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Vail, CO, USA
 
  
  • Bow to the powder
  • Snowboader's heaven
  • Blue Sky Basin
  • Fast water
  • From above
  • Gore Creek
  • Rubber duck race down Gore Creek
  • Sunset over Vail Valley
  • Vail town
  • Back bowls
  • Beaver Creek Summit
  • Nothing but blue skies...
  • Big yawn
  • Don't tip!
  • Oh, Tannenbaum
  • Vail Road

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Vail Travel Guide: Reviews, photos, & videos

Contenders around it may change, but Vail is consistently ranked at the top of the country’s most popular ski resorts. SKI Magazine has ranked Vail the best resort 14 times since the magazine began its yearly survey 20 years ago. And there’s a very good reason this Tyrolean-style village enjoys such popularity. Along with Aspen, Vail is the winter playground for the wealthy, and in pedestrian-only Vail Village high-end restaurants and trendy shops vie for the attention of well-dressed customers.

But there wouldn’t be much ground for the top ranking if the skiing didn’t match the sophisticated après-ski and après-après-ski. With 193 trails and nearly 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, Vail is so huge it’s almost overwhelming. Take the lift up to the 11,000-foot peak, and ski from lift to lift, never needing to venture to the more crowded lifts at the base. Swish down the three-mile-long Riva trail on soft powder snow, or face the legendary back bowls.

  • Colorado, Family-friendly, Hiking, Luxury, Mountain, Night-life, Relaxing, Rustic, Shopping, Snow, Snowboarding, Snowskiing, Wildlife, Worldclassrestaurants
  • 91%

 
 
link39.6437675734-106.380615234413Vail, CO, USA
link39.6414377958-106.3695430756Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
link39.642012-106.378218Ski in Vail
link39.6390748914-106.3745212555Vail Film Festival
link39.6447295-106.3820484Colorado Ski Museum
link39.6399341387-106.3771820068Vail Village
link39.6437675734-106.380615234413Vail, CO, USA
 
 
 
 

   

 Directions 

Distance from closest metropolitan area: 100 miles (from Denver, CO)  
 
Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 40 minutes (from Denver, CO)  
 
Take Interstate 70 West. Once in the Vail area, take the Main Vail Exit (176).

 

   

 Weather 

  • Current conditions

    Cond007

    Sunny. Highs 45 to 55.
    Hi: 51° F, Low: 25° F.

  • Tomorrow's forecast

    Cond007
    Sunny. Highs 45 to 55.
    Hi: 55° F, Low: 28° F.


    • Weatherbug's weather page.
 

   

 Attractions 

Add Attraction
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
 
  
  • Columbines
  • Lupine
  • Bluebonnets
  • Columbine species

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

I know what a garden is, but I’d never heard of an alpine garden. That is until I journeyed 8,250 feet above sea level in Gerald R. Ford Park and gazed upon the majesty of The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. The highest botanical garden in the United States (and maybe in the world), TBFAG has provided free access to over 100,000 annual visitors since 1988 and features over 3,000 species of high-altitude plant. Nestled comfortably in the shadow of Colorado’s Gore Range, TBFAG is comprised of four distinct sections: Mountain Perennial Garden, Mountain Meditation Garden, the Children’s Garden, and the Alpine Rock Garden which features a stunning 120-foot waterfall. Named in honor of former first lady Betty Ford for her numerous contributions to Vail Valley, the TBFAG also has an incredibly experienced staff whose knowledge and skill contribute daily to the mission statement of the garden: “To inspire a passion for plants in high altitude communities through beautification, conservation, education and research programs.” OK – now I know what an Alpine Garden is! NOTE: The Gardens are open to the public daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

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Ski in Vail
 
  

Ski in Vail

What's the biggest complaint most people have about skiing or snowboarding? It's too crowded! Be honest, there's nothing worse than having to constantly avoid throngs of people when all you want is the freedom to zoom down the mountain at your desired speed. Well, if you went to Vail Mountain, you could have that freedom! With over 5,289 acres of free ride terrain and trails on average of seven miles wide, finding fresh powder to carve on Vail Mountain is simple. So simple that on any average day there are only two skiers per acre! Divided into the three sections (Front-Side, Blue Sky Basin and the Back Bowls) Vail Mountain is the second largest resort in North America and is perfect for the advanced "I ski double black diamonds in my sleep" types or the just beginning "I can't even get on a lift without falling" category. With 193 runs, 34 lift systems and two terrain parks the only complaint you should have while skiing Vail Mountain is "why do I have to leave?"

