Vail

Vail is the biggest ski resort in the United States and is known for the quality and the abundance of its powder snow. Located in Colorado, in the Rocky Mountains, Vail has nearly 40km² of skiing area.

It is a huge domain giving an easy access to 6 resorts: Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, NorthStar California and Kirkwood, especially thanks to the purchase of a single ski pass.

Vail ski resort

Vail’s ski area offers 2,141 hectares of mountain terrain with 47% of its slopes geared towards beginner and intermediate skiers. Experts will enjoy Vail, as 53% of the slopes are steep. Its 195 slopes and 31 ski lifts make it easy to access and move around this huge mountain range.

« THE LONGEST SKI RUN AT VAIL RESORTS IS RIVA RIDGE, WITH MORE THAN 6 KILOMETERS OF CONTINUOUS DOWNHILL SKIING. » 

The base of the lifts is at 2,454 metres and the highest part of the resort is at 3,527 metres, providing a vertical drop of over a thousand metres. Also, the Rocky Mountains offers wide slopes full of virgin snow, with a variety of downhill options where you can practically guarantee that you will make “new tracks”. The ski resort belongs to the Vail Resorts group, which owned the closed ski websites (skiinfo, OntheSnow, …) managed by its subsidiary Mountain News Corporation.

The biggest ski resort in the United States

The Vail ski area has very modern ski lifts, with spectacular scenery and slopes that cross forests, endless slopes and high quality services for tourists. They have a new 10-seater gondola lift, which is not only the fastest in the world in its category, but also includes a free wi-fi service which you can use to share your photos and videos with your family in comfort.

There is a wide range of après-ski activities on offer, such as Adventure Ridge, which is the day and night activity centre on Vail Mountain. There are numerous outdoor activities such as ice skating, snow biking, snowshoeing and fun tobogganing down icy slides.

In the town of Vail, you will find restaurants and bars with all types of cuisine to suit all budgets. There are also shops, supermarkets, spas and many other amenities to enjoy before a well-deserved rest. Its proximity to Denver and 30 minutes from Eagle County Airport makes it easy and convenient to get to from the nearest airports.

Mountain services in Vail

Ski and Snowboard School

Vail Mountain Ski and Snowboard School has embarked on a mission of continual improvement, solidifying the resort’s status as an industry leader in snowsports instruction. From Kids Adventure Zones to the Avanti Skills Zone and Performance Center, Vail Ski and Snowboard School offers an incredible experience for all levels. Vail Mountain was selected as the host to Interski 2027, recognizing the resort’s Ski and Snowboard School on the international stage.

Lessons for all ages

There is also the possibility to learn to ski at Vail Ski Resort. The classes are divided by age, with groups for children, teenagers and adults in both skiing and snowboarding. In addition, it is also possible to book private lessons in a totally personalised way, choosing the location, level, duration and age.

The group classes for children are designed for those between 3 and 14 years old, and as in the private classes, it is possible to choose the level and location to offer a personalised experience. In these classes, children can learn to enjoy the snow surrounded by children their own age, or improve their technique in intermediate or advanced groups.

The classes designed for teenagers between 15 and 18 years old follow a similar system. Here, it is possible to personalise the experience and enjoy skiing in small groups of the same level. Finally, there are classes for adults over the age of 18, designed to teach them to ski from scratch or to perfect their technique.

Adaptive programs

Vail Mountain Ski and Snowboard School offers lessons to individuals with a wide variety of disabilities for skiing, snow biking, and snowboarding, focusing on cognitive, visual and physical impairment. The school is renowned for being one of the few adaptive programs where the instructors are largely full-time professionals in the field of adaptive snowsports instruction.

Additionally, Vail Mountain Ski and Snowboard School offers assistance to children who may be challenged to participate in group class lessons due to cognitive disabilities. The resort’s adaptive assistants work hard to integrate these children into class lessons and season programs with individualized care. The resort also offers specialized rental equipment for guests looking to enjoy Vail Mountain but may not be able to justify the cost of owning it. Vail Mountain supports a variety of nonprofit partners through the adaptive snowsports program, including Vail Veterans, Foresight Skiing Guides, Small Champions, and Access Unbound.

The All-Terrain Program 

Vail Mountain Ski and Snowboard School is bringing back themed days for kids with the All Terrain Program (ATP). Kids will meet others their age and ability level and spend the day completing an ATP Challenge—a fun way to explore Vail’s 5,317 skiable acres with a world-class guide. Every day at ATP is unique and challenges vary based on participants’ interests and weather conditions. The day concludes with prizes to commemorate their experience and completion of the ATP Challenge.

Equipment rental

At the largest ski resort in the USA it is also possible to rent the best ski and snowboard equipment from the best ski brands. You can also get advice from a team of experts and book online to get up to 20% discount on this service.

It’s also worth noting that you can pick up your equipment from any of the slopes, villages or even hotels, so it couldn’t be more convenient. To do this, you can select a shop near your accommodation online or they will bring the equipment to you in a free delivery.

