10 Things to do in Vail in the Winter that isn’t Skiing
Most people who visit Vail in the winter come for one thing and that is to shred down the mountain, after all it is one of the top ski resorts in the USA. I mean that’s why I lived here for 2 seasons!
If you want more on your winter vacation don’t worry there is plenty of things to do in Vail in winter besides skiing. Read on to find out about 10 unique Vail winter activities.

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Things to do in Vail in Winter Quick List
- Snowmobiling
- Cross-country skiing
- Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster
- Ice skating
- Snow shoeing
- Ski biking
- Tubing
- Dine at an on mountain restaurants
- Catch sunset on top of the mountain
How to Get to Vail
Vail is located about 2 hours West on Denver International Airport (DEN) in the mountains. The easiest and most convenient way to get to Vail is by renting a car and driving yourself. It’s a straight shot.
There is also a shuttle that you can book that departs from the Denver Airport and drops you off directly at the Vail transportation center.
Before you Visit Vail
- Read where to stay in Vail to help in planning your winter Vail vacation.
- Dress warm.

Snowmobiling

Cross Country Skiing
If the calorie burn is your goal then cross country skiing is your game. Burning over 1,000 calories an hour, you can push, pull, and glide yourself though the backcountry wilderness around Vail.
The Vail Nordic School offers beginner and intermediate classes and work under special permits to explore the area so all you have to do is show up and get ready to torch some calories.
Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster

Ice Skating
This is a fun leisure winter activity that the whole family can enjoy. If you’re looking for a bigger skating experience, the larger, indoor Dobson Ice Rink is open all year round. The Dobson Rink offers public skating, private lessons, Yeti hockey games, and sometimes even concerts.

Snow Shoeing
Snowshoeing is great for a few reasons. One, it is a great workout, you’re outside, you get to take in the view. Two, compared to most winter sports its pretty cheap. You can sign up for a guided tour with an expert naturalist to learn about your surroundings or rent a pair of snowshoes and go your own way.

Ski Biking

Tubing
Dine at an on Mountain Restaurant
There are several on mountain restaurants including Zach’s Cabin, Allies Cabin, Beanos, and Game Creek (when you make reservations with one of the restaurants they organize the sleigh). The food is nothing short of extraordinary and an its experience you can only have in a mountain town.

Catch Sunset on Top of a Mountain

Pamper Yourself at the Spa
This is one of my favorite Vail winter activities that isn’t snowboarding. An afternoon at one of the many spas always sounds inviting. There are many to choose from depending on where you are staying. Get a massage, sit in the steam room, and enjoy the hot tub with a glass of wine, after all you deserve it!
Vail Hotels
Tivoli Lodge
Located in Vail Village is the Tivoli Lodge. Beautiful rooms with big rustic furniture. I stayed here for a few nights when I first moved to Vail. It brings back a lot of memories and I enjoyed the hotel. Walkable to all bars, restaurants and lifts.
Vail Mountain Lodge and Spa
Great location directly in Vail Village. The Vail Mountain Lodge and Spa is walkable to the ski lifts and is located above the Terra Bistro which serves excellent cuisine.
Staying here also gives you access to the Vail Athletic Club which was the gym I belonged to when I lived here. I absolutely loved this gym and stayed here once and never wanted to leave.
The Arrabelle
Located in Lionshead Village (theres a free in town shuttle that connects them) is the Arrabelle. This luxury resort is a 5 minute walk from the Eagel Bahn Gondola which is the one you take up for sunset. This ski in ski out resort is worth the splurge. Not to mention it has a rooftop hot tub! Need I say more!??!
The Sebastian
The Sebastian is a 5 star resort is close to everything you need. Equipped with an outdoor heated pool and 4 hot tubs will be the perfect way to relax after you’re eventful day on the mountain.
Four Seasons Resort Vail
Is it ever a bad stay if you’re at the Four Seasons. This resort is located at the base of Vail Mountain and has all of the amenities. Heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, restaurant and bars on sight. You’ll never want to leave.
All in all if you’re looking for variety in your ski vacation there are several things to do in Vail in the winter that will keep you satisfied and spice things up. Happy trails, see you on the hill!
XX Jess
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