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Vail Film Festival
 
  

Vail Film Festival

Unlike another film festival located in a small ski town, cough, Sundance, cough, the Vail Film Festival manages to feature just enough ground breaking new cinema and high profile celebrities to not become overwhelming. Held annually in late March or early April, The Vail Film Festival welcomes over 14,000 attendees and 300 film makers (and countless wannabe film makers of course) in a four day cinematic celebration that isn't just about attending the right industry parties or seeing Paris Hilton buy her lap dog ten dollar mineral water. Vail Film Festival is more about discovering quality movies amidst a clutter of brainless blockbusters that Hollywood expects us to swallow year after year. Voted by MovieMaker magazine as one of the top ten best destination film festivals in 2007, VFF has in the past screened premiered such indie gems as Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy's real-time romance Before Sunset and David Duchovny's directorial debut House of D. So pack your bags and head down to that quaint, little ski town – not that one – the one where cinema comes first, not celebrity.

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Colorado Ski Museum
 
  

Colorado Ski Museum

When most people think of skiing and snowboarding, the thought of an amusing vacation sport or perhaps a gnarly ski bum catching some serious air usually comes to mind. The idea that skiing and snowboarding are both sports rich in history and culture doesn’t tend to come up, right? Well thankfully there’s the Colorado Ski & Snowboard Museum and Hall of Fame which “preserves and interprets the history of skiing and snowboarding; honors those individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport; and educates adults and children about Colorado’s rich skiing legacy.” Located on the third floor of the Vail Transportation Center, the Museum contains over 1,500 photographs, artifacts, pieces of equipment and articles of clothing representative of over 130 years of Colorado’s rich skiing and snowboard heritage. Check out the fascinating timeline display that’ll give you a sense of the evolution and progression of the snowboard. Or see with your own eyes, actual Olympic and World Cup memorabilia. And of course, drop some cash at the gift shop if you like what you see. But whatever you do, don’t just think of skiing and snowboarding as a simple recreational sport or something that a lazy ski bum does to avoid getting a job – visit the museum to learn just how far these sports have truly come.

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Vail Village
 
  

Vail Village

We get it Vail. You’re a big ski and snowboard town. But what else you got to offer? You know how the old saying goes: Man can not live on snow sports alone. Thankfully, there’s Vail Village – Vail’s cultural hub, and the place to find true sanctuary from the slopes. This is a place to experience the gloriously delicious dining, the hundreds of shopping hot spots and the plethora nightlife options – all based at the foot of Vail Mountain. With its pedestrian streets and quaint yet appealing Bavarian architecture, Vail Village can help provide a few relaxing beers at the end of a long, rough day at the slopes or a hopping dance club with slightly over priced Apple-tinis. For the famished family it can provide an elaborate five course meal to celebrate a successful year or a quick five minute meal/snack to celebrate your first time to get on the lift without falling. For the shopping hounds out there, search for hot bargains on the latest in name brand apparel or authentic, local ski wear. And what’s a vacation without a trip to the spa – a wasted one if you ask me! So seek muscle and mind rejuvenation at one of the numerous spas all within walking distance of the mountain. But whatever you do – make sure to occasionally take a break from the ski/snowboard action. There’s a lot more of Vail to see!

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 Reviews(Average Rating: 91% for 7 reviews) 

  • justgo
    justgoReviews: 2
    Posts: 0

    The Freshie Pow-Pow (VailSpeak for fresh snow fall)

    08/14/2008

    95%

    Vail, CO, USA

    Who doesn’t love Vail? Even those who have never been love even the thought of it. Vail is a happening little town situated in the Rocky Mountains 1.5 hours from Denver. Vail has plenty to do for anyone at anytime of the year. The winter months bring snow sports from skiing, riding, tubing, and shoeing, etc…basically any object that can go down the mountain is taken down the mountain. In the summer months there is always plenty of hiking and biking to be done. If you need instructions or a guide, fear not as there is a gear shop on every corner in Vail Village. Wander into one, problem solved. For those not looking to break any bones, Vail offers a surplus of luxury spas and plenty of shopping. But you must do as the locals do and relax on one of the many patios, have a brew, and breathe in the cool mountain air.

