Dreamy prospects of magnificent après outlooks and adrenaline pumping descents become a reality when visiting this exceptionally groomed ski area. Skiers from all walks of life can benefit from the captivating slopes and enticing attractions that Vail offers.
We’ve gathered everything you need to know before visiting this incredible ski destination, so stick around to find out the best features of such an engrossing location, and what approach you should have for planning the ski trip of your wildest dreams.
Location, Weather, and Climate at Vail
Vail is located in Eagle County, Colorado, which is known for snowy weather
in winter, and the area experiences an average annual snowfall of 354 inches. Check out current as well as predicted weather and snow conditions at Vail here.
| Month | Temperature (High) | Temperature (Low) | Snowfall (inches) |
| November | 4° | -10° | 7.1 |
| December | -2° | -14° | 8.6 |
| January | -2° | -15° | 7.8 |
| February | 1° | -13° | 10.6 |
| March | 6° | -9° | 9.4 |
| April | 10° | -5° | 9.8 |
It gets incredibly cold, so visitors will need to ensure that appropriate winter gear and clothing is worn, topped with protective measures such as hats and sunglasses while traveling. Proper gear such as skiing helmets and goggles will provide protection while skiing, and sunscreen should be worn as well.
Additional measures such as umbrellas are advised while participating in non-ski activities or traveling during snowfall.
Getting to and around Vail
The simplest way to reach Vail is by flying into Denver International Airport or Eagle-Vail Airport. Airport shuttle services, and private car services in the form of SUVs, Mercedes Sprinter Vans, or Ford Transit Vans are available for transporting visitors from airports to the Vail ski resort. Check out more information here.
Accommodation at Vail
With the world undergoing an array of twists, turns, and changes in 2020, Vail has made a few adjustments in order to accommodate and manage the number of individuals on-site at any given moment. Check out new terms of service, rules, and regulations for visiting this incredible ski resort here.
There is a wide range of accommodation hotspots to select from when visiting vail, all of which provide varying features, facilities, and amenities for visitors of all calibers and preferences, which can be viewed here.
But, there are a few featured resorts that are esteemed for exceptional service, quick access to the ski terrain, as well as additional amenities that take patrons’ lodging and skiing experience to the next level.
The Arrabelle at Vail Square
This stunning and luxurious hotel boasts 81 commodious guestrooms and private residences, only a few steps away from Lionshead Village, providing an exceptionally convenient ski-in/ski-out experience.
This area features delicate and elegant décor and furnishings, a plethora of facilities and features such as coffee facilities, covered parking, baby facilities, Jacuzzis, hot tubs, pools, saunas, and much more.
With the added availability of a fully equipped spa and fitness center, this accommodation site truly has it all, and there is even access to liquor stores, kosher food options, a sports bar, and valet services.
This hotel is also a mountain bike and dog-friendly, and there are ample more attractions and facilities to keep guests entertained for the entire duration of their stay. Fees and pricing will vary, and certain services require separate charges. Check out this accommodation site here.
The Lodge at Vail
Situated in the center of Vail Village, this accommodation spot boasts a beautiful balance between vintage alpine style and exceptional facilities, topped with immaculate service and sophisticated décor.
They offer free local shuttles, housekeeping, grocery shopping services, and plenty of amenities for entertainment such as lounges, bars, saunas, pools, hot tubs, fire pits, and much more.
This lodging site is dog-friendly and features a fully equipped spa and fitness center to suit the needs of patrons of all calibers. With so many amenities and a fantastic ski-in/ski-out experience, it’s an exceptional choice for large families, couples, or groups of friends. Check out more details on the accommodation site here.
Vail Marriott Mountain Resort
Nestled at the base of Vail Mountain in Lionshead Village, this resort offers exceptional lodging facilities just a brisk walk from the Eagle Bahn Gondola for a ski-in/ski-out experience.
