Paul L.
Yelp
For the uninitiated (which included me till not so long ago), the Beave is the 'other' beautiful ski resort in the area where Vail is situated; interesting fact - it's actually a few clicks closer than Vail itself if you're by-passing the uncertainty of driving from Denver and flying into 'Vail' directly, AKA Eagle Regional airport or EGE. And while Vail and the likes of Aspen, Steamboat, or even Breckenridge might get all the headlines, BC has a LOT to offer compared to its higher-profile rivals. Both the quality and quantity of terrain are top-notch, especially after their recent expansion called McCoy Park, adding 250 acres, and targetted directly at the once-a-season skiing family flying in from Connecticut or Michigan. Parking is also fairly convenient, where there's a lot at the bottom of the hill, and buses take you up, OR you can pay $35 for private parking much closer in and not have to "endure" the almost 3-mile bus ride. What it doesn't have over its competitors is pricing - they're all just as expensive, as most of those afore-mentioned are owned by Vail resorts; a day ticket is going to set you back well north of 2 benjamins. Do explore online, as there are other, less expensive, options (why do you think I get a season pass? Not because I'm loaded, that's for sure). There are plenty to do even for non-skiing family members at Beaver Creek: a skating rink, art galleries, plenty of (pricey) shopping. And if you do go, don't forget the hot cookies at 1500 every day between the Centennial Express and the baby gondola (in the village). So if you schuss, give BC a try, but book your accomodations well in advance. That Park Hyatt right on sight typically runs you over 2Gs a night in the off-season. Even Air BnB, if available will cost a pretty penny. Couple more tips: having just enjoyed a blue jay day skiing with a local who knows it inside out, I resolve to start my ski day at or close to opening time. I also resolve to ice my knees every day so that I can enjoy the following day to the max.