Endless Recreation
Winter Fun and Adventures in Vail
Vail is a true winter wonderland, making it one of the top destinations for a Colorado winter vacation. With an impressive average of 350 inches of snowfall annually and over 300 days of sunshine, Vail offers the perfect balance of powder and bluebird days. Whether you're planning a family trip, romantic escape, or group getaway, there’s no shortage of Vail winter activities to enjoy.
Explore the legendary slopes of Vail Mountain for world-class skiing and snowboarding, or try something new like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, or dog sledding. Looking for more winter fun? Ice skating, Nordic skiing, and cozy après-ski spots make Vail an unforgettable cold-weather destination.
Things to do in Vail extend beyond the slopes. Visitors can enjoy guided snowshoe tours, scenic sleigh rides, and lively winter events throughout the season. Daytime temperatures typically range from the teens to 30s, with abundant Rocky Mountain sunshine—so don’t forget your sunscreen. Nights are colder, often dipping below 30°F, so be sure to bundle up for evening adventures.
Ready to plan your perfect winter getaway? Check out Vail’s event calendar here for seasonal highlights and happenings.
Connect with our Concierge to book your Vail Activities
Skiing & Snowboarding in Vail
Vail, Colorado is the premier ski resort in North America, consistently ranked among the best for both skiing and snowboarding. Spanning more than 5,200 acres and over seven miles wide, Vail Mountain offers unmatched terrain, fast high-speed lifts, and legendary powder days—making it a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts.
Vail skiing is world-renowned, offering over 195 groomed trails for all ability levels, from wide beginner runs to steep, expertly maintained slopes. What truly sets Vail apart is its legendary Back Bowls—over 3,000 acres of open, powder-filled terrain that provide a one-of-a-kind experience for advanced skiers and riders. Combined with the rugged terrain of Blue Sky Basin, Vail delivers a skiing experience unlike any other in Colorado.
Whether you're cruising perfectly groomed corduroy or dropping into deep powder in the Back Bowls, Vail winter sports offer unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Vail Spa guests receive a discount at Charter Sports, a short walk on your way to the ski slopes.
Click to reserve your gear or call 888-295-9797
Snowshoe & Cross Country Skiing
Need a break from the lifts? Discover the quieter side of winter with unforgettable Vail winter activities off the slopes. Embark on a backcountry snowshoe or cross-country ski tour in White River National Forest, where peaceful trails and stunning scenery create a one-of-a-kind Colorado experience.
Want to challenge yourself and learn something new? Try a Telemark lesson—free your heel and explore the mountain in a whole new way. Vail offers a variety of small group, private, and workshop-style instruction with half- and full-day options to improve your skills and confidence on the snow.
For a fun and educational outing for all ability levels, snowshoeing in Vail is a must. Knowledgeable local guides lead tours through the surrounding wilderness, sharing insights into Colorado's history, wildlife, and natural beauty. Most snowshoe tours include gear such as boots (adult sizes), snowshoes, and poles.
Ask your Vail Spa concierge for details, schedules, and rates—your next off-mountain adventure is waiting!
Vail Ski & Snowboard School
The Vail Ski and Snowboard School is consistently ranked among the top 10 ski schools in the U.S.—and for good reason. With expert instructors and a wide variety of programs, it’s the perfect place to build confidence, improve technique, and get more out of your Vail winter vacation.
Whether you're a first-timer or looking to refine your skills, the school offers ski and snowboard lessons in Vail for all ages and abilities. Choose from private instruction, group lessons, or full-day programs tailored to your goals. Vail’s instructors focus on making the learning process both fun and effective, creating a memorable experience for every participant.
If you're looking to learn to ski in Vail or take your riding to the next level, the Vail Ski & Snowboard School is the perfect place to start.
Ask your Vail Spa concierge for lesson schedules, rates, and personalized recommendations.
Snowmobiling
Looking for a thrilling way to experience the mountains beyond the ski slopes? Snowmobiling in Vail is a must-try winter activity for all ages and experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned rider or brand new to the sport, snowmobile tours offer an unforgettable journey through Vail’s scenic backcountry.
With miles of groomed trails and open terrain, snowmobile excursions let you escape the crowds and take in panoramic views of Colorado’s winter landscape. Choose from mini, half-day, or full-day guided adventures—or opt for an unguided rental if you’re ready to explore on your own. It’s one of the best family winter activities in Vail and a fun way to make lifelong memories.
Ask your Vail Spa concierge for current snowmobile tour rates, schedules, and availability.
Nature Discovery Center
Located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead you'll find winter fun (and learning!) with activities that will appeal to the whole family.
The Nature Discovery Center is open Wednesday - Saturday 10am-3:30pm. Learn about the natural world surrounding Vail. Free for all ages.
Free Naturalist Guided Snowshoe Tours
Travel by snowshoes on an educational tour through the forests atop Vail Mountain. Come prepared to spend an hour and a half outside in the winter weather with snow pants, warm hats, gloves, sunglasses and sturdy boots. Snowshoes are provided. Ages 10 and up. Registration required at walkingmountains.org
Ask your Vail Spa concierge for rates, schedules and details!
And So Much More
Ice Skating
Visit the outdoor skating rink surrounded by glowing firepits at Vail Square in Lionshead Village. Dobson Ice Arena offers indoor skating year-round.
Sleigh Rides
4-Eagle Ranch in Wolcott offers a variety of sleigh rides that will be sure to create lasting memories. Sleigh ride dinners allow your family to experience Colorado the way it used to be! Crisp mountain air, clear night skies, and a warm mug of cider by the fireplace await you. Private sleigh rides also available.
Bearcat Stables
Located 20 minutes west of Vail in the Squaw Creek Valley of Cordillera, Bearcat Stables invites you to enjoy the pristine Rocky Mountains on one of their beautiful sleigh rides. Enjoy a hot drink and the sound of sleigh bells as you ride under the night sky. Finish the sleigh ride with a cozy fireside dinner in their original homesteader cabin! Shorter and private sleigh rides are also available.
Dog Sledding
A dog sledding tour is a family favorite allowing you to break away from the crowds and travel through untouched meadows and forests of Aspen and Pine.