The resort offers stunningly comfortable deluxe bedding, luxury facilities like the fully equipped Well & Being Spa and Fitness center, pools, hot tubs, fire pits with scenic overlooks, and much more. Check out more details on this accommodation site here.
Ski areas in Vail
This mountainous area sits at a base elevation of 8,120ft, reaching a mid-elevation of 10,250ft and a peak altitude of 11,570ft, topped with a vertical rise of 3,450ft. The combined area boasts 5,317 acres of skiable terrain.
Vail is serviced by 31 lifts and flaunts 195 unique trails, the longest of which is the Rica Ridge at 4 miles. The total area consists of 18% Beginner Terrain, 29% Intermediate Terrain, and 53% Advanced or Expert Terrain, making it a fantastic choice for skiing learners and novice skiers, as well as an alluring attraction for pro adrenaline junkies.
The new EpicMix App allows access to brand new features, including real-time filtering, grooming status of the terrain, updated webcam, dining, and ski patrol locations, GPS location on the mountain, and even lift line waiting times.
The app offers many more benefits as well, such as tracking days spent at the ski resort for optimum planning. Check out the app here.
Front Side
The Front Side of the Vail ski areas is comprised of 1,655 acres. View a detailed map here.
Travel and Gondolas
The area is serviced by a combination of lifts and gondolas, with the Eagle Bahn Gondola and the Born Free Express Lift providing transport from the base at Lionshead Vail Square situated at 8,120ft in altitude all the way up to Adventure Ridge, nestled at the top of the areas near Eagle’s Nest at 10,350ft in altitude.
This area can also be reached via the Pride Express Lift, and various shorter lifts within Practice Parkway.
There are multiple transport systems which take patrons to and from the base of the mountain ski area, including the main lines from Lionshead Vail Square, as well as Cascade Village Lift which provides transport to Cascade Village at 8,050ft elevation, Gondola One which is accessed from the main base at Vail Village Mountain Plaza Express Lift Bar at 8,200ft elevation, and Riva Bahn Express Lift which connects with Golden Peak at 8,217ft elevation.
Various other lifts service the areas higher up, including the Highline and Sourdough Express Lifts which travel toward Two Elk Lodge, the Northwoods and Mountaintop Express Lifts which travel to an altitude of 11,250ft at Henry’s Hut, as well as the Wildwood and Game Creek Express Lifts which reach Wildwood at 10,981ft elevation.
Green Runs for Beginners and Novice Skiers
Long green runs adorn the area, situated at varying altitudes which offer beginners spectacular views and panoramas with comfortable challenge levels for getting the hang of skiing.
Many beginner trails are scattered all over the mountain leading up towards Adventure Ridge and Wildwood, where splendid green runs and captivating descents can be accessed.
Long green runs at high altitudes are also located at Two Elk Lodge, and many of the green trails are methodically positioned in slow skiing areas, which adds to the comfort of a beginner easing into the sport.
Blue Runs for Intermediate Skiers
While there are some blue runs near the base of the ski area, the majority of intermediate terrain in this area is located from Lionshead and Cascade Village all the way up to Adventure Ridge.
Some blue runs are interlinked with greens and slow skiing areas, and many of the Blue runs cross with Black runs, which adds fantastic customized skiing opportunities for those who are simply trying out blue runs to move onto the next level or intermediate skiers who are moving towards advanced skiing.
More blue runs are accessible at Wildwood, any many blue trails run along higher altitudes, descending along the ski boundary for exceptional views.
Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Although there are many shorter black runs at lower altitudes, and medium length black runs scattered throughout the total ski terrain, many of the most enthralling black runs are situated heading up towards Henry’s Hut at 11,250ft in altitude.
There are also scenic descents leading from Two Elk Lodge at 11,220ft elevation all the way down along the ski boundary line, heading towards Golden Peak at the base. Many of these runs are considered to be the most challenging terrain in the area, some of which are classified as expert terrain.
