Vail Winter Activities
Vail, Colorado is a winter wonderland, receiving more average snowfall than most North American ski destinations at about 350 inches per year and enjoying 300 days per year of warm, Colorado sunshine. All winter long locals and visitors can take part in Vail’s endless recreation from alpine skiing to snowboarding, sleigh rides to dog sledding, snowmobiling to snowshoeing.
Please note: Due to COVID-19, not all activities may be available.
Vail Voted #1 Ski Resort in North America
Vail is one of the world’s top ski resorts, known for the legendary Back Bowls, diverse terrain, parks and also for other winter activities like cross-country skiing, tubing and ski-biking. Revered as the ultimate family resort, Vail Village bustles with world-class events, year-round ice skating, bowling, movie theaters, gourmet dining, boutique shopping and so much more.
Additionally, guests staying in Vail can easily visit neighboring ski resorts Beaver Creek, Copper Mountain and Breckenridge – although – why would you want to leave Vail?
Vail Dining
Vail Skiing
Family-Friendly Activities
Ice Skating
Adventure Ridge
Connect with the Concierge to book your Vail activities
Adventure Ridge in Vail
Mountain Top Fun in Vail, Colorado
Take the Eagle Bahn Gondola to Adventure Ridge on top of Vail Mountain in Lionshead. Choose from 5 dining options and many great activities for the kids including: guided snowmobile tours, snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoe tours and rentals, and snow biking. Winter snowmobiling and ski biking are required to have reservations before 5 PM. The gondola is also free after 3:30 PM. Great fun activities and events for the whole family.
Please call Vail’s information line at (970)476-9090
Skiing and Snowboarding in Vail
Vail’s tagline, “Like No Place on Earth” really says it perfectly. With 5,289 acres of skiing, Vail Mountain is the largest single ski mountain in North America.
Enjoy the seven legendary back bowls full of soft power that span 6 miles, the natural terrain that mimics a backcountry skiing experience in Blue Sky Basin and the 127 runs on front side of Vail Mountain of both groomers and moguls.
There is truly something for everyone when it comes to skiing Vail. Make sure to visit our Vail page to view stats, terrain information, and helpful maps.
VAIL LIFT TICKET INFORMATION
Save your valuable vacation time by purchasing your ski passes online before you even leave home. You can avoid paying ticket window prices for lift tickets by going to vail.com and buying your passes at least 7 days prior to your departure for Colorado (14 days for international guests). The passes will be sent to you so that you can go directly to the lift on your first day of skiing. Your lift tickets are valid at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin – all within a 40-mile radius. And remember kids 4 and under ski for free!
Available tickets include:
Epic Passes
Vail half-day lift tickets
Scenic walking Eagle Bahn Gondola Tickets
Scenic walking Gondola One Gondola Tickets
For information and questions about the PEAKS Loyalty Reward Program, please call 800-226-0355.
Vail Ticket Offices:
-Lionshead Village Main Ticket & Pass Office, at the base in Lionshead Village, east of the Eagle-Bahn Gondola, under Garfinkel’s
-Golden Peak Ticket & Pass Office, located directly at the bottom of Chair 6 in Golden Peak Village
-Vail Village Ticket & Pass Office at the base of the mountain, just west of Gondola One Still have questions? Call a ski pass expert at 800-842-8062.
SKI AND SNOWBOARD SCHOOL
Whether you’re an expert skier or rider, or you’ve never seen snow before, Vail has a skiing or snowboarding program that will challenge you. Choose from half-day, full-day or multi-day; private or group lesson programs.
Vail Children’s Ski & Snowboard School
Vail Children’s Ski and Snowboard School instructors have the patience and personality to get kids on the slopes and keep them smiling. All of Vail’s programs are divided by age and ability level to ensure an incredible learning experience on the snow. Give children a solid foundation for a lifelong love of skiing and snowboarding at Vail’s Kids’ Ski School.
