 4-12.

Location: The Adventure, Guiding and Learning Center in the Village at Northstar is ground zero for adventure planning.

Blog Post: Weekly mountain recap June 3, 2013

Tristan Chan — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 21:12:00 GMT

This week's roundup showcases our resorts in full summer mode, with everything from rafting, to stunning mountain views and radiant sunsets.

While the winters are great, it's always nice to soak in the rays and stay active in the mountains.

Rafting at Vail, perhaps prepping for the GoPro Mountain Games?

Summer is in full bloom at Vail

Share your #HeavenlySunsets and #EpicMoments

Let Northstar's Adventure Concierge help plan your next Epic Moment.

Keystone ushers in summer in Summit County.

Ripperroo helps local elementary school kids near Breckenridge jump into summer.

Blog Post: Season Pass Story Winners Announced

Admin — Thu, 30 May 2013 20:53:00 GMT

After sifting through several fantastic entries and season pass stories, we chose two extremely deserving winners who will each receive a 2013-2014 Epic Passes.

These two stories both moved us and we hope their complimentary season passes will bring them the Epic adventure they so deserve for the upcoming season.

Congratulations George S and Rylan H!

George S- Being an elementary teacher in Avon, it is kinda hard to have passes for all the family. I have my wife and 2 children, and if it wasn't for the discounts for my daughter in high school and now for my son, they wouldn't be able to do what we moved here for...enjoying the beauty of the mountains and the great lifestyle found here.

Having a ski pass for myself was out of our budget, so I usually don't go or on not so cold days go and take pictures of them skiing/snowboarding. I would love to be able to be with them at the top and have that special family time i have been missing out on. I am a beginner compared to them, so time on the snow would fix that.

At this time we can't even afford the teacher's discount, which is great but my daughters braces need to come way before a pass for me. It would mean everything to our family to have all of us enjoying family time in the snow, and I woiuld greatly appreciate it. Mahalo...George.

Rylan H- Me and my good friend John Finley always went up skiing. Actually, he was my brother's best friend. But since he ( my brother )went to college, John kinda took me under his wing and he was a big brother to me. It's not often that a sophomore in high school hangs out with his big brothers best friend who is a freshman in college.

Any way.. We would mostly go up to Keystone, Including the one I am about to talk about.. We're just me and him up skiing... And we had one gnarly day in March. I remember this day so vividly. We saw the craziest stuff that day, a fight in the parking lot and then a porcupine crossing in between two runs... Well I was sessioning in the park and John was filming for me. We got about half a good day of park in, then we spent the rest of the day "exploring."

The front face of Keystone, as you probably know, has those tight trees that not a lot of people go in... Well anyway he specifically said to me that this exploring thing was his favorite thing to do. Well not too far after we began exploring, we found this 20 ft cliff and of course we had to film it. Now being in March it was a somewhat sketchy cliff drop, not a lot of snow at the bottom. But I was I like " I'm not gonna not hit it". I ended dropping this 15 ft somewhat pillow line down it ...but after some reassurance and help from John we were ready to hit this. So he was filming for me and I dropped it. And after I stomped it John laughed and told me how sick and awesome the cliff drop and I was.

Little did I know that that would be the last time I would hang out with John and hear his laugh. You can't even begin to appreciate this story unless you know John. Well anyway after the drop both me and him were ssssssooooooo stoked and I went up to him and was like both me and you are gonna drop this thing next year from the top when there was more snow. I made him promise we would and he promised too.

That was March 28 I think, on Thursday, April 25 I talked to John about getting one last day together up at A-Bay for Sunday, April 28. He said it sounded good, but he want sure cuz of how hard school had gotten. So that was that. The night of April 26 (I should say the morning of April 27 at 12:20) I woke up to the phone call that John had passed away. That was the worst night of my life. Turns out it was from a heart defect.

So in part this a thanks to Vail Resorts and Epic Pass and John for the best day of skiing and probably the best day of my life.. This is also a tribute to John Finley and I will be riding everyday I can in his name. This is also me keeping my promise to John. Both me and him will drop that cliff next season because he will be in my mind and heart like he always is when this goes down. Thank you.

Blog Post: Vail Resorts welcomes Utah to the Epic Pass family

Admin — Wed, 29 May 2013 18:19:00 GMT

First Arlberg, and now Utah, it's certainly been a busy month for the Vail Resorts family. Vail Resorts today announced that the Company has entered into a long-term lease with affiliate companies of Talisker Corporation for Canyons Resort in Park City, Utah.

Under the lease, Vail Resorts has assumed all of the resort operations of Canyons while Talisker has retained its development rights for four million square feet of real estate at the resort. The lease has an initial term of 50 years with six 50-year renewal options.

