Autumn is a season of transformation, where nature dons its most vibrant hues, and the landscape turns into a masterpiece of reds, oranges, and golds. When it comes to experiencing the magic of fall foliage, Vail and Beaver Creek in Colorado are unparalleled destinations. Join me on a weekend getaway to witness the stunning transformation of these mountain towns as the leaves turn gold.

Day 1: Arrival in Vail

Morning:

Arriving in Vail is like stepping into a storybook. The charming alpine village welcomes you with crisp mountain air and the promise of autumn’s splendor. Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Vail Village, where European-style architecture and cobblestone streets create a cozy atmosphere. There is a free bus that will shuttle you from East Village to West Village if you dont want to walk it. You can also rent bikes to get around as well..

It is very quiet here in September/October, as it is off-season. No large crowds of people. It makes it a very relaxing time to get away to the Colorado Mountains. 

Afternoon:

CHAIRLIFT & GONDOLA RIDES

Summer: Gondola One (#1) and Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19) are operating from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM daily from June 16th through September 4th, 2023. 

Autumn: Gondola One (#1) and Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19) are operating from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from September 8th to October 1st, 2023.Saturday and Sunday from September 8th to October 1st, 2023.

You can also head to Booth Falls Trail. This moderate hike takes you through a colorful aspen grove, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget your camera; this is the perfect spot for capturing the golden glow.

Evening:

For dinner, eat at one of Vail’s renowned restaurants. Many establishments offer seasonal dishes featuring local ingredients. Pair your meal with a fine wine or a craft brew.

Here are some top-rated restaurants in Vail, known for their exceptional food and dining experiences:

• Matsuhisa Vail:
  • Cuisine: Japanese and Peruvian Fusion
  • Highlights: Signature dishes like Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño
  • Known for: Upscale dining with a creative twist on traditional Japanese cuisine.
• Sweet Basil:
  • Cuisine: Contemporary American
  • Highlights: Fresh and seasonal ingredients, innovative menu items
  • Known for: A Vail institution offering a diverse menu and an extensive wine list.
• La Tour Restaurant & Bar:
  • Cuisine: French-American
  • Highlights: Classic French dishes with a modern twist
  • Known for: An elegant dining experience, excellent wine selection, and a cozy atmosphere.
• Mountain Standard:
  • Cuisine: Rustic American
  • Highlights: Wood-fired dishes, shared plates, and creative cocktails
  • Known for: A casual and social dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
• Elway’s Vail:
  • Cuisine: Steakhouse
  • Highlights: Premium steaks, seafood, and a vast wine list
  • Known for: Named after former NFL quarterback John Elway, this steakhouse offers a refined dining experience.
• Terra Bistro:
  • Cuisine: Contemporary American
  • Highlights: Sustainable and organic ingredients, vegetarian and vegan options
  • Known for: A commitment to eco-friendly practices and creative dishes.
• Vintage:
  • Cuisine: French
  • Highlights: Classic French cuisine, extensive wine list
  • Known for: A charming and romantic setting with a focus on French culinary traditions.
• Game Creek Restaurant:
  • Cuisine: American
  • Highlights: Stunning mountaintop location, gourmet dining
  • Known for: Spectacular views and an exclusive alpine dining experience.
• Flame Restaurant:
  • Cuisine: Steakhouse
  • Highlights: Premium steaks, seafood, and craft cocktails
  • Known for: A cozy and inviting atmosphere in the Four Seasons Resort.
• The 10th:
  • Cuisine: Alpine-inspired
  • Highlights: Modern alpine cuisine with breathtaking views
  • Known for: Located at Mid-Vail on Vail Mountain, it offers a unique on-mountain dining experience.

Please note that reservations are often recommended, especially during the peak ski season and busy weekends. Additionally, Vail’s dining scene is diverse, and you can find options to suit various budgets and culinary preferences beyond these dining establishments.