Lessons are available for kids between 3 – 15 years old. Choose from traditional group lessons for kids 3 – 12, the Ultimate 4 semi-private group lessons, Learn.Turn.Ride for those who have always wanted a “slam-free” snowboarding experience, Ski Girls Rock! designed specifically for girls ages 7-15 (available during specific holiday periods) or Teen Lessons for 13-15-year-olds. Packages including lift ticket will give you the best value. Helmets are required for all children participating in Vail Ski & Snowboard School. Rental helmets are available from all ski equipment rental companies as well as at Children’s Ski & Snowboard School locations.
For more information or reservations go to vail.com or call 970.496.4800.
Vail Adult Ski & Snowboard School
It’s never too late to learn a new sport or sharpen the skills you already have. Group lessons are available for all levels of adult skiers and snowboarders. Full day lessons run from 9.45am-3.30pm. One-day or three-day packages are available. If you’ve never skied or snowboarded before, sign up for the three-day First Time Series. Beginner lessons and lift tickets are bundled together for one great rate.
Half day Max 3 semi-private lessons and beginner snowboard lessons are also an option from 12:45 – 3:45pm for Alpine Levels 5-9; these may be booked at the Adult Ski & Snowboard School Office in the village or by calling (970) 754-8245.
VAIL SKI SCHOOL LOCATIONS
Golden Peak Ski School: located at the base of Golden Peak
Vail Village Ski School: located just west of Gondola One
Lionshead Ski School: located next to the Eagle Bahn Gondola ticket office
Cross Country and Snow Shoeing in Vail
Vail Nordic Center is located in East Vail at the Vail Golf course. Along with views of the Gore Range, there are 27 km of groomed trails for skate and classic Vail cross country skiing and more trails for snowshoeing.
The daily trail fee is $5 and discounted multi day passes are available. At this full service nordic center, there is a restaurant, retail shop, equipment rentals, lessons, and guided tours are even available. Open mid-November through the end of March, depending on snow conditions. Please call for special events and information, 970-476-8366
Another Nordic Center is located at Vail’s Golden Peak. The Vail Cross-Country Ski School‘s instructors specialize in cross-country skiing, telemark skiing, snowshoeing and skate skiing. Full day and private instruction is available. Beginners can be introduced to the sport on groomed terrain with a lesson at the Nordic Sports Center. Cross-country skiers enjoy 32 kilometers of groomed trails with spectacular views. Experience the peace and quiet of the backcountry and get some great exercise.
LESSONS AND TOURS
Group and private lessons and tours are available at the Vail and Beaver Creek Nordic Centers. Full and half day programs are available. Telemark clinics are also regularly scheduled throughout the winter. The Vail Nordic Center in East Vail also offers classic and skate ski lessons as well as waxing clinics and women-only programs. Please call to arrange a lesson.
Equipment Rental
Rental equipment is available at the Beaver Creek Nordic Center, located near the base of the Strawberry Park chairlift and the Beaver Creek Medical Center. Vail Nordic Center also rents a full array of skis, boots and snowshoes. There are various types of skis, each designed for a different style of skiing. In addition, cross-country skis have either waxable or waxless bases. Check out the details below to find out what’s right for you.
Types of Nordic Skis
Track skis are designed for use at “Nordic Centers” where tracks are set in the snow. They are light, flexible, skinny, have no metal edges, and are usually waxless although waxable versions (racing skis) can be found. These skis are used in classic diagonal racing and for light touring.
Skating skis are designed for the skating technique, similar to on-snow ice skating or on-line skating. These skis only use glide wax, not grip wax, and are never waxless. The skating technique allows racers to go must faster under most conditions. Skis are shorter and stiffer than track models with rounder tips.
Waxless cross country skis have a “scaled” bottom so that they can slide forward and resist backward motion. These skis are a good choice for first-timers as they allow for concentration on one’s technique. They are not as good for going up steep hills or for unpacked powder snow.
Waxable skis require waxing. With proper wax, waxable skis are faster than waxless on flat ground, and can be used to climb steep hills much more easily.
VAIL SNOWSHOEING
The Vail Nordic Sports Center offers snowshoeing for all abilities. A guide will teach you about the area history, wildlife, and natural environment. Or, experience a moonlit snowshoe tour at night and enjoy the serenity of the Vail mountain under clear starry skies. Vail snowsheing is a favorite winter activity here.
