While Vail is renowned for its world-class skiing, there’s plenty of things to do in Vail in winter besides its powdery slopes. Winter in Vail offers a wide range of activities for everyone, from outdoor adventures to those seeking relaxation and luxury.
Whether you’re looking to explore snow trails, indulge in delicious local cuisine, enjoy scenic gondola rides, or take in the winter scenery from a hot tub with a hot cocoa in hand, Vail has plenty to offer beyond skiing.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best things to do in Vail winter, giving you a taste of the diverse experiences that make this destination a magical winter wonderland and one of the best ski towns in the United States, even if you don’t hit the slopes.
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Things to do in Vail in Winter Quick List
Below I have a listed the best things to do in Vail in winter for easy viewing. If you’d like more information on a certain activity, click on the blue links below for more details.
- Skiing/Snowboarding
- Snowmobiling
- Cross-country skiing
- Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster
- Ice skating
- Snow Shoeing
- Ski biking
- Snow Tubing
- Dine at an On-Mountain Restaurants
- Catch sunset on top of the mountain
Why Trust This Vail Winter Activities Guide?
Most people who visit Vail in the winter come for one thing and that is to hit the ski slopes and shred down the mountain, after all Vail Ski Resort is one of the top ski resorts in the USA. I mean that’s why I lived here for 2 seasons.
That’s right, I learned to snowboard in the creme de la creme of mountains. I must admit, at the time I didn’t quite grasp how awesome it was. I also bartended in Vail Village at the unofficial ski patrol bar so just know I have the inside scoop.
Things to do in Vail in Winter
Skiing or Snowboarding | The Best Vail Winter Activity
Starting off our list of the best things to do in Vail in winter is skiing or snowboarding on Vail Mountain, as it’s one of the most famous and sought-after destinations for winter sports enthusiasts.
Known for its vast terrain, Vail Mountain boasts over 5,300 skiable acres including seven expansive back bowls, offering something for every level of skier and snowboarder.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to enjoy the gentle groomed runs or an advanced rider seeking adventure in the challenging bowls and glades, Vail Mountain provides endless opportunities to explore.
Snowmobiling
If you want to explore the Colorado Rocky Mountains without a board strapped to your feet, then snowmobiling is the Vail winter activity for you. With guided tours and rentals available, snowboarding in Vail in winter is accessible to both beginners and experienced riders.
Vail’s snowmobiling tours take you through pristine backcountry landscapes, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including some of Colorado’s tallest 14,000 foot summits in the Holy Cross Wilderness and the Continental Divide.
Along the way, you’ll zoom across expansive meadows, ascend mountain trails, and wind through peaceful forests blanketed in snow. Many tours include stops at scenic outlooks where you can take in the beauty of Vail’s winter wonderland, breath in the crisp mountain air, and snap some unforgettable photos.
There are several snowmobile companies in the Vail area, from guided to self guided snowmobile tours. Here are a few companies to check out.
Cross Country Skiing
If the calorie burn is your goal, then cross country skiing is your game. Unlike downhill skiing, cross-country skiing allows you to push, pull, and glide yourself though the backcountry wilderness around Vail at your own pace, offering a quiet, low-impact alternative for those who want to connect with nature while getting a great workout.
The Vail Nordic School is one of the top spots for this thing to do in Vail winter, offering over 17 kilometers of scenic trails through rolling hills and wide-open spaces.
The Vail Nordic Center provides rentals, lessons, and guided tours, making it easy for visitors of all skill levels to enjoy the sport. The views along the trails are spectacular, with rugged peaks of the Gore Range and Vail Mountain serving as a dramatic backdrop.
Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster
If you’re looking for a Vail winter activity that doesn’t require much effort but gives you the views and rush of a mountain sport, then make sure you take a ride on the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster.
Located in Adventure Ridge on Vail Mountain, this alpine coaster winds through the forest, giving riders a fast-paced yet scenic ride down the mountain. Unlike a traditional roller coaster, the Forest Flyer follows the natural contours of the landscape, allowing you to feel connected to the surrounding environment as you glide through trees and over rocky terrain.
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or solo, the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster provides an exciting and memorable adventure that lets you enjoy the mountain from a whole new perspective. This is a great way to experience Vail for non skiers looking to add a little thrill to their Vail vacation without the need for skis or snowboards.
Ice Skating
If you want things to do in Vail in winter with kids then opt for an evening on skates. There are two small outdoor ice rinks, one in Vail Village and the other in Lionshead village. You can rent ice skates at a store next to the ice rinks.
This is a fun leisure winter activity in Vail 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.
SnowShoeing
Snowshoeing is great alternative to skiing or snowboarding for a few reasons. One, it is a great workout, you’re outside, you get to take in the view and two, compared to most winter sports this one is pretty cheap.
You can sign up for a guided snowshoe tour with an expert naturalist to learn about your surroundings or rent a pair of snowshoes and go your own way. With easy-to-learn techniques, snowshoeing is accessible for all ages and skill levels, making it a perfect activity for families, couples, or solo adventurists.
