Aspen, Snowmass, Vail, and Beaver Creek (970) 236-6464.

Are you heading to Vail but don’t fancy skiing? Or maybe your knees are telling you to take a day off from the slopes? Fret not! Vail, Colorado, isn’t just about swishing down snowy hills; it offers a big cozy blanket of activities that go beyond ski poles and goggles.

Even if you’re not a skier, or simply want to mix things up after days of hitting the slopes, there’s plenty around to keep your winter getaway exciting.

Snowmobiling Adventures in Vail

Snowmobiling in Vail takes you zooming through snowy trails and open meadows. You can feel the rush of cool air while you ride over the white powder. It’s a great way to see parts of the Rocky Mountains that are hard to get to any other way.

You can choose trips for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. NOVA GUIDES is one place that does this sort of trip. They know the best paths and views, making sure your snowmobile adventure is safe and fun.

Plus, they provide all the gear, so don’t worry if you didn’t pack a helmet or goggles!

Pampering and Wellness: Vail’s Top Spas

After a thrilling day of snowmobiling, soothe your muscles and unwind at Vail’s luxurious spas. Vail offers many places for pampering and wellness to make sure you feel your best.

  • The Four Seasons Vail Spa: They give you soft robes to wear. You can swim in a warm pool outside or rest in hot steam rooms. They offer massages that help you relax your whole body. And they use special oils that smell really good.
  • The Lodge at Vail Spa: This spa feels like a cozy cabin inside. They have special treatments for sore muscles after skiing or playing in the snow. You can get a warm stone massage which uses smooth stones to make you feel good all over.
  • The Sonnenalp Hotel Spa: Here, they take care of you like you are family. Their big baths and quiet rooms are perfect for calming down. They also teach yoga classes so you can stretch and breathe deeply.

Unique Dining Experience: Mountain Cabin Restaurants

Once you’re all relaxed from the spa, it’s time to fill your belly with amazing food. Vail has mountain cabin restaurants that are truly special. Picture this: you’re sitting cozy in a cabin high up in the snow-covered mountains.

You look out the window and see a blanket of white and twinkling stars. That’s what eating at places like Game Creek offers. These spots give you great views while you eat delicious meals.

These cabins aren’t just any old place to eat — they make your meal an adventure! You might take a snowcat or even use your skis to get there. Inside, the fire is warm, and the food tastes like heaven.

It’s fancy too; many serve gourmet dishes that mix fancy cooking with local flavors. So put on something nice and enjoy dinner way above town, where every bite comes with an unbeatable view of Vail Mountain.

Exploring Vail Village: A Must-Do Activity

Vail Village is a lively hub with lots to do. This charming spot offers fun for everyone, even if you don’t ski.

  • Stroll through cobblestone streets: Vail Village has beautiful paths that make you feel like you’re in Europe. Look at the pretty buildings and enjoy the mountain air.
  • Check out art galleries: There are several art spots where you can see amazing works. You might find the perfect piece to take home!
  • Shop for unique gifts: The village has many stores with clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs. Find something special for friends or yourself.
  • Taste local food: Vail has restaurants that serve delicious meals. Try some Colorado favorites or international dishes.
  • Listen to live music: Find places in the village where bands play. Enjoy different kinds of music while you relax.

The Après Ski Culture in Vail

After a day of exploring Vail Village, it’s time to experience the vibrant après ski culture. This mountain town is renowned for its lively post-skiing atmosphere, offering an array of options to unwind and socialize.

Visitors can head to one of the numerous bars and lounges in Lionshead Village or take a short gondola ride to explore the après scene in Vail’s European-style pedestrian village.

From cozy fire pits and live music to delicious snacks and signature cocktails, there are plenty of ways for skiers and non-skiers alike to enjoy the festive après ski culture that Vail has to offer.

Snowshoeing: An Alternative Winter Sport

After experiencing the lively après ski culture in Vail, consider an alternative winter sport with snowshoeing. This activity allows you to explore the scenic backcountry and serene forests surrounding Vail at a leisurely pace.

Free guided tours are available through the Walking Mountains Science Center and Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Strap on your snowshoes and discover the tranquility of nature while getting some light exercise during your winter getaway.

Venture into the outdoors with this simple and enjoyable activity that requires no previous experience. Snowshoeing offers a unique perspective of Vail’s natural beauty, making it an ideal option for travelers seeking a peaceful adventure amidst picturesque surroundings.

Enjoy the View: Gondola Rides in Vail

Hop on the Eagle Bahn Gondola and soar up Vail Mountain to take in breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. The gondola rides, especially after 3:30 pm for non-skiers during winter, provide a spectacular perspective of the stunning winter wonderland.

Once at Adventure Ridge, you can also engage in exciting activities like snow tubing and more to make your mountain adventure complete.

By experiencing these gondola rides and exploring Adventure Ridge at the top, non-skiers can revel in Vail’s natural beauty and find unique ways to enjoy the snowy landscape from above – creating unforgettable memories of their visit.

Craft Breweries: A Different Taste of Vail

Discover Vail’s craft breweries for a unique flavor experience.

