Two Elk Lodge is situated at one of the most spectacular spots on the summit of Vail
Mountain. At 11,240 feet it commands un ob struct ed views of the Gore Range, Mount
of the Holy Cross, and China Bowl. The 28,500 square-foot restaurant is a self-supported,
scramble-style cafeteria with seating for 925 patrons on three separate tiers. It
also offers additional seating adjacent to an outdoor barbecue.
The architectural design creates a classic western mountain lodge. Round log columns,
heavy timber beams, and rough-sawn cedar siding give the building ex te ri or a rustic,
mountain character. Inside, expansive windows adjacent to the seating areas allow
guests to enjoy the sur round ing mountains while feeling the Ute Indian her i tage... the
cedar siding is painted with large-scale re pro duc tions of traditional Ute Indian sketches
and artifacts.
Skiers conveniently access the restaurant from both the east and west sides from two
main skiways. Restrooms, public lockers, a retail gift shop, and ski school desk are
located just inside the entrances.
Two Elk Lodge received the 1991 Eagle Valley Home Builders Association Award for
Best Interior Design and the 1992 Snow Country Magazine Award for Honorable Mention,
Day Lodge Category.