Quick Summary
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And best of all? It’s on Epic Pass.
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The Vail Experience
Vail, Colorado, offers the closest experience to a European ski adventure without the long flight across the Atlantic. Although it may appear as a small town with upscale dining and charming hotels, Vail becomes an expansive winter wonderland once you strap on your ski boots and head towards Gondola One. In just 10 minutes, you can access over 5,317 skiable acres, demonstrating that this town is more significant than it may seem.
Vail Ski Resort boasts some of the best powder conditions, attracting skiing enthusiasts from around the world. With an astounding 189 inches of average annual snowfall, the mountain’s terrain is ideally suited for intermediate and advanced skiers. Moreover, Vail’s charm lies not only in its snowy slopes but also in its European-like village atmosphere. Visitors can experience the luxurious ambience that parallels ski towns in Europe, making Vail a sought-after destination for many international travelers.
When to Go
The ski season in Vail extends from November to April. While January and February provide exceptional snow conditions, they also come with higher prices and larger crowds. For an optimal experience with fewer visitors, consider planning your trip in early or mid-March, just before the crowds begin to thin out as spring approaches.
Where to Stay
The Lodge at Vail
This premier ski-in, ski-out hotel is conveniently located just steps away from Gondola One. The in-house ski concierge offers excellent service, preparing your skis and boots each day for easy access to the slopes. The Lodge is equipped with two dining establishments, including Elway’s, known for its delectable steaks and refreshing cocktails, perfect for unwinding after an exhilarating day of skiing.
The Arrabelle at Vail Square
The Arrabelle at Vail Square is situated in the picturesque Lionshead Village, providing a luxurious experience for guests.
The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort
For ultimate relaxation, The Hythe features a sumptuous spa dedicated to post-ski recovery. Its beautifully designed rooms create a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day on the mountain.
Where to Eat
Root & Flower
Enjoy delightful dishes such as braised pork cheeks and duck fat potatoes alongside a creatively crafted cocktail menu, perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day on the slopes.
The Slope Room
For elevated comfort food, visit The Slope Room at Gravity Haus Vail, where you can enjoy tasty bloody Marys and brunch options guaranteed to satisfy.
Matsuhisa
A visit to Vail would be incomplete without indulging at Matsuhisa, where the menu crafted by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa promises a superb Japanese dining experience.
Where to Après-ski
Revel Lounge
Revel Lounge offers delightful post-ski cocktails in a vibrant setting, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
The Red Lion
As an iconic bar nestled in the heart of Vail Village, The Red Lion is famed for its “world-famous” nachos and a diverse selection of microbrews, complemented by regular live music performances.
The George
The George presents a classic ski-town dive bar experience, where you can unwind after a thrilling day on the slopes with good drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.
Skiing & Snowboarding Info
With over 195 trails and 31 chairlifts, Vail is truly a massive ski destination. Its expansive terrain offers more than 3,000 skiable acres ready to be explored.
Vail Ski Resort, part of Vail Resorts, provides seamless access with the Epic Pass. This season, Epic Pass holders can skip the hassle of mountain reservations, allowing them to simply show up and hit the lifts. Daily lift tickets are available for those without an Epic Pass, offering various options based on duration for more cost-effective skiing.
