Vail Archives - 国产吃瓜黑料 Online /tag/vail/ Live Bravely Wed, 28 May 2025 20:22:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://cdn.outsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/favicon-194x194-1.png Vail Archives - 国产吃瓜黑料 Online /tag/vail/ 32 32 Celebrate Summer Fun in Vail /culture/active-families/celebrate-summer-fun-in-vail/ Tue, 27 May 2025 15:45:40 +0000 /?p=2704016 Celebrate Summer Fun in Vail

Make your next trip to the mountains unforgettable with Vail鈥檚 mix of outdoor thrills and exciting events

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Celebrate Summer Fun in Vail

Vail, Colorado, is more than just a world-famous ski destination鈥攊t鈥檚 a dynamic, year-round playground for adventurers of all ages. Surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and endless outdoor activities, Vail offers miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. But what really sets it apart is the vibrant atmosphere in Vail Village, where the fun doesn鈥檛 stop with changing seasons. With a packed , there鈥檚 always something to do. Whether you鈥檙e unwinding with some live music after a bike ride through golden aspen groves or exploring fresh local produce at the farmers鈥 market before taking the kids to one of the many parks, Vail offers a little something for everyone.

Few know the ins and outs of Vail鈥檚 vibrant community better than the person making the events happen. That鈥檚 why we reached out to Jeremy Gross, manager of special events for the Town of Vail. As the permitting mastermind behind many of the town鈥檚 major events, Gross told us about some of his favorite upcoming summer and fall activities.

Vail Farmers Market
Vail Farmers鈥 Market (Photo: Discover Vail)

国产吃瓜黑料: What’s special about summer in Vail?

Jeremy Gross: Walking through the streets of Vail is a magical experience any time of year, but especially in summer. The village comes alive with vibrant flowers, open-air patios at every restaurant, the soothing sound of Gore Creek flowing through town, and stunning views of the Gore Range beneath crystal-blue skies. It鈥檚 an escape from the everyday鈥攁 step into a lively alpine paradise.

On top of that, Vail鈥檚 calendar is packed with . From the to the and bluegrass festivals, the weekly , and , there鈥檚 always something special happening鈥攅levating the mountain-town charm to a whole new level.

What are your favorite summer events?听

I love the variety of events. There鈥檚 no better way to kick off the summer than the . The town comes alive with musicians on every corner and the world鈥檚 best adventure athletes competing in high-energy events throughout the village. It鈥檚 a vibe all its own.

GoPro Mountain Games
GoPro Mountain Games (Photo: Discover Vail)

For families, the excitement continues with the 鈥攁n unforgettable experience that gets kids off their screens and into the action. It鈥檚 the ultimate youth adventure race, with biking, river tubing, Tyrolean traverses, and more.

Is Vail a good destination for families?听

Kids love playing in the , tubing through town down Gore Creek (tube rentals are available in town), or biking on the . , at the base of the gondola, is one of the coolest playgrounds around. Solaris and the Arrabelle turn their outdoor ice rinks into gathering spaces with lawn games and live music.

That covers the adventurous side, but there鈥檚 still plenty of culture for kids to experience. The are a short walk from Vail Village, right next to another one-of-a-kind playground, and feature an incredible collection of alpine plants. Grab a blanket and a picnic for the lawn to see the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, as part of , perform The Princess Bride in concert alongside the movie.

Pirate Ship Park
Pirate Ship Park (Photo: Discover Vail)

Thanks to the city鈥檚 pedestrian-friendly streets, kids in Vail are free to explore, play, and just be kids.

What happens at Vail in the fall?听

Fall is a great time to visit Vail. Take a mountain bike ride through the changing aspens on the Golden Gate Trail for views so breathtaking that you鈥檒l want to pedal slowly and take it all in. Stop by the Thursday or Sunday for fresh Colorado produce at the peak of flavor.

Just after Labor Day this year, celebrates its 50th anniversary with two weekends of beer, food, and fun. Or, if you want to catch some live music, grab a flannel and head out to the in October for free world-class bluegrass music right in Vail Village.

Vail Oktoberfest
Vail Oktoberfest (Photo: Discover Vail)

What are your top tips for planning a Vail vacation?

is full of so many tips, that鈥檚 the best one I can give. Check it out for the full list of upcoming events, hiking and biking routes, walking tours, shopping, dining, and lodging offers.


is the official destination marketing organization for Vail, Colorado. It鈥檚 responsible for promoting Vail as a premier year-round destination, focusing on boosting tourism and enhancing the economic health of Vail.

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How to Explore Vail Like a Local /adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/how-to-explore-vail-like-a-local/ Tue, 20 May 2025 18:07:30 +0000 /?p=2703379 How to Explore Vail Like a Local

Professional athlete and longtime Vail resident Josiah Middaugh shares his favorite trails, restaurants, and attractions

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How to Explore Vail Like a Local

If you haven鈥檛 visited yet, chances are 鈥擟olorado鈥檚 quintessential mountain town鈥攊s high on your bucket list. Its walkable , cobblestone streets, and old-world Tyrolean alpine architecture add to its sweeping Rocky Mountain views.

But what keeps mountain-loving visitors coming back again and again? Unbeatable access to world-class hiking, biking, and a wide range of 鈥攁ll just steps from Vail Village and Lionshead.

To truly understand what makes Vail so special, you need insight from someone who lives it every day. That鈥檚 why we turned to , a longtime local and elite athlete. A 15-time XTERRA USA national champion, 2015 XTERRA world champion, five-time Fat Bike World Champion, six-time USSSA National Snowshoe champion, and Eco-Challenge Fiji competitor, Middaugh has explored his home as both an adventure-seeking athlete and a parent of three.

Josiah Middaugh
Josiah Middaugh (second from right) at the XTERRA USA National Championship with his wife and three children. (Photo: Josiah Middaugh)

鈥淢y family and I moved to Vail in June of 2000, and we were immediately in awe of the Gore Range and the vibrant, active community,鈥 Middaugh recalls. 鈥淲e quickly fell in love with the summers鈥攕pending our weekends exploring the endless trails that wind through Vail and .鈥 It鈥檚 a sentiment he鈥檚 carried ever since. As Middaugh puts it, 鈥淵ou come for the winter, but you stay for the summer.鈥

We asked Middaugh to share a few of his favorite spots and tips for making the most of your time in Vail鈥攚hether you鈥檙e training like a pro or adventuring with the family.

国产吃瓜黑料: What are your favorite trails to run or hike when you’re training?听

Josiah Middaugh: I am a big fan of the North Trails, including , , and , and the , which is also a popular singletrack for . They are easily accessible from Vail, so it can be a short ride, or you can link some of the trails together and it can be a long adventure.

Where are the best places to ride?听

On the road bike, Vail Pass is a great go-to ride. Once you pass the gate, the road is free of cars for a nine-mile climb up to 10,600 feet. If you don鈥檛 want all that climbing, one option is to shuttle to the top and ride down. Renting a bike in Vail is easy, too鈥攋ust head to one of the many in the villages to get geared up.

After a solid training session, where do you like to refuel?听

Sometimes during or after a long ride, I will stop into the to visit Mountain Ration for a mocha and some grab-and-go food. My favorite burrito is the veggie breakfast burrito from .

Josiah Middaugh
Josiah Middaugh shared his love for competition and being outside with his two sons, Porter and Sullivan, when they were young. (Photo: Josiah Middaugh)

What are some of your go-to places for a family adventure?听

When we have visitors in town, we often take a ride up the (#19) in Lionshead Village for a short hike. A great activity with the kids is the . We also have some fond memories of our kids playing at the when they were little鈥攂ut now they鈥檙e onto bigger adventures like XTERRA USA and world championships and world cups.


is the official destination-marketing organization for Vail, Colorado. It鈥檚 responsible for promoting Vail as a premier year-round destination, focusing on boosting tourism, and enhancing the economic health of Vail.