  • Vail Brewing Company: Try innovative, small-batch brews with stunning mountain views at their taproom.
  • Crazy Mountain Brewery: Visit this lively brewery for a diverse range of beers, from classics to experimental blends.
  • 7 Hermits Brewing Company: Savor craft beers paired with delicious pub fare and scenic patio seating.
  • Vail Valley Brew Fest: Don’t miss this annual event showcasing local and regional breweries in an exciting festival setting.

Family Fun with Snow Tubing

After experiencing the unique taste of craft breweries in Vail, families can continue their winter adventure with a thrilling snow tubing experience. Snow tubing is an exhilarating activity for all ages and requires no prior experience or skills.

The slopes are equipped with specially designed lanes for safe and enjoyable rides down the mountain. Families can rent tubes on-site and spend hours zooming down the snow-covered hills, creating unforgettable memories in the picturesque snowy landscape of Vail, Colorado.

Snow tubing provides an adrenaline-packed alternative to skiing and snowboarding, offering families a chance to bond while enjoying the stunning winter scenery together. It’s a perfect way to add some extra excitement to your Vail vacation without hitting the slopes.

Discover Minturn: A Hidden Gem Near Vail

Discover Minturn, a charming town just 10 minutes from Vail. It’s a hidden gem offering an authentic Colorado experience with its quaint streets and unique shops. The picturesque town also boasts of scenic hiking trails, perfect for those who want to explore nature away from the crowds.

As you wander through this historic town, take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a great day trip for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. Don’t miss out on experiencing the local culture by visiting one of its cozy restaurants or exploring the art galleries that showcase the work of local artists.

Minturn is not just another stop; it’s an opportunity to escape into a different side of Colorado, providing travelers with an off-the-beaten-path adventure that complements their Vail experience perfectly.

Photo source: Vail Daily

Visit the Breathtaking Vail Ice Castles

Marvel at the stunning Vail Ice Castles during your winter trip. Located in the nearby town of Dillon, these enchanting ice structures offer a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.

Explore the breathtaking beauty of shimmering ice formations, tunnels, and slides, creating a magical wonderland that’s perfect for all ages.

Take in the mesmerizing sights as you wander through this icy masterpiece, illuminated by colorful LED lights that dance across the frozen landscape. The Vail Ice Castles are an unforgettable attraction that adds a touch of magic to your non-ski activities in Vail.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating world of ice artistry.

A Day Trip to Beaver Creek

After visiting the breathtaking Vail Ice Castles, consider a day trip to Beaver Creek for a change of scenery. This neighboring ski resort offers a different experience with various non-ski activities, perfect for exploring new adventures.

Besides skiing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Beaver Creek such as snowmobiling through an outfitter like NOVA GUIDES and discovering the unique charm of this resort town.

Beaver Creek is not only known for its skiing but also offers something special for travelers seeking more adventure beyond the slopes. The change of pace along with the diverse range of activities makes it an ideal destination for a memorable day trip from Vail.

Non-Ski Activities in Vail

Embrace the winter wonderland with activities like ice skating, riding the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, trying out ski biking, or catching a stunning sunset view from atop a mountain.

Vail offers plenty of thrilling adventures for those who want to enjoy the snowy season beyond skiing.

Ice Skating

Visitors can have a blast ice skating at the Vail Village ice rink. This is a favorite non-ski activity for many travelers, offering an enjoyable experience off the slopes. The lively après ski culture at the rink includes live music and drinks, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventure in Vail.

After hitting the ice rink, you won’t want to miss out on another thrilling activity – Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster. Feel the rush as you speed through snowy landscapes on this exhilarating ride!

Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster

The Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster in Vail offers a thrilling adventure for all visitors. It’s a unique way to experience the stunning mountain landscape, providing an adrenaline rush with minimal effort.

This coaster is popular among families and thrill-seekers, offering a memorable alternative to skiing. With its exciting twists and turns, the coaster provides an unforgettable experience that perfectly complements the non-ski activities available in Vail.

The Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster truly stands out as a must-do activity for anyone looking for an exhilarating adventure in Vail.

Ski Biking

After enjoying the exhilarating Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, consider trying ski biking for a unique adventure in Vail. Ski biking combines the thrill of cycling with the excitement of skiing, allowing you to glide down snowy slopes on specially designed bikes equipped with skis.

This activity is suitable for all skill levels and provides an extraordinary way to experience the beautiful winter scenery of Vail. With its easy learning curve and safety features, ski biking offers an exciting alternative to traditional winter sports while providing an unforgettable and action-packed experience during your visit.

Sunset Viewing on Top of a Mountain

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Vail as the sun dips behind the snow-capped peaks by taking a gondola ride to the mountain’s summit. Gaze at the stunning alpenglow and enjoy panoramic views that stretch for miles, creating an unforgettable moment during your trip.

The experience is ideal for capturing spectacular photos, making it a perfect end to an adventurous day in Vail.

Vail offers a multitude of exciting winter activities beyond skiing. These options are practical, easy to find, and efficient for anyone looking to maximize their non-skiing experience in Vail.

How will you choose to spend your time off the slopes? Consider trying snowmobiling adventures or indulging in a spa day for relaxation and warmth. The impact of these activities can lead to unforgettable memories and an enriched vacation experience.

Whether exploring Vail Village, enjoying après ski culture, or discovering hidden gems near Vail – there’s something for everyone! What will be your next adventure in Vail?.