The Crested Butte Real Estate and Community Newsletter – December 2011
Brought to you by Corey Dwan of Benson Sotheby’s International Realty

Hi Everyone,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work with you this year and keep you updated on the Crested Butte real estate market. It has been an honor and a most valuable experience for me. I wish you abundance, happiness and a new year filled with hope. Happy Holidays and I hope to see you in Crested Butte this winter!

Watch for my newsletter at the beginning of January with the year-end totals. For now just enjoy some really good Crested Butte and national news as well as local upcoming events.

Crested Butte Market Calendar of Events

USA Pro Cycling Challenge Coming Back to Crested Butte

Crested Butte Selected for the ISMF North American Ski Mountaineering Championships

Crested Butte Named 2nd Snowiest City in America

New Housing Starts Jumps 9.3%

Mortgage Rates Drop to Record Lows

Fed More Upbeat About Recovery

Luxury Real Estate Market See No Downturn

2011-2012 Winter Airline Schedule

Access to Crested Butte this winter is quick and easy thanks to direct, non-stop flights into the Gunnison/Crested Butte (GUC) Regional Airport from several major cities across the country. Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) and the Gunnison County Rural Transportation Association (RTA) have diligently negotiated air service for the 2011-2012 winter season from three major carriers: American Airlines, Continental Airlines and United Airlines, with flights from Dallas (DFW), Houston (IAH) and Denver (DEN). The full direct service schedule begins December 15th & 16th.

Local and discounted fares have been announced. Please be sure to take advantage of these discounted fares. The more people use our direct flights, the better it is for our overall air service program. The first is a holiday fare sale through American Airlines and the second is the standard United local’s fare which has been extended through December 2012. More detailed information about both deals is posted at www.flygcb.com.

American Airlines is offering holiday airfares for travel originating from the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) starting at $198* per round trip ($99 each way based on a required round-trip, economy-class purchase).  Required dates of travel from GUC are Dec. 15 “22, 2011, with return to GUC from Dec. 31, 2011“ Jan. 7, 2012.  Tickets must be purchased at least 14 days prior to departure, and fare examples do not include taxes and fees.

United Airlines, which flies into GUC year-round, continues to offer a round-trip local’s fare for $161.40 (must originate in GUC).  A one-way only fare originating in GUC is $109.70.  Both are subject to availability and valid for travel through Dec. 13, 2012.  There is a minimum one-night stay and maximum 30-night stay, and tickets must be booked locally at least one day in advance through Crested Butte Vacations, 349-2287, or at the United desk at the airport, which is open 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. except when a flight is being serviced.  You must be a Colorado resident, and Colorado residence identification may be required at check-in.  There is a $10 ticketing fee to book the fare through Crested Butte Vacations.

CBMR Environmental Efforts

CBMR has made great strides in becoming a greener resort. In 2010, CBMR joined the Colorado Industrial Energy Challenge (CIEC), as one of 13 charter members in the state. By signing on, the resort committed to reducing energy consumption by two percent each year for five consecutive years, using 2008 as the base year. In June of 2011, CBMR won the Excellence in Energy Efficiency award from Governor John Hickenlooper and the Governor Energy Office for reducing energy use by 18.9 percent in the first year. Mountain Operations crews and all CBMR staff are very committed to this endeavor and it shows in everything they do, from making snow to turning off lights and turning down the heat at night.

Crested Butte Mountain Resort Updates

Zipline Tour – The new Crested Butte Zipline Tour opened June 28 and is now up and running for the winter season. The guided tour includes five zip lines and three suspended bridges that have been uniquely adapted to accommodate winter operations. The Crested Butte Zipline Tour is available during the summer, fall and winter seasons and has been welcomed with resounding success. To date, we’ve already had 3,225 zippers enjoy the tour and look forward to offering it for our winter guests as well for $59 per person. The winter operations will begin at the yurt located at the base of the zipline and right in front of the kids learning area by the Whetstone building. At the yurt, guests will get fitted for their harnesses where the necessary safety instructions explained. Each tour will then make their way down to the Peachtree lift for a ride up to the top of the zipline and enjoy the approximate 2-hour zipping experience. We hope you enjoy this added amenity to the resort.

Paradise Warming House “Paradise was one of our biggest endeavors this summer season and will look much different when it opens for the season in the coming days. The cafeteria line has drastically changed, as the beverage island in the center has been removed and will now be a salad bar, offering healthier options for our guests in this location. Sections of the exterior have been resided and we are in the process of updating all of the signage to better fit our brand here at CBMR and give Paradise a more comprehensive updated feel. We hope you enjoy the changes done to date. Also, the sewer lines in an around Paradise have been addressed. We replace 3,000 feet of pipe line, so we have our fingers crossed that the plaguing odor has finally been mitigated at the base of the Paradise Lift.

Ten Peaks “Camp 4  no longer wished to utilize the location at the top of Painter Boy, worry not, they are still in their same location in Mountaineer Square.  So CBMR has taken over the small building at the top of Painter Boy, given it a little paint job, with hopes of future capital dollars being designated to this beautiful location, which houses some of the best views in the valley. Ten Peaks is the new name and we hope to capitalize on the beach front and will continue to offer guests, coffee, pre-made sandwiches, soups and a full service bar.

Treasury Building “We are currently in a multi-phase project with Treasury to update the building and modernize the look. As you may remember we worked extensively on the interior last year and this year we decided to start focusing on the exterior. We have installed new doors on both sides of the building, which also have an automatic door component for our guests, providing easier access and a more welcoming environment.  In addition, we have replaced the sidewalk on the Elevation side of the building with new pavers. The plan is to continue the exterior improvements next year.

Thanks for reading! If you’d like to tell me what you think about this newsletter, or if you’re thinking of buying or selling real estate, please do get in touch.