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A Skier Is Suing Vail Resorts After a Patrol Strike Disrupted Operations at Park City /adventure-travel/news-analysis/a-skier-is-suing-vail-resorts-after-a-patrol-strike-disrupted-operations-at-park-city/ Fri, 17 Jan 2025 18:49:04 +0000 /?p=2694070 A Skier Is Suing Vail Resorts After a Patrol Strike Disrupted Operations at Park City

Visitors were greeted with long lift lines and minimal open terrain at Park City ski resort when the ski patrol union went on strike over the holiday break. One dissatisfied guest has filed a class action lawsuit against parent company Vail Resorts, Inc, for ruining his family鈥檚 trip.

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A Skier Is Suing Vail Resorts After a Patrol Strike Disrupted Operations at Park City

It鈥檚 always a bummer when your vacation doesn鈥檛 go as planned. Still, a spoiled trip isn鈥檛 often cause for legal action. But for Christopher Bisaillon, a guest at Park City Mountain Resort in Utah over the holidays鈥攚here operations were disrupted as a result of the ski patrol union strike鈥攖he distance was just too great between the vacation he鈥檇 planned and the experience he had.

According to Bisaillon鈥檚 class action filed by the Jackson, Wyoming-based Spence Law Firm against Park City鈥檚 parent company, Vail Resorts, Inc.: 鈥淧laintiff spent in excess of $15,000 for his family of five to have Vail Resort鈥檚 publicized 鈥榮ki experience of a lifetime鈥 over the holidays. It turned out to be a colossal disaster with the family only being able to ski less than ten runs over the duration of their week-long, Christmas family vacation.鈥

The suit doesn鈥檛 just apply to Bisaillon. It also includes everyone who bought lift tickets between December 27, 2024, and January 7, 2025, and asks for damages of an undetermined amount that would likely exceed $5 million. The suit alleges that Vail Resorts failed to adequately notify guests of the strike鈥檚 impact, and says the company also failed to deliver on the advertised value of the lift tickets Bisaillon and others purchased.

Ski vacations come with a notoriously steep price tag, and Park City is no exception. Over the holidays, a single-day adult lift ticket cost $289, according to the court filing. Including travel, lodging, equipment rentals, dining, and lift tickets, the lawsuit estimates that a family can spend between $10,000 and $20,000 for a week-long trip.

Bisaillon, who is based in Illinois, arrived with his family at Park City Mountain Resort on December 28, 2024, one day after the ski patrol union of their locker room to form a picket line. The family planned to ski for the week, but were confounded by hours-long lift lines and little open terrain. The lawsuit alleges just 16 percent of the mountain was accessible.

An NBC News that aired on January 6 said that only 25 of the resort鈥檚 41 lifts were operating. In the same segment, which is also quoted in the lawsuit, another skier named Peter Nystrom tells NBC, 鈥淵ou kind of had to laugh about it. Like, we鈥檙e here in one of the best mountains in the country, waiting three hours in line.鈥

Patrollers picketing on Main Street on December 4, 2021
Park City ski patrollers picketing in December 2021 (Photo: Willie Maahs)

The strike was the latest development in a years-long negotiation between the patroller鈥檚 union and corporate leadership, with the patrollers asking for higher wages and better working conditions. On December 14, 2024, the patrollers鈥 union voted to authorize a strike, and on December 16 informed the National Labor Relations Board that they felt Vail Resorts was negotiating in bad faith.

Vail Resorts said the same of the union鈥檚 conduct, with Park City鈥檚 vice president Dierdre Walsh telling the Salt Lake Tribune on December 16 that they were 鈥渄eeply disappointed鈥 union leaders 鈥渞efus[ed] to negotiate in good faith or discuss mediation.鈥

The suit claims that Vail Resorts could reasonably have been expected to know a strike was imminent and warn guests of that possibility in advance on December 16. Instead, many guests鈥攍ike Bisaillon鈥攁rrived at the resort without knowledge of the impending strike.

The patroller negotiations, and the possible walkout, were covered in local and national media outlets at the time. However, the suit says that Bisaillon and other guests weren’t alerted by Vail Resorts. It also alleges that the Park City resort鈥檚 website, where guests can buy lift tickets in advance of their visit, didn鈥檛 post an update referencing the strike鈥檚 impact on visitor experience until January 4, a week after the strike began.

Vail Resorts declined to comment to 国产吃瓜黑料 about the lawsuit for this article, and Spence Law Firm did not respond to requests for comment before publication.

鈥淚t鈥檚 business, it鈥檚 complicated. […] But at the end of the day, no visitor cares about that,鈥澨 New Yorker Greg Moonves told a Utah NPR , KPCW, on December 30. He was visiting Park City with his family for a five-day ski trip. 鈥淲e spent a lot of money to come here, as did everyone else, to have a good time skiing with our families. And at the end of the day, they鈥檙e not providing the product that they claim they鈥檙e providing.鈥

If a Utah judge determines that the suit fits the parameters for a class action lawsuit, it will continue through the state legal system. Vail Resorts will have the opportunity to settle with the plaintiffs outside of court, or the two parties can proceed to a trial.

Meanwhile, the strike ended on January 7, when the patrol union and Vail announced that they had reached a tentative agreement that “addresses both party’s interests.” One official that the benefits secured by the union, including increased base pay, might be extended to unionized patrollers at other Vail locations.

And on Thursday, January 16, Vail Resorts that they will offer everyone who skied and snowboarded at Park City during the ski patrol strike credit towards passes for the 2025/26 season, the exact amount of which would depend on how many days they had skied.

鈥淲e deeply value the trust and loyalty of our guests, and while Park City Mountain was open during the patrol strike, it was not the experience we wanted to provide,” Vail Resort’s COO Dierdra Walsh wrote in a statement. “We are committed to rebuilding the trust and loyalty of our guests by delivering an exceptional experience at Park City Mountain this season and in the future.鈥

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Your Ultimate Guide to Winter 国产吃瓜黑料 in Colorado鈥檚 Top Mountain Towns /adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/mountain-towns-colorado-winter/ Tue, 10 Dec 2024 10:45:01 +0000 /?p=2690831 Your Ultimate Guide to Winter 国产吃瓜黑料 in Colorado鈥檚 Top Mountain Towns

Here鈥檚 the local鈥檚 cheat sheet to navigating on and off-piste thrills of Colorado鈥檚 most coveted destinations

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Your Ultimate Guide to Winter 国产吃瓜黑料 in Colorado鈥檚 Top Mountain Towns

When it comes to ski resorts and wintery adventures, the mountain towns in Colorado have an embarrassment of riches. Growing up in New Jersey, my family would drive nearly five hours to ski the resorts of Vermont. Sometimes my dad would pile us in his van and do a 10-hour round trip in a single day. I have so many fond memories of chilly outdoor time with my family as a kid. Then, I headed west later in life.

Why I Love These Mountain Towns in Colorado

When I moved to Boulder, Colorado I was blown away to learn that I had nearly a dozen resorts within a two-hour drive and another dozen more just a bit further. The initial allure was, of course, the downhill. But then I began to discover the other adventures on offer, from fat tire biking along stunning singletrack and Nordic skiing past old gold mines, to snowmobiling and dog sledding in the backcountry.

