What is the difference between all the buildings at Trappeurs Crossing? We thought we were ready to book for a Feb. 2010 ski trip and were deciding between Bear Claw and Torian Plum when I came across Trappuers Crossing. Even though it is not ski in ski out like the other two it seems very nice and new and close to the ski base.
I have owned a unit in Champage Lodge at Trappeurs for about 5 years. Of course the main difference in the units is the age. The buildings were built in this order:
Trappeurs Lodge
Timberline Lodge
Champagne Lodge - opened in 2001
Aspen Lodge - opened in 2005 I think
Emerald Lodge - opened in 2007
Bear Lodge - opened in 2008
The newer buildings have newer amenities and furniture, but that doesn't mean that some of the older ones might not have upgraded. I think you can check out the Resort Quest web site to get a detailed list of the amenities in each building. From Aspen Lodge and newer, the units have air conditioning which won't matter to you much during ski season.
All buildings have access to the central check-in and amenities center which includes an exercise room. There is a shuttle service that takes you to the transportation center by the gondola that serves the Amenities Center and the drive thru's in front of Emerald and Bear Lodges (even though it is close, you would not want to walk it in ski boots). Note that Emerald and Bear are across the street from the Amenities Center. The number of bedrooms you are looking for may determine which building you end up in as the newer buildings are generally 3 bedroom and larger. Emerald has a few 2 bedroom units, but they are ground floor/garage floor level. Aspen has a couple 2 bedroom units that are also garage level and have "private" hot tubs (they are private if you don't mind people in balconies above you looking down or people at the pool looking over the fence).
Emerald and Bear each have their own pool/ hot tubs. In the main complex near the Amenities Center there are 2 pools (1 indoor/outdoor) and 6 hot tubs (1 indoor) that serve the other 4 buildings.
I have stayed in Bear Claw and you can't beat the convenience for ski-in/ski-out, but the units are somewhat dated. I looked at units in Bear Claw and Torian when I purchased my unit in Champage and have not regretted the decision.
Feel free to email me if you have any other questions: jgateca at bellsouth dot net
I stayed at Trappeurs Timberline twice and found it to be a great property. It was clean, comfortable and friendly with an awesome shuttle service that will take you to the mountain or downtown in minutes. Comfortable lobby/reception area to spread out. I never saw the fitness center, as this must be a newer (or unknown to me) amenity.
Are there any kids in your party? I wouldn't rule out either Torian Plum or Bear Claw... being able to ski-in/ski-out can be a great start to the day and a very well appreciated end to it too.
I haven't stayed at Trappeurs Crossing, but have had a look around (although not at the three most recent lodges). It is a pretty big resort now and the standard (or modernisation) of the condos will vary quite a bit (depending on what lodge you choose). It would be a good place to stay. Another place to consider is Eagleridge Lodge.
Torian Plum is good for being right on the slopes and handy for Slopeside Grill, Tugboat, Torian Plum Plaza and Gondola Square.
Bear Claw is where we have stayed for about 5 years and have always been very happy there: the condos are very homely and "Steamboat", the slope access is VERY difficult to beat and it always seems well priced. It isn't really "walking distance" from anything (shops/restaurants), but they have a great private shuttle. The access to the pool is a lot better than at Torian Plum too. Bear Claw is an older property, but they do seem to keep upgrading things and the units and communal areas are very well maintained. Staff are very friendly too.
jg atl is right, the main difference between the buildings at Trappeurs is age, finish and furniture. With over 20 years between the original Trappeurs Lodge and the newest Bear Lodge there is quite a difference! Ratings vary from Silver through Platinum, with all condos in Aspen, Emerald and Bear all gaining a Platinum rating.
Emerald and Bear Lodge also offer a unique style of condo - 1,2,3, 4 and 5 bedroom condos with their own private courtyards, outdoor fireplaces and hot tubs - some even with vast roof top terraces! Combine the private outdoor space with the list of amenities you can enjoy as part of Trappeurs Crossing and you have a great lodging option!
i think we are going to the Sheraton for the Christmas buffet. Others have suggested the Ore House, Cafe Diva alos. Yes book ahead of time. thats what i will be doing next week.
Usually kids don't want to wear the hood thing, but carry it in your pocket just in case. If it's really cold once you get on there on the slopes, I'll bet you big money that'll change.