Even more black runs are accessible at Wildwood, offering diversity in terrain and stunning panoramas.
Additional Features
With the combination of eateries, parking, restrooms, Verizon Charging Stations, and ski storage situated across Golden peak, Vail Village Mountain Plaza Express Lift Bar, and Lionshead Vail Square, there are plenty of amenities at the base for comfort and enjoyment.
The area also many scenic picnic areas, a Nature Discovery Center, Ske-oncology, Children’s Skiing Center, and various Kids Adventure Zones situated at varying altitudes.
The area is serviced by plenty of Ski Patrol Stations and automated external defibrillators positioned systematically across the area, as well as a hospital conveniently positioned at the base near Lionshead Vail Square for optimal safety.
The bus stop is located near Golden Peak, which offers exceptional convenience, and there are also freestyle terrain areas.
Restaurants and Bars
The area flaunts an array of dining opportunities from full-service restaurants, quick eats, and dining courts. Full-service restaurants are available at The 10th and Eagle’s Nest, as well as at the base of the mountain at Golden peak and Lionshead Vail Square.
Dining courts can be found at varying points in the area, including Buffalo’s at Henry’s Hut, at Wildwood, and at Eagle’s Nest.
Vail Village Mountain Plaza Express Lift Bar offers quick eats, as well as Waffle Way and some other facilities across the mountain which offer either restaurants or dining courts. However, due to the conditions of reopening the resort, some of these establishments may not be open for service currently. So, this will need to be confirmed prior to booking.
Back Bowls
The Back Bowls encompasses 3,017 acres of skiable terrain and runs along the back area of Wildwood, Henry’s Hut, and Two Elk Lodge. View a detailed map here.
Travel and Gondolas
The area is serviced by a few lifts which are effective in providing transport to access varying runs. The Skyline Express Left takes patrons from Belle’s Camp at 11,48f0ft in altitude to the center of the area, where The Orient, The Tea Cup, and Sun Up Express Lifts allow access to the ridge.
The High Noon Express Lift allows access to Henry’s Hut, and Pete’s Express Lift provides access to areas near the boundary line.
Green Runs for Beginners and Novice Skiers
There are no green runs or beginner trails contained within this area, as it’s mainly suited for skiers which are advanced-intermediate, advanced, or expert.
Blue Runs for Intermediate Skiers
The blue runs in this area pose scenic outlooks and challenging descents and would be most suited for skiers who are heading towards advanced. There are a variety of long and enticing blue trails that run along the ski boundary line, and some which run along the ridge.
Shorter blue trails are scattered across the area, often interlinking with black trails.
Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Black runs embellish this area, which a plethora of challenging trails, steep runs, and absorbing descents set in rocky ridges and between alpine wooded areas for expert challenge levels.
Longer black runs span along the boundary line, with shorter black runs stemming inward below Wildwood for a vast selection of slopes, while the terrain below Two Elk Lodge boasts stunning skiing opportunities set amongst snowy slopes.
Additional Features
This area lacks additional amenities, as it is not suited for wandering, lounging, or exploring. There are no kid’s facilities here, or additive means for entertainment. But, there are sufficient safety, refreshment, and restroom amenities offered by Belle’s Camp, Wildwood, Henry’s Hut, Patrol Headquarters, and Two Elk Lodge.
Automatic external defibrillators are accessible for patrons in the area as well.
Restaurants and Bars
Eatery and picnic facilities are available at Belle’s Camp, Wildwood, and Buffalo’s at Henry’s Hut, while Two Elk Lodge offers a dining court, accessible via the Orient Express and Wapiti. Dawg Haus situated near Pete’s Express Lift offers quick eats for skiers on the go.
Blue Sky Basin
The skiable terrain in Blue Sky Basin is comprised of 645 acres, running down from Belle’s Camp at 11,480ft in altitude. View a detailed map here.