Thanks for all your referrals!
I succeed when people like you refer me to their family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. It’s the best kind of feedback I can receive. So thanks for continuing to pass along this newsletter to all.
Cheers,

Corey

Search for Crested Butte and Gunnison Real Estate

Corey Dwan – REALTOR

970-596-3219 Cell
970-797-1810 Fax
www.CrestedButteForSale.com

September, 2011 Issue
The Crested Butte Real Estate and Community Newsletter Brought to you by Corey Dwan of Benson Sotheby’s International Realty With the arrival of cool, crisp days our beautiful valley is experiencing the beginning of the fall season. Yellow, gold and orange aspen leaves are beginning to appear as more and more summer visitors leave the valley to return home making this one of the best times of the year to visit. Historically, a very dry and cool time of the year, September holds many activities and events for you to experience along with the beautiful backdrop of the blanketed fall colors.  Crested Butte Market Update Real estate sales have continued dramatically with 134 sales of condos and single family homes in the upper valley now representing a 30% increase over the same period last year. It is evident with $57,108,553 in sales and another 41 transactions of over $22,000,000 more under contract that buyers are taking advantage of the substantial decrease in median list prices this year. Yet, it is also clear the affluent buyer that knows what they want are spending their disposable income as seen with nine high end homes in the towns of Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte that have sold and/or have gone under contract in the last month with an average price per square foot of $564! Land sales are on the rise as well with 21 transactions so far this year for a total of $2,984,800 representing a 38% increase over same period last year. Another $1,515,800 worth of land is currently under contract and due to close soon.	In This Issue: Real Estate Market Update CBMR Capital Improvements USA Pro Cycling Challenge Paragon People’s Fair Mt. CB Beer and Chili Festival Superfly 2011 Vinotok Oh Be Joyful Gallery Featured Listings Global Listings 329 Maroon Avenue, Crested Butte $1,595,000 821 Fern Creek Road, Creede $4,195,000 142 Larkspur Loop, Crested Butte $118,000 474 Deep Creek Road, Creede $1,595,000 309 Third Street, Crested Butte $985,000   651 Gothic Road, Unit 504E $209,000   Mt. Crested Butte Homes Mt. Crested Butte Condos Mt. Crested Butte Land Crested Butte Homes Crested Butte Condos Crested Butte Land Rural Crested Butte Homes Rural Crested Butte Condos Rural Crested Butte Land Crested Butte South Homes Crested Butte South Condos Crested Butte South Land Gunnison Area Homes Gunnison Area Condos Gunnison Area Land Global Real Estate Mountain Bike Trail Report Mt. Crested Butte Snow Report Mt. Crested Butte Ski Trail Report Crested Butte Weather Report Sign Up for my Newsletter
Unit 503 The Buttes, Mt. Crested Butte $299,000 38 Ruby Drive, Mt. Crested Butte $229,000 116 Whiterock Ave, Crested Butte $475,000
Crested Butte Mountain Resort Capital Improvements Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) kicks off the 2011-2012 season with improvements in all areas of operations, ensuring continued focus on the guest experience. Enhancements include: a new Zipline Tour for the summer and winter seasons; renovations to the Paradise Warming House restaurant; a new fleet of high-end demo gear and a new Learn-to-Ride snowboard fleet for women and children; and a partnership with Patagonia for new employee uniforms over the next couple of seasons and products for the resort’s retail outlets. The coming season also concludes CBMR’s yearlong celebration of 50 years of skiing with an opening day tribute on November 23, 2011.  “We’ve concentrated our efforts on enhancements that will resonate with our guests,” said Ethan Mueller, vice president and general manager of CBMR. “The new Zipline Tour is a great example; it has been a huge hit this summer and we have no doubt it will offer a memorable winter adventure opportunity.” The new Crested Butte Zipline Tour opened June 28 after much anticipation and more spring snow than anticipated. The guided tour includes five zip lines and three suspended bridges that have been uniquely adapted to accommodate winter operations. The Crested Butte Zipline Tour is available during the summer, fall and winter seasons; the resort will offer the only guided zipline tour at a Colorado ski resort, and one of the only winter canopy tour operations in the state. Renovations to the Paradise Warming House, CBMR’s mid-mountain cafeteria-style on-mountain restaurant, include a food line redesign and an updated look and feel. The remodel will improve service and use of space, while preserving the casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere that Crested Butte is famous for. CBMR will update its rental fleet with new high-end demo skis and snowboards, featuring brands such as Rossignol, Salomon, RAMP, Nordica, Atomic, and 4-frnt. The resort is also purchasing new Burton Learn-to-Ride (LTR) snowboards, to enhance the women’s and children’s fleets. And, thanks to the resort’s new partnership with Patagonia, CBMR retail outlets will carry an entire line from this stand-out outdoor apparel manufacturer and staff will be outfitted in new uniforms featuring Gore-Tex® throughout the next two years. In addition to all of the capital improvements that have taken place since the Muellers joined the resort, CBMR has made great strides in becoming a “greener” resort. In 2010, CBMR joined the Colorado Industrial Energy Challenge (CIEC), as one of 13 charter members in the state. By signing on, the resort committed to reducing energy consumption by two percent each year for five consecutive years, using 2008 as the base year. In June of 2011, CBMR won the Excellence in Energy Efficiency award from Governor John Hickenlooper and the Governor’s Energy Office for reducing energy use by 18.9 percent in the first year. USA Pro Cycling Challenge a Huge Success “Crested Butte was unbelievable. It was a home run,” said Sean Petty, the chief operating officer of USA Cycling, the governing body for the sport in the United States. “To see this on a Tuesday afternoon and experience the finish was great for a first-year event. It felt like a stage in the Tour de France.” “Everyone had a smile. Everyone had a blast. Everyone was screaming at the finish line. That in itself says success,” said local organizing committee co-chair Aaron Huckstep.  His counterpart, Dave Ochs, seconded the sentiment. “Hot damn. It happened and it happened well,” he said. “The production guys say we get a 99.9, and they said they never give out accolades that high.” Click here for full story. Paragon People’s Fair – Sept. 3rd and 4th If you haven’t been to Crested Butte to experience the homespun cultural experience of People’s Fair then you haven’t seen this awesome town at it’s finest! For the past 20 years the Paragon Gallery artists have hosted the this annual event, an eclectic mix of 70 booths selling unique regional arts and crafts, collectibles and antiques, preserved food from local gardens, music, and more in a fun, family oriented environment. Reasonably priced items make this fair affordable for everyone and a must for treasure hunters! Click here for more information. Mt. Crested Butte Fall Festival of Beers and Chili Cook-Off – Sept. 10th With 15+ breweries expected to attend and former Widespread Panic guitarist Sam Holt and his all star band on tap, the Crested Butte / Mt. Crested Butte Chamber is gearing up for another awesome Mt.Crested Butte Fall Festival of Beers and Chili Cook-off. Gates open at noon on Saturday, September 10th,  and the festivities go until 6PM. Admission is only $25 for chili sampling (from noon-2, while supplies last), an unlimited beer tasting from noon-3, and music from Better Late Than Never, The Springdale Quartet, and the Sam Holt Band! Do you have a first-rate or unusual chili recipe?  If so, participate in the chili contest, which is free to enter. All you need to do is make up 3 gallons of your best and bring it to the festival where attendees will vote on their favorite chili in the following categories: International Chili Society Red (No Beans or Fillers), Anything Goes, Professionals Only (Restaurant Owners and Chefs) Vegetarian, and Green. Winners of each category will receive great prizes, and the overall winner gets $150. Chili participants get two free and two 1/2 price entries to the Festival. Be safe and take Mountain Express or utilize the free Safe Ride service. If you are interested in participating in the Chili Cook-off, or if you would like to volunteer and receive free admittance to the event, then please stop by the Chamber or call Scott at 349-6438.   22nd Annual Superfly 2011 – Sept. 9th and 10th Join the Gunnison Chapter of Trout Unlimited for the 22nd Annual SUPERFLY 2011! September 9-10 Teams of 2 anglers each will fish private and public water to compete for the most inches of trout. A classic 2-fly contest, which includes a commemorative shirt & hat, reception Friday night, breakfast, lunch and a barbeque dinner Saturday night. Entry fee is $500 per team. If you are not fishing in Superfly but would like to attend for the barbeque 6:30 Saturday night at The Almont Resort, tickets are available for $20 each. Following the banquet will be the awards ceremony, prizes for the winners then the raffle & auction items will be awarded. Partial proceeds from Superfly will fund the Colorado Trout Unlimited Youth Conservation Camp in 2012. All the details, rules and schedule for Superfly are on our web site at GunnisonTU.org. But please don’t hesitate to contact Mark Day at 970-641-7404 with any questions you may have. Click here for more details.     Vinotok – Sept. 24th The community puts the Grump on trial with harvest maiden dances, and a play of the Harvest Mother, Dragon, Knight and Green Man. The performance is amplified and lit so the community can hear and see the tale on the temporary stage located at Elk Avenue in front of the Eldo at 7:30 p.m. For a complete list of Crested Butte and Gunnison activities please click here.
Please Visit My Favorite Gallery in Crested Butte – Oh Be Joyful Gallery  Shaun Horne – Red Buildings Shaun Horne – Aspens and Lupines Shaun Horne – Tamale View

