Copper Mountain Village
While Copper certainly stands today on its own as a world-class ski resort, it would be fair to say that Copper Mountain used to sit somewhat in the shadow of its more illustrious Summit County cousins, like Breckenridge; but that changed when Intrawest Corporation (owners of Whistler-Blackcomb, among other A-list resorts) pumped money into on-slope improvements, but above all Intrawest was quick to fix upon one badly-needed element in the resort—a village.When Intrawest acquired Copper in 1997, some of the first improvements were on-mountain, although the mountain itself was nearly perfect to begin with. The Super Bee, Colorado’s first high-speed six-passenger chairlift, was installed in the East village, and Copper expanded its expert bowl skiing to the limits of Tucker Mountain. The pedestrian- only village at Copper, however, truly represents the renaissance of Copper Mountain. US$400 million later, Copper boasts the finest in mountain villages complete with heated walkways connecting dining, shopping, nightlife, après ski, activities, and events.
Parking is all underground with easily accessed lifts to the buildings and units-a neat and aesthetic touch to keep the cars out of sight and the village free for strolling in. Every attention to detail, such as the movement of the sun and “gathering places,” has been taken into consideration, and it truly makes for a world-class village just steps away from the lifts.
A short bus ride, ski, or walk away is the East Village, sporting Copper Springs Lodge as its majestic flagship lodge. Located on the expert side of the mountain, the East Village also plays host to après-ski legend Moe Dixon at JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern, just a few steps from the Super Bee lift.
The last stage of the village involves the Lake Buildings, which will feature shops, restaurants and bars surrounding the West Lake ice skating/boating area. New après ski venues will include Pravda (a Russian vodka bar) and McGillycuddy’s Irish pub.
An expanded beginner learning area on the west side of the mountain adjacent to Union Creek welcomes novices, and the expert skier can look for improvements to Copper’s free Tucker Mountain snowcat tour service. Snowcats deliver guests to Tucker Mountain, elevation 12,337 ft (3760 m), where legendary high alpine Colorado terrain awaits.