Vail Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Vail is more than just a ski resort; it is a meticulously curated alpine experience that transports you straight to the heart of Europe without leaving the United States. From the moment you step onto the heated cobblestone streets of the village, surrounded by chalet-style architecture and the looming peaks of the Gore Range, you feel the unique blend of luxury and rugged wilderness. Whether you are here to carve through the legendary powder of the Back Bowls or to enjoy a symphony under the summer stars, Vail promises an escape that is both exhilarating and refined.

The town pulses with an energy that changes with the seasons but never fades. In winter, the air is thick with the excitement of skiers chasing fresh tracks, while summer brings a relaxed pace filled with wildflower hikes and patio dining by the creek. It is a place where Olympic athletes brush shoulders with families on vacation, all united by a love for the high-altitude lifestyle. Vail is not just a destination you visit; it is a lifestyle you step into, even if just for a weekend.

The Spirit of the 10th Mountain Division

Vail’s history is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division, the elite WWII Army unit trained in mountain warfare nearby at Camp Hale. After the war, many of these soldiers returned to Colorado with a vision to create a ski industry that rivaled the Alps they had seen in Europe. Pete Seibert, a 10th Mountain veteran, co-founded Vail in 1962, fulfilling a dream that turned sheep pastures into one of the world’s premier ski mountains.

Today, you can feel this heritage everywhere, from the statues in the village to the dedicated exhibits at the Colorado Snowsports Museum. The resort was built on the spirit of resilience, adventure, and a deep respect for the mountains, values that continue to define the local culture. Exploring Vail is, in many ways, walking through a living tribute to the pioneers who saw the potential in these peaks.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Vail Mountain - The crown jewel of the area, this mountain offers over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain. In summer, the gondola ($50-$60 USD for scenic rides) whisks you up to Epic Discovery for zip lines and coasters.

The Covered Bridge - The most photographed landmark in town, this wooden bridge crosses Gore Creek and serves as the symbolic gateway to Vail Village. It is located in the town center and is free to visit.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens - Located near Ford Park, roughly 0.5 miles from the village core, these are the highest botanical gardens in North America. Entry is donation-based, typically suggested at $10-$20 USD.

Gore Creek Path - A scenic paved trail that runs the length of the valley. Perfect for a morning jog or evening stroll, it connects Lionshead and Vail Village, spanning about 2 miles through beautiful aspen groves.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Vail usually involves flying into Denver International Airport (DIA) and taking a 2-hour shuttle or rental car drive up I-70. Alternatively, the smaller Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is just 30 miles west of town. Once you arrive, a car is unnecessary; the Town of Vail operates one of the best free bus systems in the country, making it easy to hop between Lionshead, Vail Village, and Golden Peak.

Packing for the mountains requires strategy. Even in summer, temperatures can swing 40 degrees in a single day, so layers are essential. Altitude sickness is a real concern at 8,150 feet, so drink plenty of water and limit alcohol intake during your first 24 hours. If you plan to ski, purchasing an Epic Pass in advance can save you hundreds of dollars compared to buying daily lift tickets at the window.

Vail is a destination that demands to be experienced at least once, whether you are drawn by the allure of the Back Bowls or the serenity of the summer aspens. With a little planning and an adventurous spirit, you will find that the Magic of Vail is very real.