If you think attending a show at Red Rocks is the most Colorado concert experience you can have, you’ve never hiked (or ridden a gondola) to your seats. But that’s just what you’ll be doing to see Elvis Costello & the Imposters and Nederland-born opening act Elephant Revival—expect to hear some new music from the six-piece folk-rock-meets-eclectic-world-sound outfit—at Beaver Creek’s inaugural Hike to the Mic (September 15 to 17).

“We’re going to one of the most beautiful spots on planet Earth,” says Elephant Revival’s Daniel Rodriguez (guitar, banjo, double bass). “It’s always inspiring to play outside, especially here in Colorado. Playing outside not only helps us connect to that greater whole, but I think it helps the audience as well because you’re being brought into this musical intoxication, but you’re intoxicated by your surroundings, too.”

Elephant Revival
Elephant Revival started in Nederland. Photo courtesy of Athena Delene

The new music and arts festival takes place on and around the mountain—just in time to get an early glimpse of the fall colors. The musical performances will be held on Saturday on Spruce Saddle lawn at 10,000 feet. Reach the venue by foot, bike, guided 4×4, or the Centennial Express Gondola. Any of the first three options will take concertgoers along designated trails with surprising curated art installations along the way.

An after-party will be hosted in the Village with more live music, art, and food. Throughout the weekend, visitors can also partake in free outdoor fitness classes (yoga and Pure Barre), specials and discounts at various stores and restaurants throughout the Village, and other unique activities such as chainsaw carving demonstrations.

We’ll see you on the mountain.


If You Go: Hike to the Mic takes place September 15 to 17 in Beaver Creek. General admission tickets are $65; VIP admission, which includes front-row viewing spots and access to a private lounge with complimentary booze and light hors d’oeuvres, is $300.

Daliah Singer
Daliah Singer
Daliah Singer is an award-winning writer and editor based in Denver. You can find more of her work at daliahsinger.com.