Resources & References: Vail Valley

Digital Tools

Useful Apps for the Destination

Vail App
Official resort app for lift status, trail maps, and grooming reports.
Vail Transit App
Real-time bus tracking and schedules for the free in-town system.
Google Maps / Apple Maps
Essential for navigation, walking directions, and public transport routing.
COtrip App
CDOT app provides real-time road conditions, closures, and traffic cameras.
VPN Service
Consider a VPN like NordVPN for secure Wi-Fi use.

Useful Websites for Planning

Vail.com / BeaverCreek.com
Official resort websites for skiing, summer activities, and lodging details.
Vail.gov
Official Town of Vail government website for local services and events.
EagleCounty.us/Transit
Official website for ECO Transit, the regional bus system.
Cotrip.org
Colorado Department of Transportation's real-time road conditions.
Recreation.gov
Use for booking national forest campgrounds and obtaining some permits.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks & Maps

General Colorado or Rocky Mountain region guidebooks often include sections on Vail. Ski trail maps are free at resorts.

Books About the Destination

Explore books related to the 10th Mountain Division, instrumental in Colorado's ski industry development.

Local Publications

The Vail Daily, a free local daily newspaper, provides an excellent source for news, events, and community information.

Emergency & Medical

Emergency Contacts & Services

All Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 911 (U.S.).
Vail Health Hospital Emergency Department: 970-479-7221.
Vail Police Department (Non-Emergency): 970-479-2200.
International travelers: Contact your country's embassy in Washington D.C.

Health & Safety Protocols

Hospital & Clinic Locations: Vail Health Hospital (180 S. Frontage Rd W, Vail). Urgent care clinics available in Vail, Avon, Edwards.
Lost Document Procedures: Report passport loss to your embassy; credit cards to your bank; file local police reports.
Natural Disaster Protocols: Follow wildfire evacuation orders; check avalanche conditions for backcountry.
Monitor severe weather forecasts; seek indoor shelter during storms.

Further Exploration

Documentaries & Films

Explore documentaries on the "10th Mountain Division" and Camp Hale.
Discover historical films about Colorado's ski resort growth.
Seek narratives detailing the region's pioneering spirit.
View content demonstrating Vail's scenic landscapes.

Music & Art

Explore local Colorado artists in Vail's various galleries.
Attend classical music concerts at the Bravo! Vail Music Festival.
Experience diverse performances at the Vilar Performing Arts Center.
Look for local live music schedules in Vail Village.

Online Communities & Learning

Join online communities like r/vail or r/coloradoski on Reddit.
Engage with Facebook groups for Colorado visitors and locals.
Access Babbel for language learning relevant to other destinations.
Connect with fellow travelers for tips and recommendations.

Safety & Guidelines

Ski Safety Principles

Personal Control

Maintain control of your speed and direction at all times.
Ski within your ability level and acknowledge trail conditions.
Be aware of people and obstacles around you.
Adjust your speed to avoid contact with others.

Right-of-Way Rules

The person downhill has the right of way.
It is the uphill skier's responsibility to avoid the skier below.
Look uphill and yield to others before starting downhill or merging.
Do not stop in congested areas or where visibility is limited.

Equipment & Signs

Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet.
Read and obey all signs and warnings on the mountain.
Do not enter closed areas or backcountry without proper training and equipment.
Report any incidents or hazards to resort staff immediately.

Summer Adventure Highlights

Mountain Biking & Hiking

Explore extensive mountain biking trails for all levels.
Discover scenic hiking paths with breathtaking alpine views.
Trail maps are readily available at visitor centers.

Family Fun at Epic Discovery

Experience the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster.
Try adventure ropes courses and climbing walls.
Nature activities and educational programs for all ages.

Winter Wonders & Activities

Skiing & Snowboarding

Access world-class ski terrain at Vail and Beaver Creek.
Enjoy impeccably groomed runs and expansive back bowls.
Modern lift systems reduce wait times for more ski time.

Beyond the Slopes Fun

Experience exhilarating tubing hills suitable for families.
Skate on picturesque outdoor ice rinks in both villages.
Take a cozy sleigh ride through snowy landscapes.

Family-Friendly Excursions

Outdoor Explorations

Go on a guided nature walk to learn about local flora and fauna.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Eagle Valley Trail.
Spend an afternoon fishing in a calm mountain stream.
Visit a local park for playgrounds and open spaces.
Try disc golf for a fun, outdoor family challenge.

Indoor Fun Options

Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum for an engaging historical overview.
Explore the Vail Public Library for children's programs and story time.
Enjoy a family movie night at a local theater.
Discover indoor climbing gyms for active fun.
Browse the unique shops and art galleries in Vail Village.

Iconic Photo Opportunities

Vail Village Arch

Capture the quintessential entrance to Vail's charming European-inspired village.

Mid-Vail Scenic Point

Ride the Gondola One for panoramic views of the Gore Range and Vail's expansive terrain.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Photograph the stunning botanical displays against a mountain backdrop.

Important Safety Note

Always monitor local weather forecasts, especially in winter. Road conditions on I-70 can change rapidly during snowstorms. Check Cotrip.org for updates.

Local Community & Culture

Vail's Heritage

Founding Story

10th Mountain Division Roots
Vail's origin traces back to World War II ski troopers.
Pete Seibert's Vision
A veteran of the 10th, Seibert envisioned a world-class ski resort.
Opened in 1962
Vail welcomed its first skiers in the early 1960s.

Architectural Style

Bavarian-Inspired Design
Vail Village features distinct European alpine architecture.
Pedestrian-Friendly Layout
The village design prioritizes walking and open spaces.
Architectural Consistency
Strict design guidelines maintain the village's unique character.

Local Lifestyle

Outdoor Enthusiasm

A strong passion for outdoor activities defines the local rhythm.

Community Spirit

Vail fosters a close-knit and welcoming community atmosphere.

Environmental Respect

There exists a collective dedication to preserving the natural environment.

Dining & Après-Ski

Culinary Scene

Vail offers a diverse range of dining options from casual to fine dining.
Enjoy international cuisines and local Colorado flavors.
Many establishments focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available.

Après-Ski

Après-ski culture is a cherished tradition after a day on the slopes.
Live music and lively atmospheres are common at many bars and restaurants.
Seek out happy hour specials for discounted drinks and appetizers.
Enjoy mountain views from many outdoor patios and decks.

Shopping & Boutiques

Luxury & Specialty Shops

Discover high-end fashion boutiques and jewelry stores.
Find premier ski and snowboard gear from leading brands.
Specialty shops for outdoor adventure equipment are abundant.
Browse unique home goods and decor stores.

Local Crafts & Souvenirs

Explore local art galleries featuring Colorado-inspired works.
Find handcrafted souvenirs and gifts unique to the region.
Taste local gourmet foods and artisanal products.
Purchase Vail-branded apparel and accessories.

Resources & References