Daily Group Tours & Lessons
For more information visit the Vail Nordic Snowsports School at Golden Peak, call 970-754-3200, or for Moonlight Tours please contact your Vail Mountain Lodging Concierge.
Tubing in Vail
Vail Mountain Tubing
Head to the top of Vail Mountain to Adventure Ridge and enjoy the rush of adrenaline as you are whisked downhill. No more trudging uphill after a ride down – an easy access surface lift will bring you back to the top! Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult and all tubers must be at least 36 inches tall.
Meadow Mountain
The tubing hill is located just off I-70 between Vail and Beaver Creek. Groomed runs are wide enough for the whole family to sled down together! Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks when you need a break. 970-827-4155
Shopping in Vail, CO
Vail, Colorado is known for having a wide variety of shops including classic Colorado wear, fine furs, rare jewelry, and top of the line ski wear. Though Vail has some of the most unique and trendy boutiques, you can also find great souvenir and ski shops that won’t break the bank. Just make sure to try some of our famous Colorado fudge!
A Secret Garden
Enjoy a wide variety of floral and garden options in this gift shop located in the heart of Vail Village. Find a fantastic assortment of flowers for the perfect garden bouquet. 970-476-2241
Alaska Fur Gallery
Located on the main crossroads of Vail, this amazing fur gallery showcases a wide collection of furs, shearlings, specialty outerwear, men’s and women’s leathers, and speciality accessories such as slippers, hats, gloves, mukluks, proclaine eskimo dolls. 970-476-6260
Alaskan Shop
Since 1979, The Alaskan Shop has specialized Native Canadian soapstone art, wildlife lithographs, Inuit carvings of walrus ivory, and Native American totem poles. Vail Village, 970-476-3750
Alpine Eyewear
Eyewear for every occassion from fashion to sport and prescription. Vail Village. 970-476-
Alpine Wine and Spirits
A wide selection of beer, wine, and liquor. West Vail, 970-476-8116
Annie’s
A high-end gift shop, go to Annie’s “for the prettiest gifts in town”! Specializing in tabletop, home accessories, gifts, cards, and bath and body. Vail Village next to Vail Boot and Shoe, 970-476-4197
Axel’s
Axel’s is a one-stop-shop for fine European and western goods including an extensive collection of cashmere, leather and shearlings, footwear, finely hand-crafted footwear, belt buckles, and other accessories. Located next to the children’s fountain in Vail Village. 970-476-7625
Back and Pack
Located by the Solaris, this shop features the largest selection of outdoor clothing, equipment, footwear, and accessories. Find name brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, Ugg, Mountain Hardwear and Arc’Teryx. 970-476-7625
The Balance Wheel
A gallery featuring a large and exquisite collection of fine watches, this shop also offers repair services. Vail Village, 970-479-1047
Bario in Vail
Vail Village, 970-476-4699
Boot Lab
Vail’s original custom boot fitter, the Boot Lab has over 30 years of combines skiing and boot fitting experience. Make your Vail ski vacation the best ever with help from Dave and the amazing team at the Boot Lab. Lionshead, 970-476-5009
Breeze Ski Rentals
Located in Vail Village, this ski shop has everything you ski for all your ski and snowboard gear rental needs. 970-476-8920
Burton
One of the foremost names in snowboarding, the Burton shop sells more snowboards than any other company out there. Let their experienced team set you up with a demo or rental, or find a wide selection of hardwear, outerwear, casual wear, and accessories. Located in Lionshead. 970-477-5741
Buzz’s Board
This locally owned and operated ski and snowboard shop has been around for a while and can help set you up with the perfect ski or snowboard gear. Vail Village. 970-476-3320
Cashmere Vail
Find the finest selection of cashmere clothing and accessories. Vail Village. 970-476-7711
