27 FALL 2019 ISSUE 01 / VOL . 01 SNOWGOER . COM
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UTAH
After climbing up into the aspen trees , we could look across a couple of valleys and spot Beaver Mountain Ski Hill on the distant horizon .
and create incredible meals . Steak , prime rib , crab legs , chicken , pasta meals , fancy vegetables , outstanding desserts – all served family style . Every meal is different : Gerald and Vivian check with guests to make sure they aren ’ t conflicting with any allergies or true dislikes , but at a certain level guests will get whatever Gerald and Vivian feel like making that night , and it will be prepared in the best possible manner .
“ When people call in the off-season , they often ask two questions : ‘ Did you order new snowmobiles again this year ,’ and ‘ Are Gerald and Vivian still there ?’” Lundahl said with a laugh . “ The answer is ‘ Yes , and yes .”
Directly below the great room , though , another real treat for staying at Beaver Creek Lodge is waiting on the second floor . That ’ s where you ’ ll find the oversized , communal dining room , staffed by Chef Gerald and his wife , Vivian . The two , who have extensive backgrounds in fine restaurants , live on site , are true outdoor enthusiasts themselves
SCRATCHING THE SURFACE
The next day featured more of the same excellence . This time we caught the gourmet breakfast , and most of the riding was done in the trees , as a major snowstorm with heavy winds locked onto the region and created whiteout conditions in open areas .
It was another excellent day to have a guide . Greg led the way toward fun and away from trouble , finding tighter little play areas where sightlines wouldn ’ t be hindered and skills could be further developed .
With 23 years of guiding and hosting visitors , Lundahl said he isn ’ t getting tired of his work .
“ What keeps me doing this are the times when everything comes together and the guys are on cloud 9 and have the best experience they ’ ve ever had ,” Lundahl said , then joked , “ We kind of have a saying up here : I tell my guides , ‘ Thrill them , but don ’ t kill them .’”
FOR INFORMATION on Beaver Creek Lodge , call 800 / 946-4485 or visit beavercreeklodge . com