Vail Skiing

Downhill skiing is the very essence of the Vail Valley and the reason we are all here. Enjoy the 5,289 acres of skiable terrain in Vail, featuring seven bowls and backcountry skiing in Blue Sky Basin and lots of groomed terrain on the front side for those who like to cruise. Beaver Creek offers a unique European style, village-to-village experience for all abilities. Skiers can start in Beaver Creek and ski to Bachelor Gulch or the quaint village of Arrowhead and then ski back to Beaver Creek. Ski Cooper is located outside Leadville a short scenic drive away on Highway 24. It is Colorado's premier family ski area. Enjoy wide-open slopes and virtually no lift-lines. Take your family and experience Colorado skiing the way it should be. Long regarded as one of the finest skiing destinations in the world, the Vail Valley boasts fine terrain and exceptional amenities. If you are visiting in winter, chances are you already have skiing on your mind. Whether you are brand new to the sport or a seasoned professional, you will find terrain that is as breathtaking as it is diverse. For information on ski lessons and ski school, please refer to the Adults and Kids Ski & Snowsports School section. For information on lift tickets and access to the mountain, please refer to the Lifts, Tickets and Info section. To learn more about the specific mountain you are planning to ride, please refer to the Vail, Beaver Creek or Ski Cooper websites or customer care hotlines. Equipment rentals are available at a multitude of locations. Many take advanced reservations (by phone or online), so check it out and reserve in advance to cut down on your wait-time in the shop upon arrival. Many allow you to try out different equipment during your stay; some will let you try skiing for a few days then switch out and try your hand at snowboarding. As a general rule of thumb, you should start the day with the television on the local resort network to get as accurate and specific a weather forecast as possible. Of course, in the mountains, things can change quickly and dramatically, so always be prepared. Bringing a small backpack on the hill with you is an excellent way to ensure you are prepared for climate changes: even if it's sunny and dry when you start the day, throw goggles, a neck gator and hand warmers in the pack to ensure you're prepared. On your way to the chairlift, grab a trail map and a grooming report. These will give you details on the terrain, and help you plan your day. Every mountain offers food and beverage outlets, as well as a multitude of "after ski" options to celebrate the hard work you put in on the snow.