I was halfway up the trail from the base of Beaver Creek Resort, running through the aspens and gulping the air to eek out as much oxygen as possible when I had to stop. It wasn’t the elevation that gave me pause, or even the way the trail inclined.

It was the sheer beauty: a lush landscape thick with aspen groves and stands of ponderosa pines, an open meadow dotted with a bright mosaic of wildflowers. The sound of the creek in the distance and the clean fresh air was almost too much. This was the place of fantasies, and I’d arrived by merely stepping outside my hotel, hopping on the nearest trail and putting one foot in front of the other. I glanced around one more time and then sprinted the remaining mile up to Beaver Lake.

That run, which I took last summer while I was attending a wedding at Beaver Creek, was perfect. The climb was friendly enough to keep a spring in my step. The distance was challenging without crushing me. And the scenery couldn’t be beat. Not only is the trail running terrific at Beaver Creek, so, too is the mountain biking, the hiking, the casual sight seeing, the horseback riding, the festivals…you get my drift. Beaver Creek is almost more popular in the summer than it is in the winter, thanks to its unrivaled trails, lack of crowds, and extensive entertainment. Here are some highlights of what to do in Beaver Creek in the summer.

Not only is the trail running terrific at Beaver Creek, so, too is the mountain biking, the hiking, the casual sight seeing, the horseback riding, the festivals…you get my drift. Beaver Creek is almost more popular in the summer than it is in the winter, thanks to its unrivaled trails, lack of crowds, and extensive entertainment.

Here are some highlights of what to do in Beaver Creek in the summer.

Hike

Options abound, from friendly creek-side strolls to heart-pounding steep ascents to the mountain’s summit. Whether you want a self-guided adventure or something more structured, start your hike at the Beaver Creek Hiking Center, where guided private and group hikes are an option or where you can get the latest trail beta and maps from seasoned enthusiasts. Call 970-754-5373 for more details.

Bike

First time dirt riders will love Beaver Creek’s gentle easy trails, designed to build confidence and stoke enthusiasm with their mellow inclines and sweeping curves. Intermediates and experts will discover some of the high country’s most extensive cross-country riding. Smooth dirt, jaw-dropping views, brutal climbs followed by descents that run for miles are Beaver Creek mountain biking trademarks. Trust us. But come verify for yourself.

Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival

(May 28-29): Kicking off the summer season, this large event in the village attracts top barbecue chefs from around the state who join our experienced and talented local chefs for two days of eating, drinking, dancing, and live music.

Kids’ Day Camp Camp

Sometimes vacation is all about bonding with the family. Other times it’s about sending everyone out on their own adventures. For those days, look no further than Kids’ Day Camp, our renowned licensed day camp for kids ages 5 to 13. Intrepid instructors take kids horseback riding or hiking or another age-appropriate activity. Arts and crafts are exceedingly popular. This is a camp for the aspiring mountain kid who loves adventure. Reservations recommended. Call 970-754-5464.

Beaver Creek Rodeo

Three words you generally don’t use in the same sentence—Rodeo and Westin Hotels—converge here, as the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa is the signature sponsor of this authentic, western rodeo. Whether you’re an old hat when it comes to bull riding or this is, literally, your first rodeo, you’ll love the energy and excitement as cowboys ride bucking broncs, compete in team roping, barrel race, and more. This event is kid-friendly, which means pony rides, face painting, and, naturally, fried dough. Thursday nights, from June through August.

Wine & Spirits Festival

(August 12-14) Now in its 10th year, the Beaver Creek Wine & Spirits Festival convenes local culinary talent with nationally acclaimed chefs, sommeliers, and instructors for a sensational—in every sense of the word—celebration of good food and drink. Highlights include the Walk & Wine event, pairing seminars, wine dinners and a grand tasting.

 

Rachel Walker is a freelance writer and editor based in Boulder, Colorado. Covering travel, family, and adventure for a range of publications, she heads to the mountains as frequently as possible. Follow her on Twitter at @racheljowalker.