For ski and snowboarding enthusiasts, there’s no place on earth quite like Vail. Designed by nature to inspire with its soaring peaks and over 350 inches of snowfall per year, it’s an ideal place for beginners and experts alike to experience big mountain fun. Here, downhill adventurers can access more than 5,300 skiable acres, including Vail's legendary Back Bowls and the most groomed terrain on the planet. When you’re ready to make the most of winter on Vail Mountain, you’ll find the best of it all is within reach.
We’ll send you everything you need to know to plan your trip right to your inbox with our complimentary Vail Vacation Guide! It’s the ultimate resource for your trip!
Where to Ski and Snowboard in Vail
Vail offers skiers and snowboarders a refreshingly balanced range of terrain to explore for skill levels of all types.
Never-ever kids have easy access to magic carpets at both Eagle’s Nest, the base of Lionshead, and Golden Peak. Never-ever adults can also start at Eagle's Nest and chair 15. This is a great option before transitioning to the beginner (green) trails. Beginner terrain is located on the front side of the mountain and some of the most popular trails include Practice Parkway, middle Ledges and Minnie Ha Ha to Cub's Way, Meadows, Overeasy, Swingsville and Lost Boy.
Intermediate skiers and snowboarders will find that just around 30 percent of Vail is dedicated to intermediate (blue) terrain and trails. Some of the best intermediate runs include Born Free, Simba, Lodgepole, Columbine, upper Avanti, upper Pickeroon, Cappucino and Christmas.
If you’re an advanced skier, you’ll find over half of Vail is designated for expert runs. The legendary Back Bowls are a favorite, along with Blue Sky Basin. If heading to the latter allow plenty of time to get there. There are also plenty of black runs and double-black diamonds on the front side. The runs off of the Highline lift are popular, as are Prima and Pronto.
Purchasing Lift Tickets
Whether you’re heading to Vail for a day on the mountain, or you’re planning on returning to ski or snowboard throughout the season, purchasing lift tickets and passes online in advance is a must!
- Epic Day Passes are available for 1-7 days and start at $93 a day for adults ages 13+. They include Epic Mountain Rewards for additional on mountain discounts.
- Epic Season Passes start at $669 for the Epic Local Pass, which excludes holiday access and is limited to 10 days in Vail.
- The unlimited Epic Pass starts at $899 and pays for itself if you plan on skiing or riding four or more days at any of dozens of Vail Resorts properties worldwide.
- Lift Tickets are refundable if your plans change, with certain limitations.
- Don’t wait! Prices increase November 20th, and season pass sales (not day passes) end in early December.
Lift Tickets will be limited during busy periods in 2022-2023.
Gear to Bring
Having the right gear and apparel ready for your ski or snowboarding adventure in Vail ensures added fun and comfort along the way. We recommend:
- Always dressing in layers when you hit the slopes as temperatures tend to fluctuate throughout the day.
- Outdoor adventurers are also going to want to have quality ski goggles on hand as well as sunglasses, waterproof gloves, ski pants, and parkas.
- Ski and snowboard accessories that are important to pack include sunscreen, lip balm, a collapsible water bottle, a neck gaiter, and a cell phone!
- When you don’t have your own skis or snowboard, rentals are made simple at places like Performance Sports in Lionshead. Considering a more laid-back experience? Snowshoes are also available on a first-come, first-serve base - simply ask the front desk!
Après Ski Stops
After a day of fun, nothing is more refreshing than enjoying savory bites and the beverages to match. Both Red Lion in Vail Village and Garfinkel’s in Lionshead promise to be top après ski options no matter what your palate-pleasing preferences may be!
Local Tip: For even more restaurant suggestions, read our blog about the best dining in Vail!
Book Your Stay in Vail Today
When ski and snowboard fun bring you to Vail, booking accommodations through the Lodge at Lionshead is a sure way to enhance the getaway further. Recharge from your day on the slopes with standard amenities, including: outdoor hot tubs, complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks in the lobby, as well as an upgraded gym to stretch or condition. Let our concierge book a massage or recovery session with Mountain Fit. Browse our accommodations, then contact us for personalized service and help to select the perfect loft or condo for you and your needs!