Renowned for its vast terrain, Vail is the largest single-mountain ski resort in North America. With over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, including the extensive back bowls (known for their deep powder and tree glades), Vail Ski Resort offers a world-class skiing experience.

As well as the incredible skiing, Vail is known for its European-style base village, which is filled with upscale lodging options, high-end boutiques, and restaurants and bars.

The most noteworthy terrain:

Sourdough Express Area (Green) – this is a great beginner zone in Vail. The green runs (including Sourdough, Boomer, Tin Pants, and Flap Jack) offer wide and gentle slopes perfect for beginners to practice on.

China Bowl (Blue) – runs in China Bowl (particularly Poppyfields and Poppyfields West) provide an excellent introduction to bowl skiing, as they are groomed and give intermediates a taste of big, open terrain without committing to the steeps of the more challenging bowls.

Big Rock Park (Blue) – for intermediates wanting to adventure into Blue Sky Basin, this run offers soft pitches and light tree lines with a backcountry feel.

Lover’s Leap (Black) – this steep bowl-like run includes a wind lip at the top and scattered cliffs throughout it.

Rasputin’s Revenge (Black) – this run in Siberia Bowl features a complex and steep face with cliffs, couloirs, and wide-open areas.

Steep and Deep (Black) – this thigh-burning mogul and tree run is particularly excellent on a powder day.

Highline (Double Black) – this mogul run is long, steep, and challenging. You’re sure to get a good leg workout on this one.

Where to park:

The Vail Village Parking Garage offers quick access to Gondola One, with a seven minute walk to the slopes. You can also search for street parking outside the parking garage (although it’s a longer walk).

Where to eat on mountain:

Mid Vail – located at the top of Gondola One, this restaurant serves as the perfect basecamp for your skiing adventures and serves up great food.

Two Elk – located on the back side, this restaurant serves up everything from Chili to hamburgers to cookies.

Where to stay:

The Lodge at Vail – this classic Vail hotel is a five-star establishment with a grand lobby, spa, gourmet dining, and direct ski-in/ski-out access at the base of the mountain.

Grand Hyatt Vail Resort and Spa – as well as a ski concierge and cozy fireplaces perfect for apres, this hotel even has its own ski lift (Chair 20).

Events happening at Vail this winter season:

Vail Winterfest 2026 – taking place from Jan. 8, 2026 to early March 2026, this event features ice sculptures and themed activations throughout the village. The theme for 2026 is “gnomes.”

New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks – celebrate the New Year with the legendary torchlight parade down Golden Peak with fireworks after.

Kris Kringle Market – lights, garland, holiday treats, artisans, musical entertainment, and more will take over Vail from Dec. 11 – Dec. 14, 2025.

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