Every ski town has its own personality, plus quirky annual events that I try to time my visits around. The properties from 鈥攁 hip hotel membership club that started in Breckenridge and now has outposts in Vail, Winter Park, and Steamboat Springs鈥攊s my typical go-to stay for the hyperlocal vibe, convenient co-working spaces, athlete-worthy gyms, and restaurants with high-quality cocktails and food (from $169 to $299 minimum per night).

If you prefer a vacation rental, has properties in Vail, Beaver, Creek, Aspen, and Snowmass and recently introduced Peak Pursuits, an adventure-focused concierge service that can arrange activities such as heli-skiing and sleigh ride dinners. Here鈥檚 my cheat sheet on how to navigate the on and off-piste winter thrills of the most beautiful mountain towns in Colorado.

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Best Things to Do in Aspen-Snowmass

uphill skiing at ajax mountain in aspen, one of the author's favorite mountain towns in colorado
Uphilling at Ajax Mountain in Aspen for morning pancakes at Bonnie鈥檚听(Photo: Jen Murphy)

I have a soft spot for Aspen. If you look past the glitz and glamor you can still find a soulful mountain town with epic adventures on offer. A free public transportation system transfers you between the resort鈥檚 four mountains, each with its own personality and appeal (Buttermilk for families; Aspen-Highlands for its mythic bowl). And Hero鈥檚, the new terrain expansion on Aspen Mountain, will push your edge with chutes and gladed areas. You can be part of the downtown apr猫s scene, but I prefer to get my culture fix after skiing and visit the or .

Where to Play

In my opinion, Aspen-Snowmass has Colorado鈥檚 best . A season uphill pass costs $69 ($10 of the fee goes to Mountain Rescue Aspen) and gives you access to dedicated routes on Buttermilk and Snowmass mountains all day, and you can uphill Ajax Mountain and Aspen Highlands when the lift isn鈥檛 spinning. The Roaring Fork Valley is also a , boasting 60 miles of free cross-country and snowshoe trails between Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt.

I like to work up an appetite, skate skiing the so I can splurge on the burger at Woody Creek Tavern or I鈥檒l pay for a $25 pass at Ashcroft Nordic Center, set across from an old ghost town, so I can cross-country ski out to for their pre-fixe lunch menu. They also have an option to reach the restaurant by horse-drawn sleigh.

For unreal views without a lot of effort, book a with T Lazy Ranch (from $275).

Where to Stay

Aspen has no shortage of ritzy hotels with see-and-be-seen crowds but I prefer the low-key properties in both Aspen (from $629 a night) and Snowmass (from $569 a night). Rooms are outfitted with Smeg fridges and microwaves, banquette seating for dining or remote working, plus plenty of hooks and cubbies for ski gear. In the morning, you鈥檙e treated to a complimentary breakfast buffet. After skiing, you can soak in the hot tub or heated outdoor pool then hit the bar for live music and wood-fired pizza.

Where to Eat

saloon at woody creek tavern in aspen colorado
The saloon at Hunter Thompson鈥檚 old haunt, Woody Creek Tavern鈥攖he perfect place for an apr猫s cocktail before you hit one of these spots below (Photo: Jen Murphy)

The former log cabin recently underwent a renovation and expansion and this season will be accessible by foot off of Snowmass鈥檚 new Coney Express Lift. You can ski in for lunch or extended apr猫s hours, which feature shotskis and charcuterie boards, or book an evening snowcat dinner.

I buy an uphill pass just so I can attend the monthly at the Cliffhouse at Buttermilk.

, a new dive bar in Aspen, was recently opened by two locals and affordably-priced food was a term of the restaurant鈥檚 deed-restricted lease. A beer and beef slider will cost you less than $10; a steal in Aspen.

And if you鈥檙e flying in or out of the airport, a detour to , tucked away in the Aspen Airport Center, is a must. Her flavorful dishes, like vegetable maffe, a West African peanut curry, and seafood gumbo, pay homage to her French and Ivory Coast roots.

Don鈥檛-Miss Event

Buttermilk Mountain will host the Winter X Games January 23-25, 2025 and the and the Visa Big Air January 30-February 6. But I鈥檓 most excited for the inaugural halfpipe event of Olympic snowboarder Shaun White鈥檚 new Snow League, happening March 7-8.

Best Things to Do in Breckenridge

skiers hike Peak 8 off the Imperial SuperChair, accessing Lake Chutes and Snow White terrain
The Peak 8 hike off the Imperial SuperChair, accessing Lake Chutes and Snow White terrain (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Just 80 miles west of Denver, Breckenridge is one of the state鈥檚 most popular Front Range ski resorts. Some lament the crowds, but I find once you鈥檙e on the mountain, it鈥檚 easy to spread out. Five peaks boast more than 180 trails webbed across nearly 3,000 skiable acres of terrain, ranging from high-alpine bowls to beginner-friendly tree runs.

I like to rise early and warm up with a yoga class at and always build in a down day to explore the boutiques, restaurants, and public art and studios of the in Breck鈥檚 charming Victorian downtown.

Where to Play

Rent a fat bike (they also have e-fat bikes) from and explore the nearly 20 miles of groomed trails at the Gold Run Nordic Center (half-day rentals from $65). The outfitter鈥檚 guided rides to and are great because they provide transportation back to town so you can imbibe worry-free (from $85).

Where to Stay

The feels more like a restaurant with rooms. The Euro-style inn has just four, Scandi-minimalist suites stocked with useful amenities like Topo Designs backpacks and yoga mats. Two of the town’s best eateries are just below the rooms. The seafood-centric, ground-floor restaurant features a raw bar and items like fish and chips and lobster roll sliders; the basement-level speakeasy-inspired tavern serves comfort foods like cheesesteaks and fried chicken sammys. (From $399 per night.)

Where to Eat

the Gravity Bowl from Cabin Juice at Gravity Haus Breckenridge
Fuel up for the day with the breakfast of champions: the Gravity Bowl from Cabin Juice at Gravity Haus Breckenridge. Then, be sure to snag dinner reservations in advance at Rootstalk. (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Matt Vawter, chef and owner of , was recently named the James Beard Awards鈥 best chef in the mountain region. The mega accolade, often called the Oscars of the food world, has made reservations to experience his exceptional tasting menu a must.

Don鈥檛-Miss Event

, a wacky celebration of the Norse god of snow, takes place December 12-14, 2024 with a colorful parade of costumed revelers. This year, Breck will try to lure 1,370 participants to help reclaim the unofficial world鈥檚 longest shotski record from Park City. I hope to be there.

Best Things to Do in Crested Butte

skier scoring pow on a cat skiing adventure with Irwin Guides in Crested Butte
The author scoring pow on a cat skiing adventure with Irwin Guides in Crested Butte (Photo: Jen Murphy)

I live in one of the greatest mountain towns in Colorado, but I still get mountain-town envy every time I visit Crested Butte. The soulful vibe and lack of big brand hotels and chains have earned it the reputation as Colorado鈥檚 last great ski town. If you鈥檙e seeking rowdy terrain, Crested Butte Mountain Resort delivers. Known as the North American birthplace of inbounds extreme skiing and riding, it boasts more than 560 acres of expert terrain. Want bragging rights? Tackle Rambo, a 55-degree-pitch run considered the steepest lift-served, tree-cut trail in the U.S. Beyond the resort, the surrounding Gunnison Valley offers a treasure trove of backcountry adventures to satiate all types of outdoor lovers.

Where to Play

Cat skiing with local outfitter on 1,000 acres of powder-blessed terrain just ten miles out of town ranks as one of my all-time snowboard days (private cat for up to 10 people costs $8,500 or buy a single seat for $850).