Charlie’s
This famous t-shirt shop has been screenprinting, embroidering and creating memories of Vail for countless years. With one of the widest selections of Vail t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, vest, accessories and collectibles, Charlie’s is the perfect place to pick up your Vail souvenir. Vail Village. 970-476-9737
Charm School Boutique
Featuring a wide variety of designer clothing and accessories. Located in Vail Village by Checkpoint Charlie. 970-476-0050
Charter Sports
This large store features rentals, sales, and repair services for skiers and riders. Lionshead Village. 970-476-8813
Christy Sports
The largest ski store in Colorado, Christy’s can help you with rentals, repairs, and sales of ski and snowboard equipment and clothing. Vail Village. 970-476-2244
City Market
A full-service grocery store with pharmacy, florist, and bakery. Located in West Vail. 970-476-1017
CLAGETT REY GALLERY
A collection of original paintings and sculptures by American artists, which vary from Western wildlife scenes to classical European style art. Vail Village. 970-476-9350
Cogswell Gallery
A variety of fine art, sculpture, jewelry, and photography. This gallery also has a collection of antique and contemporary Native American work and Indigenous art. Vail Village. 970-476-1769
Colorado Footwear
A family-owned company specializing in fashionable footwear, Colorado Footwear is known for their assortment of brands, selection, and quality. Vail Village. 970-476-3130
Cordillera Vail Golf Shop
Meet Cordillera’s PGA Pros and get your swing into shape using their full swing hitting bay. Apparel for both men and women, this is the first shop of its kind world-class golf and shopping experience! Located near the popcorn stand in Vail Village. 970-790-4653
Cos Bar
A boutique specializing in makeup and skincare for over 25 years. Vail Village. 970-476-7734
Covered Bridge Store
Souvenirs, greeting cards, stationary, resort wear, and much more! Vail Village. 970-476-1312
Currents Fine Jewelers
Since 1977, Currents has specialized in unique and original designs in fine jewelry. Vail Village. 970-476-3322
d’carlo of vail
Vail Village. 970-476-5183
DeMott Gallery
A wide selection of landscape, wildlife, still life and figurative works by some of the country’s most renowned artists. Vail Village. 970-476-8948
Designer Furs
Let the friendly, knowledgeable staff of Vail’s largest and oldest fur shop find the perfect fur for you! Vail Village. 970-476-5183
Due
Luca Bruno’s second store, Due, offers a high-end, fine Italian clothing experience. Vail Village. 970-476-1667
Englishman Fine Art and Antiques
Vail Village. 970-476-3570
Eye Pieces of Vail
Exclusive prescription eyewear, as well as an extensive supply of fine goggles, sunglasses, and eyewear accessories. Vail Village. 970-476-1947
Fantasia Furs
Top quality furs from New York and Canada at great prices! Vail Village. 970-476-5099
Finishing Touch
The Finishing Touch, a home decorating store in Vail, Colorado focuses on delivering innovative casual homeware for clients who are interested in a fun and daring regional look. Vail Village. 970-476-3538
Gateway Gallery
Only the finest painting, graphics and sculpture are showcased here. Gateway Gallery is a favorite destination for collectors of contemporary and traditional art alike. Vail Village. 970-477-1112
Golden Bear
An exceptional gallery of fine jewelry, the store is most well-known for the original handcrafted Golden Bear design. Vail Village. 970-476-4082
Gore Creek Fly Fisherman
Voted #1 Fly Fishing Shop for 2009 by the Vail Daily “Best Of” Awards! With over 25 years since its opening, Gore Creek Fly Fisherman is the oldest fly shop and guide service in the Valley. Vail Village. 970-476-3296
Gore Creek Gallery
This gallery specializes in Plata and Harmony Scott Jewelry collections, original fine arts featuring local and national artists, and rare books, maps, and prints. Vail Village. 970-477-4621
Gorsuch Ltd.
