The Talons Challenge is an annual event held at Beaver Creek where over 1,000 participants ski 14 of Beaver Creek’s black and double-black diamond runs with over 26,000 vertical feet.
This year’s challenge is February 24, 2018. Click here to sign-up, registration is limited.
Registration includes lunch and a beverage. All finishers will receive a commemorative Talons Challenge pin, lanyard, and credential, a chance to win prizes, and a special gift! Sign up for the Ultimate Talon VIP Ticket and receive a Helly Hansen Jacket!
Make sure that you drink plenty of water, eat snacks, and wear layers, it will be cold in the morning, but you’ll warm up quickly after a few bump runs!
We met up with a Vail Valley local who has done the “Talons” 15 times! She gave us her strategic route to take, as well as a few hints for the day of.
Her suggested order is…
1. Goshawk
2. Bald Eagle
3. Screech Owl
4. Peregrine
5. Kestrel
6. Golden Eagle: the extra ride up the Cinch Express (#8) will give your legs the rest they need!
7. Loco: This is a long run on Larkspur, great to get out of the way.
8. Ruffed Grouse
9. Shooting Star
10. Raven Ridge
11. Ptarmigan
12. Lupine
13. Bald Eagle
14. Falcon Park
BONUS: Talons Restaurant for a hot cocoa, a beer or her tradition, a shot of tequila!
Her overall advice is “do it with friends, pace yourself – it’s a marathon, not a sprint – and have fun!”
Don’t forget to register for the EpicMix Challenge labeled “Talons Challenge” so you get the points for the day.
When planning your Talons Challenge, make sure you book a relaxing massage for the next day, you’ve earned it. Take advantage of Spa Anjali’s, Spa Early. Spa Late. promotion, a 50-minute massage or facial at 9:00 am or 6:30 pm is only $120! Mention the Spa Early. Spa Late. promotion for the discount.
