Vail in Winter: A Local’s Guide to the Best Snowy Adventures

During winter in Vail, locals know all the best spots to fully enjoy the snowy season. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, cozy après-ski experiences, or hidden gems away from the crowds, this guide has everything you need. Vail is not just a world-renowned ski destination; it’s a winter wonderland filled with activities for every taste. In this local's guide, we’ll reveal the top snowy adventures, from secret powder stashes to the best après ski spots, ensuring that your winter in Vail is truly unforgettable.

Best Vail Ski Runs

When it comes to skiing in Vail, the mountain offers a diverse array of ski runs that cater to all skill levels, ensuring unforgettable experiences on the slopes.

• Green - Swingsville: If you're just starting out or looking for a scenic, easy run, Swingsville is one of the best green trails in Vail. Located on the front side of the mountain, it’s an ideal spot for beginners to build their confidence while enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Swingsville features a gentle slope with plenty of room for wide turns, making it perfect for skiers and snowboarders who are easing into their time on the mountain.
• Blue - Lodgepole: Lodgepole is a fantastic intermediate blue run that offers a perfect balance of thrilling slopes and laid-back cruising. Winding through beautiful aspen groves, this trail provides incredible scenery while allowing intermediate skiers the opportunity to refine their technique. It's a great choice for those looking to elevate their skiing experience without stepping too far out of their comfort zone.
• Black - Blue Ox: For seasoned skiers seeking a challenge, Blue Ox is a classic black diamond run on Vail Mountain. This steep, long, and exhilarating trail will get your adrenaline pumping with its sharp drops and fast, groomed slopes. With lower skier traffic, Blue Ox often remains in great condition throughout the day, making it a local favorite for those wanting to push their limits.
• Game Creek Bowl - Ouzo: In the Game Creek Bowl area, Ouzo is a must-try for intermediate skiers looking to experience the thrill of one of Vail's legendary bowls. Ouzo offers plenty of rolling terrain and soft powder, making for an exciting ride through open terrain. The Bowl itself is a hidden gem with excellent powder stashes, and Ouzo provides one of the best ways to enjoy it.
• Back Bowl - The Slot: If you're searching for powder stashes and breathtaking vistas, The Slot in the Back Bowls is the run for you. This expert-only trail is known for its steep pitches, deep powder, and wide-open terrain. It's a bucket-list run for advanced skiers ready to tackle Vail's famed backcountry. The Slot offers thrilling descents through open spaces where fresh powder is often plentiful.

Epic Skiing & Snowboarding

Vail’s world-renowned ski slopes are a given, but here's the insider scoop on how to make the most of your time on the mountain:

• First Tracks: For a truly exclusive experience, consider booking a “First Tracks” tour. Ski the mountain before the lifts open to the public, taking advantage of pristine, untouched powder on some of Vail’s legendary runs.
• Explore Beyond the Resort: The backcountry skiing around Vail is unmatched, with areas like Blue Sky Basin offering breathtaking terrain and less-crowded slopes. Hiring a guide or taking an avalanche safety course before venturing out is highly recommended.
• Secret Stashes: Looking for hidden powder? Ask around (or get a guide) to find some of the secret, off-the-beaten-path stashes only locals know about. These spots often have deep snow and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.

Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are fantastic ways to explore Vail's stunning winter landscape. They offer a quieter, more peaceful adventure.

• Beaver Creek Nordic Center: Just a short drive from Vail, Beaver Creek’s Nordic Center offers miles of groomed cross-country trails and snowshoeing paths that wind through peaceful forests and meadows.
• McCoy Park in Beaver Creek: This park has over 32 kilometers of trails, and you can rent snowshoes at the Beaver Creek Nordic Center.
• Vail Nordic Center: Located at Vail Golf Course, this center offers 10 kilometers of trails and a gear shop.
• Wildflower Trail (Vail Golf Course): This relatively easy trail starts at the Vail Golf Course and offers panoramic views of the mountains. It’s perfect for beginners or families and is a great place to enjoy the peacefulness of nature while spotting wildlife.
• Snowshoe Tours: For something more structured, you can take a guided snowshoe tour through the backcountry. It’s a great way to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife while enjoying the winter scenery.

Best Aprés Ski in Vail

Vail and Lionshead Villages feature a variety of après-ski spots that are perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. In Lionshead, Garfinkel’s boasts a large deck with views of Vail Mountain and offers casual dining options. Bart & Yeti’s is a local favorite, known for its relaxed atmosphere and outdoor patio.

In Vail Village, you’ll find iconic venues like Vendetta’s, celebrated for its lively ambiance and delicious pizza, and The Red Lion, a staple known for hearty après-ski meals and live music. Tavern on the Square in Lionshead provides a casual setting with fantastic views, while The Remedy Bar at the Four Seasons in Vail offers a more upscale experience with year-round fire pits and stunning mountain vistas.

Other noteworthy spots include The George, Los Amigos, Pepi’s, and Vail Brewing Company, each providing a range of options to suit every après-ski mood.

Learn more about Vail & Beaver Creek Apres Ski

Snowmobiling

For a thrilling ride through the Colorado Rockies, snowmobiling is a must-do activity. It’s the perfect way to explore Vail’s backcountry and get a taste of the mountain's untouched beauty and pristine wilderness. Vail is a snowmobiling paradise with trails for every skill level.

Vail’s Snowmobiling Terrain

• Vail Pass Recreation Area: This is one of the most popular snowmobiling spots, offering over 50 miles of maintained trails with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Catering to both beginners and experienced riders, it’s perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. For a more challenging adventure, head off-trail into deeper snow for a more exhilarating ride. 
• Muddy Creek Pass: celebrated for its remote beauty, with untouched snowfields and breathtaking views of the Gore Range. Camp Hale, a historic WWII training ground, provides a unique mix of adventure and history with its expansive meadows.
• Tigiwon Road: near Gilman, this area leads riders through towering evergreens and offers panoramic views of the Eagle River Valley. 

