Beaver Creek is Vail’s quieter, more polished neighbour, and it does luxury without the swagger. It is famous for small touches, such as escalators up to the lifts and warm chocolate chip cookies handed out at the base every afternoon, but underneath the service there is some serious skiing, including the Birds of Prey downhill, one of the most demanding race courses in the world.
Beaver Creek at a glance
- Location: Eagle County, 15 minutes west of Vail
- Terrain: Around 2,000 acres and more than 4,000ft of vertical
- Best for: Families, intermediates, luxury and quiet slopes
- Lift passes: Epic Pass
- 2026/27 season: Due to open 25 November 2026
- Nearest airport: Eagle County, about 25 miles
What’s New for 2026/27
Beaver Creek is due to open on 25 November 2026, conditions permitting. Like the other Vail Resorts mountains, it will benefit from the group’s investment in better on-mountain food and a new concierge service for private lessons.
The Skiing
There are around 2,000 acres and more than 4,000ft of vertical, spread across Beaver Creek, Bachelor Gulch and Arrowhead. Most of the mountain is well-groomed intermediate cruising, and it is rarely crowded. McCoy Park, at the top of the mountain, is a dedicated area of gentle beginner and family terrain, so newer skiers can enjoy the high views too. For experts, Grouse Mountain and the Birds of Prey area have steep, sustained runs, and the World Cup men’s races are usually held here in early December.
Off the Slopes
Beaver Creek Village is compact, car-free and upmarket, with ice skating in the plaza, good restaurants and some of the best hotels in Colorado. It is a relaxed, family-friendly base, and Vail’s livelier nightlife is only 15 minutes away.
Lift Passes
Beaver Creek is on the Epic Pass, which also covers Vail, Breckenridge, Keystone and Crested Butte.
Getting There
Eagle County Airport is about 25 miles away, with connecting flights from US hubs. Denver International Airport is around two and a half hours by road via I-70.
For more information visit beavercreek.com.
Beaver Creek: Your Questions Answered
When does Beaver Creek open for 2026/27?
Beaver Creek is due to open on 25 November 2026, subject to conditions.
Is Beaver Creek good for families?
Yes. It is quiet, well organised and has McCoy Park, a dedicated beginner and family area at the top of the mountain, plus a car-free village with ice skating.
What is the difference between Vail and Beaver Creek?
Vail is bigger, with the famous Back Bowls and a livelier village. Beaver Creek is smaller, quieter and more upmarket, with less crowded slopes. They are 15 minutes apart and both are on the Epic Pass.