Specializing in high-end ski apparel, Gorsuch also offers fine clothing for men, women, and children to enjoy the mountain lifestyle year-round. Vail Village. 970.476.2294
Hot House Flowers
This award-winning staff will work with you to make your perfect floral arrangement! Personalized delivery within the Vail Valley is provided as well. Vail Village. 970-476-1468
Hughes Precious Metals
This boutique showcases original and designer jewelry. It also offers a full-service design studio and goldsmith services to meet your every need! Vail Village. 970-476-4234
J. Cotter Gallery
Since 1970, J. Cotter Gallery has operated under the theory that jewelry should be considered a form of art. Featuring contemporary jewelry and art by United States and European artists, this gallery seeks jewelry with a distinct and mature presence. Vail Village. 970-476-3131
Karats of Vail
Visit Karats to experience timeless pieces made with extraordinary vision and creativity in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Vail Village. 970-476-4760
Kemosabe
A one-of-a-kind “cowboy store” that seems to sell to everyone BUT the real workin’ cowboy! Reserve a beer online to have a cold one waiting for you upon arrival, and take time to browse through the top-of-the-line selection of boots, belts, buckles, and more. Stop by and bring out the cowboy in you! Vail Village. 970-479-7474
Laughing Monkey
This fun boutique offers gifts and clothing for women, as well as a unique and interesting line of jewelry and accessories. Vail Village. 970.476.8809
Loro Piana
The largest single buyer of fine wool, and also offering fine cashmere products. With over 20 years of experience, Loro Piana has a deep understanding of the lifestyle and needs of sophisticated clientele. Shop Lora Piana’s collections for men, women, children, accessories, leathergoods, and gifts. Vail Village. 970-479-2383
Luca Bruno
Imported Italian clothing and high-end designer wear for men and women. Vail Village. 970-479-0050
Manrico Cashmere
Revolutionizing cashmere, Manrico Cashmere offers the fabric in all kinds of forms. From bedsheets to sportswear, Manrico invites you to come see the possibilities! Vail Village. 970-479-9944
Master’s Gallery
Voted the Vail Daily’s Best of the Vail Valley for 3 years in a row, Master’s Gallery features fine art from sculpture to paint. Showcasing artists such as Janis Joplin, Alvar, and Maya Eventov makes this gallery a must-see! Vail Village. 970-477-0600
Maui Traders
Souvenirs, t-shirts, and gifts. Vail Village. 970-476-9115
Moose’s Caboose
Gifts, keepsakes, and souvenirs. Vail Village. 970-476-5403
Mountain Dog
From services to unique breed specific items you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for your favorite furry friend! Vail Village. 970-479-8488
The North Face
The North Face specializes in apparel for outdoor activities, from camping to skiing to hiking. Find the most complete supply of North Face gear at the Vail Village location. 970-477-5742
Off Piste Sports
This small, locally-owned ski boutique carries a quality selection of hardgoods and softgoods. Besides the typical demo skis and equipment, Off Piste Sports also offers a unique selection of fine sports and casual wear to keep you mountain ready year-round! Vail Village. 970-476-3350
Pepi Sports
Experience three floors of world-class shopping! Known for its selection of skiwear and equipment, Pepi Sports also offers home furnishings, a ladies’ boutique with fashion and jewelry, and much more.
Performance Sports
A traditional ski shop that is always on the search for the latest technologies in ski equipment and apparel. Hand detailed repair work, a knowledgeable staff, and a cozy mountain atmosphere have made Performance Sports a leader in the Vail Valley since 1979. Lionshead Village. 970-476-1718
Pismo Contemporary Art Glass
An extensive collection of fine glass, beads, jewelry, paintings, and more! Vail Village. 970-476-2400
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
An international franchise which provides a variety of chocolates, candies, and confectionery products. Vail Village. 970-476-7623
Roxy
A women’s lifestyle brand which offers swim, surf, and snow apparel as well as footwear and accessories. Vail Village. 970-476-7774
Sabbia talenti
970-476-4505
Safeway
A full-service grocery store with a butcher, bakery, and florist. West Vail. 970-476-3561
Squash Blossom
Specializing in high karat gold and gemstones, the Squash Blossom is most well-known for its collection of Color Craft Storywheels and fine jewelry from all over the world. Vail Village. 970-476-3129
Shirt Off My Back
Gifts and souvenirs to remember your perfect Colorado vacation! 1-800-875-4352
Surefoot
The world’s biggest ski boot specialty store, Surefoot uses state-of-the-art technology to provide the best-fitting and highest performing ski boots available. Most agree the Surefoot ski boot is the most comfortable available! Vail Village. 970-476-8890
