Get ReadySoprisfor House
WINTER PLANNING GUIDE
Let’s Get Planning
Eleven’s Experience Team is here to help you design the perfect adventure. This guide outlines what to expect during your stay and how to prepare for your upcoming trip. We look forward to meeting you at Sopris House, but until then, let’s start making some plans.
Getting Here
FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVELERS
For visitors, entry requirements differ slightly depending on place of birth, length of stay, and what items accompany the traveler. All persons entering The United States must travel with a passport that is six months or more from expiration, a return or onward journey ticket, and proof of funds to support the traveler during their visit.
By Plane:
The closest airport to Sopris House is the Gunnison Airport (GUC), which is about 35 minutes away. Due to its small size, flights are limited. The closest private airport is also in Gunnison (KGUC).
If you’d like to book a transfer from the airport to the lodge, please speak with your Experience Manager. Airport transfers are subject to availability and are not included in the stay. Please see our pricing guide for available options.
By Car:
Sopris House is located at 200 Sopris Ave, Crested Butte, CO 81224
Driving routes are heavily impacted by conditions and seasonal closures, so please discuss your options with your Experience Team who will help you navigate the best route.
From Denver: 5 hours in summer
• In the wintertime, guests must travel over Monarch Pass
From Aspen: 5 hours in summer
• Kebler Pass is closed in the winter months
Cat-Skiing
Learn what to expect on your Colorado cat-skiing adventure.
FAQs
Where is Irwin, Colorado?
Set about 12 miles west of Crested Butte, Irwin is home to Eleven’s 1,000+ acres of exclusive cat-skiing terrain. Conditions permitting, the snowcat picks you up at the front door of the lodge and takes you on a 45-minute ride through beautiful mountain scenery to Irwin. Our snowcats are custom built with your comfort in mind—think leather seats, flat screen TVs, heat, sound systems, and large windows.
Does Eleven have a home base at Irwin?
Guests of Sopris House have private access to our on-mountain cabin, where your group will put on your ski boots, eat lunch, and enjoy après. You’re also welcome to hang out at the cabin throughout the day if you want to take a break, or if you’re a non-skier along for the ride. WiFi, a bathroom, a fireplace, and snacks are there waiting for you.
How would you describe the terrain and snow at Irwin?
Irwin offers over 100 available runs across 1,000+ acres accessed only by Eleven. The terrain ranges from open alpine bowls and steep narrow chutes to wide hillsides and untouched glades. While we find our terrain is best suited for intermediate to expert skiers, our guides are well versed in working with children and skiers of varying abilities. Irwin is famous for its cold-smoke powder—and lots of it. The area receives an average of 450 inches of snow each year.
Who are our guides?
Eleven’s guides are the best in the industry, with extensive experience and the highest level of safety certifications and specialized training. We maintain a 10:2 guest to guide ratio which means each group of up to 10 has one lead guide and one tail guide. If the skiers in a group would like to split up due to varying ability levels, a third guide is recommended, which is priced separately.
What type of gear does Eleven provide?
We provide complimentary access to the best equipment in the industry, including K2, DPS, Dynastar, ROMP, and Salomon skis with Salomon bindings, Jones solid and split boards with Jones bindings, Scott Sport airbags, and Black Diamond snow safety equipment.
Other Adventures
Eleven provides a variety of guided adventures beyond cat-skiing. One activity is included each day of your stay.
BACKCOUNTRY SKIING
From big alpine peaks and open bowls to steep and secluded tree runs, our guides will take you to the best terrain for the freshest tracks on the hill. If you’re new to the backcountry, we’ll show you how to safely operate the gear, which includes uphill bindings, a backpack, beacon, shovel, and probe.
RESORT SKIING
Crested Butte Mountain Resort, just a few minutes from the lodge, has 15 lifts and 121 trails on 1,547 skiable acres. Terrain is 26% beginner, 57% intermediate and 17% advanced/expert. Let our guides show you the secret stashes, and help get the youngsters up to speed with a lesson.
NORDIC SKIING
Discover the world of Nordic skiing in the heart of the Nordic Ski Capital of Colorado. With 50 kilometers of pristine trails, the area is perfect for classic and skate skiing. Accessible directly from town, this adventure promises unobstructed views and great exercise.
SNOWSHOEING
Our snowshoe tours combine fitness and fun in the Colorado backcountry. Hike through snow-blanketed meadows, aspen glades, and timbered forests throughout Crested Butte or hike in Irwin and link up with the ski group.