If there鈥檚 a dry spell, is a perfect alternative to downhill skiing and grooms a number of areas around town that are free to access. The maintains nearly 35 miles of trails that can be accessed with a $25 day pass. The six miles of trails at the Town Ranch and on the Rec Path can be accessed for free.

Where to Stay

Ski-in/ski-out has an on-site ski rental shop, a sprawling spa, spacious rooms, and a lounge in partnership with local film company Matchstick Productions that hosts screenings and athlete activations (from $230 a night).

Where to Eat

Magic Meadows Yurt at the nordic center in crested butte hosts multi-course, communal meals throughout the winter season
Located at the Nordic Center, Magic Meadows Yurt hosts multi-course, communal brunches and dinners throughout the winter season. (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Carb up at the , a dive-y pizza spot. I love that the menu at the has healthy options like the completely satisfying quinoa-spiked power salad, as well as the not-so-healthy stuff you crave after a day slaying pow, like a burger topped with pork belly and fried onions.

On Sundays, in-the-know locals Nordic ski or snowshoe to , located one-mile from the Peanut Lake Trailhead Loop.

Don鈥檛-Miss Event

, an outrageous costumed American Birkebeiner qualifying Nordic event, takes place February 1, 2025 and the course winds through the heart of downtown making it a favorite spectator event.

Best Things to Do in Steamboat Springs

Rodeo queens prepping for the annual Cowboy Downhill event at Steamboat Springs
Rodeo queens prepping for the annual Cowboy Downhill event at Steamboat Springs (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Ski Town USA is known for both its ultra-dry, trademark 鈥渃hampagne powder鈥 and Old Western cowboy character. In the last few years, the resort has been re-imagined with a new base area, complete with a skating rink and food hall, and a dedicated beginner area, Greenhorn Ranch. Advanced skiers once bemoaned the lack of expert runs. No more. Last year the resort debuted Mahogany Ridge & Fish Creek Canyon, some 650 acres of test-your-mettle terrain.

A free bus runs every 20 minutes between the village and town, making it easy to explore galleries and shops like stalwart western wear.

Where to Play

Channel your inner cowboy (or girl) on a snowy trail ride at , led by fifth-generation wrangler (and enthralling storyteller) Ray Heid ($150). Then warm up with a steamy soak. I like the ease of ($29) but clothing-optional-after-dark is an experience ($20, cash only). If you don鈥檛 have 4WD and snow tires, book a to reach the secluded springs ($50 round-trip, entry fee included).

Where to Stay

The historic recently renovated its 35 rooms and has a hard-to-beat downtown location walking distance to shops and restaurants. (From $199 a night.)

Where to Eat

Avocado toast at Yampa Valley Kitchen in Steamboat Springs
Mouth-watering avo toast at Yampa Valley Kitchen in Steamboat Springs (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Options abound. On the hill, you can choose from ramen, pizza, tacos, and subs at the . In town, the offers Jamaican jerk chicken, poke bowls, classic cocktails, and more. Brunch at is worth a late start on the slopes, particularly for the banana foster French toast and smoked tomato and pesto Benedict.

Don鈥檛-Miss Event

Like a rodeo on the slopes, the annual , January 20, 2025, always leaves me in stitches as I watch cowgirls and cowboys in their chaps and Stetsons speed down a dual slalom course, hit jumps, then lasso a person, saddle a horse, and ski across the finish line.

Families shouldn鈥檛 miss the oldest west of the Mississippi. Celebrating 112 years on February 7-9, 2025 the festivities include ski racing, skijoring, and a fireworks-studded night show featuring the famed Lighted Man, who shoots fireworks from his pyrotechnic suit while skiing down the hill.

Best Things to Do in Telluride

snowboarder taking in endless views of the San Juans from Telluride Mountain
The author taking in endless views of the San Juans from Telluride Mountain听(Photo: Jen Murphy)

Telluride looks like it was meant for a snow globe. Nestled in a picturesque box canyon within the jagged San Juan Mountains, it isn鈥檛 the easiest resort to reach in winter, which means you rarely find crowds. If you make the effort, you鈥檙e rewarded with quad-burning slopes and a darling downtown lined with Victorian homes, art galleries, indie boutiques, and some seriously great dining.

A free, pedestrian gondola makes it effortless to bounce between the mountain and the historic downtown while soaking in awesome views.

Where to Play

can access more than 200 square miles of high-alpine skiing and its single-day heli-trip promises six runs with up to 14,000 feet of leg-quivering vert (from $1,875 per person).

I always like to build in a mellow activity to temper all of the adrenaline and one of my favorite experiences over the years has been dog sledding the snowy trails of the Uncompahgre National Forest with family-run company, . (Prices vary, for current rates.)

Where to Stay

I like the convenience of the ski-in/ski-out (from $399 a night), and appreciate their massive fitness center. Intimate, five-bedroom (from $550 a night) is steps from the town gondola and feels like a fancy B&B, complete with complimentary wine, beer, and snacks, and hearty breakfast spread.

Where to Eat

charcuterie board at Alpino Vino in Telluride, Colorado
Channeling European vibes with a charcuterie board at Alpino Vino in Telluride (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Sometimes I opt to stay downtown just so I can be walking distance to the , an institution beloved for its monster-sized, made-from-scratch baked goods (the homemade pop tarts are addictive).

On piste, , North America鈥檚 second highest elevation fine-dining restaurant, channels Italy鈥檚 Dolomites with its charcuterie and cheese spreads, deep wine list, and killer mountain views. I still haven鈥檛 experienced the omakase menu at , a stellar sushi spot in town, but their happy hour is one of the best deals around with half price sushi rolls.

Don鈥檛-Miss Event

Many Colorado resorts now host a , but Telluride鈥檚 (February 22-March 1, 2025) stands out for its raucous pool parties and kick-off event, the Telluride Aids Benefit fashion show gala.

Best Things to Do in Vail

skate skiing the trails at the Vail Nordic Center鈥攐ne of the most fun mountain towns in Colorado
For a lung-busting workout, go skate skiing on the trails at the Vail Nordic Center. (Photo: Jen Murphy)

People like to hate on Vail because its parent company is a mega ski conglomerate. That shouldn鈥檛 take away from its seriously great terrain. I鈥檝e lived in Colorado for a decade and am still discovering all that the resort鈥檚 seven back bowls have to offer in its 2,785 acres of terrain. And in the last few years, the Bavarian-inspired village has been reinvigorated with new bars, restaurants, and the wild entertainment venue, .

Where to Play

Skiing the Minturn Mile, an out-of-bounds run that spans three miles and drops 3,000 vertical feet, is a right of passage for hard-charging locals.听 I usually think of Nordic skiing as a killer workout, but turns it into an adventure by leading half- and full-day tours into the White River National Forest where you鈥檙e likely to ski past abandoned mines and wildlife (from $160).

Where to Stay

I love how the celebrates the resort鈥檚 1960s heyday. Design details, like framed 10th Mountain Division pins in the rooms, nod to the region鈥檚 alpine heritage. After a day on the hill I head straight to the downstairs recovery lounge, equipped with massage guns, leg compression sleeves, and a Himalayan salt room. (From $469 per night.)

Where to Eat

margie's haas in vail is one of the best restaurants in this Colorado mountain town
This restaurant at the Hythe is named after the woman who made meals for 10th Mountain Division soldiers in her home during WWII. (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Matsuhisa has some competition now that upscale sushi spot has opened in the Grand Hyatt Vail. This winter, Denver鈥檚 award-winning Italian restaurant, , opens in the Four Seasons. On the mountain, I can never resist the smell of barbecue wafting from , accessible off chairlifts 3, 17, and 7.

