Vail is one of the biggest names in skiing, and one of the biggest mountains in the US. It has more than 5,000 acres of skiing, from the long, perfectly groomed runs of the front side to the vast open Back Bowls and the wild, gladed terrain of Blue Sky Basin. At the bottom, Vail Village is a car-free, Alpine-style resort built in the 1960s by veterans of the 10th Mountain Division, who had trained on skis nearby during the Second World War.
Vail at a glance
- Location: Eagle County, on I-70, about 120 miles from Denver airport
- Terrain: More than 5,000 acres, including the Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin
- Best for: Intermediates and experts, powder days, a car-free village
- Lift passes: Epic Pass
- 2026/27 season: Due to open 13 November 2026
- Nearest airport: Eagle County, about 35 miles
What’s New for 2026/27
Vail Mountain is due to open on 13 November 2026, conditions permitting. This winter it is adding new venues and artists to its pop-up music programme, and Vail Resorts is investing in better on-mountain food across its resorts and a new Epic Ascent concierge service for private lessons.
The Skiing
The front side is where most people start, with miles of well-groomed blue runs and some fine bump skiing. But Vail’s reputation rests on the Back Bowls, seven huge, open bowls on the far side of the mountain that are at their best after a fresh snowfall. Beyond them, Blue Sky Basin has a backcountry feel, with natural glades and cornices. Beginners are well looked after too, with dedicated learning areas at the top of the mountain, where the snow and the views are best.
Off the Slopes
Vail Village and Lionshead are packed with restaurants, bars and shops, from pizza and burgers to some of the best dining in the Rockies. It is not a cheap place to stay, but it is very easy to enjoy, and free buses link the villages.
Lift Passes
Vail is on the Epic Pass, along with Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Crested Butte. Walk-up lift tickets are among the most expensive in the world, so buying a pass or an Epic Day Pass in advance is strongly recommended.
Getting There
Eagle County Airport, about 35 miles west, has connecting flights from US hubs. From Denver International Airport, Vail is around 120 miles and two and a half hours by road via I-70. Beaver Creek is 15 minutes away.
For more information visit vail.com.
Vail: Your Questions Answered
When does Vail open for 2026/27?
Vail Mountain is due to open on 13 November 2026, subject to conditions.
What are Vail’s Back Bowls?
The Back Bowls are seven vast, open bowls on the far side of Vail Mountain, famous for their powder skiing after a storm. They are best suited to confident intermediates and experts.
Is Vail good for beginners?
Yes. Vail has dedicated learning areas, including some at the top of the mountain, and a large ski school, although it is best known for its intermediate and advanced terrain.
What is the nearest airport to Vail?
Eagle County Airport is about 35 miles from Vail. Denver International Airport is around 120 miles away, roughly two and a half hours by road.