Summer in the spirited community of Snowmass brings emerald-green mountain vistas peppered with a rainbow of dancing wildflowers. Miles of trails to get lost in nature by foot or by bike. Delicious cuisine delivered with the backdrop of live music, vibrantly colored gondolas (called Skittles), and blue skies. Gentle breezes of mountain air warmed by the sun carry the sounds of nature.
There’s something for everyone in this Alps-inspired mountain village. Whether you soar above the summit in a hot air balloon or float down the Roaring Fork River in a raft, Snowmass delivers. Not to mention, Snowmass hosts a plethora of summer festivals, live music venues and outdoor events.
We interviewed our Destination Manager in Snowmass for the inside scoop on the best ways to spend 72 hours in this lively mountain community.
DAY 1: Make Your Way Up the Mountain
“There’s no better way to kick off your time in Snowmass than in your backyard exploring all Snowmass Mountain has to offer,” said our Destination Manager. “Not only is the gondola ride up a thrill in itself, but once you arrive at the pinnacle, a mountain of adventure awaits.”
Start your morning with breakfast in Snowmass Village by treating yourself to a sweet or savory crepe and an espresso at The Crepe Shack. The crepe batter is perfectly sweet and stuffed with a variety of fresh fillings guaranteed to surprise and delight your taste buds.
Atop Snowmass Mountain, you’ll find an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. Experience an adrenaline rush with an exhilarating alpine roller coaster ride, tackle the challenge course, play disc golf, traverse a climbing wall, hike the trails or test your courage with bungie jumping.
Snowmass Village is a cycling community that accommodates visitors of any skill level. Snowmass Bike Park offers access to 25 miles of perfectly maintained mountain bike trails, and we highly suggest giving it a spin. Our Local Host can arrange everything you need for your biking adventure from Four Mountain Sports. Take a guided mountain bike tour or explore the scenic trails on your own with the help of Bike Snowmass maps.
When the fresh mountain air builds up your appetite, take a break with al fresco dining at mountaintop Elk Camp restaurant. Known for their homemade seasonal dishes and Farm to Table Tuesdays in summer, Elk Camp’s menu, open air dining and spectacular views are guaranteed to please.
After a long day playing slope side, immerse yourself in the views of the Snowmass Ski Area and the Elk Mountains from your home base while sipping a chilled cocktail or flavorful local brew on your balcony. Feeling a little achy from hiking and biking? Relax in the hot tub under the summer sun.
Your Local Host made dinner reservations at Il Poggio. It’s just a quick stroll to this Italian eatery bursting with ambience. ll Poggio employs a masterful sommelier who hand selects wine pairings that perfectly complement the chef’s creations. If you’re seeking a more casual dining experience, ask to be seated near the bar where you can watch the chef work his magic in the stone pizza oven.
DAY 2: Scenic Drive to Iconic Maroon Bells
What better place to fuel up than The Fuel Cafe, known for its overflowing breakfast burritos and specialty bagels. Don’t forget to order an extra coffee to-go for your sixteen-mile scenic drive that will lead you to the towering beauty of the Maroon Bells. These 14,000-foot peaks epitomize the magnificence of the Rocky Mountains. Bask in their impressive panorama while relaxing on Maroon Lake or wander the 1.7-mile nature loop around the glacial basin. Many opt for the moderately challenging 3.6-mile Crater Lake hike.
After taking in the striking peaks and vibrant landscape of the most iconic 14ers in Colorado, head back to Snowmass Village for a bite at award-winning Venga Venga. You’re sure to refresh and recharge on their tableside guacamole, sizzling fajitas, and specialty margaritas. Located in the middle of Snowmass Village, it’s a front row seat to people watching, mountain bikers and more gorgeous peaks.
Spend the afternoon pampering yourself at the 7,000-square-foot Viceroy Snowmass spa, where we will schedule a massage for you. Decompress to the soothing sounds of the infinity pool and waterfall, or book a spa treatment. If it’s movement you’re craving, join one of the many yoga classes.
For dinner, you’ll step back in time with an unforgettable night at Woody Creek Tavern, known widely for its most famous patron, gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson. A visit to this iconic eatery is worth the short drive. The ambience is comfortably casual with delectable food, stiff drinks, and some of the most interesting locals you’ll meet. If your senses aren’t overwhelmed by the décor featuring thousands of pieces of memorabilia, they’ll certainly be enticed by the aroma of spices and steaks on the grill.
DAY 3: A River Runs Through It
We highly suggest getting your adrenaline rush with one of Colorado’s most coveted summer activities – white water rafting. Blazing Adventures offers an unforgettable half or full-day river rafting trip on the Roaring Fork River or breathtaking Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River. Rafting adventures are curated to your preference, so brave the raging rapids, or take it down a notch with a slightly milder river experience.
Your tour guide can also outfit you with a kayak or a paddle board if you prefer to explore calmer sections of the river. And, if you’d rather swap your paddle for a fly rod, guided flyfishing for wild trout in the Roaring Fork and Frying Pan Rivers is a blast.
After your morning rafting trip, we suggest late lunch reservations at one of our favorites, Pine Creek Cookhouse. This is a must-see rustic log cabin nestled in the mountains with a cozy vibe and endless views. It’s off the beaten path but well worth the 45-minute drive if you have the time. You’ll fall in love with the gourmet Alpine cuisine featuring wild game and fresh fish.
Snowmass and Aspen are quaint villages with a variety of shops to explore. Spend the afternoon strolling through and picking up souvenirs, checking out local artisans or just taking in the sights. From distilleries to crafters to retailers, there’s something for every taste.
Your last night in Snowmass, we want you to experience dinner worthy of a standing ovation, so we’ve made reservations at Toro, located in Travel + Leisure’s award-winning Viceroy Hotel & Resort. Toro’s chef sources inspiration from Latin American regions and specializes in delicious grilled steaks and fish. Treat yourself to one of their specialty drinks, such as the Smokey Old Fashioned or Spicy Paloma. The Viceroy offers dancing with live music late into the night.
At Home in Snowmass with Equity Estates
Located in the heart of Snowmass Base Village, this lovely vacation home is the definition of ski-in/ski-out, and the convenience it offers simply cannot be beat. A second-floor gem featuring a full wrap-around outdoor living area complete with a sound system and heating, with two master suites and a bunk room, this investor’s choice is well equipped to host your family’s next Snowmass adventure. The home is near adult favorites like the Viceroy Resort restaurants, spas, trendy bars, and entertainment venues.
Your personal travel concierge will work with you to plan your itinerary before you arrive and make your stay effortless by arranging reservations for activities, transportation, and meals out or private chef feasts at home. Arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with the groceries of your choice from the local market. Leave the details to us. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.
Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable experience. Fund VI is opening soon. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or click here to join our Fund VI interest list.
