Beaver Creek Resort (Ultimate 2024 Travel Guide)

👉 Jump to:About Beaver Creek Resort | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Restaurants | Tips | Map | FAQ

I’m a Colorado-based skier and Epic Pass holder with all the insights into Beaver Creek Resort!

This comprehensive guide explains the past and present of Beaver Creek, CO. Find out where to ski and ride based on your skill level. Plus, get suggestions on where to stay, dine, and be entertained near one of Colorado’s top ski resorts. I also share travel tips and resources that can help you save time, money, and a ton of effort.

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About Beaver Creek Resort

Beaver Creek Resort Stats

• 📍 26 Avondale Lane, Avon CO 81620
• 📞 (970) 754-4636
• 💻 Website
• 📅 Ski area open November 22, 2023 to April 2024
• 🎿 Lift Hours: 9 am to 3:30 pm 
• ⛰️ Summit elevation: 11,440 feet (3,488 meters)
• ❄️ Average annual snowfall: 323 inches (820 centimeters)
• 🗺️ Skiable terrain: 2,082 acres
• 🏂 Number of trails: 167
• ⛷️ Vertical drop: 3,340 feet (1,018 meters) 
• 🚡 Number of ski lifts: 24

Beaver Creek Resort History

John Burke and former Civilian Conservation Corps worker Earl Eaton began ideating Beaver Creek Resort in 1956. The following year, Eaton and 10th Mountain Division veteran Pete Seibert first summited nearby Vail Mountain. Focus then shifted to constructing , which opened on December 15, 1962 [ Source]. 

In the early ‘70s, Denver won the bid for the 1976 Winter Olympics. There were talks of hosting the games at the yet-to-be-built Beaver Creek Resort. Mount Sniktau near Loveland Valley and Copper Mountain were also in the running. However, Denver voters rejected the bid, opposing the potential development of the Front Range. 

But persistence paid off with the Forest Service, which oversaw this area of Vail Valley. It granted a special use permit on March 22, 1976. This allotted 2,775 acres of public land for resort development. An approved Environmental Impact Statement was awarded a year later [ Source].

Crews broke ground on July 28, 1977 and Beaver Creek Resort opened on December 15, 1980. It featured six chair lifts and The Charter at Beaver Creek, its first hotel property [ Source]. 

Larkspur Bowl and its chairlift opened the following season. The Centennial Express lift was erected in 1986. Then, Beaver Creek Resort and Vail Ski Resort hosted the 1989 World Alpine Ski Championships. This established the Vail Valley as a global winter sports destination.  

In 1991, Grouse Mountain became accessible via a new high-speed quad. The adjacent Arrowhead Ski Area was acquired in 1993. Bachelor Gulch development followed and was completed in 1997. 

The Giant Steps and Birds of Prey downhill courses appeared shortly after. Athletes participating in the 1999 World Alpine Ski Championships competed in these areas and at Vail Ski Resort. Since then, Beaver Creek Resort has installed one high-speed quad after another to update its infrastructure. Beginner-friendly McCoy Park opened during the 2021/22 season.

Beaver Creek Resort Terrain

Beaver Creek Resort encompasses 2,082 acres of skiable terrain as of the 2023/24 season. Its 24 ski lifts provide access to 167 trails. 

Beginner (green) terrain accounts for 28% of Beaver Creek Mountain. These runs are largely concentrated within the new McCoy Park and near the summit of Red Buffalo Park. Haymeadow Park also features beginner trails and is where you’ll find the children’s ski school. 

Intermediate (blue) terrain makes up 38% of the mountain. I recommend the Elkhorn Lift and Arrow Bahn Express Lift for those with intermediate skills. There are also some solid blue runs off the Centennial Express Lift. 

Advanced and expert (black and double black diamond) terrain covers 34% of Beaver Creek. You can access my favorite of these runs via the Birds of Prey Express Lift and Grouse Mountain Express Lift. Don’t miss the Talons Challenge event on February 24 and 25! The goal is to accomplish all 14 runs (over 26,000 feet of vertical!) in a single day. 

In addition, Beaver Creek Mountain features three terrain parks for freestyle skiers and riders. Access Lumber Yard via the Centennial Express Lift. Zoom Room and Park 101 can be reached via the Cinch Express Lift. All have features for every skill level. 

🎿 Need a Visual? Take a look at the resort’s winter trail map, which also details parking, shuttle stops, on-mountain dining, and more!