ICE CLIMBING
Located about two hours from Crested Butte, the ice parks in Ouray and Lake City have become global destinations for ice enthusiasts. Whether you learn the basics or embark on a multi-day wilderness climb, Eleven will curate a safe experience with professional guides for all levels.
PRICING GUIDE
NOT INCLUDED WITH YOUR STAY
Wellness
Take relaxation to the next level by adding a wellness treatment to your trip.
Wellness Treatments & Activities
All wellness offerings are priced separately.
SWEDISH
Slow, rhythmic strokes calm the nervous system and release stagnant toxins, creating balance and tranquility in the body, mind, and spirit.
60 minutes | 90 minutes
DEEP TISSUE
A deeply therapeutic massage using a targeted variety of techniques to restore blood flow and alleviate chronic pain, injuries and fatigue.
60 minutes | 90 minutes
PRENATAL MASSAGE
Using gentle, specialized techniques, this massage nurtures and supports the changing body during pregnancy, focusing on the lower back, hips, and shoulders to enhance well-being and promote calm and balance.
60 minutes | 90 minutes
ELEVEN SIGNATURE MASSAGE
An exceptional and unique treatment created by Eleven’s expert wellness team, and inspired by the richness of Colorado’s natural resources, blending hot stones, locally sourced CBD salve and essential oils.
60 minutes | 90 minutes
STRESS RELIEF MASSAGE
Indulge in a session featuring deep pressure, aromatherapy, acupressure and therapeutic Tata Harper products, targeting key areas of stress and tension: head, face, neck, and shoulders. This relaxing treatment boosts circulation, leading to reduced pain, inflammation and muscle strain.
60 minutes | 90 minutes
JUNIOR MASSAGE
For children age 11 and under, this soothing treatment offers a gentle-tomoderate pressure massage. A parent or guardian is required to attend the session.
30 minutes
YOGA
Eleven’s in-house yoga classes are highly customizable. Our knowledgeable instructors will adapt the practice to align with guests’ abilities, needs, and comfort levels.
60 minutes
CBD ENHANCEMENTS
Enhance any treatment with Charlotte’s Web CBD Cream from Colorado. This botanical topical CBD helps revitalize, restore, and rejuvenate sore muscles and provide broad pain relief.
ON-CALL WELLNESS THERAPIST
Prefer flexibility in scheduling your session? We’ll arrange for a therapist to be on call for spur-ofthe-moment treatments.
THERAGUN USE
A handheld self-massage device, the Theragun increases blood flow and flushes out metabolic waste from muscle tissue. Find quick relief from tight knots and tired muscles at your own convenience. Reserve time for complimentary self-directed care. Subject to availability.
Complimentary
PRICING GUIDE
Please make changes or cancellations 12 hours prior to your scheduled service to avoid penalties. Any appointments cancelled within 12-hours will be charged the full treatment fee. Please be aware that late arrival may determine the length of your treatment. The session will end on time to avoid delays for the following guest.
Integrated Ski Wellness Program
Access our complete pre-season Ski Wellness regimen HERE.
Start prepping for your trip four weeks in advance with our pre-season regimen, crafted to optimize performance, expedite recovery and safeguard against injuries. Prepare body and mind with expertly designed breathwork and physical training, provided with detailed instruction and illustrations. Then, contact your Experience Team to book any of these sessions at Sopris House.
POST-TRAVEL YOGA
A must for everyone after a long day of travel to shake off stiffness and tension from mind and body. Through guided stretching, breathwork and meditation, you’ll adapt to altitude, restore circulation, regain mobility and transition seamlessly into vacation mode.
60 minutes
MORNING SKI STRETCH
This gentle pre-ski regimen helps to optimize performance and prevent injuries, targeting key ski muscles like quads, calves and hamstrings. Hit the slopes feeling limber and primed to go.
30 minutes
RECOVERY MASSAGE
Our expert therapists employ skifocused recovery techniques in this deep tissue sports massage, integrating advanced therapeutic approaches like lymphatic drainage, Theragun massage, and CBD application for a full reset.
60 minutes
PRE–DEPARTURE YOGA
Prepare to travel by easing the body and soothing the nervous system. This combination of targeted stretching, breathwork and meditation releases lactic acid buildup and aligns the body, mind and spirit.
60 minutes
PRICING GUIDE
Please make changes or cancellations 12 hours prior to your scheduled service to avoid penalties. Any appointments cancelled within 12-hours will be charged the full treatment fee. Please be aware that late arrival may determine the length of your treatment. The session will end on time to avoid delays for the following guest.
Food & Drink
Enjoy locally sourced, chef-prepared cuisine each morning for breakfast and each afternoon for après.
