Things to Do at Vail Resort, Colorado
Throughout the US, “Vail” or Vail Resort is synonymous with the American alpine experience. Situated high up in the Gore Valley and surrounded by the White River National Forest, the Vail community is ideally located in proximity to all the Rocky Mountains have to offer. Vail Ski Resort opened on December 15, 1962, boasting one gondola, two chair lifts, eight ski instructors, and a $5 lift ticket. Since then, Vail has become the largest ski resort located on a single mountain in the United States and caters to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Looking for more, check out neighboring Beaver Creek Resort.
Vail can be accessed via Eagle County Regional Airport just 37 miles from Vail or 2 hours and 15 minutes from Denver International Airport, 92 miles.
About Vail Mountain
The three base areas of Vail Mountain are Golden Peak, Vail Village, and Lionshead. During the winter season, signs are posted daily at all three base areas with grooming reports and trail access information. Trail maps for those unfamiliar with the mountain can be found at all lift ticket windows, on-mountain lodges, and throughout the base areas. Visitors should also familiarize themselves with the skier responsibility code on the trail map.
- Adventure Ridge offers excellent activities for families and kids. Tubing, ski bikes, a children’s snowmobile track, and ice skating are available.
- Vail is home to some of the best ski and snowboard instructors in the world. Lessons are available for all levels of skiers, snowboarders, or telemark skiers. Newcomers to any of these activities are strongly advised to take a lesson—your knees and elbows will thank you for it later!
- The FREE PEAKS program is the best money and timesaver for multiple-day skiers and snowboarders. Contact any of the Vail Resorts lift ticket offices to purchase. Open until 4:30 p.m. daily.
- Blue Sky Basin is one of Vail’s farthest-to-reach areas and is accessible by several lifts and trails from the front of the mountain. There are no dining options in the area, but a warming hut and bathrooms are available.
- Tired legs are dangerous. If your legs are tired, download on the Vista Bahn, Riva Bahn, or Gondola rather than taking your chances with an injury.
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What’s Happening at Vail Resort
- Their signature events have become very popular. Features activities such as Top of Mountain Yoga, Vail Apres Spring Series, a Tase of Vail, GoPro Mountain Games, and more…
- Of course, there is skiing and snowboarding at Vail Mountain. World-renowned back bowls, Golden Peak, and Blue Sky Basin.
- Plenty of hiking trails. See their Hiking Guide and info about Adventure Ridge. More about gondola access hiking.
- Extensive mountain biking trails with gondola access.
- A long list of events going on in the Vail community.
- Plan your wedding in Vail.
- Vail Dance Festival.
With a European feel, Vail Village and Lionshead Village are designed to accommodate pedestrians. Take a stroll through the villages down the heated cobblestone walkways to enjoy fire pits, sculptures, and water features. As well as its reputation as a legendary mountain town with world-class skiing, Vail also treats its visitors to plush accommodations, fine dining, and fantastic shopping.
Vail has the Family in Mind
Consider Vail to be one giant playground for kids, families, and adults. This resort is packed with places to explore, activities, events, new adventures, and quality time to make lasting memories. Learn more about Vail resorts.
Exploring Vail Arts & Culture
Diversity of cultural and educational activities is an attraction for locals and guests. Vail considers their cultural scene to be top-notch, with access to theatre, music, arts, and educational experiences that will enlighten and lift the spirit.
Vail Attractions
After Hours at Eagle’s Nest > Skiing and snowboarding aren’t the only fun to be had on the mountain. In the afternoon, head up to Adventure Ridge at the top of the gondola for ski-biking, tubing, snowshoe tours, bungee trampoline and more. If you are looking for a truly unique dining experience, ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola and take a short snow-cat ride to Game Creek Restaurant. Enjoy distinctive American cuisine, an extensive wine list and superior service complemented by a warm and inviting atmosphere. Off The Mountain > Be sure to explore Vail Village and Lionshead where you can shop, dine, dance and relax just steps from your accommodations. Or visit one of Vail’s many spas to rejuvenate your body and soul.
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