Things to Do in Beaver Creek: Fall Activity & Travel Guide

Why Visit Beaver Creek in Fall: Activities & Atmosphere

As summer ends and the crowds of Vail and Beaver Creek thin out with the return of school, Colorado’s fall shoulder season begins. From mid-September through November, visitors can explore a quieter side of Beaver Creek, with golden foliage, crisp mountain air, and plenty of things to do in Beaver Creek without the summer crowds or winter price hikes.

This serene yet active time of year is perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers looking to unwind, or gear up for adventure. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of Beaver Creek’s top fall activities, along with seasonal tips and travel advice to make the most of your mountain getaway.

1. Getting to Beaver Creek This Fall

Traveling to Beaver Creek during fall is convenient and comfortable with shuttle services like Peak 1 Express, offering:

• Frequent shuttle departures from Denver International Airport (DIA)

• Door-to-door service to most accommodations in Beaver Creek

• No need for rental cars and avoid mountain driving, parking, and traffic

• Affordable group rates and private vehicle options

Tip: Book your Beaver Creek shuttles in advance for the best selection of times and pricing. Travel time from DIA to Beaver Creek is typically 2.5 to 3 hours.

2. September: Warm Days, Cool Nights & Stunning Views

Hot Air Balloon Rides

• Activity Highlights: Sunrise flights over Vail Valley

• Time of Day: Early morning

• Accessibility: Suitable for most ages

• Seasonal Tip: Dress in layers—it’s chilly before sunrise!

Fly-Fishing

• Where to Go: Fly-fishing spots like Eagle River, Beaver Lake, Colorado River, Sylvan Lake, Gore Creek

• Time of Day: Morning or early evening

• Accessibility: Guided options available for all skill levels

• Seasonal Tip: Best enjoyed on weekdays when waters are quieter

Scenic Hiking Trails

• Top Easy Hikes:

  • Berry Creek Loop

  • Nottingham Lake

• Top Moderate Hikes:

  • Bachelor Gulch Trail

  • Metcalfe Creek Trail

  • Royal Elk to Beaver Lake

• Top Difficult Hikes:

  • Turquoise Lakes Trail

  • Deluge Lake Trail

• Seasonal Tip: September’s cool weather and clear skies offer ideal hiking conditions—pack a camera and plenty of water.

Vail Valley Paragliding

• Activity Highlights: Tandem flights over mountain terrain

• Time of Day: Morning preferred for stable air

• Accessibility: Year-round with experienced pilots

• Seasonal Tip: Book in advance—weekends fill up fast!

3. October: Golden Aspens, Cool Trails & Fall Festivities

Leaf Peeping

• Activity Highlights: Fall foliage peaks in mid-October

• Time of Day: Morning light makes colors pop

• Accessibility: Scenic drives, village strolls, or high-elevation hikes

• Seasonal Tip: Take one of the mountain hikes to enjoy the vibrant fall colors around Beaver Creek.

Mountain Biking

• Where to Ride: Beaver Creek Resort, surrounding singletrack trails

• Time of Day: Midday for warmer temps

• Accessibility: Rentals available in nearby towns

• Seasonal Tip: October is your last chance to ride before snow begins to fall, perfect for exploring the area’s flower trails and terrain

Horseback Riding

• Activity Highlights: Ride beneath golden aspens with Beaver Creek Stables

• Options: Short trail rides or picnic rides to Beaver Lake

• Accessibility: All ages welcome

• Seasonal Tip: Cooler days = happy horses & scenic rides!

4. November: First Snow & Cozy Retreats

Early Season Skiing

• Opening Day: Beaver Creek Ski Resort, typically mid-November

• Resort Features: 167 trails, 2,000 acres, 3 terrain parks

• Terrain for All: Beginner to expert slopes

• Seasonal Tip: Always check snow conditions and lift status before arrival

Spa Retreats

• Where to Go: Spas at Park Hyatt, Ritz-Carlton, and other resorts

• Treatments: Hot stone massages, facials, hydrotherapy

• Seasonal Tip: Book midweek for lower prices and less crowded facilities

Theater Performances at VPAC

• What to See: Concerts, comedy, Broadway shows, dance

• Venue: The Vilar Performing Arts Center

• Seasonal Tip: Check the VPAC event calendar and book early

Beaver Creek Nordic Center

• Activity Highlights: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing

• Time of Day: Midday for warmer temps and better light

• Accessibility: Rentals, lessons, and guided tours available

• Seasonal Tip: Dress in layers and bring sunglasses since the snow is bright!

Top Fall Things to Do in Beaver Creek

Leaf-Peeping & Scenic Hiking Trails

• Best Time: Late September to mid-October

• Activity Highlights: Trails lined with golden aspens and mountain views

• Accessibility: Trails range from easy village strolls to strenuous high-alpine hikes

• Tip: Bring a thermos of hot cider and take in the views at a scenic overlook

 Fall Festivals & Local Events

• Best Time: Early to mid-October

• Activity Highlights:

  • Oktoberfest celebrations

  • Autumn arts events in Beaver Creek Village

• Tip: Be sure to visit Oktoberfest and autumn arts events in Beaver Creek Village for local music, artisan booths, and mountain fare

Dining & Brewery Experiences

• Activity Highlights:

  • Cozy fireside dining

  • Fall food specials (think pumpkin ravioli and elk stew)

  • Local breweries pouring seasonal ales

• Tip: Visit local restaurants and breweries and try Beaver Creek’s fall food specials and craft beer. Call ahead or reserve online for best seating

Village Walks & Family Activities

• Best Time: All day

• Activity Highlights:

  • Outdoor ice rink (opens late fall)

  • Scenic chairlift rides (seasonal)

  • Storytime, family movie nights, and village games

• Tip: Dress in layers since it can be sunny and warm in the afternoon, but chilly by nightfall

Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Beaver Creek This Fall

Whether you’re chasing golden aspens, riding trails, relaxing at a spa, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk through the village, there are endless things to do in Beaver Creek during fall. It’s a season full of contrasts: quiet yet active, crisp yet cozy, and above all, stunningly beautiful.

From scenic hikes and leaf-peeping to early-season skiing and live performances, fall in Beaver Creek is the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town mountain charm.

Start your adventure today with a quick, scenic ride via Peak 1 Express from the airport to Beaver Creek, and experience the magic of Colorado’s high country in fall before the snow begins to fall and ski season takes over.