This means that Epic Pass holders will now have unlimited, unrestricted skiing or riding at Canyons Resort along with, Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Arapahoe Basin and Eldora with no blackout dates. As announced earlier this month, the Epic Pass also includes 5 free days at Verbier, Switzerland and 5 free consecutive days at Arlberg, Austria. To find out more visit epicpass.com

“With 4,000 skiable acres, easy access to the town of Park City and $75 million in recent resort improvements, Canyons is a perfect complement to our collection of world-class mountain resorts,” said Rob Katz, chairman and chief executive officer of Vail Resorts.

“I commend the Talisker and Canyons team for the outstanding work they have done to redevelop the resort, which is reflected in a top 10 ranking by SKI Magazine and #4 ranking by Outside Magazine. We look forward to building on that momentum and including Canyons in our industry-leading season pass products, which next season will offer guests access to Colorado, Tahoe and Utah on one season pass, a first in ski industry history."

"We will also leverage our guest database and domestic and international sales and marketing efforts to continue to drive Canyons’ growth. Talisker has an outstanding track record of high-end resort development and we look forward to working together to create something truly extraordinary with Talisker’s four million square feet of remaining approved residential and commercial density at Canyons.”

The transaction also incorporates the potential for the lease, without additional consideration, to include the land under the ski terrain of Park City Mountain Resort that is adjacent to Canyons and is currently owned by Talisker and is subject to pending litigation. “We look forward to the litigation being resolved and hope that Vail Resorts can play a constructive role in helping to arrive at a solution that offers the best outcome for guests of both resorts,” Katz added.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring in Vail Resorts to partner with us on our vision for Canyons,” said Jack Bistricer, chief executive officer of Talisker. “Vail Resorts is the clear leader in the mountain resort industry and I am confident that they can replicate at Canyons the success they have delivered at resorts such as Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Northstar. I am incredibly proud of all that our team has accomplished at Canyons over the past five years and am confident that together with Vail Resorts, we can create one of the greatest mountain resorts in the world.”

Blog Post: Summer Playlist

Tristan Chan — Tue, 28 May 2013 17:50:00 GMT

Summer is now in full swing at all of our resorts. What better way to get into the spirit, than with a playlist to serve as the soundtrack to your epic summer moments. We've compiled a list of some of our summertime classics but we want to hear your suggestions as well! Share your favorite summer jams on our Facebook page!

Blog Post: Mountain Games and other upcoming, not-to-miss events

Shauna Farnell — Fri, 24 May 2013 19:47:00 GMT

It’s a comment you hear from locals every day, especially now that the snow is giving away to a rainbow of wildflowers and greens against the blue sky: “winter is great but summer is why we live here.”

And it’s not just the perfect temperature, lush wilderness, sun, warmth, hiking, biking and myriad of exhilarating summer activities that make this true. It’s also because the mountain resorts are popping with events this time of year.

Here’s a glimpse of a few top summer events at Vail Resorts:

June 1

Free yoga at Northstar – Start your day on the right foot (while the rest of your body is balanced gracefully in a flexible pose) with FREE yoga at the Patagonia in the village from 8 to 9 a.m. every Saturday from June 1 throughout the summer.

June 6-9

GoPro Mountain Games, Vail

This summer's biggest competition takes place at Vail as hundreds of the world’s best athletes go head to head in a score of the mountain's most rigorous events. The GoPro Mountain Games – formerly Teva Mountain Games – is the most inspiring, all-engrossing four days of the year in Vail. The town transforms into a virtual carnival of bike race courses, kayak parks, climbing walls, dog pools, free concerts, and wall-to-wall tents with free gear, treats and equipment demos. All events are open to spectators and competitors alike – some featuring the world’s best athletes with both pro and amateur categories. The focus turns to the big stage in Vail Village in the evenings with free concerts by Ballyhoo! On Thursday, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears Friday and GROUPLOVE on Saturday.

June 7

Tentative opening day at Northstar for biking and hiking

June 8

Live Music at Northstar every weekend

The soundtrack start up again in Northstar at Tahoe every weekend in the village with free live music beginning with Alan & Moore Duo June 8 followed by Coburn Station June 9, Jason King Band June 15 and The Northstar Session June 16.

June 14

Friday Afternoon Club at Keystone

Every Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. from June 14 through the end of the summer marks a party with free live music at the top of the mountain and the gondola takes you there for free beginning at 3 p.m. To read more about Friday Afternoon Club, check out last year's event preview.

Summer opening weekend at Keystone

As if it weren’t enough that Keystone Mountain will be open for gondola rides, hiking and biking, but there will be free cupcakes and lemonade from 10 to 11 a.m. in Keystone Village Friday through Sunday.

