Summer season in full swing at Beaver Creek this weekend

Summer gets into full swing at Beaver Creek this weekend as the Centennial Express Lift opens for daily summer operations offering access to scenic chairlift rides, lift-served mountain biking, hiking and barbecue lunch at Spruce Saddle. Beaver Creek is the perfect setting for outdoor adventures providing a variety of activities and events for the whole family seven days a week, on and off the mountain.

Daily scenic lift rides on the Centennial Express Chairlift (#6) will take place June 15 through Sept. 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., weather-permitting. Weekend operations will occur Sept. 7-29. During the Tough Mudder event June 15-16, complimentary lift rides will be offered. Normal operations resume Monday, June 17. Lift tickets are required to ride the chairlift during the summer and up to three kids 12 and under ride for free with a paying adult. Current 2013-2014 season pass holders receive unlimited, free scenic access to the Centennial Express Lift. At the top of the lift, Spruce Saddle Restaurant features spectacular views while serving up delicious fare between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Purchase a combined lift and lunch package for $32 and receive a $15 voucher valid towards lunch at Spruce Saddle. The disc golf course at Spruce Saddle opens June 15 and disc rentals are available at Beaver Creek Sports in Spruce Saddle. Other summer lift ticket pricing is as follows.

Adult (ages 13-64) scenic lift ride: $26
Senior (age 65+) scenic lift ride: $21
Additional Child: $19. (Up to three kids 12 and under ride for free with a paying adult.)
Adult scenic ride and bike haul: $31
Child ride with bike haul: $24
Summer Scenic Ride Pass: $85

The Beaver Creek Hiking Center is open each day now through Sept. 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. With nearly 100 years of combined hiking experience on staff, the professional guides share their passion and appreciation for the Colorado Rockies with guests of all ages and experiences. Take a complimentary hike with the family from the Summer Adventure Center, enjoy an introduction to the mountain on the Beaver Creek Mountain Hike, or spend a day conquering a Colorado 14er. All hikes and tours include transportation, a professional guide, use of Salomon packs and boots, Leki hiking poles, rain gear, drinks and Nature Valley granola bars. Additional equipment, including child-carrying backpacks, is available to rent. Private tours are also available with a reservation. For further information and for a schedule of hiking tours contact the Beaver Creek Hiking Center, located in the Summer Adventure Center, at (970) 754-5200.

In addition to hiking, the Beaver Creek Hiking Center also offers private guided mountain biking tours geared towards beginners and intermediates. Guests also can explore the mountain on their own by purchasing a lift and bike haul ticket.

Beaver Creek Kids Day Camp is open daily now through Labor Day offering kids 5 to13 an array of suitable outdoor adventures designed specifically to explore, educate and entertain campers all summer long. Children ages 5 to 7 participate in face painting, pony rides, panning for gold, sports and martial arts. Kids ages 8 to 13 experience a changing schedule of challenging activities led by counselors and guides with activities including canoeing, archery, kayaking, swimming and hiking. The Five Star program features rafting, jeep tours, alpine slide, rock climbing, horseback riding and swimming for 5 to 13-year-olds. For more information go to www.beavercreek.com or call (970) 754-5464 to make a reservation.

The Beaver Creek Tennis Center, located adjacent to the Highlands Lodge in Beaver Creek Village, is open through Sept. 29. The facility features five Har-Tu clay courts and two hard courts as well as a complete pro shop that specializes in men’s and women’s tennis racquets, attire and accessories.

Beaver Creek features member and guest play on three championship golf courses at Beaver Creek Golf Club and Red Sky Ranch. All three courses are Audubon Sanctuary Certified. For details on Stay & Play deals at both courses visit www.beavercreek.com.

High Mountain 4X4 Adventure Tours provide a unique way to explore the geological beauty of the area and learn more about flora, fauna and wildflowers, while taking in the area’s amazing views via motorized vehicle. One hour tours depart from Spruce Saddle at 11 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. Tours are $30 per person or purchase a Tour and Lift package or a Tour and Lunch package for $40. The Tour, Lift and Lunch package is $50 per person.

Nestled at 9,000 feet on the flanks of Larkspur Bowl, Beano’s Cabin features a truly unique dining experience. Guests can arrive by horseback for early reservations, tractor-pulled wagon or shuttle. Chef Bill Greenwood combines eco-friendly production techniques with his creative flavors, cultivated in his upbringing in his father’s restaurant in Atlanta. Chef Greenwood has garnered national attention showcasing his butchering technique at a variety of esteemed events including Cochon 555 events in Colorado. For Beano’s Cabin reservations call 970-754-3463.

For more information about the activities and events offered at Beaver Creek this summer visit www.beavercreek.com or call the Summer Adventure Center at (970) 754-5200 or the Beaver Creek Information Center at (970) 754-4636.