Our Innkeepers and Team

Bruce Knoepfel, owner of the Frisco Inn on Galena, is a seasoned hospitality professional with four decades of experience operating award-winning lodges, inns, boutique hotels, and bed & breakfasts. He envisioned the Frisco Inn as a refined yet relaxed retreat for discerning travelers, one that blends European elegance with authentic Colorado mountain living.

Located just steps from Main Street yet tucked into a peaceful setting, the Inn reflects Bruce’s commitment to exceptional hospitality, fine cuisine, and attentive service. His passion for creating a space where guests feel both pampered and at ease is central to everything the Inn represents.

Bruce has traveled extensively, visiting over 100 countries around the world. These global experiences influence the Inn’s design, atmosphere, and guest experience, bringing a thoughtful international perspective to one of Summit County’s most inviting boutique hotels.

An avid skier, competitive road cyclist, mountain biker, photographer, and outdoor enthusiast, Bruce enjoys sharing stories with guests and offering insights into the best ways to experience Frisco and the surrounding mountains. He lives locally in Frisco and personally invites every guest to enjoy the comfort, tranquility, and care that define the Frisco Inn on Galena.

Avery Lane Maxwell leads guest services and brand development at the Frisco Inn on Galena, ensuring every aspect of the Inn operates with intention, warmth, and consistency. As Resident Innkeeper and Director of Guest Experience, Avery oversees front desk operations, supports the growth of Mt. Royal Coffee, the Spa, the Gift Shop, and the Inn’s food and beverage offerings, and works closely with ownership to strengthen the Inn’s presence and performance.

Originally from North Georgia and inspired by time spent exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, Avery brings a deep appreciation for place, connection, and meaningful hospitality. A world traveler and avid reader, he is passionate about helping guests feel both relaxed and inspired during their stay.

When not assisting guests, Avery can often be found running local races, lifting at the gym, or hosting Plato’s Corner, a reflective evening gathering in the Inn’s library focused on thoughtful readings and conversation. He is proud to help shape the guest journey from first welcome to fond farewell.

A third-generation Frisco native, Alex Knoepfel was born and raised in Summit County and knows the region inside and out. His passion for Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking, biking, backpacking, and camping, makes him an invaluable resource for guests looking to explore the area.

Alex is also an enthusiastic traveler, having visited destinations across Europe, South America, Africa, and Central America. Highlights include a three-month Outward Bound expedition in Costa Rica, backpacking from coast to coast, whitewater rafting, and learning to surf.

At the Frisco Inn on Galena, Alex loves sharing local recommendations, trail tips, and travel stories, helping guests discover why Frisco is truly a slice of mountain paradise.

Zach Sherfey, an Inn Cook and Innkeeper looking to expand his reach in hospitality. In collaboration with the rest of our team, his goal is to provide the best experience possible for our guests. He loves to prepare delicacies in our kitchen for our guests. In his off-time, Zach enjoys bad movies, cooking, reading and connecting with people. 

Shanda McClure arrived at the Inn in January of this year to join her nephew,  Avery Lane Maxwell. Coming from her home in Georgia, Shanda has been an entrepreneur for over twenty years having two successful print shops in the Metro Atlanta area. After selling the businesses last year she was looking for a change of pace and has found that here at The Frisco Inn on Galena. .  

Shanda strives to bring her southern hospitality and bring a family dynamic to the Inn with Avery. As an avid hiker, kayaker and swimmer, Colorado has always been a beloved vacation destination. She is excited to meet you at the Inn! 

My name is Colette Walker, and I am a dedicated housekeeping professional committed to delivering exceptional results. I have over 20 years of experience in the housekeeping industry, working with various companies across multiple states. I am proud to have been a member of this team for the past 8 years and to have served as Head Housekeeper for the last 3 years.

I take great pride in my strong work ethic and my ability to go above and beyond to ensure every job is completed efficiently and to the highest standard. I value both quality and timeliness, and I consistently strive to exceed expectations. Whether managing daily operations or addressing complex challenges, I bring reliability, focus, and a results-driven mindset to everything I do.

I bring over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, having worked in a variety of roles. With a strong Caribbean background, I pride myself on a dedicated work ethic, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining the cleanliness and welcoming charm of the Frisco Inn. In my downtime, I enjoy reading and embracing my inner couch potato.

Ray Collins specializes in deep tissue myofascial massage, blending sports and craniosacral techniques to support recovery, relaxation, and healing. His client-centered approach and calming presence create a therapeutic environment ideal for guests seeking post-activity relief or deep relaxation during their stay in Frisco.

Originally from Mexico City and now deeply rooted in the local community, Denise views skincare as a pathway to reconnection and self-care. As her practice evolved, she expanded into massage therapy to offer a more holistic approach to wellness. By combining esthetics and massage, Denise delivers treatments that support the nervous system, promote relaxation, and provide lasting results.

Originally from Georgetown, South Carolina, I bring both science and soul into every session. With a background in Athletic Training and Exercise Science, I understand how the body moves, heals, and performs — and I use that knowledge to create massage work that’s as effective as it is intentional.

I’m an adventure junkie at heart and a bodyworker by calling, with 11+ years of hands-on experience and work that’s taken me around the globe. Over the years, I’ve blended techniques from 25+ modalities into one fully customized approach, designed to meet you exactly where you are — whether you need deep relief, nervous system reset, or simply a safe space to breathe and unwind.

Creating safe, mindful, and welcoming spaces isn’t just part of what I do — it’s what I do best. And I’m always learning, always growing, and always refining my craft so every session feels purposeful, personalized, and powerful.