Tommy Bowers Ski Shop
Vail Village. 476-7566
Toy Store
A children’s favorite! Specializing in toys and candy. Vail Village. 970-476-4731
Vail Boot and Shoe
For over two decades, Vail Boot and Shoe remains a locals’ favorite! With two locations in the Valley, find shoewear for men, women, and children. Carrying fashion footwear and accessories, European comfort shoes, and apres ski boots, look no further to find “Vail’s finest footwear for the family”! Vail Village. 970-476-0484
Vail Fine Art Gallery
The knowledgeable staff will take care of you! This gallery specializes in American and international impressionist artists. Vail Village. 970-476-2900
Vail Mountain Adventure Center
Ski and snowboard retail and rentals in the winter, and bike rentals in the summer. Vail Village. 970-476-3332
Vail Sports
Look no further for summer mountain bike and winter ski and snowboard rentals! Vail Village. 970-479-0600
Vail Village Arts
Specializing in “Art that Gets Noticed”. Featuring painters works in bronze, stone, and stainless steel, mixed media, sculpture, and fiber art. Vail Village. 970-476-2070
Valleygirl
Fun, affordable fashion for women! Look mountain chic year round. Vail Village. 970-476-7555
Verbatim Booksellers
Every community needs its daily gathering spots; what makes these places great is a warm and conforting environment where customers are consistently served with passion and attention to detail. Vail Village. 970-476-3670
Vista Bahn Ski Rentals
This ski shop highly values customer service, high-quality ski equipment, and is able to quickly and efficiently make minor repairs or tune skis right on the spot! With a key location next to the Vista Bahn lift and the Vail Ski School, you can ski right to their door. Vail Village. 970-476-2566
Wild Bill’s
Souvenirs, gifts, and more! Vail Village. 970-476-5738
Wilderness Wonders by Tony Newlin
Fine-art wildlife and nature photography. 970-845-7230
Arts and Entertainment in Vail
Vail is consistently recognized as one of North America’s most exciting and vibrant ski towns, not only for its amazing terrain, but because of the diverse arts and entertainment options. There is something for everyone including a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants in addition to the amazing cultural opportunities and events all year round.
Hot Nightlife in Vail
Vendetta’s – Featuring pizza by the slice, this is the hang out for Vail’s ski patrollers. Located in Vail Village on Bridge Street.
The Bully Ranch – A local’s favorite! Be sure try a “mud-slide” drink and enjoy the true Colorado Western cuisine and barbecue. Located in the Sonnenalp Resort in Vail Village.
The Red Lion– Live music and a great deck make this a perfect apres ski venue. Get there early to claim a prized spot on the front deck. Located in Vail Village on Bridge Street.
Pepi’s – The apres-ski place to listen to live music for a more refined crowd. Located in Vail Village on Bridge Street
Garfinkel’s– Offers a large deck for apres-ski and nightly specials. Located in LionsHead near Eagle Bahn Gondola.
Los Amigos – With one of the best decks in Vail Village, this Mexican restaurant features great margaritas and the perfect viewing area for watching skiers come down Vail’s famous Pepi’s Face.
Dancing in Vail
The Club – A late night hot spot with a stage, live music, and great drink specials
Whiskey Jack’s – A favorite late-night dancing spot, famous for the pole that attracts a wide variety of amateur dancers
Vail Sports Bars-The Altitude Billiards and Sports Lounge – Vail’s largest sports bar with big screen TVs, billiards and video games. Located in the Evergreen Lodge
The George – Located right before the covered bridge in Vail, this downstairs bar offers numerous pool tables as well as a oversized leather chairs and a food menu
Dog Sledding
Break away from the crowds and travel through untouched meadows and forests of Aspen and Pine. Fun for all ages, view wildlife in its natural element and take in the breathtaking Colorado landscape. Witnessing sled dogs in their true element is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a snowy journey through time with a dog sled tour in the mountains of Colorado. Experience transportation dating as far back as the tenth century, and learn about the dogs and surrounding areas from your experienced dogsled guide. Cozy wool blankets are provided but dress warmly. You may even want to bring your goggles in case of inclement weather.
Dog sledding books up far in advance due to its limited availability. Morning and afternoon adventures are available for booking. Transportation, snack and hot beverage are included.
Contact your East West Hospitality Concierge to learn more and to make reservations for this unique Vail adventure.