Top 10 Things to Do in Vail

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Vail's legendary back bowls are carved from the earth with every intention of harvesting hoots of joy from thrilled skiers. Seemingly endless miles of world-class, epic terrain make Vail Mountain the epitome of classic North American skiing. Whether vast open runs, winding trees lined with powder or freestyle terrain parks, Vail has something for every skier and snowboarder. Along with all the fun on the mountain, a host of restaurants and nightlife add to the style of Colorado's most famous ski town. And when the snow melts, the slopes offer excellent cross-country and downhill mountain biking for those who can't get enough of Vail's vertical vibe.

Our Local Expert Says:

Definitely worth the time to visit, especially for those who are curious how a multi-billion dollar industry could grow in just over 50 years—don’t forget to check out the clothes and equipment used back in the day!

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The Colorado Ski Museum in Vail is a fascinating look at how skiing and snowboarding rose to prominence in Colorado's mountains. Opened in 1976, the Ski Museum showcases a wealth of history that spans over 130 years. Various displays follow the evolution of gear, from early skis to today's modern twin-tips and snowboards, while an impressive photo archive looks at the development of Vail and other ski areas in Colorado. A special exhibit looks at the impact of the 10th Mountain Division, the fabled alpine unit that fought in World War 2. Competitive skiing, from World Cup to Olympic events, is yet another aspect worth checking out while you are in Vail.

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Vail's Nordic Center, located at the Vail Golf Course, is an excellent facility that features over 11 miles of cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails. Whether you are an experienced alpine adventurer or a novice winter explorer, the friendly and knowledgeable staff will set up clients with the best equipment and trails for all experience levels. Stunning views of the Gore Range and peaceful alpine meadows are amongst the highlights of a day hiking or skiing in the hills.

Our Local Expert Says:

An incredible way to see the mountains and the dogs are amazing—they absolutely love to run! A classic “must-do” for anyone who loves outdoors adventure.

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If you're looking for a unique way to see the mountains of Vail, a thrilling ride on the back of a dogsled is the way to go! Mountain Musher features dog teams of 10-12 huskies that pull sleds with 2 passengers into remote mountain areas, far away from the noise of traffic and snowmobiles. A snack and hot drinks mid-day help recharge you for the ride home, where you can try your hand at mushing a real dog-sled team. Exploring the wilderness behind a powerful team of huskies is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that creates unforgettable memories.

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The Vail Golf Club is an impressive, 8,200 feet high golf course amid the famous Vail Recreation District in the Vail Valley. It is an 18 hole course with lush green stretching to the base of the Gore Range in absolute beauty. Vail Golf Club is a championship course that render all kinds of services including planning, organizing and running the tournament event for its guests.

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Yes, this alpine garden is named after the same Betty Ford who claims Gerald Ford as a spouse. As a part-time Vail Valley resident, she offers her name and time to this stunning garden that is remarkable for its low-key beauty. With blue spruce surrounded ponds and cascading waterfalls, it meshes wonderfully with the adjoining mountains and serves as a spectacular visual greeting to Gerald Ford Amphitheatre visitors. More than 1,000 alpine and subalpine perennials blanket its beds, creating a quilt of natural color when the wildflowers bloom in mid-July. Admission is free.

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The unique Gore Range Nature Discovery Center is located high on Vail Mountain, a short walk from the Eagle Bahn Gondola. The humble yurt that hosts nature-based exhibits is open from 10am -4pm year round and features interactive trips on the mountainside to explore the natural wonders of Vail. In the winter, snowshoe on trails while looking for birds and other wildlife; in the summer walk the hillside in search of moose, bear and other Vail locals. Local nature experts offer guided trips for nature lovers of all ages and fitness levels.