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Beaver Creek

Morning:

Begin your day with a short scenic drive along the stunning and aptly named “Top of the Rockies” route. This journey offers endless vistas of fiery aspens as you make your way to Beaver Creek. Be sure to stop at designated pullouts for photo opportunities.

mid- morning/Afternoon:

Arriving in Beaver Creek, explore the Beaver Lake Trail. This moderately challenging hike rewards you with breathtaking views of Beaver Creek Mountain and, of course, the vibrant foliage. 

Hiking to Beaver Lake in Beaver Creek, Colorado, is a rewarding and enjoyable outdoor adventure. Here’s what you can expect when hiking to Beaver Lake:

1. Scenic Beauty: The hike to Beaver Lake takes you through lush alpine forests, meadows, and alongside rushing mountain streams. You’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, with opportunities to appreciate wildflowers and the changing landscape.
2. Distance and Difficulty: The hike to Beaver Lake is approximately 6.4 miles round trip. It’s considered a moderate to moderately strenuous hike, with some elevation gain. The trail has rocky sections and steep inclines, so be prepared for a good workout. Stay hydrated! This is essential.
3. Trailhead: The trailhead for Beaver Lake is located near the base of Beaver Creek Resort. You can typically access it by taking a chairlift to the start of the trail in the summer months, or you can hike up from the base area.
4. Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including birds, marmots, and possibly deer or elk. This area is part of their natural habitat, so you might have some wildlife encounters along the way.
5. Stream Crossings: Depending on the time of year and recent weather conditions, you may encounter stream crossings. Some of the streams have footbridges, but others may require rock hopping.
6. Beaver Lake: When you reach Beaver Lake, you’ll be greeted by a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. It’s a picturesque spot for a picnic, relaxation, or simply taking in the serene mountain scenery.
7. Weather: Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so be prepared for possible changes in temperature, sudden rain showers, or afternoon thunderstorms. Dress in layers and bring rain gear just in case.
8. Trail Etiquette: Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting the natural environment. Yield the trail to other hikers, and keep dogs on a leash.
9. Duration: The hike to Beaver Lake can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours round trip, depending on your hiking pace and how long you spend at the lake.
10. Altitude: Beaver Lake is located at a high elevation, so if you’re not acclimated to the altitude, take it slow and stay hydrated to avoid altitude-related issues.

Overall, hiking to Beaver Lake is a memorable experience that offers a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. It’s a great way to enjoy the great outdoors, get some exercise, and connect with nature during your visit to Beaver Creek.

Evening:

For a memorable evening, book a table at one of Beaver Creek’s fine dining establishments. The cozy ambiance and culinary delights create the perfect setting for celebrating your autumn adventure.

Top-rated restaurants in Beaver Creek known for their exceptional food and dining experiences:

• Splendido at the Chateau:
  • Cuisine: Contemporary American and European
  • Highlights: Gourmet cuisine, extensive wine list, elegant atmosphere
  • Known for: Fine dining with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
• Zach’s Cabin:
  • Cuisine: Alpine-inspired
  • Highlights: Stunning mountaintop location, multi-course dinners, cozy ambiance
  • Known for: Accessible only by sleigh in the winter, it offers an unforgettable dining experience.
• Grouse Mountain Grill:
  • Cuisine: American
  • Highlights: Award-winning cuisine, expansive wine selection
  • Known for: A warm and inviting atmosphere with a focus on creative American dishes.
• SaddleRidge Restaurant:
  • Cuisine: American
  • Highlights: Western-themed decor, hearty cuisine, unique artifacts collection
  • Known for: Dining amidst one of the largest private collections of American Western artifacts.
• Mirabelle at Beaver Creek:
  • Cuisine: French and American
  • Highlights: French-inspired dishes, intimate setting, extensive wine list
  • Known for: A charming and romantic dining experience in a historic building.
• Hooked:
  • Cuisine: Seafood and Sushi
  • Highlights: Fresh seafood, sushi, and creative cocktails
  • Known for: A casual and vibrant seafood restaurant with a variety of options.
• Toscanini:
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Highlights: Authentic Italian dishes, handmade pasta, extensive wine list
  • Known for: Classic Italian flavors in a relaxed setting.
• Revolution:
  • Cuisine: American
  • Highlights: Gourmet burgers, craft beers, laid-back atmosphere
  • Known for: A popular spot for delicious burgers and creative cocktails.
• Beaver Creek Chophouse:
  • Cuisine: Steakhouse and Seafood
  • Highlights: Premium steaks, fresh seafood, slopeside location
  • Known for: A casual and family-friendly restaurant with mountain views.
• Dusty Boot Steakhouse and Saloon:
  • Cuisine: Steakhouse and American
  • Highlights: Steaks, ribs, and comfort food, lively atmosphere
  • Known for: A casual Western-themed steakhouse with a fun and energetic vibe.