Ski Biking | A Unique Thing to do in Vail in Winter
A unique thing to do in Vail in the winter is ski biking. This Vail winter activity takes place at night and you ride down the hill on a ski bike with a headlamp attached to your helmet.
A ski bike is a bike but instead of wheels theres is a ski. This activity is for the more advanced/intermediate skier or snowboarder that is comfortable with blues and blacks. But if you’re not apresing and want an adventure when the sun goes down, opt for ski biking.
Snow Tubing Down Vail Mountain
Located in Adventure Ridge, a stadium sized snow park up the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola is the snow tubing hill. Enjoyable for all ages, riders ride inflated inner tubes down a snow packed lane with music playing.
Then there is a “magic carpet ride” to whisk you back to the top to rinse and repeat. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or just want to feel the rush of flying down the mountain, this is what to do in Vail winter for a carefree experience.
Dine at an on Mountain Restaurant
If you’re going to treat yourself to a nice dinner, I’d recommend getting the whole experience with one of the several sleigh ride dinners. You ride a sleigh up from the base of the mountain to an on-mountain restaurant, wine & dine yourself, then return down the mountain in a sleigh.
There are several on mountain restaurants to choose from 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 it’s an experience you can only have in one of the best ski towns in North America.
Catch Sunset on Top of a Mountain
Pamper Yourself at the Spa
Spending the day at the spa 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.
How to Get to Vail, Colorado
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.
Where to Stay in Vail
- Located in Vail Village is the Tivoli Lodge. Beautiful rooms with big rustic furniture and walkable to all bars, restaurants and lifts.
- Great location directly in the heart of 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.
- Located in Lionshead Village (theres a free in town shuttle that connects them) is the Arrabelle. This luxury resort in Vail 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 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.
- 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, fire pits, restaurant and bars on sight. You’ll never want to leave.
🏂 Read Full Post: Best Places to Stay in Vail, Colorado (Best Areas & Resorts)
Before you Visit Vail in the Winter
- 🧣 Dress in Layers: Vail’s winter temperatures can fluctuate, especially at higher altitudes, so dressing in layers is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer, and top it off with a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a neck gaiter or scarf to protect against the cold winds.
- 🏔️ Acclimate to the Altitude: Vail sits at 8,150 feet above sea level, and if you’re not used to the altitude, you may experience altitude sickness (fatigue, headaches, or shortness of breath). Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take it easy during your first 24 hours to allow your body to adjust.
- ⛷️ Book your Accommodations and Activities Early: Vail is a popular winter destination, especially during the holidays and peak ski season. Book your accommodations, lift tickets, ski rentals, and any other outdoor activities well in advance to ensure availability and often save some money. Many services offer early-bird discounts, and lift tickets are generally cheaper when purchased online ahead of time.
- 🎿 Consider Renting Gear Locally: Rather than hauling your pair of skis or snowboards, consider renting gear once you arrive. Vail has plenty of rental shops that offer high-quality equipment, and some even deliver directly to your accommodation.
- 🚌 Use the Free In-Town Bus: Vail provides a free shuttle service that runs between East Vail, West Vail, and Vail Village, making it easy to get around without a car. This is especially convenient if you don’t want to worry about parking or driving in snowy conditions. The free town of Vail bus is very reliable and safe.
- 🚠 Get to the Lifts Early: Vail’s slopes can get busy, particularly during peak times, so arriving early gives you a head start on the day and helps you avoid long lift lines. The mornings often have the best snow conditions as well, especially after fresh snowfall.
- 🚰 Altitude Hydration: The dry, high-altitude climate in Vail can lead to dehydration quicker than you might expect. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and combat the effects of altitude.
- 🍻 Plan for Après-Ski: Apres ski in Vail is legendary, with plenty of spots to relax and warm up after a day on the slopes. From cozy fireside lounges to lively bars with live music, make sure to set aside time to unwind and enjoy the apes-ski culture that makes Vail so special.
- 🅿️ Parking and Traffic: Parking in Vail Village and Lionshead Village can be expensive and fills up quickly during peak times. Arrive early if you plan to park in the village, or use the free bus system to avoid the hassle altogether. Vail also has overflow parking areas with shuttle services.
- 🫎 Respect the Wildlife and Environment: Vail is surrounded by beautiful nature and wildlife, so it’s important to respect the environment while visiting. Stick to marked trails, pack out any trash, and keep a safe distance from any local wildlife you may encounter.
- 🦫 Beaver Creek Ski Resort is located about 15 minutes away from Vail Mountain, therefore Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek Mountain are apart of Vail Resorts and some passes give you access to both mountains.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to do in Vail in Winter
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 go far beyond just skiing and snowboarding.
No matter how you choose to spend your time, the magic of Vail in winter will leave you with unforgettable memories and deep appreciation for this remarkable mountain destination. Happy trails, see you on the hill.
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