Guided Tours

If you’re new to snowmobiling or want to learn about the area’s history and wildlife, a guided tour is a great option. There are numerous operators in the Vail area that offer guided snowmobile tours. These tours typically range from a couple of hours to full-day trips, and they often include safety equipment like helmets and warm clothing. Some tour providers will take you up the mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, while others offer off-trail experiences through snow-laden forests and alpine meadows.

Tour Options

• Scenic Tours: These tours focus on the beauty of the mountains and are great for beginners or families. You’ll ride along groomed trails with plenty of stops for photos and sightseeing.
• Adventure Tours: For experienced snowmobilers, more challenging tours offer a deeper dive into the backcountry. Expect some off-trail riding with more technical terrain, making these tours more thrilling.
• Sunset or Night Tours: Some operators offer sunset or night tours, giving riders a chance to see the mountains under the changing light conditions. There’s something magical about watching the sun dip behind the peaks as you glide across the snow. For a unique experience, book a sunset or night tour to see Vail’s landscapes in a whole new light.

Winter Wildlife Watching

While skiing or snowboarding is the obvious choice for adrenaline seekers, Vail offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Winter in the Rockies brings an abundance of wildlife sightings, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and even mountain lions (though they’re more elusive).

• Vail Nature Center: For a more guided experience, check out the Vail Nature Center. They offer educational programs, snowshoe tours, and wildlife watching excursions, perfect for those who want to connect with Vail’s winter ecology.
• Wildlife in the Backcountry: While snowmobiling or hiking through the backcountry, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to spot animals, especially in areas around Vail Pass and the Eagle's Nest Wilderness.

Best Winter Events

The Vail Film Festival (December)

The Vail Film Festival is an annual event celebrating independent filmmaking, held each spring in Vail, Colorado. The festival features a diverse selection of films, including documentaries, shorts, and feature films, with a focus on storytelling that captures the spirit of adventure, the outdoors, and mountain culture. In addition to film screenings, the festival includes panel discussions, networking events, and opportunities to meet filmmakers. It’s a vibrant celebration of creativity and cinematic art set in one of Colorado’s most scenic destinations.

Birds of Prey (December)

The Birds of Prey World Cup is a premier alpine ski racing event held annually at Beaver Creek Resort near Vail, Colorado. Renowned for its challenging, high-speed courses, the event attracts top male skiers from around the world, competing in downhill, super-G, and giant slalom races. Set against the stunning Rocky Mountains, the Birds of Prey is known for its dramatic terrain, including steep drops and technical turns, making it one of the most exciting and challenging stops on the FIS World Cup circuit. 

Fans flock to the event for the thrilling races and festive atmosphere. The event draws large crowds, creating a vibrant atmosphere with food, drinks, and entertainment. It highlights sportsmanship among athletes from various countries and is a key part of Beaver Creek's winter sports scene. Whether you’re a skiing enthusiast or a casual fan, the Birds of Prey offers thrilling action and showcases the excitement of alpine racing in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

Vail Winterfest (January-February)

Vail Winterfest is an annual winter celebration in Vail, Colorado, typically held in January and February. The event features a variety of outdoor activities, including snowshoe tours, ice sculpting competitions, family-friendly games, and après-ski festivities. A highlight of Winterfest is the stunning display of ice sculptures, where artists carve intricate designs into massive blocks of ice. With its festive atmosphere and winter activities, Vail Winterfest is a great way to embrace the season and enjoy the beauty of the snowy mountains.

Vail Yeti Hockey Games (All winter)

The Vail Yeti is a semi-professional ice hockey team in Vail, Colorado, competing in the Mountain West Hockey League (MWHL). Known for a community-focused approach, the team brings excitement to the area through engaging games at Dobson Ice Arena, which has a cozy atmosphere for fans.

The Yeti’s games feature thrilling action and talented players. It's a family-friendly experience with themed nights, promotional events, and opportunities to interact with players. Whether you're a hockey fan or looking for a winter activity, attending a Vail Yeti game is a great way to enjoy local sports culture in the beautiful Vail Valley.

Taste of Vail (April)

Taste of Vail is an annual culinary festival held in Vail, Colorado, showcasing the best of the region's food, wine, and spirits. Typically held in April, the event features tastings, cooking demonstrations, and exclusive dinners hosted by top chefs, local restaurants, and wineries. The festival features wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, and exclusive dinners, with the Grand Tasting being one of the main highlights. Educational activities like wine seminars and culinary workshops are also offered. Attendees can sample gourmet dishes and exquisite wines, making it a must-visit for food and wine lovers.

Additionally, Taste of Vail supports local artisans and businesses, promoting community and regional economic growth. Overall, it’s a delightful celebration of Vail's culinary talent that provides a unique experience for all.

Book a Vail Vacation Rental this Winter

Featured Property: Gore Circle Chalet

Vail in winter isn’t just about skiing—it’s about embracing the whole snowy wonderland, from snowshoeing through quiet forests to exploring the backcountry on a snowmobile. Whether you're an avid adventurer, a family seeking to discover Vail's winter charm for the first time, or someone looking to unwind, Vail offers experiences for every type of winter lover. With this local’s guide, you're set to make the most of everything this snowy paradise has to offer. So, bundle up, get out there, and create your own Vail winter adventure!

Maximize your experience in this breathtaking mountain destination by booking a vacation rental in Vail. Staying close to the action provides the comfort and convenience of your own private retreat, ensuring your winter getaway is truly unforgettable. Don’t wait—start planning your ultimate Vail adventure today!