Thanks for all your referrals!
I succeed when people like you refer me to their family, friends, neighbors and colleagues. It’s the best kind of feedback I can receive. So thanks for continuing to pass along this newsletter to all.

Corey Dwan Benson Sotheby’s International Realty 433 Sixth Street Crested Butte, CO 81224 970-596-3219 Cell 970-797-1810 Fax Corey.Dwan@SothebysRealty.com www.CrestedButteForSale.com www.SothebysGlobalRealEstate.com

Thanks for reading! If you’d like to tell me what you think about this newsletter, or if you’re thinking of buying or selling real estate, please do get in touch.

In This Issue: Real Estate Market Update CBMR Capital Improvements USA Pro Cycling Challenge Paragon People’s Fair Mt. CB Beer and Chili Festival Superfly 2011 Vinotok Oh Be Joyful Gallery Featured Listings Global Listings 329 Maroon Avenue, Crested Butte $1,595,000 821 Fern Creek Road, Creede $4,195,000 142 Larkspur Loop, Crested Butte $118,000 474 Deep Creek Road, Creede $1,595,000 309 Third Street, Crested Butte $985,000   651 Gothic Road, Unit 504E $209,000   Mt. Crested Butte Homes Mt. Crested Butte Condos Mt. Crested Butte Land Crested Butte Homes Crested Butte Condos Crested Butte Land Rural Crested Butte Homes Rural Crested Butte Condos Rural Crested Butte Land Crested Butte South Homes Crested Butte South Condos Crested Butte South Land Gunnison Area Homes Gunnison Area Condos Gunnison Area Land Global Real Estate Mountain Bike Trail Report Mt. Crested Butte Snow Report Mt. Crested Butte Ski Trail Report Crested Butte Weather Report Sign Up for my Newsletter

After a two month hiatus caused by technical problems I am back blogging on The Crested Butte Real Estate and Community Newsletter. I’m terribly sorry for the absence of the news you all look forward to. Below is the current March calendar or events. Come on out and enjoy.

