Beaver Creek has about a third of the acreage of Vail but there are still over 1,800 acres worth of prime skiing to be had here. Not only that, the slopes in Vail are less than 15 miles away and Aspen is just a short 90 minute drive away.

There are slopes suitable for people of all ages, from the tiny tots to the active octogenarian. Before you go though, here are a few tips to make your ski trip in Beaver Creek as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

#1: You Can Fly into Beaver Creek

Because of the famous slopes in the area, there is a small airport in Eagle County that will fly you to within 20 minutes of Beaver Creek. That’s great news if you are leery of struggling through the snow up steep mountainsides and winding mountain roads.

If you’re traveling with the whole family or a group of friends, it may make more sense money-wise to purchase a group flight on a charter plane than to buy commercial airfare for each traveler. You could also drive into Denver or take a commercial flight nearby and then take a commuter flight to Eagle County Airport.

#2: Rent a Lodge Nearby to Avoid Long Shuttle Rides

One thing you’ll find plenty of in Beaver Creek is lodging. Some are far away but cheaper. If you stay further out, you will have to wait 30 minutes to an hour for a shuttle to pick you up anytime you want to hit the slopes or make your way back to your cabin.

You could avoid that by renting out a “slope-side” cabin. These luxurious lodgings are so convenient, you walk out the door and you’re practically on the slopes. Here’s a handy tip to find the closest ski-in/ski-out lodgings; sort by distance to the lift.

#3: Get Help from Professional Ski Helpers

Many slopes, including those in Beaver Creek, have service staff on hand to help you with all of your needs. There are resorts that offer guided ski tours that will take you to some of the most interesting spots on the mountain while giving you the history of the area.

If you are not careful, the slopes can be dangerous. From not getting enough food and water, to not dressing properly for the cold; get help from the professionals on staff to make it a fun and safe ski trip in Beaver Creek for the family.

#4: Ship or Rent Your Gear – It’s Cheaper!

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you didn’t have to lug your skis, boots, and snow gear through the airport and on shuttles? Well, actually you can. There are specialty services now that ship ski gear specifically for the same price as checking luggage.

Another option is to just rent your gear while you are there. The added bonus to opting for rentals is that you will probably get to rent better and newer equipment than what you have. Plus, the pro shop will likely have knowledgeable staff there to help you pick some cool gear to rent (or buy).

#5: Chauffeured Ground Travel is Preferred to Shuttle Services

Cutting corners on a vacation too much could have your family ready to mutiny. It’s definitely possible after a few days of schlepping back and forth up the mountain, into town, and back again. Waiting on shuttles all day long can be equally draining.

It may cost a little more, but in a situation like this, where to travel by vehicle means traveling over icy or snowy, zigzagging roads, maybe hiring a car is the better answer.

#6: Skiing with Kids? Sign them up for Lessons

Here’s a handy tip for anyone traveling with kids. Beaver Creek has many resorts that offer private ski lessons. How about signing the little ones up for a few hours with a pro while you and the adults in the group go over challenging slopes together? It’s not really ditching the kids; they’ll have fun with the other kids and you’ll get to really challenge yourself—everybody wins.

#7: Don’t Forget to Eat and Hydrate

Oddly enough, you’re surrounding by frozen water, but at these altitudes, it is easy to forget to stay hydrated. Skiing is fun and you can be out all day long and not want to come in off the slopes. Don’t forget to fuel your body by taking regular food and water breaks so that you don’t make yourself sick out there.

Get More Tips

If you have any questions about skiing, vacationing or living in Beaver Creek, the area experts at Hoffman West real estate are happy to answer. Contact them today at info@hoffmanwest.com or 1.866.949.1902.