Ski Vail, Colorado

Vail is BIG, real BIG!

It's the largest single ski resort in North America with an incredible 5,289 acres of skiable terrain, seven bowls, and three terrain parks. The mountain summit is 11,570 feet high, the base sits at 8,120 feet, with an overall 3,450 foot vertical drop. The area's 193 trails are serviced by 31 lifts and receive 350 inches of annual snowfall.

The terrain is weighted towards expert/advanced skiers and snowboarders with 53% of the terrain rated expert, 29% intermediate, and 18% beginner.

The purpose built village of Vail offers world-class accommodations from the top end of luxury to practical condominiums. It's very European in design, cozy, without cars, has cobble stone streets, and very much an international destination. Especially nice is The Lodge at Vail, by Rock Resorts. The lodge sits at the base area of Vail, is within walking distance to the lifts, and features a rustic elegance within luxury accommodations and amenities.

Dining options run the gamut from elegant fine dining, to quick cafes, and everything in-between. But, be prepared to spend a lot on food. A simple breakfast for two can easily run $50.

Vail offers many more spa alternatives than other ski resorts in the area, with the exception of Beaver Creek, which is a short 15 minute drive west on I-70. Some high end spas include Arrabelle's Rock Resorts Spa, The Lodge at Vail, The Golden Leaf Spa at Marriott Mountain Lodge & Spa, Aria Spa and Club at Cascade, Sonnenalp Resort and Spa, Vail Mountain Lodge and Spa, The Lodge and Spa at Cordillera, and Heaven Massage and Spa.

The nightlife in Vail is lively and concentrated in a 1 1/2-block stretch of Bridge Street from Hanson Ranch Road north to the covered bridge over Gore Creek.

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