Cheers,

Corey Dwan
Benson Sotheby’s International Realty
970-596-3219 Cell
Corey.Dwan@SothebysRealty.com
www.CrestedButteForSale.com

MARCH 2011

3                      Learn to Skate Ski for Free, Crested Butte Nordic Center

3                      Local Randonee Race Series, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

3                      First Friday Gallery Crawl & Music, Various Galleries & Locations, Gunnison

3 – 5, 10 – 12    Sonofagunn – An Original Spoof on the Gunnison Valley, Gunnison Arts Center

5                      Super Tour (22.5K) – Crested Butte Nordic Center

5                      7 Hours of the Banana Benefiting the Adaptive Sports Center & Crested Butte Ski

Club, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

5                      Western Slope Choral Festival by Western State College – Directors’, Women’s & Mixed Honor Choirs, Fred R. Field Western Heritage Center, Gunnison

5 – 7                 Adaptive Sports Center’s Sit Ski Fiesta, Crested Butte Mountain Resort
6                      USASA Half Pipe Competition, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

6                      Ellis Paul with Chris Trapper Concert, Crested Butte Center for the Arts

6                      Mardi Gras Costume Parties for Kids & Adults with music by Dr. Robert, Mallardi

Cabaret Theatre, Crested Butte

6 – 11               Intl. Airline Ski Federation’s World Airline Ski Championships, CB Mtn. Resort

8                      Mardi Gras Parade & Gumbo Cook-Off, Elk Avenue & Mallardi Cabaret Theatre,

Crested Butte

9                      Sonofagunn – An Original Spoof on the Gunnison Valley, CB Center for the Arts

12                     Big Air on Elk Presented by Colorado FreeSkier Presents, Elk Avenue, Cr. Butte

12                     Bump & Jump Competition, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

12 – 13             USASA Boardercross Competition, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

13                     Beach Ball Express Presented by CB Mtn. Heritage Museum, CB Mountain Resort

13                     Brunch at the Magic Meadows Yurt Hosted by Crested Butte Nordic Center

13                     Peter Kater Concert, Crested Butte Center for the Arts

16-20, 24-26    “The X” Presented by Crested Butte Mountain Theatre, Mallardi Cabaret Theatre

17 – 19             15^th Annual U.S. Extreme Freeskiing Telemark Championships, CB Mtn. Resort

18                     Race Across the Sky 2010 (Film), Crested Butte Center for the Arts

18                     Full Moon Yurt Dinner Tour, Crested Butte Nordic Center

18                     Crested Butte Land Trust Adventure Auction and Gourmet Dinner, Mountaineer

Square Ballroom, Mt. Crested Butte

18 – 21             Adaptive Sports Center’s Ladies with Abilities Camp, CB Mountain Resort

19                     Moonlight Snowshoe Tour, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

19                     Progressive Bonfire Dinner (on Nordic skis or snowshoes) Presented Junior

Nordic Team, Town Ranch

19 – 26            Matthew Shepard Foundation Gay Ski Week, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

20                     Al Johnson Memorial Uphill/Downhill Telemark Ski Race

22                     PJ Party Night for Gay Ski Week, Downtown Crested Butte

22                     “The Laramie Project” Presented by Western State College & Matthew Shepard

Foundation, Mallardi Cabaret Theatre, Crested Butte

24                     Local Randonee Race Series Finals, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

25                     Four Seasons Quartet of The Colorado Symphony, CB Center for the Arts

25                     KBUT’s Soul Train Night, Tequila’s, Crested Butte

25 – 26             14^th Annual Elk Mountains Grand Traverse, Crested Butte to Aspen

26                     FestEVOL Concert featuring O.A.R. and Pete Kilpatrick Band with special guest DJ Logic, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

29 – Apr. 3        Outboard Ski Week, Crested Butte Mountain Resort

31                     Flauschink, Crested Butte & Mt. Crested Butte

31                     ArtWalk Evening, Studios & Galleries in Crested Butte

The Bud Light Concert Series festEVOL will be making 3 stops in ski towns across the country in 2011. Featuring live music from the band O.A.R and special guest The Pete Kilpatrick Band festEVOL will be heading to Okemo, VT – Crested Butte, CO and Mount Sunapee, NH. You may be wondering just what the heck a festEVOL is?

Evol Burritos is the main sponsor of the Bud Light Concert Series. They have taken frozen burritos to an entire new level by making all-natural, made-from-scratch burritos that taste amazing. Evol was founded by selling homemade burritos out of a cooler to fellow climbers in Colorado’s Eldorado Canyon.

Now they’re sponsoring a music festival, and Evol burritos have been showing up everywhere including backstage at Red Rocks Amphitheatre and even being passed out on opening day here in Crested Butte, CO. I would highly recommend looking for these in the organic frozen food section at your local grocery store.

2011 festEVOL Tour Dates:

March 19th, 2011 – Okemo, VT
March 26th, 2011 – Crested Butte, CO Mount Sunapee, NH
April 2nd, 2011 – Mount Sunapee, NH

Want to win a trip to Crested Butte for festEVOL? Enter Here
Winner will receive:

Flights for 2 people to Crested Butte, CO
Lodging (1 room)
Lift tickets for 2 people
Rentals for 2 people
2 Concert tickets to FestEVOL (O.A.R. and special guest Pete Kilpatrick Band)

Crested Butte Mountain Resort

Mount Crested Butte, CO – Tucked away amongst massive pines trees located near the base of the twister chairlift half way up the Crested Butte Ski Resort lies the intimate Uley’s Cabin. Hungry skiers and snowboarders can literally slide right up to the front door. Having lunch at the cabin was unlike any on mountain dining experience I have ever had.

