VAIL Like nothing on earth.™

5 Tips to the Ultimate Ski Trip

Vacations can be stressful, especially when you’re the one doing all the planning. Rather than spending your time worrying about the details, read these tips for the ultimate ski trip ahead of time and you’ll be ready to kick back and enjoy your time on the slopes.

1. Make a game plan before getting on the mountain

Vail Mountain spans 5,289 acres, and while that makes for a lot of enjoyment to be had, it can be overwhelming to explore. We’ve taken the legwork out of planning your day on the mountain with three all-encompassing trail guides. Based on your skill level, these guides enable you to focus on making memories and racking up vertical feet – sans any stress.

Explore Vail’s Trail Guides as a Beginner, Intermediate or Expert

2. Build in time to relax

One of the most relaxing parts of a trip to Vail is often during your time enjoyed off the mountain. From the hot tub to après, those hours spent reminiscing about your day are sacred. Unwind and recharge as you stroll through Vail Village, exploring the endless array of shopping and dining. Or take relaxation to the next level with a visit to one of the many world-class spas in Vail. Building in time to relax and resting your weary legs after a long day on the slopes is a must for a busy, active ski trip.

Dive into Relaxation

3. Follow Vail’s handy “Don’t Forget!” packing checklist

Worried you’ll forget something crucial while packing for your ski trip? This checklist has you covered. If you do happen to forget anything, the shops in Vail Village offer more than you could ever need. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Check with your front desk agents at one of Vail’s incredible lodging properties. Our superior hospitality and world-class amenities will take care of you, no matter what you need!

SKI EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING

Pro tip: Make sure to hang your equipment to dry after a day on the snow. There’s nothing worse than putting on a wet pair of ski socks or gloves!

• Ski helmet and goggles – When picking out your gear, make sure your goggles fit to the brim of your helmet so there isn’t a gap where snow and cold air can seep in. Your forehead will thank you.
• Skis/snowboard, boots, poles – Whether you rent or bring your own equipment, be sure to take advantage of our complimentary and super convenient ski valets at various lodging locations.
• On and off-mountain hats and gloves.
• Neckwarmer/gator/balaclava—Nothing will chill you to the bone faster than the cool air in your face as you cruise down the ski hill. Neck warmers are a must-have for any ski trip!
• Inner synthetic layers – These are your friends! Cotton kills in Colorado. Stay dry and warm by making sure you have lots of quick-drying layers.
• Waterproof outer layers – If inner synthetic layers are your friend, waterproof outer layers are your best friend. Look for waterproof materials.
• Ski socks (non-cotton!)
• Hand and/or toe warmers

RECOMMENDED ITEMS

• Water bottle—Are you traveling from a lower altitude than Vail’s 8,120? Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate to avoid altitude sickness at elevation.
• Altitude sickness medicine – In the off chance you do get a little altitude sickness, have some headache medicine handy.
• Sunglasses – Polarized lenses are a must since Colorado boasts 300+ days of sunshine along with all that snow.
• Sunscreen and lip balm – Make sure it’s 30 SPF or higher – the sun is intense at these high elevations!
• Swimsuit—Don’t forget your suit so you can hit the hot tub and warm up after a long day playing in the snow.
• Hiking/snow boots.

4. Make it easy to link up with your ski buddies with the EpicMix App

Time flies when you’re on a run, and you and your crew may decide to divide and conquer the mountain. Keep connected with your friends and family through the EpicMix App – you can see where they are on the mountain, track each others’ vertical feet, and share accomplishments and photos with one another. You can even race against yourself, your friends and Olympic Gold Medalist Lindsey Vonn! Once you meet back up, you’ll be swapping slope stories and eyeing your next challenge.

Activate your EpicMix Account

5. Revel in the awe-inspiring on-mountain views

Take time to let the beauty of our mountains wash over you. Our stunning views will catch your eye whether you’re on a catwalk or at one of our scenic overlooks. Enjoy sweeping panoramas of the Gore Range at The 10^th while warming your feet in our cozy, complimentary slippers. Gaze at the colossal fourteen-thousand-foot Mount of the Holy Cross while enjoying lunch, après, or dinner at Bistro 14 (named for the famed 14-er).

Dream about Vail’s on-mountain dining