Vail

How many days: 6

Allow six days for a first ski visit. Spend your first day getting familiar with the village and easier terrain, then use several days to explore different parts of the mountain. Keep one day flexible for lessons, poor weather or a slower day away from the slopes.

In summer, four days is enough for hiking, cycling and enjoying the surrounding scenery. A shorter winter visit is possible, but you will only experience part of the mountain. Give yourself time to adjust to the altitude before attempting demanding activities.

What to do in Vail

Ski Vail's front side

Explore the extensive network of marked pistes above the main villages. It offers varied terrain and is a sensible starting point for understanding the mountain.

Discover the Back Bowls

Experience Vail's famous broad alpine bowls when conditions and your ability allow. The terrain can be demanding, and visibility is especially important.

Explore Blue Sky Basin

Ski this more distant mountain sector with varied terrain and a different atmosphere. Allow plenty of time for the journey back to your starting point.

Walk through Vail Village

Explore the pedestrian streets, shops and public spaces. The compact centre is pleasant for an afternoon away from skiing.

Explore Lionshead

Visit this neighbouring resort base with its own mountain access and pedestrian areas. It is worth seeing even if you are staying in Vail Village.

Walk beside Gore Creek

Follow accessible paths near the creek and enjoy the surrounding trees and mountain scenery. Conditions vary by season, so take care around snow and ice.

Visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Explore alpine plants and landscaped gardens during suitable seasonal conditions. It offers a gentler outdoor experience than a mountain hike.

Hike the mountain trails

Choose a marked summer route suited to your fitness. The altitude and elevation gain can make even moderate hikes tiring.

Try mountain biking

Explore appropriate cycling trails during the warmer months. Choose easier routes or instruction if you are unfamiliar with mountain riding.

Take a scenic gondola ride

Travel above the village for mountain views when sightseeing access is available. It is a good option for visitors who do not ski.

What to eat and drink

Have a hearty American breakfast

Start with eggs, pancakes or another substantial meal before heading onto the mountain. A good breakfast helps on long ski days.

Try a Colorado steak

Enjoy grilled beef with vegetables or potatoes after a day outdoors. It suits the resort's mountain dining atmosphere.

Order a warming chilli

Choose a bowl of chilli with beans, meat or vegetables. It is comforting after spending hours in cold weather.

Eat lunch on the mountain

Stop at a mountain dining area for a hot meal and a rest. Keep an eye on your return route if skiing far from the village.

Enjoy a local craft beer

Try a Colorado beer after skiing, or opt for something alcohol-free. Remember that altitude can increase the effects of alcohol.

Have a relaxed après-ski snack

Share nachos, wings or another informal dish after coming off the mountain. It is an easy way to unwind before dinner.

Getting around

Vail Village and Lionshead are pedestrian-friendly, and much of the central resort is easy to explore on foot. Local buses connect the main villages, accommodation areas and other parts of the valley. This makes it practical to stay without a car, particularly if your accommodation is near a regular bus route.

A car can help with exploring beyond Vail, but parking and winter driving are significant considerations. Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available, although demand and coverage vary. The mountain itself is extensive, so use piste maps and lift information rather than assuming every area is a quick journey from your starting point.

Good to know

• Vail is at high altitude. Take your first day gently and seek medical advice for significant or worsening altitude symptoms.
• The mountain is very large, and returning from distant sectors can take considerable time.
• The Back Bowls can be difficult in poor visibility, even for capable skiers.
• Winter storms can affect mountain lifts and road travel through the surrounding passes.
• Colorado's mountain weather changes quickly, so carry suitable layers and sun protection.
• The United States uses US dollars, and tipping is customary in restaurants and for many personal services.