Chef Danny Rosa and his team of talented chefs including our friend Matt Santor prepare a stunning gourmet lunch of upscale Colorado Cuisine seven days a week. The atmosphere at Uley’s cabin is very unique for an on mountain dining experience, you feel like your in a small family run European chalet. Upon entering the cabin skiers are given covers for the bottom of their boots to avoid slipping on the hardwood floors. This was the first sign that we had arrived at a true luxury restaurant.

Read More

Now calling for 6 to 8 feet total by this Thursday!!!!

Yeeeaaahhhhhhhhhhhh!

“Epic” snowstorm forecast for mountains

A small snow blower and a snow shoveler work in the early morning to clear the sidewalk in Crested Butte on Monday. (AP | Nathan Bilow)

Click Here For Full Story

CRESTED BUTTE, Colo. – Dec. XX – With the holiday season underway and gift wrapping and greeting card addressing in full swing, many families are eagerly anticipating the thrill of shushing down powder-filled slopes and warming tired tootsies by a crackling fire, après beverage in hand. Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s (CBMR) Vacation Experts know there’s also a flip-side to family travel: the dreaded tantrum. And that doesn’t just mean the pint-sized version. Family ski trips can be challenging, but there are ways to avoid the most likely derailments. CBMR’s Vacation Experts have pulled together top family ski travel tips, highlighting ten ways to save money and some sanity this season – no matter the ski resort destination.

Ten Tips for Trouble-Free Family Ski Trips
1. Pre-Book. Not just for flights and lodging anymore, pre-booking most trip details before arrival can save headaches at the rental shop, and certain disappointment at restaurants during peak periods and at ski and snowboard school year-round. It is also a good idea to pre-book activities as space is generally limited for outings such as snowmobile tours and dog sledding excursions. To help with this daunting task most resorts offer an information center or a resort concierge program designed to help guests make the most of their vacation – from booking logistical trip components to the fun stuff. These staffers know the area like the backs of their hands. They generally know hotel general managers, tour operators and restaurant owners personally and that can be key to a great experience and to snagging a table at the newest, hippest restaurant in town on the busiest night of the week. Crested Butte Vacations makes planning and executing a Crested Butte family ski trip – from flights to fondue – a breeze. To book a Crested Butte vacation with all the trimmings, call 800-600-2803 or visit www.skicb.com.

2. Do Some Research or Contact a Travel Agent. Resorts across the globe post a variety of specials and packages designed to entice skiers and riders. A little research can unveil a bounty of offers that will make a family ski trip a bit more affordable, such as Colorado Ski Country USA’s (CSCUSA) 5th & 6th Grade Passport Programs – free skiing at member resorts for fifth and six graders (http://www.coloradoski.com/Passes/PassportProgram/), or CBMR’s Parents Ski Free offer – one free adult single-day lift ticket with the purchase of a multi-day child or young adult lift ticket (http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/butte-specials.aspx?mode=detail&id=parents). No time for research? Ask an expert. A Travel Agent can be a valuable resource for traveling families. In addition to help with general booking needs, utilizing an Agent can mean the difference between a trip to remember and a trip everyone would like to forget. Travel Agents help with changed or cancelled flights, lodging recommendations and can even offer personal insight on renting a car versus using public transportation.

3. Ski-in/Ski-out. Resorts make it easy to get into town from the mountain (if it’s not in the same location), however traveling to the resort during morning “ski rush hour” can test anyone’s nerves – especially on a powder day. Solution? Book ski-in/ski-out lodging. Nothing can ruin a ski vacation like traffic, both to and from the resort (“ski rush hour” also takes place after the lifts close). Ski-in/ski-out lodging may be a bit pricier but it will make the morning rush a piece of cake and the kids will remember it forever. Getting the gaggle off to ski school on time will be no problem if lodging is located at the base of the mountain, where ski instructors meet students. And, if someone forgets a glove, goggles, lip balm, snack, etc., “home” is just a few steps away. With only one base area at CBMR, ski-in/ski-out options also mean problem-free meeting arrangements post-run or post-ski day. The resort offers a free shuttle to the Town of Crested Butte (just three miles away), which means no parking woes and a fun ride for everyone (Crested Butte’s buses are decorated by artists so each is unique, upping the fun-factor). For information about ski-in/ski-out lodging options and vacation reservations visit www.skicb.com or call 800-600-2803.

4. Reserve a Condo or Private Home. One of the best ways to save and create a comfortable home-away-from-home-base is to rent a condo. Better yet, rent a large condo or a multi-bedroom home with extended family or close friends (and take advantage of CBMR’s Friends & Family Fly Free offer at the same time: http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/butte-specials.aspx?mode=detail&id=test1). The option affords a full kitchen so meals are a refrigerator away, keeping little tummies full and saving valuable dollars for a special evening out or additional activities. Plus, everyone gets a little space (separate bedrooms, personal baths, etc.). Book lodging and lift tickets and discover some of the best rates of the season at any CBMR property with the resort’s Stay & Ski packages. Pricing starts at $110 per person, per night, and guests realize a savings of up to 15 percent off standard lodging rates and up to 20 percent off window lift ticket rates. Available while supplies last. Call 800-600-2803 or visit www.skicb.com for information or reservations.

5. Pack Smart. The condo has been rented, airline tickets booked and anticipation is building. Now it’s time to pack, a daunting task to be sure. Not to worry, CBMR’s Vacation Experts can help. Most importantly, bring layers – for everyone. Although that condo or private home rental will have a washer/dryer, no one wants to be doing laundry all day or night on a ski vacation. Include several pairs of long underwear – tops and bottoms – and socks, which will need to be washed after each use. Also include fewer, heavier fleece tops or warmer layers that won’t need to be laundered after every wear. One coat and one or two pairs of ski pants to interchange during the trip should round out ski wear needs. For evenings on the town, jeans are the norm. And, CBMR boasts a variety of retail options to assist with forgotten items or “that certain something” (http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/info/things-to-do/shopping-mtcb.aspx). In addition, pack only supplies needed for travel days and anything that cannot be purchased at the destination. Check options for shopping (groceries, supplies, etc.) prior to arrival in case the best stores are near the airport, versus in town (a great question for the resort concierge or Travel Agent).