Beaver Creek’s dining options cater to a range of preferences, from upscale fine dining to casual and family-friendly eateries. Reservations are recommended, especially during busy seasons and weekends. Enjoy the diverse culinary offerings that Beaver Creek has to offer.

Day 3: Morning Bliss and Departure

Morning:

Before bidding farewell, start your day with a peaceful gondola ride in Beaver Creek.*Note: Gondola only operates on weekends in September. 

CHAIRLIFT & GONDOLA RIDES

Take a gondola ride up Centennial Express Lift on Beaver Creek Mountain. Enjoy lunch and games at Spruce Saddle, and explore the mountain by foot or bike on our many trails. Scenic Chairlift or gondola rides are available daily 9:30AM to 4:30 PM June 17-September 4 then Saturdays and Sundays only September 9-24.

The Scenic Lift Ride + Lunch includes a $25 voucher toward lunch at Spruce Saddle. The Scenic Lift Ride Full Summer Pass gives you unlimited access to gondolas on both Beaver Creek and Vail Mountains. Discover the numerous trails and take in the surrounding mountain vistas.

Please purchase tickets online and pick them up at the Summer Adventure Center, located at the base of the Centennial Express Lift. Children 4 & under can receive a free ticket at the ticket window. 

 The views from the gondola are especially captivating in the morning light.

Late Morning:

If time permits, take a leisurely stroll along the Beaver Creek Village, where you can find charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. It’s a perfect opportunity to pick up souvenirs or gifts.

The cost of accommodations and food in Vail and Beaver Creek can vary widely depending on your preferences and the time of year you visit. Both towns are known for their luxurious options, but there are also more budget-friendly choices available.

Accommodations:

• Luxury Resorts: Vail and Beaver Creek have a range of high-end resorts and hotels that offer top-notch amenities. Prices can start at $300 per night and go up significantly for premium options.
• Mid-Range Hotels: There are mid-range hotels and lodges that offer comfortable accommodations without the luxury price tag. Expect to pay around $150 to $250 per night for these options.
• Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals, such as condos and cabins, can be a cost-effective choice for families or groups. Prices vary, but you can find options starting at $200 per night.
• Budget Accommodations: If you’re looking to save on accommodations, consider budget-friendly motels or hostels in nearby towns. Prices can range from $80 to $150 per night.

Food:

• Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants in Vail and Beaver Creek offer gourmet dining experiences. A three-course meal for two with drinks can cost around $150 or more.
• Casual Dining: For more casual dining options like bistros and cafes, expect to spend around $30 to $60 for a meal for two, excluding alcohol.
• Fast Food and Takeout: Fast food restaurants offer more affordable options, with a meal for one costing around $10 to $15.
• Groceries: If you’re on a budget, consider buying groceries and cooking your meals.
• Coffee and Snacks: A cup of coffee or a snack from a local cafe can cost around $4 to $8.

Keep in mind that prices may be higher during the peak ski season in the winter and during the fall foliage season. Additionally, tipping is customary in the United States, so be sure to budget for gratuities when dining out.

Overall, Vail and Beaver Creek offer a range of options to suit different budgets, and with some planning, you can enjoy the beauty of the area without breaking the bank.

As you head home, the memories of this autumn weekend getaway to Vail and Beaver Creek will linger.  Autumn’s golden touch is something to cherish, and these mountain retreats offer the perfect canvas for your fall masterpiece