Experience the Best Vail Winter Activities

Winter in Vail, Colorado, is akin to heaven if you are a skier or snowboarder. With an average yearly snowfall of 350 inches, a total of 5,317 skiable acres, seven legendary back bowls, a broad front side with the most groomed terrain on the planet, and 300 days of sunshine, how could it not be? And that’s just Vail Mountain. There is so much that the Vail Valley has to offer while the snow is flying. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next vacation in the incredible winter wonderland that is Vail, Colorado!

Read on to learn more about some of our favorite things to do in Vail, Colorado, in the winter. Then, be sure to request a copy of our free Vacation Guide for even more local insight on the best that Vail has to offer. 

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11 of Our Favorite Things to Do Around Vail in Winter

Are you feeling adventurous? Then strap on your snow gear and get in the snow. Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes or hoping to try something new such as dog sledding or snowmobiling, you’re in for a one-of-a-kind experience. 

1. Skiing & Snowboarding 

Whether you’re seasoned on the slopes of Vail Mountain or new to Colorado altogether, there’s much fun to be found while skiing and snowboarding here in Vail! From all levels of groomed runs on the front side of Vail Mountain to the legendary Back Bowls, Vail truly is like nothing on earth. We’re happy to point you in the direction of the best place to rent or purchase your gear - Performance Sports in Lionshead - and offer local insight on how to layer and gear up for a day on the slopes. 

2. Snowmobile Tours 

Get your thrills by booking an unforgettable snowmobile tour! If you’re new to snowmobiling, we recommend the Nova Guides’ Tigiwon tour. More experienced adventurers might opt for Vail Backcountry Tours, Nova Guides’ Top of the Rockies Tour, or Nova Guides’ High-Performance Tour! Our staff has experienced virtually every tour the local companies have to offer, so feel free to ask us for recommendations. 

3. Dog Sledding Excursions 

To feel fully immersed in nature, mush with experienced dogs for a truly remarkable experience. Dog sledding excursions allow you to take in the beautiful natural scenery with man’s best friends leading the way. Your go-to outfitter should be Mountain Musher. They have been providing their guests with exceptional experiences since 1989. 

4. Sleigh Ride Dinners

How does dashing through the snow and feasting on delicious food sound to you? Switch things up and book a sleigh ride dinner for a truly unique dining experience. Our staff is happy to help our guests reserve their excursions, like the sleigh ride dinners. Just contact our concierge services. 

5. Ice Climbing 

If you’re looking to test your agility, strength, and coordination, there’s no better activity than ice climbing. We recommend reaching out to the Apex Climbing School for all your ice climbing needs. They offer a wide range of courses like beginner, intermediate and mixed climbing classes. 

6. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is the perfect activity for getting your heart rate up and taking in the views all around you. There are many beautiful trails for snowshoeing in Vail. We recommend checking out the Vail Nordic Center for some of their snowshoeing tours and trails. 

7. Cross Country Skiing 

Vail Nordic School offers terrific opportunities for cross country skiing in Vail! Sign up for a variety of guided tours that will allow you to take in the stunning scenery. It’s a wonderful way to get your cardio in while having the time to slow down and take in the local scenery. 

8. Adventure Ridge 

Adventure Ridge at Eagle’s Nest is open from mid-December through early April. It’s a perfect hangout for teenagers! You'll find an exciting array of activities ranging from snow tubing and ski biking to snowshoeing and riding an alpine coaster! 

9. Ice Skating 

Ice skating is a classic winter pastime that you don’t want to miss out on when you’re visiting Vail, CO. There are three different ice skating options in Vail. These include: 

• Dobson Ice Arena | This destination offers open skating sessions for all ages and abilities, all year round. They also just opened up a new attraction: ice bumper cars! 
• Alderhof Ice Rink at The Arrabelle | For a fairy tale ice skating experience, head to this rink in Vail Square at Lionshead village. 
• Solaris Ice Rink | This outdoor skating rink is another great all-ages option for newbies and seasoned skaters alike. 

10. Fly Fishing 

Cast your line on Gore Creek or the Eagle River and see what you can reel in. Fly fishing is such a iconic western sport, especially in the winter. We recommend hiring a local guide whose expertise can take you to some of the best fishing holes in the area.