In parallel, there is also the My Epic Gear solution! It is designed for the whole family across 12 North American resorts and eliminates the hassle of traveling to the mountain with gear. At Colorado’s most legendary resort, guests can expect luxury service coupled with more than 60 of the most popular and latest ski and snowboard models to access limitless Vail Mountain terrain. The entire membership experience, from gear selection to personalized expert recommendations to delivery, is available at members’ fingertips in the My Epic app. Memberships are limited for the 2024/25 winter season and on a first-come, first-serve basis.

« MY EPIC GEAR REIMAGINES GEAR OWNERSHIP AND GEAR RENTAL, PROVIDING MORE CHOICE, LOWER COST AND NO HASSLE. TRAVELERS NO LONGER HAVE TO HAUL THEIR EQUIPMENT CROSS-COUNTRY; FREQUENT SKIERS AND RIDERS CAN TRY THE LATEST GEAR AND GET DIFFERENT GEAR FOR DIFFERENT CONDITIONS; AND FOR KIDS, THEIR GEAR GROWS WITH THEM. » said Vail Resorts CEO Kirsten Lynch.

Free Guided Mountain Tours 

Departing daily, Vail’s Mountain Tours are led by some of the valley’s most passionate historians. All frontside tours start at the top of Eagle’s Nest—join them as they ski around the mountain, sharing stories and showcasing the pioneering spirit of Vail. All other tours depart from the Legacy Hut, and include Back Bowl, Women’s, and Legacy tours. The Legacy Hut is Vail Mountain’s own on-mountain museum, stop by to pick up postcards and learn about Vail’s legacy.

Where to eat at Vail Resort?

There’s no shortage of great places to eat at Vail, the largest ski resort in the U.S. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between runs or a more refined alpine dining experience, there’s something for everyone on the mountain.

For skiers who don’t want to waste a minute off the slopes, Buffalo’s/Rocky’s Roadhouse is a top pick. Conveniently located at the junction of three main lifts, it’s the perfect spot for a mid-morning snack or a quick lunch. Grab a sandwich or other fast, tasty options before heading straight back to the snow.

If you’re after a more traditional mountain lodge feel, Mid-Vail Restaurant is a great stop. Located in the heart of the mountain, it offers panoramic views of the Gore Range and a variety of satisfying dishes. Think freshly made sandwiches and salads, hot soups, and a classic American grill with burgers, fries, and chicken strips—ideal for warming up during a break.

For those seeking an elevated dining experience, The 10th is not to be missed. Perched atop Gondola One at MidVail and overlooking the majestic Gore Range, The 10th blends modern cuisine with timeless alpine charm. Named in honor of the legendary 10th Mountain Division, this upscale yet welcoming restaurant offers updated classics with a mountain twist. Whether you’re skiing in for lunch or accessing it via Gondola One as a foot passenger, it’s an unforgettable culinary adventure. Keep in mind that The 10th is only open for lunch, and guests must have lift access to dine—either with an Epic Pass or by purchasing a Lift & Lunch package at the Vail Village ticket office, which includes a credit toward your meal.

Unforgettable experiences in Vail

First of all, you can enjoy a relaxing ride on the Eagle Bahn Gondola while looking down on the breathtaking views of the Gore Mountain Range. Without a doubt, this activity is perfect for a couple or a family, as you can discover the valley together in a special and different way. After getting off the ski lift, you can enjoy Eagle’s Nest Tubing, an activity that consists of sliding down the snow on giant wheels.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides are also available and are an incredible way to enjoy the winter and admire the surrounding mountain ranges. You can take a chic and romantic sleigh ride with your partner, or enjoy it with your family while sipping your favourite drink and learning about the history of the area.

If you want to explore the valley, it is also possible to do so on guided ski touring or snowshoeing excursions. These activities are perfect for getting to know the surrounding flora and fauna, as slowing down will allow you to appreciate the beautiful details of the valley’s nature.

Finally, ice fishing is an experience not to be missed. The valley’s beautiful scenery includes Sylvan Lake and the Gypsum Ponds Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy this unique activity. What’s more, this experience only requires warm equipment such as ski jackets and snow trousers to protect you from the cold.

Vail mountain resort in summer

A range of activities for kids and adults

During the summer, the Vail Valley is full of life. For starters, hiking enthusiasts will find Vail to be their ideal destination, as hiking is the number one summertime activity in the region. It’s no wonder when there are at least 40 kilometres of recreational trails and 320 kilometres of hiking trails in Eagle County.

You’ll also be able to enjoy Vail Mountain thanks to the resort’s Epic Discovery program. With it, you can take to the air and ground on Forest Flyer Mountain, tackle the Rope Challenges and take the Game Creek Zipline Tour.