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  • TrickyNik127
    TrickyNik127Reviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    Come In and Play!

    07/29/2008

    100%

    Vail, CO, USA

    For many Vail means excellent skiing and boarding, but it's after the lifts close that city comes to life. Vail offers sumptuous dining-- try Lionshead Lodge for a quick bite and a yard or stop into The Red Lion to enjoy the piano “stylings” of Phil Long and a Hot Apple Pie from the Winter Warmers beverage menu-- and a club scene that calls visitors with the thumping beats of world renowned DJ’s. Vail attracts an international crowd. At night the beautiful people come out with hyper chic style that shows little regard for the temperature. The good news, for the scantily clad, is that many of the best hot spots are located on Bridge Street, which means one can bounce from Hipnotic to The Club or The Bridge with little fear of frostbite or damage to the Manolos. Be prepared to pay a cover at some spots and expect the price of drinks to match the excesses of the environment. While the party goes all night, there is a free shuttle that runs from Vail Village, the center of attractions, to East Vail, for those who plan on getting up early for the first run of the day. Those who come in and play may be better served to follow a night of fun with a replenishing spa day at The Lodge and brunch at Cucina Rustica. Viva La Mimosa!

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  • Bradster
    BradsterReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    Exquisite Vail Powder Beneath Big Blue Sky!!

    07/21/2008

    97%

    Vail, CO, USA

    Vail Mountain and Vail Village - offering the perfect blend of recreation, dining, lodging, shopping and entertainment!! For skiers and boarders alike, there are tons and tons of front-mountain runs offering plenty of super-wide terrain, mostly groomed and of varying degrees of difficulty ranging from beginner to expert. On the backside of the mountain are where advanced intermediates and experts can go to take on acres and acres of deep-powder ecstasy. Just when it seems like it couldn't get any better, beyond the first set of back-bowls sits the jackpot, officially known as Blue Sky Basin and where the experts need only venture! At numerous key spots on the mountain, typically where major runs and lifts intersect, skiers can stop and grab a bite, sip on a hot chocolate, or simply sit and take in the majestic beauty of both the mountain and surrounding landscape. And oh by the way, lifts abound on this sprawling mountain mecca with lines about as fast and smooth sailing as one could possibly dare to dream. Down below where the day begins...and, where it ultimately ends, sits a sprawling village packed with a plethora of shops, boutiques, restaurants, pubs and hotels offering a wide degree of sophistication and pricing. Whether casually inclined or looking to go high-brow, the Vail Village definitely offers it all and even more for just about any mountain enthusiast!

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    Exquisite Vail Powder Beneath Big Blue Sky!!
     
      
  • shereshe
    shereshe
    • Top member
    Reviews: 9
    Posts: 5

    What Happens at Vail When the Snow Melts?

    07/20/2008

    50%

    Vail, CO, USA

    When Colorado's winter playground melts, what happens? Believe it or not, summers in Vail are quite busy. Exchanging the skis and snowboards for mountain bikes, hiking boots and climbing harnesses, Vail offers a great taste of the outdoors for all types of enthusiasts. Playing host to mountain bike competitions and offering hikers miles of well-groomed trails, you can spend your summer days in Vail amongst the wildflowers and your nights with live music and world class dining. This summer, be sure to check out the Tuesday night summer concert series. Running until August 19th, you can enjoy a picnic and great live music. And, running every Sunday until September 7th, don't miss Vail’s Farmer's Market. This summer, whether you decide to white water raft in Gore Canyon or fly fish on the Eagle River, consider this; even the most dedicated snowboarder will find a reason to smile in Vail this summer.

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    What Happens at Vail When the Snow Melts?
     
      
  • MostlyElena
    MostlyElena
    • Top member
    Reviews: 6
    Posts: 22

    Is the phrase "winter wonderland" too cheesy? No.

