GoPro weekend

1st time to Colorado. Concert @

Redrocks June 10th. Flying in on Friday June 6th and want to spend 4 nights in Vail area before heading to Golden for 2 nights. Looking @ Sonnenalp in Vail or Beaver Creek Lodge? Will Vail be too crowded with GoPro games? Would like to see some of the activities but also want some peace & relaxation. Hiking & enjoying good food too. Any suggestions are appreciated

Thanks

For your first Colorado trip, spending 4 nights in the Vail area around the time of the GoPro Mountain Games can be a mix of excitement and occasional crowds. The GoPro Games attract many visitors, especially to Beaver Creek, but Vail itself is generally less crowded than the main event areas and still offers plenty of opportunities for peace and relaxation.

Regarding your hotel choices:

  • Sonnenalp Hotel, Vail: Known for luxury and comfort with a European-style vibe. Located in Vail Village, it provides easy access to shops, restaurants, and gondola rides. It’s quieter compared to Beaver Creek during the Games, making it ideal for relaxing evenings.
  • Beaver Creek Lodge: Closer to the main GoPro event areas. While you’ll have the convenience of being near the action, it will likely be busier and more lively. Great if you want to walk to events, but less peaceful than Vail Village.

Activities and suggestions for balancing GoPro excitement with relaxation:

  • Take early morning hikes to enjoy peaceful trails before the crowds arrive. Recommended hikes include Booth Falls, Gore Creek Trail, or Shrine Mountain Trail near Vail.
  • Use the Vail or Beaver Creek gondolas to reach scenic viewpoints and easy alpine trails without strenuous effort.
  • Enjoy dining at local favorites in Vail Village for a mix of American and European-inspired cuisine. Consider reserving tables in advance, especially during the Games.
  • If you want to experience the Games without being in the busiest areas, visit event sites mid-morning or late afternoon when crowds are lighter.
  • Take a day trip to nearby towns like Minturn or Avon for a quieter experience and beautiful scenery.

Given your preference for peace and relaxation, I would lean toward staying at the Sonnenalp in Vail. You can easily enjoy the GoPro Games with a short drive to Beaver Creek, yet return to a calmer base for evening dinners, spa time, and quieter hikes. Four nights will give you ample time to explore both Vail and Beaver Creek while balancing activity and downtime.


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