Vail Winter 2024 – 2025: What to Know!

As the 2024-2025 ski season kicks off in Vail, the iconic resort is already offering winter enthusiasts a spectacular start with fantastic early-season snow and pristine conditions across its slopes. Whether you’re hitting the powder for the first time or returning to your favorite runs, Vail’s legendary terrain is ready to impress. Beyond the mountain, the village is brimming with festive cheer, from dazzling holiday events the inaugural year of the magical Ice Castles in nearby Eagle, where towering sculptures and shimmering light displays create a winter wonderland. Whether you’re here for the skiing, the celebrations, or simply the magical atmosphere, Vail promises an unforgettable season ahead.

This ski season I am actually celebrating my 24th ski season here in Vail, Colorado. I am as excited as ever to be here. You may be coming for skiing. But wondering what there is to do during a Vail winter other than just ski. While most people come to Vail for the skiing, there are plenty of other exciting things to do in Vail in the winter.

Vail Mountain Winter 2024 – 2025

Vail Resorts opened the ski mountain on November 15th. By the end of the month the mountain had received 84″ of snow and opened almost half of the mountain including Game Creek Bowl. Those are pretty incredible early season ski conditions.

The resort’s focus on its core product of skiing does mean that Adventure Ridge will not open again this winter. But with plentiful snow, there’s sledding throughout the valley. And, Sage Outdoor Adventures is operating a snow tubing hill in Eagle.

Visitors should still plan on making reservations for almost everything in advance. And, though reservations aren’t needed or available for skiing. Guests will want to have purchased ski passes in advance. Vail Resorts does cut off ski pass sales December 2nd, and will limit lift ticket sales.

Guests would still be wise to reserve ski and snowboard rentals in advance to avoid having to make appointments. Lessons will need to be booked in advance and may continue to not be as available for younger aged children simply due to staffing.

Town of Vail Winter 2024 – 2025

The town of Vail offers an array of fun winter events.

Vail Apres brings a festive lineup of events to the village, including silent discos, art workshops, ice skating performances, and the dazzling tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy live music, seasonal activities, and more as the village comes to life. The charming Kringle Crossing holiday village returns. Here you can stroll through twinkling lights, and bring the kids to Smile with Santa for a magical meet-and-greet with the jolly man himself.

Concerts and parades are also regular occurrences throughout the winter season.

What Else to Do in the Winter in Vail

There are plenty of things to do in Vail in addition to skiing. Maybe this winter you will try out some new activities and expand your comfort zone.

Ice Skating

There are two charming outdoor ice skating rinks in Vail. Strap on a pair of skates and glide around the ice. Or, laugh at your parents trying to skate. Either way it will be fun.

Sledding Fun

Either purchase an inexpensive sled, or get a loaner from your hotel. Head out to a local Vail sledding hill for some fast fun. This is a great way to wear the kids out. Wrap up with hot cocoa to warm back up afterwards.

Pools & Hot Tubs

Vail hotels offer warm pools and hot tubs perfect for relaxing after a day of chilly winter adventure. You may not think of swimming in the snow as fun. But it is. Especially if there is a great hot tub to wrap up in.

Nordic Skiing

Get your heart pumping and take in the majestic views of the Gore Range with a snowshoe or nordic ski outing at the Vail Nordic Center. Then enjoy a light lunch (or take out lunch) after at the recently renovated Vail Golf & Nordic Clubhouse.

Dog Sledding

Go dog sledding. This will require a short drive out of Vail. But it is a one of a kind winter experience. There is an outfitter in Leadville, and a couple of others in Grand County.

Snowmobiling

There are several guide companies based in Vail who offer snowmobiling tours through snowy White River National Forest. This is an adventurous way to explore the beautiful nature around Vail. Be sure to dress warm, and listen to your guide so you don’t get stuck.

Day Trip to Glenwood Springs

Here you will find relaxing hot springs. These are a unique experience on a snowy day. Or, head up to the Glenwood Caverns and Adventure Park. While not as many rides are open in the winter they do decorate for the holidays. We always find this a fun activity for the entire family.

Vail Restaurant Service

I could go on and on. There really are so many things to do that you can easily enjoy Vail without skiing. There’s snow shoeing. Great restaurants with take-out options. Roast S’mores. Or, just enjoy hot cocoa from your balcony.

Vail Events & Apres

Vail’s line-up of epic events is back in full force. As is the Apres scene.

Apres bars are open and full of entertainment. However, my favorite spot for Apres remains a hot tub with just my party.

Free Things to Do in Vail

Believe it or not, there are actually free things to do in Vail. Stay at a hotel with free sled loaners and go sledding. Build a snowman. Have a snowball fight. Play at a local park. Bring your own ice skates and visit one of the free open air ice skating rinks just down the road in Avon, Edwards and Eagle.

Vail Hotels: Where to Stay

Residential style accommodations will continue to be popular. Private entryways, full kitchens, dining areas and private balconies will all be important amenities. While you can find a home on VRBO or AirBnb, there are several condominium or residential-style hotels near the base of the mountain with more services than a rental home.

Antlers at Vail, Manor Vail, Vail Spa, Lodge at Lionshead and LionsSquare Lodge are all condo-style hotels. But even the 5 star hotels have residential offerings, if that is more your style. Four Seasons, Sebastian, Arrabelle and the Ritz Residences are ones that come to mind.