Travel and Gondolas
A few lifts service this smaller area, including the Skyline and Earl’s Express Lifts which lead to Belle’s Camp, as well as Pete’s Express Lift which provides convenient access to Dawg Haus. The Orient and The Cup Express Lift connect into this area as well.
Green Runs for Beginners and Novice Skiers
There are no green runs or beginner trails contained within this area, as it’s mainly suited for skiers which are advanced-intermediate, advanced, or expert.
Blue Runs for Intermediate Skiers
There are plenty of blue runs in this area, which boast stunning panoramas and challenging descents and would be most suited for skiers who are heading towards advanced.
There are a variety of long and enticing blue trails that run along the center of the area down from Pete’s Bowl, and some which run along the ridge and boundary lines. Shorter blue trails are scattered across the area, often interlinking with black runs.
Black Runs for Advanced Skiers
Black runs are set spanning down from Earl’s Bowl, set with varying challenge levels for advanced skiers or experts. There is a range of short, medium, and longer runs all of which pose great skiing opportunities for experienced skiers, topped with marvelous alpine views.
Additional Features
This area lacks additional amenities, as it is not suited for wandering, lounging, or exploring. There is a Ski Patrol Headquarters station, as well as refreshment and restroom amenities at Belle’s Camp, and automatic external defibrillators are accessible in the area as well.
Restaurants and Bars
There are no full-service restaurants in this area, but the area is serviced by Dawg Haus which boasts a central location, as well as the quick eats and picnic area at Belle’s Camp.
Ski Schools
Vail offers a variety of ski lessons, which are customizable to meet the needs of patrons with varying ski experience, which are hosted at Golden Peak, Lionshead, Mid Vail, as well as Vail Village.
Both private and group lessons are offered for beginners, intermediate, and advanced, but it’s recommended that all participants in group lessons are at similar base experience levels.
Lesson bookings are available for children aged 3 – 14, as well as adults over 15 years of age, and time durations can be selected between half days either in the morning or afternoon, as well as full-day sessions.
By booking lessons online, visitors are rewarded with guaranteed lowest prices, express check-in on the first day of visiting the resort, as well as the guaranteed availability of instructors. Check out more details on lessons and bookings here.
Ski Rentals
There is plenty of conveniences when it comes to renting skis and equipment for an adventurous ski trip in Vail, with exceptional service and complimentary delivery to points nearest to the lodging of patrons’ choice.
High-quality gear created by premium brands as well as personalized experiences is offered at varying points within the resort, making visitors’ experience more enjoyable.
Demo skis, performance skis, sport skis are available for adults, while kids skis are available for persons under the age of 12. Those with Epic Passes are rewarded with 20% off, and booking online ensures the lowest prices available. Check out more details on equipment rentals here.
Ski Passes
Vail has been included in the Epic Coverage System, which is included free of charge for all Epic Pass holders, featuring a range of unique and advantageous conditions specific to the nature of the 2020 pandemic.
This includes personal coverage such as refunds associated with injury, jury duty, military transfer, pregnancy, quarantine requirements, job loss, illness or death, visa rejection, and much more. This also provides coverage for major events such as terrorism, war, natural disaster, and certain resorts’ closure due to the pandemic.
Epic Pass packages vary, including access to other resorts, as well as Epic Mountain Rewards offering up to 20% savings on equipment rentals and much more. This certainly adds a whole new level of customer care, ensuring the health, safety, comfort, and peace of mind for all individuals visiting the resort.
