With world-class skiing, a variety of shops, luxury accommodations, friendly neighborhoods and breathtaking mountain views, Vail Mountian Colorado is one of the most legendary ski resorts in the world.
The town of Vail was established in 1962 after World War II veteran Pete Seibert and friends began developing plans for a ski area in the Gore Valley. They soon purchased a ranch at the base of the mountain that would become Vail and incorporated the town of Vail.
History
Vail Mountian Colorado is a world-famous ski resort that is home to 5,289 acres of terrain and offers year round entertainment. It also has a quaint town center, restaurants and accommodations.
In the mid-20th century, Vail was a pristine ranching valley. However, 20 miles south of Vail, the United States Army’s 10th Mountain Division was training for World War II at Camp Hale. This training gave the men the opportunity to ski throughout the surrounding mountains and they became avid snow sports enthusiasts.
Pete Seibert and Earl Eaton were both members of the 10th Mountain Division and when they returned to Vail after the war, they decided to build a ski resort. They discovered that the backside of Vail Mountain was ideal for skiing with its treeless, carved-up terrain into separate powder filled bowls.
They drew up plans and secured the necessary financing, and in 1962, construction began. A year later, the incorporated town of Vail was born and the first gondola in the US was built.
From then on, the area grew rapidly into one of the most popular ski resorts in the country. It was able to do this by offering gentle terrain that attracted families and more challenging, advanced slopes.
By the late 1960s, the resort had a thriving ski shop and a handful of restaurants. It had also started installing high-speed lifts, the first of which had multiple quad-seaters, which greatly reduced the number of people on the hill.
In the 1980s, Vail started becoming more of a year-round vacation destination. In addition to skiing, it began offering golf courses, mountain biking trails and sightseeing rides, making it an exciting place to visit.
Skiing
Located in the heart of Colorado, Vail Mountian is one of the most popular ski resorts in the United States. Its colossal size means that it offers plenty of opportunities for both expert and beginner skiers.
Despite its large size, Vail is still a relatively quiet and laid-back place to ski. It is also home to some of the best ski schools in the country, which is important for those bringing their kids along.
The mountain itself has three main sections – the front side, the back bowls and the Blue Sky Basin. The front side has a lot of terrain and several lifts, which are all served by the two main base areas – Vail Village to the east and Lionshead to the west.
As for the back bowls, they offer plenty of challenging terrain that isn’t crowded. They also have the Game Creek and China bowls, which are often groomed, making them perfect for beginners.
Aside from its huge amount of skiable terrain, Vail Mountian has a number of other winter activities to choose from, including snowshoeing and ice skating. In addition, it has a tubing hill that you can use to have fun during your vacation.
Another option is to take a dog sled ride. It is a great way to see the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in winter while having a fun and unique experience.
As for lodging, Vail offers a wide range of options, ranging from 4-star hotels to basic condos. It is best to stay at a resort that has a ski-in/out feature so you can quickly get to the slopes in the morning and come back to your accommodation after skiing.
Accommodations
Vail Mountian Colorado offers a wide variety of accommodations for guests. From luxury hotels, ski-in ski-out resorts to Airbnb rentals, there is something for everyone!
Chalets are also a popular option in Vail for those looking to stay on the slopes and enjoy all of the mountain activities available. Many of these chalets offer private balconies or patios to enjoy the stunning views.
A few of the chalets available in Vail are located close to the ski lifts and offer amenities such as a hot tub and sauna. Some of the more upscale ones also have an on-site restaurant or bar, which is a great way to relax after a day on the slopes.
The Sonnenalp Hotel is another option for those who want to stay near the Eagle Bahn gondola. The property has a number of amenities including on-site apres ski, a place to purchase a ski pass and ski storage.
This cozy and affordable hotel is just a short walk from the ski lifts in Vail Village and offers a heated outdoor pool and hot tub to relax in after a day on the slopes. A free shuttle is also available to get around town.
When planning your stay, make sure to book at least 90 days in advance to secure the best deal on a hotel room in Vail. You can find cheaper rooms in November and October, and they often sell out fast.
If you are visiting Vail during the winter, be sure to book a hotel that offers a free cancellation policy. Even the most well-laid plans can change, and you don’t want to be stuck with a last-minute accommodation option.
Dining
Vail Mountain is known for its incredible dining options. From upscale restaurants to casual sports bars, the town has something for every palate and budget.
Up the Creek – located in Vail Village on Bridge Street, Up the Creek is a great choice for lunch or dinner. The menu is full of hearty entrees that are sure to satisfy your appetite. The restaurant has a family-friendly atmosphere and is known for its excellent service.
Vendetta’s – situated on the same strip as Up the Creek, this cozy Italian eatery is also a go-to spot for Apres ski and features traditional Italian comfort food with generous portions at a reasonable price. This restaurant is a local’s favorite and has a fun, friendly vibe that will keep you coming back for more!
Wildwood – Located on Chair #4 and 7 – Wildwood Smokehouse is a fantastic choice for a delicious, hearty meal on the slopes. Its BBQ Platters are sure to satisfy your hunger, and they have a wide selection of sides that will make you happy.
The 10th – Sit down fine dining at this restaurant is a must-try while in Vail. Located near MidVail, The 10th is the perfect place to enjoy updated classics while overlooking the majestic Gore Range.
Alternatively, for an alpine experience, head to The Flame – located on Eagle Bahn Gondola. This elite restaurant is known for its burgers, fries, and classic raw bar dishes.
Aside from being a great place for dinner, the Slope Room – an in-house restaurant and bar at Gravity Haus – is also a fantastic option for breakfast and lunch. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and happy hour, and their food is focused on protein and fresh produce from Rocky Mountain farmers and ranchers.
Activities
Vail Mountian Colorado is a year-round ski destination that also boasts great hiking trails, an array of art galleries and events, and lively nightlife. There are plenty of things to do in Vail besides skiing, including mountain biking, rafting, ziplining, alpine coasters, and gondola rides up to the summit.
The town itself has a lot of charm and character, and the surrounding mountains are just as beautiful. If you’re able to take in the view from the top of the mountains, you’ll be blown away by the beauty of the area.
There are a number of outdoor activities in Vail, and one of the best is snowboarding. The terrain at the resort is varied and challenging, and you can find slopes for all levels of experience.
Another way to enjoy the mountains is by horseback riding. During a 1 1/2 or 2 hour ride, you’ll get to experience the rocky mountains and wildflower-strewn meadows in all their glory.
You can also go llama-ing, where you’ll get to ride a llama on a scenic trail while soaking in the beauty of the mountain. Paragon Guides offers a unique program that allows you to hike with these animals, and it’s one of the most fun things to do in Vail.
In summer, you can spend the day at Epic Discovery, an outdoorsy mountain playland atop Vail Mountain. There are numerous slides and swings to entertain your little ones, as well as a creek where you can catch a breath of fresh air and spur some pirate-themed daydreams!
Scenic gondola rides are a great activity for kids, and there are many places to eat on the mountain so you can enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the views. Children 12 and under can ride the gondola for free with the purchase of an adult ticket.