Don鈥檛-Miss Event

I鈥檝e marked my calendar to see the action at the at neighboring Beaver Creek December 6-15, 2024. Music fans won鈥檛 want to miss , a weekend concert series April 4-5, 2025 featuring DJs like Interplanetary Criminal and Don Fuego (tickets from $99).

Best Things to Do in Winter Park

winter park is one of the best mountain towns in colorado for after-hours skiing
An after hours uphill adventure at Winter Park鈥攄on’t forget your headlamp听(Photo: Jen Murphy)

I鈥檒l admit, the initial appeal of snowboarding at Winter Park was that I could bypass traffic by hopping on the , a stress-free, direct train service that runs Friday through Sunday throughout the winter from Denver鈥檚 Union Station to the base of the resort (tickets from $19 to $39).

Widely considered Colorado鈥檚 original ski resort, it strikes a rare balance of being both a destination yet feeling like locals still rule the hill. I鈥檝e been a devotee since my first trip. You鈥檒l find newbie and kid-friendly groomers and some super fun glades at Winter Park and neighboring peak Mary Jane is known for its thigh-burning moguls and hike-accessed Cirque terrain.

Where to Play

Head to to snow tube ($35 an hour), fat bike ($20 per hour), and snowshoe (rentals $25 per day).

On select Saturday evenings this January through March, you can uphill by headlamp for an alpine dinner at , a vintage lodge near the Explorer Express and Prospector lifts, then descend under the stars.

Where to Stay

I satisfy my cabin fantasies by staying at the . This collection of 31 Instagram-worthy, mid-century-inspired cabins feature Malm fireplaces and deep soaking tubs and the restaurant has an Argentinean gaucho grill that cooks tomahawk ribeyes and wagyu for the decadent burger to perfection. (From $299 a night.)

Where to Eat

winter park colorado main street during the winter season
Winter Park’s Main Street runs through town and offers a plethora of incredible restaurants to choose from when you’re hungrier than ever. (Photo: bauhaus1000/Getty)

The main drag of the town of Winter Park is about three miles from the resort and even on snowy nights I brave the drive just to have the fiery curries at . And the French fries (yes, the fries) at are so good I sometimes just have a whopping serving and an old fashioned and call it dinner.

Don鈥檛-Miss Event

The annual Spring Bash and Splash is a rowdy series of bluegrass concerts, costume contests, beach parties, and pond skims held every weekend from the end of March through April.

jen murphy at steamboat springs, one of her favorite mountain towns in colorado
The author on a recent ski trip to Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Any time Jen Murphy gets frustrated sitting in Colorado鈥檚 I-70 ski traffic she has flashbacks to traffic jams enroute to the icy slopes of Vermont and the 30-second descents of the Poconos, the stomping grounds of her youth. Jen is a regular 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor and our travel-advice columnist who has recently written a beginner鈥檚 guide to Costa Rica, a story on how she used AI to plan a trip to Maui, and shared tips on how to get refunded for vacations听bunked by bad weather.听

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Vail Resorts Just Announced Major Layoffs. What Does That Mean for Skiers? /outdoor-adventure/snow-sports/vail-resorts-layoffs/ Wed, 02 Oct 2024 20:44:26 +0000 /?p=2683863 Vail Resorts Just Announced Major Layoffs. What Does That Mean for Skiers?

The global ski resort behemoth is cutting 14 percent of its corporate staff after a tough year. But will its new business strategy affect skiers?

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Vail Resorts Just Announced Major Layoffs. What Does That Mean for Skiers?

Over the last few years, Colorado-based conglomerate Vail Resorts has gobbled up ski hills left and right. Now, the company may finally be experiencing growing pains. Last week, Vail Resorts announced a plan to eliminate 14 percent of its corporate workforce and 0.2 percent of its frontline employees at mountain resorts over the next two years.

The decision came after Vail Resorts saw revenue decline for several quarters in a row, which prompted its share price to drop 25 percent over the summer. The job cuts are expected to free up $100 million in budget by mid-2026.

The company blamed unfavorable conditions (snowfall across the American West was down nearly 30 percent from prior years), as well as the receding wave of popularity that skiing enjoyed during the pandemic. The outdoor adventure and travel industries have all been facing a painful 鈥溾 as people return to their indoor hobbies, and the ski world has yet to find its level.

Despite the cost cutting and revenue woes, Vail Resorts continues to eye expansion and acquisition.

鈥淲e have a very large focus on expanding in Europe and ultimately, ideally, we鈥檇 love to expand into Japan as well,鈥 CEO Kirsten Lynch said in a . Vail Resorts, which currently owns 42 ski areas across the world, spent the past few years buying up hills across the U.S.鈥攁t times . Then, it ventured abroad. Just this May, it closed on its second Swiss resort, the Crans-Montana Mountain Resort near Geneva.

Vail representatives claim that the layoffs are a positive sign, not a negative one; slimming down the American staff just leaves the company poised for more agile growth and global expansion, the brand said in a . (In the release, Vail Resorts referred to the round of layoffs as part of a 鈥渢wo-year transformation plan.鈥)

Vail Resorts started in small-town Vail Colorado. It’s since expanded across three continents. (Photo: Glade Optics via Unsplash)

So, what impact will the cuts have on skiers this year? In an email, Lindsay Hogan, senior director of communications for Vail Resorts, indicated that on-mountain impacts would be minimal.

鈥淭he corporate impacts are primarily focused on the consolidating and outsourcing of global shared services,鈥 Hogan said in an email to 国产吃瓜黑料. Many of the positions eliminated were in accounts receivable, payroll support, call centers, and other internal business services, she said. Most of the cuts will impact staffers at Vail鈥檚 corporate headquarters in Broomfield, Colo., or in remote positions鈥攏ot on-mountain staffers. With less than 1 percent of operations staff affected鈥攁nd more than 1,000 seasonal positions currently open鈥擧ogan said skiers shouldn鈥檛 notice a big difference when they visit a resort this year.

In fact, Hogan said that 鈥渆fficiencies鈥 created by the cuts could make the skier experience even better than in years prior. Allegedly, they鈥檒l make the company run more smoothly, which will help resorts deliver on all kinds of promises鈥攆rom faster lift lines to better ski schools. Hogan also touched on the impacts of expansion on Epic Pass holders.

鈥淓xpanding our network gives our guests more value and more choices of where they can ski and ride,鈥 Hogan said. 鈥淚t gives our pass holders a choice of where to go, so they can choose new experiences, or go where the conditions are best in any given season.鈥

Hogan denied that the recent cuts had anything to do with the past year鈥檚 quarterly earnings reports. 鈥淭his transformation is to set the company up for future growth,鈥 she said. Still, that growth will likely depend on reliable snowfall. So far, Vail seems to be banking on the , and on storms so big skiers won鈥檛 be able to stay away.

As Vail learned last year, banking on the weather is a dubious proposition. But at least we won鈥檛 be the only ones praying for snow.

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Lindsey Vonn Inducted into Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame /outdoor-adventure/snow-sports/lindsey-vonn-colorado-snowsports-hall-of-fame/ Sat, 14 Sep 2024 10:00:34 +0000 /?p=2682077 Lindsey Vonn Inducted into Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame

The downhill legend sat down with SKI to discuss mentorship, the future of women鈥檚 racing, and her deeply personal role in the 2034 Olympics

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Lindsey Vonn Inducted into Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame

Surrounded by young athletes from Ski and Snowboard Club Vail, each of whom held a balloon to represent one of her 82 World Cup wins and three Olympic medals, Lindsey Vonn was inducted into the last Saturday (Sept. 8) in her former hometown of Vail, Colorado.