June 14

Heavenly opening day - gondola, climbing wall, tubing galor

June 15-16

Breckenridge Opening weekend - gondola, roller coaster and adventure park open for the summer

Kingdom Days at Breckenridge

Did you know that the Town of Breckenridge is actually a kingdom? It’s true. Because until 1936, it never appeared on maps. Although there is no official king (although you can make it your dad for this particular weekend), the town is buzzing with celebration including the world’s most exciting Outhouse races, in which teams sprint as quickly as possible down Ridge Street amid hundreds of spectators in self-constructed outhouses on wheels. It’s hilarious. The celebration is geared around the town’s rich mining history with mine and saloon tours, historic hikes and a concert by the National Repertory Orchestra.

June 15-16

Tough Mudder at Beaver Creek

Even if you haven’t signed up to haul yourself through this mountain obstacle course of mud, blood and fire, watching it is priceless. Plus, there are a bunch of fun vendors, food and beer tents and free giveaways throughout Beaver Creek Village.

June 16

Vail Farmer’s Market

Every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning June 16 is more than just corn and tomatoes, the streets of Vail are wall-to-wall with booths of everything from tin art to crepes, barbecue to German pastries, all on display and flocked with shoppers to the soundtrack of free live jazz courtesy of the Vail Jazz Foundation. It’s the best people-watching stop in the Rockies.

June 18

Hot Summer Nights free concerts in Vail

It’s the social event of the week every Tuesday at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater as everyone you know and their friends convene on the green for a Free concert by nationally and internationally recognized artists. June 18 sees Freddy Jones Band and June 25 welcomes The Dunwells. Music starts at 6:30 p.m. and drink/food specials begin at 5:30 p.m.

June 21

Culinary Demonstration Series at Beaver Creek

Fridays and Saturdays beginning June 21 focus on perfecting your slicing and dicing techniques. Some of Beaver Creek and Vail’s most renowned chefs teach you their little secrets to take to your own kitchen and also share their demo dishes.

June 22-23

Blue River Bacon Tour at Keystone

(Please visit the site to view this video)

If just saying the word bacon makes you salivate, you’d best head to Keystone where from 1 to 6 p.m., the place smells like pig heaven. Not only will you get the chance to try bacon-rich dishes from all over the world by other like-minded, swine-loving chefs and wash it down with a variety of frothy libations, but you’ll be treated to free live music from all-girl ACDC tribute hard rockers Hell’s Belles, Hamilton Loomis and The Steeldrivers.

June 29

Northstar at Tahoe Wine Walks

Italy is the theme in the village from 3 to 6 p.m. as winemakers and purveyors excited about Italian varieties provide samples their favorite sippers and local restaurants set up stations with scrumptious dishes to pair on your stroll.

June 28-30

Vail Arts Festival

One of the oldest festivals in Vail, hundreds of painters, sculptors, photographers, jewelers and street performers set up shop in tents. The creative energy makes the open air quiver.

June 29-30

Snake River Festival at Keystone

Biking is the theme of the weekend with two days of mountain bike racing, free live music, an outdoor movie best reached by bicycle, yoga, group rides, coaching clinics and beer garden.

File: Happy Epic Pass

Tristan Chan — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:30:00 GMT

3 Countries, 15 World Class Mountains, 1 Epic Pass. Reserve your Epic Passes before May 27 to lock in the lowest guaranteed price for only $49 down. The 2013-2014 Epic Pass allows you to ski as much as you want, whenever you want, wherever you want at all of our resorts.

User: Brooke Rose

Brooke Rose — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:50:00 GMT

File: 2013-2014 Epic Pass Tahoe May Deadline

Tristan Chan — Tue, 14 May 2013 18:29:00 GMT

3 Countries, 15 World Class Mountains, 1 Epic Pass. Buy before May 27 to lock in the lowest guaranteed price for only $49 down.

File: 2013-2014 Epic Pass Colorado May Deadline

Tristan Chan — Tue, 14 May 2013 18:25:00 GMT

3 Countries, 15 World Class Mountains, 1 Epic Pass. Buy before May 27 to lock in the lowest guaranteed price for only $49 down.

Blog Post: Summer Primer: Ten of our favorite mountain activities

Jeff Panis — Mon, 13 May 2013 17:21:00 GMT

Snow has given way to green grass and it's time to start thinking of ways to fill your summer calendar. Vail Resorts is gearing up for summer and this list of ideas will kickstart your planning with activities like white water rafting, world-class golf, fly fishing, downhill mountain biking, and much more. Here's a sampling of the adventure that awaits...

1. Our mountain resorts are the gateway to summer fun.

2. Take a chair lift ride.

3. Jump in the river for some fly fishing.

4. Play a round of world class golf.

5. Feel the exhilaration of white water rafting.

6. Ride our mountain bike trails.

7. Take in the scenic views.

8. Cruise along on a paddle board.

9. Get a rush on a downhill bike trail.

10. Or, relax and enjoy a beverage on the patio.

Blog Post: Best mountain golf courses

Rachel Walker — Fri, 10 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Ahhhh, May. It’s the month when spring becomes summer, snow-covered slopes give way to green meadows, and there are plenty of excuses to take your loved one to the mountains.

