Vail
Vail Ski Holidays
Vail is one of the most iconic ski resorts in North America, offering expansive terrain, consistent snowfall, and an upscale alpine village atmosphere. With over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain and more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Vail delivers unforgettable days on the mountain and equally memorable après moments off it. The resort is part of the Epic Pass network, making it a favourite for Australians chasing a seamless snow holiday.
Where is Vail?
Vail is located in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, about two hours from of Denver.
From Australia, fly into Los Angeles, Dallas or San Francisco, then connect to Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), which is just 40 minutes from Vail. Alternatively, fly into Denver International Airport (DEN) and take a shuttle, private transfer or hire car for the scenic drive to the resort. Epic Mountain Express offers convenient shared and private transfer options from both airports.
Where to Stay in Vail?
Vail is made up of two main base areas:
Vail Village: The heart of the action, home to cobblestone streets, boutique shopping, fine dining and nightlife.
Lionshead Village: Just a short walk or bus ride from Vail Village, this area offers family-friendly vibes, ski school access and modern amenities.
Best value hotels in Vail?
Antlers at Vail (Lionshead Village): Spacious condo-style accommodation with full kitchens, fireplaces, and a heated outdoor pool. Ideal for families and groups seeking convenience and value.
Lionshead Lodge (Lionshead Village): A well-located lodge offering easy access to Eagle Bahn Gondola, ski rentals, and dining at a competitive price.
Best luxury hotels in Vail?
The Sebastian – Vail (Vail Village): Boutique-style five-star hotel offering a luxe spa, outdoor heated pool, and curated mountain décor. The Sebastian has large Rooms, a great breakfast and on-site amenities, like ski concierge and shuttle.
The Lion Vail (Lionshead Village): High-end condo residences with beautiful mountain views, ski concierge service, indoor pool and fitness centre.
The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort (Lionshead Village): Sleek, ski-in/ski-out resort with gourmet dining, fireside lounges, and full-service spa.
Best family hotels in Vail?
Grand Hyatt Vail (West Vail): Nestled at the base of Cascade Village lift, this ski-in, ski-out hotel features elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and direct lift access. The kids' programs, and extra amenities like virtual golf, plus it’s spacious suites make it great for family stays.
Manor Vail Lodge Vail Village): Spacious condo-style apartments with full kitchens and separate living areas, just steps from Gondola One and a short walk to Vail Village, it offers easy access to ski school, rentals and dining. Families love the heated pools, hot tubs, complimentary buffet breakfast and après-ski treats like cookies and hot chocolate. With friendly service and units that sleep up to eight, it’s a convenient and great-value option for family ski holidays.
Our Team’s Top hotel in Vail:
Loz: The Arrabelle was in an awesome location, really easy access to the slopes, and ice rink and dining.
Emily A: My favourite hotel was the The Hythe Vail, I felt "at home", there were multiple dining and bar options, and the rooms are a statement!
Jono: The Lion Vail was an awesome luxury hotel, great location, spacious rooms and awesome facilities, like lounges, entertainment rooms, and a children's arts and game room, great to have space to let off space indoors.
Where to Ski in Vail?
One of the largest resorts in the US, Vail’s terrain is diverse, expansive and the lift system is world-class! With 193 marked runs, 32 lifts and 5,300+ acres of terrain, Vail offers something for every skier and snowboarder. Terrain parks and night skiing add even more to the experience.
Beginner (18%): Gopher Hill and the area near Eagle Bahn Gondola offer wide, gentle trails perfect for first-timers.
Intermediate (29%): Cruise through Game Creek Bowl or enjoy scenic runs like Avanti and Ramshorn.
Advanced & Expert (53%): The legendary Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin provide powder-filled tree skiing, steeps, and natural features.
Our teams fave runs in Vail:
Emily P: We had an incredible guide, which was awesome to help navigate Vail's Back Bowls, which cover 3,000 acres! Having someone show you the best spots and how to make the most of your day was the best way to get max mountain time.
Loz: The beginner terrain in Vail is awesome, often mountains put beginners at the bottom, in Vail you go up the mountain, so you still get iconic views, and the more experienced riders don't need to dodge you, as they have so many more options!
Is Vail good for non-skiers?
Vail is ideal for non-skiers too, top winter activities include:
• Snowshoeing
• Ice skating in Vail Village and Lionshead
• Indulgent day spas and wellness centres
• Boutique shopping, like iconic Kemo Sabe
• Art Galleries
• Snowmobile Tours
• Fireside après spots with live music
• Gourmet dining
Vail FAQs
How do I get to Vail from Australia?
Fly from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane to Los Angeles, Dallas or San Francisco, then connect to Eagle Airport (EGE) or Denver (DEN). Transfer services to Vail are readily available.
Is Vail part of the Epic Pass?
Yes, Vail is on the Epic Pass. It offers flexible access to Vail and other top resorts around the world.
Is Vail suitable for first-time skiers?
Absolutely. There are dedicated beginner areas and top-rated ski school programs. 18% of the terrain in Vail is suitable for beginners, start the day on the Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19) up to Eagle’s Nest, there is an amazing view and there is a great area (Practice Parkway) to get your first few runs in. There are other great areas, and Vail has some cruisy, wide blues to help with progression.
Which part of Vail is best to stay in?
Stay in Vail Village for atmosphere and nightlife, or Lionshead Village for families and convenient lift access.
What’s the snow like in Vail?
Vail averages over 8.5 metres of snow annually and enjoys reliable powder and bluebird days.
What's the weather like in Vail during winter?
Vail see's average highs of 8°c down to -10°c so it's important to pack layers, but Colorado is know for boasting over 300 days of sunshine each year, so bluebird days are common. Vail averages almost 70 days of snowfall and about 7m of snow.
What's the best time to visit Vail?
Ski Season runs November - April, the most popular time to travel is from late-December to March, if you want to avoid the crowds, try to avoid peak holiday dates like Christmas and NYE and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Presidents' Day weekends.
Are there things to do in Vail if I don’t ski?
Yes, Vail has world-class shopping, dining, spas, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cultural events all winter long.
TL;DR Vail
Vail is North America’s largest single ski mountain, offering premium terrain, epic snowfall, and upscale village life. Stay in Vail Village for European-style charm or Lionshead for families and easy lift access. With over 5,300 acres of terrain, luxurious hotels like The Sebastian, The Lion, and Grand Hyatt, and plenty of off-mountain activities, Vail delivers a high-end snow holiday perfect for Australians. Access it via Eagle or Denver airports and use your Epic Pass for ultimate convenience.
