From the Bay Area or Sacramento, the drive to Kirkwood Mountain Resort on scenic California Highway 88 is stunningly beautiful and part of the treat of holding an event at this lovely Sierra mountain venue.  Long vistas, huge granite rocks, pine tree forests and crystal clear lakes are what is viewed en-route to Kirkwood, but upon arrival, the volcanic red rock outcroppings that surround this quaint village style ski resort are simply spectacular.

If planning a wedding ceremony, there is the option for a small group to use the chair lift for an incredible mountaintop gathering (weather permitting), however, the most popular location is in the central meadow, surrounded by native brush, grasses and wildflowers and the magnificent views of the Red Rocks.  Rather awe inspiring and spiritual in deed! Rustic wooden benches or chairs are set up in the meadow ,which is an easy stroll from the main Kirkwood hotel or condo units.  From there, wander to one of three separate possibilities to hold the party/reception.  The open-air outdoor Village Plaza with its huge fire pit and again, those Red Rock mountain views, or the Off the Wall Bar & Grill indoor room which is handsomely furnished with rustic, wooden tables and twigged chairs, and feels very romantic “mountain cabin.”  Go natural wood, or add linens – either look will be perfect in this room.  This space includes a large focal stone fireplace, well stocked bar, heavy wood ceiling beams, and antler “chandeliers,” plus a floor-to-ceiling window facing the ski lift and mountain runs.  Another room to consider is the larger Red Cliffs Lodge, with a contemporary-industrial feel.  Great views of the resort out the plentiful windows, a raised short stage for a band is built in, and another handsome bar is positioned within this room. The open ceiling with girded beams are perfect for hanging decor.  All catering needs are handled in-house by their very capable Chef and staff.  The menu options looked outstanding!!  Guests attending any function will appreciate the ability for a brisk nighttime walk back to the centrally located hotel or the condo complex… and then think of the “After Glow” brunch that can be enjoyed by all your guests the next morning – what fun!

Without sounding like a travel brochure, Kirkwood Mountain Resort Resort offers something for everybody – winter or summer and is perfect for those destination weddings, corporate retreats, or social events. For the adventurer, or just the nature enthusiast, there is obviously all the winter offerings – downhill skiing and trails for snow shoeing, but consider the summer haps with mountain biking, hiking, wildflower exploring, or sunbathing, fishing and/or kayaking on one of the many lakes in the region. Seems like a very logical honeymoon location following the wedding – yes?

~ Vixen Lora