6. Rent Equipment. As a continuation of the “Pack Smart” tip, don’t pack equipment. It adds bulk, baggage and one more thing to lose en route – especially with sets for each family member. With the quality of equipment stocked at most reputable ski and snowboard shops, there’s no need to lug gear. Opt for a demo package and test different skis, boards and boots daily. Guests who are attached to their equipment should bring boots only. The performance packages at ski and snowboard shops feature excellent options whether riding two planks or just one. Check on-line for pre-booking opportunities at the local rental shop. Visit http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/mountain/equipment-rentals.aspx for information on equipment packages and early rental reservations at CBMR.

7. Don’t Over-Book Yourself. This is hazardous for both the kids and the adults. To avoid meltdowns from either age group, check out the destination’s events calendar and research activity options prior to travel. Select three potential options for each day of the trip and let the family select one for each day…and then be flexible. The daily option selected by the family should be the first priority. The rest of the day can fall into place around that activity. And, make sure to accommodate everyone’s first choice at some point during the trip. The resort concierge can help with activity and event options and with booking. CBMR’s resort concierge can be reached at 800-600-2803.

8. Take a Lesson. For those who have never seen snow, been on skis or snowboard, or were once subjected to tips from a significant other or well-intentioned parent, take a “learn to” lesson. Most resorts offer a learn-to-ski or -ride option and they generally include lesson, lift tickets, and sometimes even rentals. The learning curve is shorter and the time spent honing new skills is much more enjoyable. Note: January is “learn-to-ski” month in Colorado. Know how to ski or ride? Wondering why anyone would suggest taking a lesson now? First and foremost, instructors are the best mountain guides and they love to share secrets for making the most of a ski day. Taking a lesson also allows access to the coveted “ski school lane” at the lift maze. Beware: the experience is addictive. CBMR offers private lessons, child and adult group lessons and a variety of special ski camps, including the Beginner Adventure Lesson: special full-day lesson-and-lift packages geared toward aspiring skiers and snowboarders, age 18 and over. And, anyone can save five percent with early on-line booking by reserving space for a Beginner Adventure Lesson at least seven days in advance at http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/mountain/adult-group-lessons.aspx.

9. Take a “Rest Day”. By day-four everyone will need a break from the 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. slope sliding extravaganza that is the mission of most ski vacationers. It may be the only family ski trip of the year, and getting in full days may be important to all, but more fun will be had on rested legs (and mental wellbeing) than on an exhausted – and sore – rear end. Plan a fun, less physically-demanding activity away from the slopes. Try snowmobiling, dog sledding or horseback riding. Check out the local museum, or the local shops. Enjoy a long, leisurely breakfast, attack a puzzle or bake cookies. Explore a nearby town, meet the locals, take a nap. Try a sleigh ride or learn to drive a snowcat (CBMR introduces the Snowcat Driving Experience: http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/info/things-to-do/snowcat.aspx). No matter the destination, alternatives to skiing and riding are abundant. If all else fails, build a snowman or a snow fort and go sledding. Let the kids take the lead and enjoy following along.

10. Let Kids Be Kids. Any ski destination provides a great environment to let kids have a little freedom. This works especially well with tweens and teens. Let them explore town on their own and encourage them to choose activities for the family to try – or maybe they’d like to test a skill by themselves. Many resorts have activity centers at the base of the mountain, like CBMR’s Adventure Park (http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/info/things-to-do/adventure-park-winter.aspx). Kids can move between base area lodging and the Adventure Park with ease, sampling ice skating, rock climbing, lift-served tubing and bungee trampolines. CBMR also boasts the Trailhead Children’s Museum in the base area, which features playful adventure, art, science and discovery for young children and parents (http://www.skicb.com/cbmr/info/things-to-do/summer-trailhead.aspx). The experience and the thrill of independence will make heroes of parents and wonderful memories for everyone.

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is committed to preserving the pristine landscape and mountain lifestyle. With vibrant Victorian store-fronts and expressive local characters, the small historic town remains true to its heritage and radiates an unparalleled welcoming and inviting spirit that celebrates a simpler life and time. Thanks to a widely diverse landscape, whether beginner or burgeoning national champion, outdoor enthusiasts of all levels will find a new challenge with each visit. From world-class mountain biking, to legendary skiing and snowboarding, to a secluded fly-fishing experience, Crested Butte is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. This season, Crested Butte celebrates 50 years of skiing and riding with a year-long celebration, Crested Butte-style. www.skicb.com

For more information about Crested Butte’s lodging, conference, meeting facilities, and special packages, call Crested Butte Vacations, (800) 600-2803 or visit the web site at www.skicb.com.

Corey Dwan
Benson Sotheby’s International Realty
970-596-3219 Cell
Corey.Dwan@SothebysRealty.com
www.CrestedButteForSale.com

Catskiing comes back to Crested Butte, CO

After hibernating for eight long winters, Colorado’s snowiest resort reopens December 15 with an upscale identity as fresh as its 600 annual inches of powder.