FOOD
Our daily breakfast service features a rotation of seasonally inspired Chef’s specials and a set menu of classic options. Lunch goes where you do, and our culinary team will hand-select each day’s meal based on your daily activities. We are happy to cater to dietary preferences and restrictions, please inform your Experience Team.
In the afternoon, enjoy an afternoon snack with our chef’s daily après selection. For dinner, guests can explore Crested Butte’s excellent restaurant scene— recommendations are provided in your Crested Butte Guide Book. Alternatively, an in-house dining experience can be arranged with your Experience Manager for those evenings you’d prefer to stay in.
DRINKS
Because Sopris House does not have a license to serve alcohol, we ask that you bring your own or simply let us stock the bar for you. Please connect with your Experience Planner and give them a list of your beverage preferences as well as a credit card for payment.
ELEVEN CULINARY AND RESTAURANT GUIDE
Preparing for Your Trip
Check out the essential information you need to know before you go.
Packing List
DON’T FORGET TO PACK:
Passport
Prescriptions and medication
Reusable water bottle
Camera
Batteries/chargers for devices
Personal toiletries
Sunscreen
CLOTHES YOU’LL BE GLAD YOU PACKED:
Base layers for top and bottom
Fleece or other mid-layer
Ski jacket and pants
Puffy jacket
Ski gloves or mittens (heavy and lightweight)
Socks (ski socks and leisure socks for the lodge)
Warm ski hat
Comfy clothes and shoes for the lodge
Bathing suit
Hat or visor for sun protection
Casual clothes for town
Athletic clothes (pants, shorts, and shirts)
Snow boots
ADVENTURE GEAR:
Ski helmet
Goggles (high and low-light lenses)
Sunglasses
Skis or snowboard*
Poles*
Ski or snowboard boots (alpine or backcountry)*
*Eleven provides all necessary equipment for guided activities. If guests prefer to use their own equipment, they are welcome to bring it.
Good to Know
CHECK-IN/CHECK OUT:
• Check-in time at Sopris House is at 4:00 p.m. and check out time is at 10:00 a.m.
• Please note: Access to your room outside these hours is not guaranteed. Please communicate with the Experience Team to coordinate any conflicts with check-in and checkout times.
CELLULAR SERVICES:
• While you will generally have access to cell phone service in the town of Crested Butte, expect to go through some zones with little to no cell phone service. Check with your cell phone provider to see if you will have service in Colorado and the United States if you are traveling from another country.
GETTING AROUND:
• Crested Butte is a small town, and most of the area’s shops, restaurants, and activities are within a short walking distance of Sopris House. Townie bikes are also available to cruise down historic Elk Avenue. The town’s free shuttle, the Mountain Express, is another great option, and conveniently drops passengers at various locations in the town of Mount Crested Butte. Check the Mountain Express website to see the current schedule: www.mtnexp.org.
ALTITUDE DETAILS:
• Crested Butte, Colorado is located at 8,885 feet above sea level. High altitude can affect each individual differently. To combat the side-effects of high altitude, which can include trouble falling asleep, shortness of breath, and nausea, we recommend hydrating regularly and getting adequate rest. Sopris House is equipped with an oxygen distribution system to help combat these effects. If you think you will require additional oxygen sources, please contact the Experience Team.
ELECTRICAL CURRENT:
• Electricity at Sopris House is 120 volts with type A or B outlets.
LOCAL TIME ZONE:
• Colorado operates on Mountain Standard Time (MST).
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
CASH AND CREDIT CARDS:
• We suggest taking US Dollars in cash for taxis, tips and other items if you will be spending any time in the country before or after your Sopris House experience. It is also recommended that you notify your credit card companies that you will be traveling internationally. Visa and Mastercard are regularly accepted in Colorado. American Express is also accepted but not by all establishments.
• Note that Soprs House is a cashfree property, meaning only credit cards are accepted.
• We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance. The Sales Team can help you arrange trip cancellation insurance prior to your trip. Please let us know if you would like us to connect you with our preferred insurance partner, Global Rescue, to provide you with a quote.
GRATUITY:
• While gratuities are not expected at our properties, guests wishing to leave a tip for the Sopris House team generally consider 10% to 15% of their total stay cost. This amount will be distributed among all staff who have contributed to your stay.
• General Tipping Standards: At restaurants, a 20% tip is customary in the United States. Bartenders usually receive $1 per drink or 15% to 20% of the final bill.
Sopris House Experience Team:
SRLExperienceTeam@elevenexperience.com
Lodge Concierge: (970) 349-2626
Lodge Hours: 9am - 9pm