During the presentation, the 39-year-old downhill legend joked that she likes 鈥渢o do everything fast鈥 and would win for fastest induction speech, which she indeed did, thanking former U.S. teammate Chad Fleischer and ski industry icon Bill Jensen for nominating her, her friends, family, and everyone who helped her along the way to becoming the winningest female skier of all time.

Lindsey Vonn Ski Hall of Fame
Lindsey Vonn was inducted into the Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame in her former hometown of Vail. (Photo: Rex Keep)

Vonn retired from racing in 2019 after clinching her eighth World Championship medal, becoming the only alpine skier in history to win medals in six World Championships. Her record for World Cup wins has since been usurped by teammate Mikaela Shiffrin, but Vonn鈥檚 relentless and fearless approach to downhill skiing, fighting back from numerous serious injuries, will always distinguish her.

鈥淥ftentimes as an athlete, you are so focused and don鈥檛 take the time to look around and appreciate where all the hard work has gotten you,鈥 Vonn told SKI during an interview before the Hall of Fame ceremony on Saturday. 鈥淚t鈥檚 so meaningful for me to be here now, to be recognized by my peers and all of these people that I grew up with who have shaped my life in some way, shape, or form. It鈥檚 a very full-circle moment and I don鈥檛 take anything for granted.鈥

On the Power of Hands-On Inspiration

After retiring from racing, Vonn sold her home in Vail and now splits her time between Park City, Utah and Miami, Florida. She is deeply involved in her nonprofit organization, the . Launched in 2015, the Foundation aims to support and inspire young girls to pursue their dreams, be they athletic, educational, or vocational. Since its inception, the Foundation has gifted more than a million dollars in scholarships and Vonn has personally participated in all but one Strong Girls camp, an annual event for 10- to 14-year-old girls designed to build confidence through obstacle courses, hiking excursions, and social activities.

Lindsey Vonn Ski Hall of Fame
Mentorship of young athletes through the Lindsey Vonn Foundation is one of the ways Vonn likes to give back to the community. (Photo: Rex Keep)

鈥淭o be able to see the impact firsthand is what gives me so much pride and joy,鈥 Vonn said. 鈥淭he Strong Girls camp is where I get to see the transformation of a timid girl into a strong and confident girl. We鈥檙e trying to get girls who have goals and dreams that are not in your traditional female space鈥攁 lot of STEM girls, an aeronautical engineer who wants to be an engineer for NASA. Those are girls who dream big. They鈥檙e all driven in their own way. It鈥檚 about encouraging them to follow their own path and be strong enough to do that. Sometimes in this world of judgment and conformity, it鈥檚 hard to stand out. I want them to be uniquely themselves.鈥

On the 2034 Utah Winter Olympics

This past summer Vonn was instrumental in helping Salt Lake City, Utah . Part of the host city鈥檚 bid committee, which also included 2002 Winter Olympics Chief Operating Officer Fraser Bullock, Utah governor Spencer Cox, and Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhal, Vonn launched the Athletes鈥 Families Initiative to help provide lodging, ticketing, and transportation support for Olympians鈥 families attending the Games. The Initiative was inspired by a letter to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) written by Vonn鈥檚 mother, Linda Krohn Lund, who passed away in 2022 after a battle with ALS.

鈥淲hen Fraser called me to be part of the bid, we walked through things I thought could be better,鈥 Vonn recalled. 鈥淪upporting families was the No. 1 thing. When my mom passed, I found an email she had written to the president of IOC where she was asking him to provide better support for the families. That really sparked something in me to help. I think we鈥檙e going to do incredible things for families and athletes in 2034. That鈥檚 the tip of the iceberg, really. I want to help in any way I can,鈥 she said. Plans for the first-ever Family Village are still coming together, but organizers have shared that the ideal location would be near the Athlete Village at the University of Utah.

Vonn also continues to help fellow athletes on the skiing side. Italian downhill star Sofia Goggia occasionally contacts Vonn for tactical advice and Vonn welcomes any opportunity to weigh in.

鈥淚鈥檓 really happy to support my teammates. My door is always open,鈥 she said, adding that keeping tabs on ski racing has become less emotional for her now that a few years have passed since retiring. 鈥淚 can watch races now. I鈥檓 still like aww 鈥 that turn could be a little better. It鈥檚 nice to be a mentor in that way and still helping. Seeing my friends succeed even if I can鈥檛 be there is always good to see.鈥

On the Future of North American Ski Racing

Vonn was, of course, dismayed when her most successful racing venue, Lake Louise, Alberta鈥攄ubbed, over the course of the 18 World Cup victories she notched there over the years, 鈥淟ake Lindsey鈥濃攚as removed from the World Cup competition calendar. Nonetheless, she is pleased that the women will instead compete on the famed Birds of Prey course at Beaver Creek this December following the venue鈥檚 long standing men鈥檚 races.

Lindsey Vonn Lake Louise
Vonn saw consistent success on the World Cup race course at Lake Louise. (Photo: Alexis Boichard/Agence Zoom/Getty Images)

When Beaver Creek hosted the 2015 World Championships, women competed on a downhill course adjacent to the notoriously steep and technical Birds of Prey course, but Vonn got a taste of the men鈥檚 course earlier that season when Beaver Creek hosted last-minute women鈥檚 races after they were cancelled in Val d鈥橧s猫re, France.

鈥淚 had so much fun racing that course,鈥 she said. 鈥淚鈥檓 sad that Lake Louise is gone, but at least Beaver Creek picked it up. It鈥檚 amazing that it鈥檚 still in North America. I think that will really help ski racing for women in the United States. It鈥檚 a platform to get people excited about women鈥檚 ski racing. I will definitely watch in complete FOMO-jealousy mode, but just the fact there鈥檚 races there for women is meaningful for me. I鈥檓 happy to be cheering them on.鈥

On Her Recent Knee Replacement

Following numerous knee injuries and subsequent surgeries during her racing career and beyond, Vonn made the decision in April to get a partial right knee replacement. Although she doesn鈥檛 anticipate being a surprise entry for the women鈥檚 Birds of Prey downhill race, she plans to hit the slopes hard this season.

鈥淚n the future I鈥檒l probably need another partial on the other side or a full replacement, but it鈥檚 changed my life completely,鈥 she admitted. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 think about my knee. My knee doesn鈥檛 hurt. I鈥檝e been road biking, weightlifting 鈥 I can do anything. I鈥檓 finally not in pain all the time. It feels amazing. I鈥檓 going to do a lot of skiing. I鈥檓 excited for it.鈥

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These Gondolas Are Transforming into Art Galleries /outdoor-adventure/snow-sports/gondola-art-at-vail-resorts/ Sat, 04 Nov 2023 11:15:17 +0000 /?p=2651923 These Gondolas Are Transforming into Art Galleries

The Gondola Gallery by Epic features art from two artists with unique backgrounds

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These Gondolas Are Transforming into Art Galleries

Two Vail resorts are transforming their gondolas with custom-made art from two separate artists, each with a unique tie-in.

At Stowe, artwork will be taking over a handicap-accessible gondola, on the SkyRide line, and at Park City 鈥檚 diversity-inspired piece will wrap a cabin on the QuickSilver lift. Both artists were hand-selected by the Vail team for their artistic abilities and unique backgrounds that inspire such creativity.