Situated in a meteorologically blessed section of the West Elk Mountains 12 miles west of Crested Butte, Colorado, Irwin has never struggled in the snowfall department (it topped 1,000 inches in ’07-’08). But management has been a different story: The old Irwin Lodge, a giant, rustic cabin that included a 20-room hotel, restaurant and bar in addition to a basic catskiing operation, became a local’s favorite outpost to party and ski, but it shut down in 2002. Despite subsequent attempts to revive the ski area, its Forest Service permit eventually expired.

Enter CS Irwin, a new catskiing company with a permit encompassing  about half of the terrain used by the old operation. Beginning its first full season after three years of planning and a soft opening last spring, Irwin’s absurd snowfall hasn’t changed—it’s already tallied 150 inches as of early December—but its reputation as a no-frills operation has been replaced with a new luxe persona.

“We’re trying to create a bit of an anonymous getaway for high-end people that would like a retreat,” says Alan Bernholtz, CS Irwin’s mountain operations director.

A day at CS Irwin begins at 7:30 a.m., when a brand-new custom snowcat, featuring plush leather seats, silvered barn-wood walls, glove warmers and 360-degree picture windows, picks up the day’s 10 skiers in downtown Crested Butte. It totes them 40 minutes to CS Irwin’s rustic 10,400-foot base cabin, an old employee housing building converted into a cozy warming hut, après lounge and lunchroom for a catered gourmet midday meal. From there, skiers outfitted with Wagner Customs designed for Irwin’s conditions board another brand-new cat, which ascends the 2,100-foot vert of the surrounding terrain. A typical day includes eight to 12 untracked powder runs on the resort’s 1,000-plus acres of intermediate-to-expert glades, chutes and bowls. The price tag? $450 per person, per day, or $4,000 for a private cat. Though CS Irwin doesn’t currently offer lodging accommodations (the old lodge now stands empty), it plans to open a renovated eight-room hotel downtown in the summer.

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CS Irwin - Cat Skiing - Crested Butte - CO

CS Irwin Cat Skiing

Snow Cat Skiing, Food & Drink, Locally-Crafted Skis & More Terrain.  There’s already plenty happening in Gunnison-Crested Butte, Colo., but its always refreshing to announce new happenings that involve snow cats, great food and brew, locally-made skis and new runs to ski and ride.

Snow Cat Skiing & Randonnee Race at Irwin is officially up and running full-speed for this winter. CS Irwin is bringing snow cat skiing back to Irwin, located 12 miles from Crested Butte. CS Irwin operates two custom snow cats to transport 10 guests a day in comfort and style. Participants meet at the company’s Belleview Avenue location in Crested Butte for a light breakfast and fitting of custom Wagner skis before boarding the “Tucker” at 7:45 a.m. for the 40-minute ride to Irwin made ultra-comfortable with leather seats, large picture windows, a large flat-screen TV and a surround-sound stereo system.

“No other snow cat or heli-skiing guests have the luxury of being picked up in a first-class snowcat and returned to the town where they are staying,” says Director of Operations Alan Bernholtz, former mayor of Crested Butte. “Last winter, Irwin received more than 525 inches of snow, beating every ski resort in the state by more than 90 inches.”

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Whether you are inquiring about Crested Butte homes for sale, Crested Butte condos for sale or Crested Butte land for sale or wish to sell your Crested Butte home, condo or land I have vast knowledge of the Gunnison Valley to assist you. As a Benson Sotheby’s International Realty real estate agent and Realtor I have unrivaled access to qualified people throughout our global Sotheby’s network. Please take a moment to get to know me better by clicking About Me and Testimonials. You may search the Crested Butte MLS listings via my Crested Butte property search page anytime of the day as well as set up My Listing Manager to notify you of new property listings. Contact me anytime of the day to obtain my expertise as your resort property specialist in the Crested Butte area as I am committed to unparalleled service.

Click Here to Receive Crested Butte REO, Bank Owned, Foreclosure and Short Sale Properties.

Corey Dwan – REALTOR
Benson Sotheby’s International Realty
P.O. Box 210
433 Sixth Street
Crested Butte, CO 81224
970-596-3219 Cell
970-325-3219 World Wide Cell
970-349-6653 Office
970-797-1810 Fax
www.CrestedButteForSale.com

Press Release from CBMR.  Contact me for all of your Crested Butte real estate needs. I specialize in luxury homes and estates, ranch and acreage properties, condominiums, ski in/ski out, lake view, river frontage properties, golf course homes, residential and commercial developments as well as custom builder representation throughout the Crested Butte and Gunnison area.

Cheers,

Corey

Corey Dwan
Benson Sotheby’s International Realty
970-596-3219 Cell
Corey.Dwan@SothebysRealty.com
http://www.CrestedButteForSale.com

CRESTED BUTTE MOUNTAIN RESORT FOCUSES IMPROVEMENTS AND CAPITAL PROJECTS ON THE MOUNTAIN FOR THE 2010-2011 SEASON
CBMR prepares for another 50 years with visible enhancements

CRESTED BUTTE, Colo. – Aug. 24 – The focus is on the mountain as Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) prepares for the coming ski and snowboard season. Improvements designed to maximize the skiing and riding experience are taking place in preparation for the resort’s celebration of 50 years of skiing throughout 2010-2011.

“We’ve given detailed thought to our terrain and on-mountain amenities and how the mountain is laid out,” said Ken Stone, COO of CBMR. “Our goal going into the 2010-2011 season is to maximize our assets. To accomplish that objective we’ve reconfigured things a bit, freeing up additional intermediate terrain in the process.”

Crews are glading Horseshoe Springs – expanding tree-skiing options and, as a result, adding more intermediate terrain to the resort’s tally.