    07/09/2008

    95%

    Vail, CO, USA

    Let me preface this with a shocker – I don’t ski. Why, then, did I bother to go to a town synonymous with skiing? To hang out with friends, of course! Though I didn’t hit the slopes on skis, I have one word for you: tubing. Oh my goodness. So much fun! My friends and I took the main lift all the way up to the top of the mountain, taking in the absolutely gorgeous snowy landscape around us and watching the skiers and snowboarders zip past below. Tubing is completely affordable and groups can go for an hour starting every hour and half hour. Attendants at the top of the hill are super friendly and more than willing to give you a push or even a spin, though my friend Alex preferred the “superman:” getting a running start and going belly-down with his arms out like wings. After an hour of tubing some food and a drink are definitely in order, and Vail has more than enough to choose from in that regard. Whether eating in the Blue Moon Restaurant and Bar on top of the mountain or somewhere down in town, all the food I’ve eaten there has been delicious and served up by young and friendly people eager to share their favorite activity tips and watering holes. In terms of bars, whether tourist spots or out of the way dives where the locals go (and I’ve been to both) you’re bound to meet a lot of interesting and open people willing to buy you a beer (or more often, a shot). I hope more friends come to Vail so I have an excuse to visit again!

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    Is the phrase "winter wonderland" too cheesy? No.
     
      
    • Vail!
    • Extreme Snow Tubing--Girls Gone Wild Spring Break in VailPlay
  • Maxfocus
    Maxfocus
    • Top member
    Reviews: 15
    Posts: 44

    Vail Alpine Garden is a well kept secret

    07/09/2008

    100%

    Vail, CO, USA

    Unlike most ski resorts, Vail, Colorado is traversed by the east-west Interstate Highway 70 and is easily accessible year-round. Summer offers many attractions, including golf, tennis, backpacking and whitewater rafting. Tens of thousands of motorists pass through Vail Valley along the highway everyday without stopping. Few know about a unique and special attraction within easy reach of the highway which offers the perfect restful break from that long drive or a delightful activity for residents and tourists to enjoy. From exit 176 travelers can take the south frontage road in an easterly direction for about a mile. Park next to the softball fields and follow the well marked path to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. For anyone interested in wildflowers, this is the highest botanical garden in the world – at 8,200 feet above sea level. Open from dawn to dusk, admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted. From late May through September there is a profusion of vibrant colors to enjoy here. The plants here are among the world’s most unique and beautiful high-altitude plants. The Betty Ford Alpine Garden was developed 20 years ago and has been lovingly planned and beautifully maintained. Don’t miss this gem.

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    Vail Alpine Garden is a well kept secret
     
      
    • Unique high altitude plants
    • Dwarf Columbines
    • Lupines
    • More Columbines
  • Dorothy Carlow
    Dorothy Carlow
    • Top member
    Reviews: 11
    Posts: 23

    Beaver Creek

    07/03/2008

    100%

    Vail, CO, USA

    Growing up, my father had a ski house in Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek is about 25 minutes from Vail and you can fly into the Vail/Eagle County Airport. We skied both Vail and Beaver Creek on every school vacation and also spent part of our summers hiking, biking and golfing in this mountain community. Simply stated, if I could move anywhere in the world with unlimited funds, I would move to Beaver Creek. It is majestic and I will never forget my family ski memories from so long ago. If you have a chance, lunch at Beano's Cabin---it is a hidden treasure with gourmet food and a great wine list! Beaver Creek is an outdoors community, so if you are planning a winter trip, plan to strap on your snow-shoes or rev up the snowmobile. For the summer sports enthusiast, Beaver Creek and Vail are home to some of the greatest golf courses in the country. FORE! Mountain biking and hiking are great activates for the physically fit because at the mountain altitudes catching your breath is part of the adventure!

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 Bookmarks (5) 

 



 
 

   

 Top reviewers 

  1. Dorothy Carlow
  2. MostlyElena
  3. Maxfocus
  4. shereshe
  5. Bradster
 

   

 Photos from flickr 

  • Boards
    Lori Greig
  • Snow Covered Tree B&W
    Ryan Holst
  • Snow Covered Tree
    Ryan Holst
  • Vail Village Bridge
    Ryan Holst
  • Last run...
    randomduck
  • Game Creek Panorama
    randomduck
  • Vail 10th Mountain Division Statue
    Ryan Holst
  • Vail's Game Creek Bowl Panorama
    Ryan Holst
  • The Sonnenalp Resort in Vail, Colorado today
    dionhinchcliffe
  • River Rocks
    Ryan Holst
  • DSC03938
    elliott.goodwin
  • DSC03925
    elliott.goodwin

This product uses the Flickr API but is not endorsed or certified by Flickr.

 

   

 Top bookmarkers 

  1. VacationHmQueen
  2. Maxfocus
  3. G. Kunkel
 
 
 
 
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