There’s something magical about watching the world’s best alpine skiers hurtle down a mountain at speeds exceeding 80 miles per hour, carving through gates with precision that seems to defy physics. This December, that magic returns to Beaver Creek, as the legendary Stifel Birds of Prey World Cup races take center stage once again.
Whether you’re a longtime ski racing enthusiast or planning your first World Cup experience, the 2025 event promises to be particularly special. With expanded racing, Olympic qualifying drama, and a whole weekend of mountain festivities, this is one winter spectacle you won’t want to miss. To fully enjoy the 2025 Stifel Birds of Prey, planning sets the tone for a memorable trip. From race schedules to lively village celebrations — and yes, arriving relaxed and ready to cheer — here’s how to make every moment of your visit feel exciting.
Since its debut in 1997, the Birds of Prey downhill course has earned a lasting reputation among athletes and coaches as one of the ultimate stops on the World Cup circuit. Over the years, its remarkable features have tested even the most skilled competitors — with a vertical drop of 2,470 feet, an average gradient of 31 percent, and a maximum pitch of 63 percent. Together, these numbers reveal why it remains one of the most demanding and respected courses in alpine racing.
Through the decades, the course has also become the stage for unforgettable moments in ski racing history. Back in 1999, an estimated 20,000 spectators packed the slopes for the World Championships downhill — setting a U.S. ski racing attendance record that still stands today. A few years later, American racer Daron Rahlves set a blazing record of 1:39.59, while in 2004, he and Bode Miller thrilled fans once again with a one-two American finish, marking the first time U.S. men captured the top two spots in a World Cup downhill.
Mark your calendars—this year’s Birds of Prey is bigger than ever. Here’s what makes 2025 special:
The timing couldn’t be more electrifying. Every gate, turn, and hundredth of a second could determine which athletes earn their place on the world’s biggest stage. The stakes have never been higher, and you can feel that intensity from the athletes, the crowds, and the atmosphere.
For American ski racing fans, this is also a chance to see our nation’s best speed specialists—like Bryce Bennett and Olympic silver medalist Ryan Cochran-Siegle—go head-to-head with international stars on home snow. There’s nothing quite like the roar of the crowd when an American racer charges through the finish line.
The excitement doesn’t stop when the racing does — it naturally spills into the heart of the village. All weekend long, the mountain hums with music, laughter, and moments that invite you to slow down and simply enjoy. Along Birds of Prey Way, wander between live performances, craft beer tastings, and ski film premieres, or pause for a chat with athletes and fans reliving the day’s highlights. Between events, slope-side cafés and restaurants with special World Cup menus tempt you to stay a little longer. And when the sun dips behind the peaks, the après-ski gatherings bring everyone together in celebration, filling the evening with warmth and shared cheer.
Since December air can be brisk and bright, packing with care helps you stay cozy all day. Layer soft base pieces beneath an insulated jacket, add sturdy boots with solid traction, and don’t forget gloves, a warm hat, and sunglasses.
When it comes to lodging, planning ahead makes all the difference. Whether you’re drawn to slopeside luxury or the familiar charm of nearby Vail, booking early lets you settle in and truly enjoy the mountain spirit.
This event draws thousands of spectators during peak ski season, and while the racing is spectacular, getting there presents some real challenges:
Fortunately, there’s a solution that turns these headaches into a memorable experience. Our transportation service addresses every concern while letting you focus on what matters—enjoying world-class racing and mountain festivities.
Every group moves differently, and that’s why our fleet includes flexible choices for your ski resort transportation. From quiet escapes to lively group trips, you’ll find the right match here:
Whether you’re heading for fresh powder or a weekend retreat, we match every group to the right vehicle so your mountain adventure begins with confidence.
The Stifel Birds of Prey weekend represents one of the busiest periods for transportation services. Professional chauffeurs who are familiar with mountain roads, understand event logistics, and can navigate winter conditions tend to book up quickly. Secure your reservation now to guarantee availability and better rates than last-minute bookings.
To plan your transportation for the weekend, contact Aspen Limo Service at +1 (970) 319-6558 or send a note to info@aspenlimoservices.com. Let’s find the ride that fits your plans—whether you’re going solo, bringing the whole family, or organizing a group getaway. With one quick call, your 2025 Birds of Prey experience moves from idea to reality. And when the last racer crosses the finish line, the memories will still be going strong.
