The town of Vail was not just established at the base of Vail Ski Resort, it is also home to the second largest single ski mountain in North America. Thus, plenty of winter sports activities await visitors who are planning a stay at a Vail Mountain lodge.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Hit the slopes and enjoy 5,289 acres of free ride terrain. Vail Mountain has 4 terrain parks - Aviator, Flight School, Fly Zone and Sky Way; 33 lifts; and 193 conventional trails on 3 faces - the front side, the back bowls and Blue Sky Basin. There are 7 astounding back bowls: China Bowl, Inner Mongolia Bowl, Outer Mongolia Bowl, Siberia Bowl, Teacup Bowl, Sun Down Bowl and Sun Up Bowl. With these features, there is something for everyone. Beginners can take skiing lessons at the Vail or Beaver Creek Ski and Snowboard School.
Afterward, après in Garfinkels in LionsHead where a large patio deck awaits you. Another spot with après festivities is Vendetta's Restaurant on Village's Bridge Street. Enjoy hot pizza and have a drink or two before returning to one of the Vail lodges you're renting.
Snowshoeing
If you'd like a break from the slopes and would like to try something different, explore Vail Mountain on snowshoes. Visit the Nordic Sports Center in Golden Peak and sign up for a backcountry snowshoe tour in the White River National Forest. Aside from providing you with the necessary gear and how-to's, they have group leaders who will guide you through the wilderness and share about the area's history, natural wonders and wildlife.
Ski Biking
Ski what? Part skis, part bike, ski biking is a winter activity you should try if you're up for something new. Adventure Ridge offers nighttime ski biking guided tours for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders age 14 and up. For $65 per person, enjoy 2 hours of ski biking on Vail Mountain.
Tubing
Go to Adventure Ridge on Eagle's Nest and experience kid friendly outdoor fun by going tubing. It's easy: get a tube, hop on a lift and have a rip-roaring time. For $25 per person, take advantage of their slippery slope with multi-lanes, music, long runs and a dedicated lift. Note that tubers must be 36 inches or taller and children age 5 and under must be with an adult.
Snowmobiling
Some of the best snowmobiling in Colorado is offered by Piney River Adventures, which is close to both Vail and Beaver Creek. Go on a snowmobiling tour that starts at the base of Red Sandstone Road and winds through wilderness trails. Children can go snowmobiling, too, at Blizzard Speedway in Adventure Ridge. They have specially designed mini-snowmobiles for kids age 6 to 12 who weigh less than 110 pounds.
Ice Skating
Those who have their own skates can skate for free at Nottingham Lake at the heart of Avon, located ten miles west of Vail. If you forgot to bring your skates with you, there are ice skate rentals for both adults and children at the log cabin. There are benches available when you need to change.
Have a winter adventure in Vail. Vamoose.com features an extensive list of mountain lodges in the area to help you compare prices and amenities.