16973 Colorado 131, Wolcott, 970-653-7877,
Play: This family-run dogsledding company offers two times each day to get out for two hours along a private trail — read, no snowmobiles, no snowmobile noise — surrounded by 10,000 acres of forest. Twelve huskies pull the sled as a musher guides you along, and halfway through, they take a break for snacks and hot chocolate so you can enjoy the scenery and hang out with the dogs. Two people can ride a sled at a time (minimum age is 4); Mountain Musher provides transportation from Lazy J Ranch. Cost: $330 for two people.
Stay: Beaver Creek and Avon are less than 10 miles away, which makes it easy to stay at the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa (126 Riverfront Lane, Avon, 970-790-6000, ). This dog-friendly property is a mere gondola ride from the slopes of Beaver Creek Mountain, and close to the town of Avon. The rooms are über-chic, done in the current style using sleek furnishings with a modern, minimalist bent but not too austere or cold — lots of buttery leather, rich browns and beiges, and plenty of soft, plush fabrics. Fireplaces in every room, and the combination of condo and hotel makes it kid-friendly too. Rates for studio suites with one king, a double sleeper sofa and kitchenette start at $372 a night in winter.
Dine: If you’re hauling the family or a group on a messy mushing trip, a casual place with many TVs, big portions and lots of beer is just the ticket. Bob’s Place (100 W. Beaver Creek Blvd., Avon, 970-845-8556, ) hits the spot three times a day, with a dizzying variety of dinner offerings: burgers and overstuffed potatoes, chicken-fried steak, about a dozen Mexican dishes, pizza, pasta, subs and salads. Bob’s even has a veggie plate on the kids’ menu. Good luck with that. Kyle Wagner
