Nestled in the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, Vail is a town that wakes up in the winter. While there are things going on there all year, in winter, when the ski resort is open, Vail is a captivating locale perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and people who want to drink hot chocolate in the shadow of snowy mountains.

Vail Village looks like it was plucked directly from Tyrol. You’ll find restaurants serving German fare, many ski and snowboard outfitters where you can rent or buy skis, and a number of entertaining shops where you can buy souvenirs or warmer clothes. Vail is cute, friendly, and ready to cater to your needs on and off the slopes. What are you waiting for?

The Rockies divide the Midwest from the West coast regions of the United States with a dramatic majesty. Tall, craggy, and often capped in snow, the Rockies are a dream vacation for many nature lovers. And in Vail, the Rockies are truly a site to behold. The Gore range stretches high here with Vail Mountain rising to a height of 3,500 feet.

Take to the mountains on horseback for a leisurely tour of mountain peaks and valleys or head to a lakeside beach to lounge in the sun. Even though Vail is famous for its mountain, there are plenty of lakes, creeks, and valleys to explore in this area as well. The region is home to abundant wildlife like black elk and mountain goats. You could even do some birding and try to spot a falcon.

Strap on some skis and hit the slopes, that’s what Vail is all about. No matter which winter sport you prefer, take a few runs downhill skiing to see what it feels like to swish down a Rocky Mountain slope. There are trails for every level here from those who have never skied before to someone ready to tackle a double black diamond trail.

Skiers and snowboarders have many opportunities to try out different trails and spend days doing nothing else. Bring your own equipment or rent it in Vail, then jump on the lift. Once you’re at the top of the mountain, you can ski trails that only come partially down or tackle the whole thing at once. The weather here is usual good, warm enough to make skiers happy, and cool enough to keep a good snow pack.

In the summer, the gondola at Vail Mountain remains open and ski trails become mountain biking trails. Or hike Vail Mountain. You could ride the gondola one-way if you like (it’s free on the way down) or hike both. Many trails have good scenic lookouts and there is a small restaurant at the top where you can refuel before or after your hike.

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