Epic Passes at Vail
Epic Passes that provide access to Vail include the Epic Pass, the Epic Day Pass, and the Epic Local Pass, all of which include Epic Coverage which allows refunds for pandemic-related cancelations.
| Epic Pass | Epic Day Pass | Epic Local Pass | ||||
| ● Priority Access
● 7 Days total, consecutive use not required for redeeming days ● Includes holiday access ● Epic Mountain Rewards (20% discounts) View more here ● Epic Coverage |
● Early Access for priority days
● 1 – 7 days option ● Excludes holiday access ● Epic Mountain Rewards (20% discounts) View more here ● Epic Coverage |
● Early Access for priority days
● Includes 10 days ● Includes holiday access ● Epic Mountain Rewards (20% discounts) View more here ● Epic Coverage |
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| Child (Ages 5 – 12) | Adult (Ages 13+) | Child (Ages 5 – 12) | Adult (Ages 13+) | Child (Ages 5 – 12) | Teen (Ages 13+) | Adult (Ages 19+) |
| $ 509 | $999 | $54 per day | $104 per day | $389 | $599 | $749 |
| Check out more details here. |
Check out more details here. |
Check out more details here. |
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| Epic Pass pricing will increase by $100 on November 22nd 2020, check out details here. |
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Après-ski and non-ski activities
In addition to the endless opportunity for excitement and thrill while on the mountain, there are some enticing activities to engage in while you and your accompaniment spend time off the snowy slopes.
Many activities which are hosted by Vail are held in summer or outside of ski season, but there are a few enticing activities to engage with after a long day of skiing.
Luxury Spa Treatments
Vail flaunts a wide range of pampering treatments to soothe aching muscles and rejuvenate the skiing spirit after a lengthy day filled with adventure. This includes facials, body treatments, and massages, as well as beauty treatments such as manicures and pedicures.
The Arrabelle and The Lodge at Vail boast 11 treatment rooms, including luxury facilities such as couples’ rooms, wet treatment rooms, facial rooms, and massage rooms. The Arrabelle features a lavish soaking tub for two, while The Lodge at Vail boasts Vichy and Swiss showers and a fully equipped nail salon.
Both spas feature steam rooms, whirlpools, lounges, men’s and women’s locker rooms, as well as a fully equipped fitness centers.
More spa services are available at Vail Marriott Mountain Resort, Sonnenalp Spa, Vail Mountain Lodge Spa, Four Seasons Spa, and Bloom Spa. All of these spa locations offer varying services and treatments for a range of needs and indulgences. Check out all spa and relaxation opportunities in Vail here.
Shopping Opportunity
Hundreds of stores offering varying services and products are available at the base of the Vail ski resort, providing everything from memorable trinkets, to stylish ski boots, to non-ski clothing, perfumes, accessories, and even art pieces.
The entire experience is topped with striking views of the surrounding mountains and alpine terrain, making it a truly unique shopping experience.
In addition to the wide range of stores in the area, Vail features certain classic stores including Oakley, two Patagonia locations, The North Face, and two Vail Sports locations. Check out more details on shops available in Vail here.
Après Dining
Dining areas at the resort include Mid-Vail, Two Elk Lodge, Eagle’s Nest, Wildwood Smokehouse, and The 10th, and venues which are closed to the pubic include Game Creek restaurant, Bistro Fourteen, Waffle Way, and Grills and Henry’s Hut.
In order to cope with capacity restrictions, all visitors have been advised to bring along snacks and drinks, and masks are required except when eating or drinking in addition to the request that patrons do not linger in the area after they have finished their meal. Check out more details on how the restaurants and après dining structure has been changed here.
Conclusion
Pros of Skiing in Vail
- Suitable for beginners and intermediates with exceptional ski lesson options
- Plenty of challenging slopes for advanced and expert skiers
- Many amenities for children and families as well as for couples and groups
- Tons of facilities for dining, quick eats, picnics, and shopping
- Accommodation near the ski resort, with great service and facilities
Cons of Skiing in Vail
- Not much terrain for beginners
- Not many non-ski events or activities in winter
This resort boasts phenomenal features suitable for skiers of all levels, and accommodates individuals with varying preferences. It should be noted that there are terms and conditions when booking, such as the compulsory wearing of a mask, and reservations beforehand.
There is an endless amount of skiing opportunities, alternative attractions, and après experiences that await those visiting Vail.