Where to Stay Near Beaver Creek Resort

These are some of the best places to stay near Beaver Creek Resort:

• The Osprey at Beaver Creek – Enjoy ski-in, ski-out access via the Centennial and Strawberry Park Express Lifts. The Nordic center and Beaver Creek Village amenities are also within walking distance. A fireplace adds to the ambiance of each room. 
• The Residences at Mountain Lodge – This charming hotel is set between the Elkhorn Lift and the aforementioned Beaver Creek Village lifts. Three spas are located on-site, along with outdoor hot tubs and a fitness center. 
• Poste Montane Lodge by East West– This Beaver Creek Village lodge is closest to Haymeadow Park, home to the children’s ski school. This is a great pick for families with Blue Moose Pizza on-site and the Beaver Creek Ice Rink adjacent to the hotel. 
• The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch– This luxurious Ritz-Carlton hotel is just steps away from the Bachelor Gulch Express Lift. It features five on-site eateries, an award-winning spa, and stunning suites with marble bathrooms.
• Mein Haus Bed & Breakfast – This Avon hotel averages under $300 per night. You’re unlikely to find a better nightly rate near Beaver Creek! Access the slopes via the Riverfront Express Gondola or take the free shuttle. 
• Browse Top Apartment Rentals on VRBO
• Browse Top Apartment Rentals on Plum Guide

Beaver Creek Village is the most convenient place to stay to access the slopes. Many hotels and condo rentals are within walking distance of lifts. Gear rental services, retailers, restaurants, and the Beaver Creek Ice Rink add to this pedestrian village. 

The Ritz-Carlton is more secluded from the hustle and bustle. However, on-site amenities meet the needs of most travelers. The Ritz-Carlton also provides ski-in, ski-out access via the Bachelor Gulch Express Lift. 

Avon is furthest from the slopes. But they’re accessible via the Riverfront Express Gondola and connecting Lower Beaver Creek Mountain Express Lift. Take the Bachelor Gulch or Upper Beaver Creek Mountain Express Lifts from there. Alternatively, you can take the free shuttle. It’s a bit of a journey to your first run, but you’re more likely to find affordable stays in Avon. 

📚 Related Reading: See our guide on where to stay in Vailfor more accommodation options nearby! 

5 Things to Do Near Beaver Creek Resort

Beaver Creek Nordic Sports Center

Experience McCoy Park on cross-country skis or snowshoes, then warm up in the scenic Eaton Haus lodge.  

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 754-5313 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: $61 per adult, $43 per child | 👉 Reserve Ski Rentals on Viator

The Beaver Creek Nordic Center is located at the base of the Strawberry Park Express Lift in Beaver Creek Village. This season’s opening dates are December 16, 2023 to April 7, 2024. Here, you can rent classic, skate, and telemark skis, plus snowshoe equipment. Private and group cross-country ski lessons also meet at the Nordic center.

From there, you’ll make your way to McCoy Park. This signature park features alpine runs, as well as cross-country and snowshoe trails. These groomed and rustic trails span 19 kilometers (11.8 miles) and accommodate all skill levels. Stop at Eaton Haus when you need a warm-up, set at the top of the McCoy Park Express Lift.   

Beaver Creek Ice Rink

Collect skate rentals and glide around this glistening rink in Beaver Creek Plaza.  

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 845-0438 | Website | Hours: 12 – 9 pm daily | Entrance: $15 per adult (rentals included), $10 per child under 12 (rentals included), $5 per person (without rentals)   

The Beaver Creek Ice Rink is a charming, family-friendly activity in Beaver Creek Village. It’s located in Beaver Creek Plaza, adjacent to Poste Montane Lodge by East West. A side entry to the hotel building leads to Base Mountain Sports, where you can collect skate rentals. The rink is open this season between November 23 and April 15.

Beaver Creek Village

Visit slopeside retreats and explore Beaver Creek Plaza’s numerous forms of après ski entertainment. 

📍 Google Maps | Website

Beaver Creek Village is full of amenities and attractions. The slopeside eateries are my favorite places to hang out. Many feature patios and outdoor firepits, and often host live music. 

However, most activities surround Beaver Creek Plaza. These include the ice rink, Vilar Performing Arts Center, several art galleries, and elevated dining options. Mediterranean eatery Citrea and the Golden Eagle Inn Restaurant are especially worth visiting. Both serve excellent dishes alongside wine and cocktails.

Teens ages 10 to 18 can also engage in après ski fun at the new Hawk’s Nest Cabin. It features lounge areas, non-alcoholic beverages, table games, a ski simulator, and more. 

👉 Don’t Miss: 21 Best Mountain Towns in Colorado (By a Local)

Vilar Performing Arts Center

Be entertained by a variety of events at this local venue that draws world-famous performers.   

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 845-8497 | Website

The Vilar Performing Arts Center operates year-round. It hosts concerts, musicals, comedy acts, film screenings, and other performances. The venue seats up to 530 guests and has a packed calendar of events. Upcoming shows includeThe Nutcracker ballet, magicians Penn & Teller, comedian Mike Birbiglia, country music star Josh Turner, rock band Toto, and much more. 

Walking Mountains Science Center

Take children on a guided nature walk at this free campus that teaches environmental science. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 827-9725 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm Tuesday – Saturday, closed Sunday & Monday | Entrance: Free, event costs vary  

Walking Mountains Science Center is a non-profit organization. Its three locations across the Vail Valley provide environmental science education to K-12 students. The Avon Tang Campus spans ten acres, allowing children and teens to explore wetlands and forests. Free guided nature walks are listed on its event calendar, and its visitor center is also free to the public.

Additionally, there’s a campus east of Vail Village and another at Vail Ski Resort. Both are some of the best things to do in Vail with kids, and each center offers something unique.  