For Harris, art has always been part of his life and a way to express himself. However, he noticed a 鈥渟harp distinction鈥 in his creative process after a kiteskiing accident left him with a life-altering spine injury in 2014, causing paralysis. Now, as a walking paraplegic who finds himself frequently on skis, Harris has a strong commitment to helping others with disabilities enjoy time on snow.

鈥淚 feel passion involved with the adaptive sports scene at Stowe,鈥 Harris explains. 鈥淪towe has a strong adaptive ski and sports program, and even without having a previous history of visiting it鈥檚 really easy to feel some sort of kinship with a place that cares and has similar goals for accessibility.鈥

鈥淐reating Your Line鈥 by Jim Harris wraps an ADA-Accessible gondola cab at Stowe resort. (Photo: Courtesy of Vail Resorts)

The handicap-accessible cabin on Stowe鈥檚 SkyRide gondola is wrapped with Harris鈥檚 signature landscape-based, topographic map-inspired artwork. The cabin is ADA-accessible and physically bigger to accommodate wheelchairs and necessary apparatus for skiing.

The inspiration for Harris鈥檚 piece 鈥淐reating Your Line鈥 came after his first visit to Stowe last March. 鈥淢y work is landscape-based, and I really like looking out at land and terrain. Pre-spine injury I was really good at reading maps and there鈥檚 almost this skill with looking at topographic maps鈥 [as an artist], I try to be faithful to what the terrain actually looks like and create optical illusions on paper so its a little bit less work than having to read a map.鈥

About 2,300 miles West of Harris鈥檚 topographic map splendor in Stowe, Lamont Joseph White is bringing his artistic lens of diversity to the slopes at Park City. As a fine artist, painter, and digital designer White has been working in the arts for 30 years. His artwork 鈥渂rings something different鈥 and he hopes when people see his work it will not only inspire a conversation but also bring joy.

In 鈥淯plifted鈥 White tries to encapsulate the idea of 鈥渇eeling different in the mountains鈥 through using people he knows to serve as models and amalgamations for his artwork. Raised in New York City, White didn鈥檛 have the traditional mountain upbringing like many of his now peers, and part of his artwork journey tells his story of feeling somewhat out of place in a contrasting environment.

Art-wrapped gondola at Park City
鈥淭his artwork that I did that attracted the attention it did in terms of having black and brown skiers was really personal. I didn鈥檛 know it would have any commercial reach at all, but I welcome it,鈥 White explained. (Photo: Courtesy of Vail Resorts)

鈥淚 want to bring something different to the mountain, something different than our traditional norms to mountain or snow sport spaces, it鈥檚 a place I鈥檝e recreated in for close to 30 years and it is close to how I鈥檝e felt to some degree, just different in the mountains than most of the people I saw there,鈥 White said. 鈥淎nd I鈥檓 hoping that because I did explore that subject that鈥檚 why they [Vail] chose me for the project, to show something different than the norm.鈥

In total it took White about six months from project start to completion, adding that as a Park City resident, he wanted to see the wrapping in person, adding he is looking forward to seeing it with a snowy background.

Both Gondolas are in service at their respective resorts which plan to open for skiing quite soon. Park City has a scheduled opening date of Nov.17 and Stowe the following day on Nov.18. Both artists are also featured in the online gallery in a series of mini films

The Gondola Galery by Epic plans to unveil one more cabin in Spring 2024 at Whistler Blackcomb featuring artwork and collaboration from the .

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The Best Way to Spend a Summer Weekend in Vail /adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/the-best-way-to-spend-a-summer-weekend-in-vail/ Thu, 10 Aug 2023 16:25:31 +0000 /?p=2628881 The Best Way to Spend a Summer Weekend in Vail

Here鈥檚 how to fill a weekend with local-favorite outdoor adventures and the top summer experiences that Vail, Colorado, has to offer

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The Best Way to Spend a Summer Weekend in Vail

When most people think of Vail, they think of the sprawling ski resort: winter, snow, the 鈥渓egendary back bowls.鈥 It鈥檚 a lot to consider and worthy of all the fanfare. But it鈥檚 hardly the whole story鈥攅specially come summer. Beyond Vail the ski resort, there鈥檚 also Vail 鈥渢he village鈥 and Vail 鈥渢he valley,鈥 as they鈥檙e known to locals. And though all are forever intertwined, it鈥檚 those latter two Vails that step into the spotlight once winter ends. The melting snow transforms the original Vail鈥攖he Colorado mountain community at the base of the ski area鈥攊nto a summer traveler鈥檚 dream destination, where the runoff feeds a luscious landscape complete with vibrant mountain streams, wooded singletrack trails, cascading waterfalls, and eye-popping wildflowers.

Vail Valley Tourism
Vail Valley is teeming with summer adventure. (Photo: Discover Vail)

The town gets even more appealing when you factor in the ease of access. With the Eagle Vail Airport (EGE) less than a road-bike race away (and Denver just about a century ride down Interstate 70 the other way), getting to Vail is simple. Once you arrive, free bus service shuttles you to either end of town. The central, pedestrian-friendly village puts delicious restaurants, lively clubs, craft-beverage tasting rooms, and other entertainment options at your fingertips. Get there early enough and you might even be able to catch the evening hatch while wetting a fly line on the gold-medal waters of Gore Creek while enjoying the alpenglow of its namesake mountain range. Talk about the total package.听

Here鈥檚 how to complete a full weekend in Vail, sampling the best outdoor adventures, summer experiences, and local-favorite stops you don鈥檛 want to miss.听听

Friday Night

Whatever you think you know about Vail, know this: Vail was established by some badasses. Soldiers from the Army鈥檚 10th Mountain Division, who trained for alpine combat in the nearby mountains, eventually returned after World War II, laying the groundwork for the modern ski industry鈥攁nd much of the outdoor recreation we now embrace as the mountain lifestyle. So whether or not you managed to land one of those Gore Creek trout, kick off the weekend by raising a glass of award-winning whiskey in the soldiers鈥 honor at the cozy, pub-style in Vail Village. Afterward, head just downstream for dinner at , a high-energy taqueria and tequila bar with a menu that ranges from Mexican standards to Asian fusion, complemented by more than 100 tequilas.

Vail Valley Tourism
Taste all the flavors of Vail. (Photo: Discover Vail)

There鈥檚 plenty of luxury lodging nearby as well, including the four-star , the recently remodeled , or the more unassuming in Vail Village. If you鈥檙e looking for something a little more remote, consider the Vail Racquet Club in East Vail, with a full slate of mountain adventures of its own to offer, or the creekside to the west. in Lionshead offers a happy medium, with a pool overlooking Gore Creek, while the in West Vail is among the most budget-friendly in town.

Saturday

After a night鈥檚 rest, it鈥檚 decision time. During peak summer season, village dwellers can find free sun salutations at the during an open community yoga session every Saturday from nine to ten a.m. After finding your center, head to or one of the many bike rental shops in town to get set up with either a road bike or a fat-tire demo to ride some of the outstanding surrounding trails. , off the Piney River Road, is a local singletrack favorite for mountain bikers. Roadies can test their mettle on the recreational path heading up to the 10,662-foot Vail Pass summit, or hitch a ride to the top with the team at Venture and cruise the 15 miles back down to town. The descent will carry you past the Booth Falls trailhead (among others in East Vail), for a moderate two-mile hike to the falls, if you feel like getting out of the saddle.

If biking isn鈥檛 your thing, the trip up to the at Piney Lake drops you at the doorstep of the rugged Gore Range and Eagle鈥檚 Nest Wilderness. From there, the impressive 13,586-foot Mount Powell looms large, although most people will be content with a trail run or hike on the nearby network of approach routes. The ranch and lake alone make for a full day鈥檚 adventure, including stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and fly-fishing, plus an on-site restaurant serving up savory smoked barbecue. Lodging is also available if you book early enough.