CBMR also introduces the new Gold Link Terrain Park and Superpipe for the 2010-2011 season. By relocating the resort’s largest park and pipe, crews have created a complete freestyle park pod off the Painter Boy and Goldlink lifts. This translates to a literal playground for the park enthusiast, highlighted by the ability to progress from one park – and one feature size – to the next. The Cascade location also is ideal for larger park features, offering a consistent fall line for the jib park and half pipe. Cascade is blessed with good afternoon light, allowing for better visibility, and its proximity to mountain operations headquarters means snowcat operators have easier access and more time for preening features. The new location also leaves crews hopeful for delivery of a constructed half pipe in time for the Christmas holiday, thanks to the park’s location along the main water feed pipe for the mountain’s snowmaking system.

With these mindful improvements and reconfigurations skiers and riders at CBMR gain back two full-length trails in the resort’s best existing intermediate pod.

Guests to CBMR also will note increased snowmaking capabilities resulting in earlier terrain openings and a better late season base. Increased snowmaking at the base area will allow for Peachtree beginners lift and the Camp CB teaching area and magic carpets to open on the first day of the season. And, the resort is eager to utilize its $40,000 NSAA grant, which translates to 10 new high efficiency tower guns.

Another notable change on the mountain is the new NASTAR race arena located on the Canaan trail just above the Paradise Warming House.

At the base, $400,000 in improvements and enhancements to the Treasury Center base lodge include more seating and expanded skier services, such as lockers and bathrooms. Butte 66, a popular choice for lunch and après ski, will also benefit from extensive renovations, and the Spellbound Pizza Company will move to a new location on the remodeled third floor of the Treasury Building.

In addition, CBMR has added a new activity to the existing Adventure Park, and relocated the Trailhead Children’s Discovery Museum to the Outpost Building – now open year-round. The Adventure Park line-up now includes mini golf during the summer season in addition to the bungee trampolines and climbing tower, which are open year-round. The Flying Gopher 18 hole mini golf course is located under a weatherproof dome, which will convert to an ice skating rink during the winter season. The Trailhead Children’s Museum features playful adventure, art, science and discovery for young children and parents throughout the year, including special events and programs. The museum’s new location at the base of the mountain makes for easy access and provides yet another great option for family fun.

Improvements over the past six years, since the Muellers initially took ownership of CBMR in 2004, include:

• A new base area village called Mountaineer Square
• New lodging (Elevation Hotel & Spa, Lodge at Mountaineer Square);
• Expanded DC Terrain Park
• A complete remodel of the beloved Ice Bar on-mountain restaurant – now called Uley’s Cabin
• The addition of a base area Adventure Park complete with bungee trampolines, a climbing tower, ice skating (winter only), a lift-served tubing hill (winter only) and mini golf (summer only)
• Snow igloos – solid snow structures – set up in the kids’ play area outside of Camp CB and as cocktail hotspots near the Ice Bar restaurant
• New snowmaking and grooming
• A lift system expansion
• The Treasury Center remodel
• A new children’s facility called Camp CB
• The addition of a combined beginner learning area for children and adults
• The introduction of the Mountain Sports Team accessible to a wide variety of athletes from kids enjoying local recreational programs to driven student athletes
• The addition of the Outpost Building Day Lodge, which now houses the Trailhead Children’s Discovery Museum

2010-2011 PACKAGES AND SPECIAL OFFERS

50/50 Package – Celebrating 50 Years of Skiing: November 23 – December 16, 2010
In celebration of 50 years of skiing and riding in Crested Butte, CBMR has created a 50/50 package, featuring 50 percent off lift tickets and $50 per person, per night for lodging. The 50/50 package is available from November 23 to December 16, 2010 (check out Dec. 17). The 50 percent discount on lift tickets is only available with lodging package. Call 800-600-2803 for information or reservations.

Book Early Save BIG: Book by September 13, 2010
Guests to Crested Butte can discover value by booking early. CBMR’s Book Early and Save BIG offer includes a 20 percent discount on lodging for reservations confirmed by September 13, 2010. Reservations must be confirmed by September 13, 2010. Minimum four-night stay required. Based upon availability with no blackout dates.

Friends & Family Fly Free: All Season Long – Subject to Availability
One of Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s (CBMR) most popular offers, Friends & Family Fly Free, is back for an encore. Book a Crested Butte vacation for three or more people and every third airline ticket is free. Even better, Friends & Family Fly Free features direct flights into Gunnison/Crested Butte Airport (GUC) on American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Maximum travel credit is $400 per free airline ticket and each reservation is limited to three free airline tickets. Subject to availability. Call 800-600-2803 to learn more or to book a Crested Butte getaway.

The Grandest Christmas: December 17 – December 25, 2010
A holiday ski vacation for under a grand? It’s true! Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s (CBMR) Grandest Christmas package returns featuring four nights of lodging at The Grand Lodge Hotel, and three days of skiing or riding at CBMR for a family of four, for under $1,000. Considered by many to be the “last great Colorado ski town,” Crested Butte is the ideal holiday destination. Dazzling twinkle lights line Elk Avenue and crowds gather for the Torchlight Parade as skiers wind down the mountain on Christmas Eve. And The Grand Lodge is located just 200 yards from the chairlift making first tracks on Christmas morning a definite possibility. CBMR’s Grandest Christmas package must be booked by December 17, 2010 for travel from December 17 through December 25, 2010 (check-out on December 26, 2010). Price is subject to availability and has been quoted prior to all fees, taxes and optional travel protection. The Grandest Christmas package is available exclusively through Crested Butte Vacations: 800-600-2803.

4th Night and 4th Day Free: January 3 – March 10, 2011
Enjoy some of the best conditions of the season and an additional nights’ lodging and day of skiing free. Purchase three nights of lodging and three days of lift tickets between January 3 and March 10, 2011 and receive a fourth night of lodging and fourth day of skiing free. Blackout dates apply. This package is available only through Crested Butte Vacations: 800-600-2803.