Winter Activities
Experience the magic of Vail—a winter wonderland like no other. The Vail Valley offers a wide variety of performances, activities, and events for all ages. For information, visit the events calendar.
Outdoor Adventures
Skiing at Vail
Adventure Ridge
By taking the Lionshead Gondola (rides are free after 2 p.m.), you can access a winter playground for all ages. There are a number of exciting activities that will delight adults and children alike, including kid's snowmobiling, snowshoeing, snow biking, tubing, and more. Learn more about adventure ridge >>
Skiing and Snowboarding
With 33 chairlifts and over 5,200 acres of terrain, located just steps from our back door, it's no wonder that Vail is North America's #1 ski resort.
Dog Sledding
Many have watched this activity on TV, but the real thing is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A sled pulled by a team of dogs will take you through the breathtaking scenery of the national forest. Tours last about four hours and include a snack while you're on the trail. Transportation to and from the lodge is provided.
Snowmobiling
There are numerous snowmobile tours offered by local guides who can show you the White River National Forest from a whole new perspective. Tours last from one to six hours, and transportation and gear are provided. For the more experienced rider, unguided snowmobile rentals are also available.
Snowshoeing
By strapping a couple of state-of-the-art snowshoes to your feet, you can enjoy the mountain day and night without skis or a snowboard. The Vail Nordic Center offers snowshoe rentals and guided tours. The Lodge at Vail can also arrange independent guides that operate in the White River National Forest and provide transportation to and from the lodge. For more information, please contact our concierge.
Hot-Air Ballooning
Skim the tree tops for a bird's-eye view of the spectacular, snowcapped Colorado Rocky Mountains. For the best views, depart around 6:00 a.m. and watch the sun rise above the peaks.
Backcountry Skiing
There are numerous independent guides that offer telemark and cross-country trips into the national forest. Transportation to and from the lodge is provided.
Cross-country Skiing
The Vail Nordic Center maintains a groomed track and offers cross-country equipment rentals. 
The True West
Four Eagle Ranch, a local working ranch, offers horseback riding, nightly Western-style sleigh rides, and dinners.
Sleigh Rides
Enjoy an evening sleigh ride with the entire family and, if you like, have a wonderful dinner provided, as well.
Snow Cat Tours
Sign up for a Snow Cat tour and experience great nature and wildlife viewing. Tours are offered by local companies, and transportation to and from the lodge is included.
Sledding
Meadow Mountain, a fifteen-minute drive west of Vail, is the local sledding hot spot!
Indoor Adventures
Tennis
Outdoor and indoor tennis courts are available nearby.
Ice Skating
Indoor and outdoor ice skating are available daily, weather permitting.
Museums and Theaters
The Ski Museum
Take a peek at the history of alpine skiing and snowboarding. Learn about the people who made it all happen! The Colorado Ski Museum is located in the Vail Transportation Center. (Donations accepted.)