Saturday Night

Vail has never been lacking when it comes to the arts, culture, and music scene, and the (a.k.a. The Amp) takes the lead in summer months. Whether it鈥檚 Ziggy Marley or the New York Philharmonic, the lineup is wide and varied and always pleases. Bridge Street, in Vail Village, is within walking distance and serves as a good starting point for preshow drinks and appetizers at any of the timeless establishments lining the cobblestone street. For a more innovative alternative, check out , a rustic and relaxed tavern on the Gore Creek Promenade.

For more of an immersive performance art experience, drop into , a decadent speakeasy/restaurant/theater/arcade/library lounge that has emerged as Vail鈥檚 most unique nightlife scene. Before indulging in the Mediterranean menu or sipping a craft cocktail, you鈥檒l first have to find the secret passage.

Sunday

coffee shop, in the Solaris Plaza, will help put you in the right frame of mind for your last day in town, mostly by placing you a stone鈥檚 throw from the , which serves as the marquee venue for freestyle kayakers at the annual GoPro Mountain Games in June. The state-of-the-art whitewater feature is controlled by a pair of air bladders that can dial in the height of the wave based on the river鈥檚 flow. is the nearest kayak shop for rentals and lessons, although most novice paddlers will want to start on mellower water or look into a guided rafting trip with , , or another local outfitter. Experts will definitely want to dip into the Vail park, along with the new Eagle River Whitewater Park, closer to the airport in Eagle, where river surfers dominate the lineup most days.

Vail Valley Tourism
Vail has plenty of whitewater to go around. (Photo: Discover Vail)

From there, it鈥檚 an easy trip back to the airport to catch a flight home. The hard part is actually leaving. Next time, plan to stay a little longer.


is an iconic destination mountain resort community with world-class offerings. While widely known for its winter activities, Vail is also the ideal summer mountain destination. Vail in the summer is relaxing and adventurous with resort and village amenities, events and activities for visitors from across the world to experience.

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A Report Finds Vail Resorts Responsible for Patroller鈥檚 Death at Park City /outdoor-adventure/snow-sports/vail-resorts-found-responsible-death-park-city-ski-patroller/ Wed, 14 Jun 2023 14:00:33 +0000 /?p=2635739 A Report Finds Vail Resorts Responsible for Patroller鈥檚 Death at Park City

Utah鈥檚 Occupational Safety and Health group found the resort operator responsible for the freak death of a ski patroller on January 2, 2023

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A Report Finds Vail Resorts Responsible for Patroller鈥檚 Death at Park City

A new report has been released following the untimely death of a ski patroller at a Park City Mountain resort earlier this year, finding Vail Resorts ultimately responsible.

The report conducted by Utah Occupational Safety and Health (UOSH) and obtained by Ski states that the accident occurred on Jan. 2, when a tree fell on a lift line, launching 29-year-old Christian Helger in the air and into a deep snow bank approximately 50 feet from the lift, and according to the local medical examiner died of asphyxia. The report concluded this is a 鈥渟erious violation鈥 of workplace safety, and UOSH has fined Vail Resorts $2,500. The report also noted an additional ten or so people on the lift who were all safely evacuated.

A statement released by Vail reads: 鈥淭he Park City Mountain team is deeply saddened by the tragic death of our team member, Christian Helger. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.鈥

Before the accident, there were two days of heavy snowfall, resulting in a fresh and heavy 48 inches of snow settled around the Park City area, according to the report, and on Jan. 1, one day before Helger鈥檚 death, a tree fell on the same 鈥淪hort Cut鈥 lift. The lift was temporarily stopped while staff removed the tree.

The UOSH report also notes that lift employees came forward after the incident on their shortcomings to check for hazards before starting the lifts, and an investigation by also determined that 鈥淯tah requires lift lines to have a 5-foot clearance zone free of tree branches and all other vegetation.鈥

Despite the atrocity of life lost, this is incredibly rare and a 鈥渇reak accident,鈥 Vermont State University Professor of Mountain Resort Management Concentration Sean Doll says.

鈥淚鈥檝e asked other people, in fact, I鈥檝e asked the lawyer at the National Ski Association, and even he couldn鈥檛 come up with a case where there was a fatality with a tree falling on a rope. Personally, I can鈥檛 remember anything or conjure up anything on this ever happening and other folks who I鈥檝e talked to over time weren鈥檛 able to come up with anything either,鈥 says Doll.

Doll acknowledged that trees occasionally fall on ropes, but in most cases, the tree is brittle enough to break apart as it hits the rope. Adding that, 鈥淎s a rule, I think most ski areas trim back trees because there is a certain distance from the lift ropeway. Usually, that happens during the Summer, guys will go through and will drop trees, or they鈥檒l trim back branches. During the season, typically, it鈥檚 the patroller riding the lift who checks the surrounding area and listens in for anything weird.鈥

In this case, the tree was not brittle or dying. The OSHA report states the tree was healthy, and Doll suggests that because of this the tree probably wouldn鈥檛 have been on the summer trim list.

鈥淚f there鈥檚 any logic behind this tree falling, that [heavy wet snow] would be it,鈥 he says.

With heavy snowfall in the West, some skiers may be worried about the likelihood of a similar accident. However, Doll suggests otherwise.

鈥淚 don鈥檛 think people should be worried about getting on a lift.鈥 Adding that there are so many 鈥渃hecks and balances that go into making a lift run for the season with regards to lift inspections and everything else, I don鈥檛 think people need to worry about that.鈥

After the incident, the shortcut lift was closed for the rest of the season.

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The Best Food and Wine Festivals to Plan Your Ski Trip Around /adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/winter-food-and-wine-festivals/ Thu, 12 Jan 2023 11:00:16 +0000 /?p=2617335 The Best Food and Wine Festivals to Plan Your Ski Trip Around

From beer events to wine f锚tes, and pretty much everything in between, these celebrations will fill your cup (and plate)

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The Best Food and Wine Festivals to Plan Your Ski Trip Around

How to make a day on the slopes even more perfect? Pair it with a wintry festival, and let the fun continue long after apr猫s. From beer events to wine f锚tes and pretty much everything in between, these celebrations will fill your cup (and plate). Plus, you might nab a few celebrity chefs鈥 autographs along the way.

Check back. We鈥檒l update this list if dates change or new information arises.

Taos Winter Wine Festival, Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico

January 26-29, 2023

The 35th Annual is a three-day weekend highlighting Taos鈥 culinary artistry and wines from around the world. Look for a reserve tasting, chef luncheons, apr猫s-ski tastings, wine dinners, and more.

Beaver Creek鈥檚 Winter Culinary Weekend, Beaver Creek, Colorado

February 2-5, 2023

The of food and wine will celebrate Beaver Creek鈥檚 many luxurious culinary experiences with cooking demos, innovative wine and spirits events, and gourmet wine-pairing dinners.

Jackson Hole Food and Wine Winter Fest, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

March 2-4, 2023

As if a three-day trip to Jackson wasn鈥檛 already magical, with the you can add a caviar-and-champagne tasting, a grand tasting, wine dinners, and cooking classes to your ski day lineup.

Taste of Vail, Vail, Colorado

April 5-8, 2023

Seminars, wine tastings, and apr猫s sip sessions populate the long weekend but the banner event鈥擳he Mountain Top Picnic鈥攊s legendary. Take the gondola up or ski over to Eagle鈥檚 Nest, and taste to your heart鈥檚 content.

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