Vail Attractions
By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Rockies.com
Vail is a winter paradise high in the Rocky Mountains that was created by and for skiiers, but has since evolved to be a year-round tourist destination.
Golfing with the guys during early fall in Vail. (Matt Inden/Weaver Multimedia Group/Colorado Tourism Office)
If you go in the winter you will have the privilege to ski on some of the best terrain in the world at Vail Mountain Ski Resort. Covering 5,289 acres, you’ll probably want to buy a season pass to explore the 193 marked trails.
Ski Vail’s front face, Blue Sky Basin and the seven back bowls: Sun Down Bowl, Sun Up Bowl, Teacup Bowl, China Bowl, Siberia Bowl, Inner Mongolia Bowl and Outer Mongolia Bowl.
If you can tear yourself off the slopes, this Colorado Rockies destination is also the perfect place to cross-country ski, ice skate, sled, ski bike, snow tube, snowmobile and get in a snowball fight at Adventure Ridge! After all this outdoor winter activity, a dip in the hot tub with your sweetie or a trip to the spa for a rejuvenating hot stone massage is the perfect way to end the day with rosy cheeks.
Summertime shows a different side of Vail, one that rivals its world-famous winters. Adventurers flock here to hike the breathtaking trails, mountain bike, horseback ride, rock climb, kayak, zip-line, paraglide and even whitewater raft in the area. Fishing, golfing and hot air balloon rides are perfect low-key options to balance your vacation.
If you rent a car, drive the dirt road up to Piney Lake to paddle around. Another beautiful drive is over Shrine Pass to Redcliff. Both roads are not paved, but the wildflowers alone are enough of a reason to explore the area, be it via jeep, horseback or mountain bike!
Winter or summer, a recommended activity is to ride the gondola up the mountain. During winter, the beautiful ride is free in the evenings after the slopes close. In the summer get a ride up and then bike down or walk up and get a free ride down!
This mountain haven has a lot to offer culture-lovers as well. The annual Vail Film Fest draws celebrities and cinephiles alike and their 4th of July extravaganza will have you coming back year after year.
Their yearly food and wine festival is a great way to acquaint your self with the local world-class cuisine in the top-notch restaurants.
Colorado Rafting: This company offers rafting trips of all levels. They have seven outposts and rafting on five different rivers in the state- (the Arkansas River, Clear Creek, Eagle River, Blue River, Dolores River, Animas River and the mighty Colorado River). Their expert guides have an average of eight years of experience, so relax, climb onboard and get ready to have some fun!
Hot Air Balloon Rides: Some of the highest hot air ballooning in the country! All flights are accompanied by classical music. Champagne toasts, breakfast, and a DVD pictorial of your flight also come standard with Colorado Hot Air Balloon Rides. Let their expert pilots show you the beauty of Colorado- from above! The 100-mile views will take your breath away!
Colorado River Guides: See the beauty of Colorado on a rafting trip! This “mom & pop” company is small, family owned, and takes your safety seriously. Let them plan a guided trip whitewater rafting, horseback riding or fly fishing in remote areas of the state. A vacation the whole family will love- and never forget!
Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting: This Colorado rafting company has river trips for every age and ability. With outfits all over Colorado, they pride them selves on having the best equipment and best service in the industry, so you’ll be in good hands. Let their enthusiastic and professional employees guide you through the best outdoor experience possible! From family-friendly floats to Class-V rapids, Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting has the perfect trip for you!
[...] resort has to offer, everyone should visit at least once in his or her life. Although, with all the Vail attractions, like world-class skiing, hiking, rock climbing and golfing, you’ll probably want to keep coming [...]
[...] possible that there are more Vail attractions than residents! And they are ready to play host, with a wide range of Vail lodging options, there [...]