Restaurants Near Beaver Creek Resort

Here are some of the best places to dine near Beaver Creek Resort: 

• Beaver Creek Chophouse – Steaks and seafood are this restaurant’s specialty, served slopeside during lunch and dinner. But I visit for C Bar’s sunny patio and spicy bloody Marys. There’s no better way to kick off a day of skiing!  
• Coyote Cafe – This Mexican cantina lies at the base of the Centennial Express Lift. Watch skiers come down the mountain while noshing on tacos and sipping margaritas. Don’t miss happy hour from 3 – 6 pm daily! 
• Spruce Saddle Lodge – Head up the Centennial Express Lift to this casual eatery serving warm chili, baked potatoes, sandwiches, and more. Sure, it’s pricey (even with an Epic Pass 20% discount). But the vibes and views are well worth it, in my opinion. 
• Talon’s Restaurant – Visiting this on-mountain restaurant is a must after laps on Birds of Prey. It’s less crowded than other lodges on Beaver Creek Mountain but serves similar fare like burgers and pizza. Of course, there’s also ice-cold beer.  
• Citrea – This upscale Mediterranean eatery is located in Beaver Creek Plaza. Enjoy a warm, yet sophisticated ambiance while perusing its lengthy wine menu and dining on Italian favorites.
• Golden Eagle Inn Restaurant – Enjoy elevated American fare at this cozy, welcoming tavern in Beaver Creek Plaza. Pan-seared rainbow trout and elk meatloaf are favorites on the menu, complemented by more than a dozen craft cocktails. 
• Ein Prosit – Vail may be better known for its Bavarian aesthetic, but this European biergarten brings the charm to Avon. Pair pretzels and exotic sausages with draft beers from Germany and Austria. 
• Phở 20 – Few things warm me up after a day of skiing like a big bowl of pho. This laid-back Vietnamese spot also serves vermicelli noodle bowls and sweet bubble teas.  

Beaver Creek has dining options for every palette, occasion, and budget. Establishments at the base of the ski lifts and on-mountain eateries offer some of the best views. You’ll also find several restaurants throughout Beaver Creek Village, namely around the plaza.  

Avon also has a number of options, which are often less crowded than those closer to the resort. You’re also more likely to get a better value on food in Avon. As mentioned, the same applies to accommodations.

Tips for Visiting Beaver Creek Resort

Pack or Rent the Proper Gear

There are many retailers throughout the Vail Valley. But you’re likely to pay a premium, as most gear shops often feature upscale brands. I recommend packing all your snowboarding or skiing essentials when visiting Beaver Creek. 

Personally, I also prefer traveling with my own skis. But those who don’t own a pair can rent them from one of several outfitters in town. Alternatively, reserve your skis / snowboard ahead of time through Viator — delivery is even included!

Study the Trail Map and Know Where to Go

Beaver Creek Resort has trails and signature parks for all skill levels. Familiarize yourself with these areas based on your abilities and interests: 

Beginners and Families

• Haymeadow Park – This is home to the children’s ski and ride school. It’s on the far left side of the trail map near Beaver Creek Village 
• Red Buffalo Park – This park is at the summit of Beaver Creek Mountain on the top-left of the map. Reach it via the Centennial Express Lift and Cinch Express Lift.
• McCoy Park – Find this newer, mid-mountain park on the right side of the map. It’s accessible via the Bachelor Gulch Express Lift and Strawberry Park Express Lift in Beaver Creek Village. 

Intermediate Skiers and Riders

• Elkhorn Lift – A great selection of blue runs are available from this lift. Board it from the south end of Beaver Creek Village, seen on the bottom-left side of the map. 
• Arrow Bahn Express Lift – Load onto this lift from Arrowhead Village, located on the bottom-right side of the map. This is a less crowded area and also provides access to intermediate trails within Bachelor Gulch.  

Advanced / Expert Skiers and Riders

• Birds of Prey, Grouse Mountain, and Larkspur Bowl – These adjacent areas make up the top-center of the map. The right side of the Centennial Express lift adds to these black and double-black diamond runs. 
• Upper and Lower Stone Creek Chutes – Looking for an adrenaline rush? You can’t miss this incredible expert terrain, seen on the top-left portion of the map. Start at the top of Beaver Creek Mountain.   

Consider Your Transportation Options and Stay Overnight

Eagle County Regional Airport is the closest airport to Beaver Creek. But many locals and out-of-state visitors commute to the Vail Valley from Denver. Reserve a rental car or catch a ride on the Epic Mountain Express shuttle. Epic Pass holders get 20% off round-trip fare. Alternatively, you can book private transit to and from Denver International Airport. 

Note that ski traffic on I-70 can significantly lengthen commute times. For this reason, I don’t recommend Beaver Creek as a day trip from Denver. Stay at least one night if visiting during peak ski season.

📚 Related Reading: 12 Best Ski Resorts Near Denver (for 2023)

Beaver Creek Resort Map

FAQs About Beaver Creek Resort

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Thanks for reading my guide on Beaver Creek Resort! Have an Epic Pass? Don’t miss my additional articles on Keystone Resortand Breckenridge Ski Resort. See you slopeside!