In addition, the valley becomes the centre of many summer camps for kids such as Pre-Kamp Vail, Camp Eco Fun, Camp Vail & Extreme Camp Vail. Here, kids can do gymnastics, football, golf, baseball, basketball, tennis, volleyball and many more sports. But if you want your children to enjoy this experience, don’t delay in reserving your place or you’ll miss out!

Live music and gastronomic experiences

Kicking off in summer 2025, Vail—alongside the Town of Vail and Toyota—proudly introduces the inaugural season of Lionshead Live, a vibrant new concert series hosted at the iconic Arrabelle at Vail Square. Every Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m., June 20 through August 29 (excluding July 4), the square will come alive under the tent with free live music, mountain vibes, and unforgettable summer energy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Lionshead Live is the perfect way to enjoy warm evenings, great company, and the spirit of Vail.

Lastly, this summer, The 10th—Vail’s premier on-mountain dining destination—is bringing even more flavor to the mountains with a series of uniquely themed pop-up events. Mark your calendars for June 16, July 21, August 11, and September 15. The season kicks off with a Father’s Day Bluegrass BBQ on June 16, pairing delicious mountain fare with live music and unbeatable views.

During the summer Vail hosts all kinds of festivals and events, be they musical, sporting or gastronomic. It’s certainly worth checking out what events Vail will be hosting each summer, there are more surprises every year!

Sustainable development at Vail ski resort

The largest ski resort in the U.S.A., owned by the Vail Resorts group, is one of the most eco-sustainable in the world, thanks to the numerous sustainable measures the company has in place. Specifically, the Vail Resorts group has three environmental goals:

« TO HAVE A ZERO CARBON FOOTPRINT BY 2030, TO PROMOTE THE HEALTH AND SUSTAINABILITY OF ITS RESORT COMMUNITIES AND TO SUPPORT ITS EMPLOYEES THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS. »

Currently, Vail is on track, having achieved an 85% reduction in electricity emissions by 2021 through the use of renewable energy. In addition, to support communities, the group has donated a total of 21 million dollars in 2021 alone. And that’s not all, the company holds the title of sustainability leader in the industry because it is not only dedicated to implementing all kinds of measures, but also takes its role very seriously and tries to raise awareness among other companies in the industry to follow suit.

« AMONG ITS MOST PROMINENT ACTIONS AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE IS THE CREATION OF FOUR JOBS ENTIRELY DEDICATED TO FIGHTING GLOBAL WARMING. »

In addition, they focus on recycling, composting and waste diversion, which has resulted in 150 tons of cardboard, 90 tons of scrap metal, 14 tons of compost, 250 tons of individual/mixed material, 7,000 gallons of vegetable oil and truckloads of other recyclable materials being shipped and reused by various carriers and suppliers each year. Finally, it should be noted that they are constantly renewing their infrastructure to reduce energy consumption, most of which comes from renewable sources.

Where to stay?

The Arrabelle at Vail Square ****

Just steps from world-class skiing in the heart of Lionshead Village, The Arrabelle at Vail Square is a sumptuous ultra-luxury hotel capturing the romance of Vail’s alpine legacy. It features a delightful plaza at the heart of Lionshead Village with an open-air ice rink during the winter, shopping and dining. Complemented with direct access to Vail Mountain via the Eagle Bahn Gondola just steps away, The Arrabelle is convenience, appeal, and elegance wrapped in one amazing package.

The Hythe Imperial Hotel, Spa & Golf ****

Located in the heart of Vail, CO, The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, captures the fun and energy of the mountains. Inspired by Swiss traditions and local touches, the resort offers a warm and welcoming experience. You’ll be close to the Eagle Bahn Gondola, Lionshead Village, and the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens—perfect for exploring the area. After a day of adventure, relax in spacious, comfortable rooms designed for rest and peace.

The Lodge at Vail ****

Last but not least, the legendary resort The Lodge at Vail combines the old-world appeal of an alpine resort with the superb amenities, impeccable service and overall sophistication found in some of the world’s most exclusive hotels. Not only will guests benefit from high-end accommodations, but the location is simply unbeatable if you want to enjoy the Vail ski resort to the fullest.

It was Vail’s first hotel, and today remains an iconic destination for frequent and new visitors to the ski resort. Its blend of classic ambience with modern, alpine-inspired resort amenities is a hit with tourists.

Skiing in Vail: the resort’s main strengths

• Eco-responsible resort: many initiatives are carried out to protect the environment.
• A wide range of family-friendly services, activities and restaurants.
• Accommodation located close to the ski slopes.
• Beginner slopes accessible from the lower part of the resort.
• Access and lessons adapted for people with reduced mobility.
• Ski and snowboard school with experienced professionals.
• Bus lines that run within the resort to avoid using your own vehicle.
• Ideal resort for freestyle enthusiasts, thanks to its snowpark, half-pipe and dedicated learning area.
• Spectacular freestyle circuits off the marked runs, recommended when accompanied by a professional.