Which means one thing: golf. Whether you golf as a couple or with your friends, the fairways are calling you. So if whoever you're with decides to get pampered at the spa, dust off your five iron and hit the greens. Trust us, it’s the best way to whet your appetite for the upcoming golf season.

Just be prepared to get hooked. Some of the best mountain golf courses happen to be part of the Vail Resorts properties. These courses have attracted esteemed players from President Ford to Jack Nicklaus. They sit in the valleys of towering mountains. All incorporate the surrounding, stunning natural features. And they feature skilled pros to help take your game to the next level.

Read on for a primer on the best mountain golf courses, and then look closer for lodging packages. Now is the time to plan your summer getaway.

Beaver Creek

The course: Opened in 1982, the Beaver Creek Golf Club has earned distinction in Golf Digest's "Top 75 Golf Resorts in North America." Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the par-70 6,617-yard course is known for its narrow and challenging fairways. The course is open exclusively to club members and guests of Beaver Creek, Bachelor Gulch and Arrowhead lodging properties in Colorado.

The deal: Save up to 40 percent off lodging in Beaver Creek and gain access to the Beaver Creek Golf Club with our Stay & Play Golf Package.

Avon, CO.

The course: Red Sky Golf Club: Tom Fazio & Greg Norman Courses consists of two 18-hole, par-72 championship golf courses, each spanning over 7,000 yards. Located 10 miles west of Beaver Creek, this exclusive property has earned extensive accolades for its elegance, challenging golf, and luxurious amenities. The club is open only to members and select guests.

The deal: Check out the Red Sky Golf Club stay and play package deals, which includes a range of specials and some discounts for guests staying at Beaver Creek and Vail. The club also offers the Flex 36 option, which allows guests to create any 36-hole combo for $360. In addition, children 17 and under play free with a paying adult, and the club offers lodging and instruction packages.

Keystone

The course: Catering to golfers since 1980, the par-72 Keystone Ranch Golf Course was also designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. This course regularly receives Four Stars in Golf Digest's list of “Places to Play,” and is ranked as one of “America’s Top 75 Golf Courses” by Golf Digest. With challenging holes and jaw-dropping views, the course has also been recognized for its ecological contributions and is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary System.

The deal: Golf and lodging packages for both Keystone Ranch and The River Course at Keystone deliver savings of up to 33 percent. Prices start at $90 per person.

The course: Golf Magazine ranks The River Course at Keystone among Colorado’s 10 best resorts—and for good reason. The 18-hole, par-71 course, designed by Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, spans 6,886 yards, offers exceptional terrain, and sits in a spectacular setting. Better yet, this course has earned many accolades for its appeal to women and is ranked as one of the nation’s 50 Best Courses for Women” by Golf for Women.

The deal: Golf and lodging packages for both Keystone Ranch and The River Course at Keystone deliver savings of up to 33 percent. Prices start at $90 per person.

Tahoe, California/Nevada

The Tahoe area is home to a range of golf courses and tournaments, including the 24th Annual American Century Championship Tournament Week (July 16 – 21) at the Edgewood golf course.

Northstar-at-Tahoe

The Course: Designed by Robert Muir Graves, Northstar California's 18-hole, par-72 golf course offers two distinct 9-hole settings for a range of abilities. Known for its scenic setting and challenging flow, the course moves seamlessly in and over the natural terrain.

The Deal: Save up to 35 percent on your Northstar room or condo when you book for four or more nights. Book for two nights to receive up to 20 percent off. Click here for more details.

The bottom line: Golf is to summer in the mountains as skiing is to winter in the mountains: a natural fit. These courses have a range of terrain to accommodate golfers of all abilities. They’re nestled into sublime settings with stunning views, (mostly) blue skies, and fresh mountain air. Trust us, a day (or four) spent here will be unlike any golfing you’ve ever done. And, in case you need more convincing, consider this: golf balls fly higher when hit at altitude, thanks to thin air. Fore!

Blog Post: Summer activities take to the mountains

Tristan Chan — Thu, 09 May 2013 21:37:00 GMT

Summer is drawing nearer and the mountains are flush with amazing activities. Whether it's staying cool by hitting the rapids, or working up a sweat biking and hiking the trails, there's always a reason to stay active in the mountains. Check out our video roundup of all of the epic things happening in the high country this season.

Vail

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Beaver Creek

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Breckenridge

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Keystone

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Heavenly

(Please visit the site to view this video)

Northstar

(Please visit the site to view this video)