TEN BEST NON-SKI ACTIVITIES
Delicate snowflakes falling from the sky, warm steam rising from heated walkways, and unbelievable views found only from the mountaintop—you don’t have to be a ski or snowboard enthusiast to enjoy what these picturesque destinations have to offer.
Explore on- and off-mountain activities like relaxing in outdoor hot tubs, seeing new sights during a snowshoe tour followed by a world-class gourmet dinner, and shopping along village streets lined with glowing windows.
Keystone, Colorado
1. MOUNTAINTOP SNOWCAT TOURS , opens in a new window
When it comes to Mountaintop Snowcat Tours, it’s about both the journey and the destination. Snuggle up close as you enjoy the mountain peaks of Keystone from a warm and comfortable snowcat.
Vail, Colorado
2. LUXURY GAME CREEK CHALET ABOVE VAIL VILLAGE , opens in a new window
The best way to have a memorable mountain getaway is to embrace the bonding, closeness, conversation, and intimacy that an exclusive luxury chalet at 10,500 feet provides. Game Creek Chalet combines the tranquility of complete seclusion with the luxury comforts of a world-class resort.
Experience spectacular mountain views as you sip wine, chat, and relax in the outdoor hot tub surrounded by cascading snowflakes. Later, enjoy a culinary feast together in the chalet’s gourmet kitchen.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
3. GOURMET WINTER WINE EXCURSIONS , opens in a new window
Let an expert guide lead you and your group on a scenic snowshoe tour around Beaver Creek’s iconic terrain.
Learn about Beaver Creek’s history and unique natural environment and then relax with a variety of delicious wines coupled with decadent food pairings. Adventure, luxury, and gourmet join forces to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado
4. ART GALLERIES GALORE , opens in a new window
Around the Vail and Beaver Creek base areas, you can easily spend more than a day soaking up original artwork, much of it worthy of big-city museums.
Galleries abound in Vail Village, Lionshead, Beaver Creek, and Edwards. Check out eclectic jewelry handcrafted on site at Karats, outdoor photography at Matt Inden’s gallery in Lionshead, abstract paintings at Beaver Creek’s C. Anthony Gallery, and bronze wildlife sculptures along Vail’s Meadow Drive.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
5. VILAS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Want to see an international ballet, opera, family theater performance, or famous stand-up comic? Then make your way over to the Vilar Performing Arts Center, located in Beaver Creek Village.
Peruse the full winter lineup of evening performances and family-oriented matinees here.
Epic Activities Beyond Colorado
With so many activities to enjoy in Colorado, it would be difficult to try every one, even with an extended vacation. If your home base is closer to Canada, California, or Utah, there's equal fun to be had at our neighboring resorts.
Park City, Utah
6. OLYMPIC BOBSLED RACING
Bobsledding is a particularly popular Olympic event, watched by many yet experienced by few. But thanks to Park City’s Olympic heritage, now everybody has the opportunity to ride down an Olympic bobsled track.
The Utah Olympic Park was home to several events in 2002 and still operates the Winter Comet Bobsled. Experience the 6-g turns while you hurtle down the track. (Don't worry; there are professional pilots who drive and provide training prior to your run.)
Park City, Utah
7. MOUNTAIN HOT AIR BALLOON RIDE
For an extreme view from the top, check out Park City Balloon Adventures. From 3,000 feet, you’ll get a glimpse of desert rock formations to the south, a panorama of Utah’s Summit County, and the Salt Lake Valley.
Back on the ground, accept your Certificate of Ascension and celebratory champagne, to mark this exciting adventure.
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
8. ZIPTREK , opens in a new window
At Whistler Blackcomb, guests can take part in a high flying adventure. There are plenty of tour options, including the Bear Tour, a three-hour excursion with Five Zip Lines and Four Treetop Bridges, perfect for families, groups, and first-time zipliners.
Northstar, California
9. THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA , opens in a new window
Reward yourself after a long day on the mountain, or better yet, pamper yourself while taking a day off from the slopes altogether.
With 17 treatment rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, fireplace and heated lap pool overlooking the Sierras, The Ritz-Carlton Spa will be sure to leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed and ready for another day of adventure.
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
10. FIRE AND ICE SHOW , opens in a new window
The Fire and Ice Show is a weekly, adrenaline-pumping, snowboarding and skiing acrobatics show. Watch world-class athletes flip, twist, and fly through rings of fire. It’s an electrifying mix of music, dance, and mystifying stunts.
