Happy Opening Day at Vail Mountain: Here’s How to Make the Most of It

Vail Opening Day

Happy Opening Day at Vail Mountain: Here’s How to Make the Most of It

Welcome back to Vail Mountain for the 2025-2026 winter season! The lifts are spinning, the powder days are approaching, and the music is non-stop. With Vail Mountain’s best-in-class snowmaking system, we're thrilled to kick off this winter with an unforgettable Opening Day on November 14. 

This year unveils more mountain-top performances, elevated dining experiences, and over twice the number of Après All Day events compared to last year. Whether you're chasing fast laps or soaking in the après scene, here’s everything you need to know to make this Opening Day the best one yet:






Where to Park

Plan your arrival based on your skiing or riding ability:

  • Beginners: Head to Lionshead Village and hop on Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19) for access to beginner terrain and learning areas.

  • Advanced beginners & intermediates: Start your day at Gondola One in Vail Village for access to Mid Vail’s signature trails.

Need to move between villages? The In Town Bus is free and makes it easy to travel to and from different base areas.

 

Mountain Access Made Easy

Skip the ticket window and go digital with the My Epic App:

  • Epic Passes are still available for purchase for a limited time, here.

  • Use your Mobile Pass to scan your Epic Pass or lift ticket straight from your phone. 

  • Track your stats, find your crew with Find My Friends, and check live & predictive lift wait times to plan your perfect day.

 

Plan Your Runs

Keep in mind, early season conditions often mean select terrain. We’re using our best-in-class snowmaking system along with natural snowfall to expand terrain as quickly as possible.

  • Open terrain: 80+ acres across Lionshead and Vail Village.

  • Recommended trails:

  • For advanced beginners/intermediates: Swingsville and Ramshorn at Mid Vail

  • For true beginners: Little Eagle (#15) and the learning area via Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19)

 

Grab a Bite and Warm Up

Fuel up at these on-mountain dining spots:

  • Buffalos at the top of Mountaintop Express (#4)

  • Look Ma Level at Mid Vail

  • Powerline Pub at Mid Vail

  • Eagle’s Nest Market Place at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola

 

Or...continue the party at the top of the mountain: head to Mid Vail at the top of Gondola One after 10:30 a.m. for après cocktails, bites, and a live DJ.

  

Après-Ski Celebrations

As the sun sets on another unforgettable Opening Day, the après scene comes alive. 

 

Join us for the first Stoke Sessions of the season with Blu DeTiger

On Opening Day, the electrifying bassist and singer Blu DeTiger brings her signature funk-infused sound to the heart of Vail Village. From 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, soak up the beats, the views, and the stoke—all for free.

 

Here are our favorite spots to toast the season:

 

Vail Village

  • Express Lift Bar: Après cocktails, 10th Mountain Whiskey tastings, and a European beer-hall energy

  • The Red Lion: High-energy live music, hearty pub fare, and a lively crowd

  • Chasing Rabbits: Upscale dining, immersive entertainment, and eclectic nightlife

  • Vendetta’s: Famed pizza and local brews

  • Cucina: Cozy mountain fare in a family-friendly setting

  • Two Arrows: Craft coffee, curated beverages, and fresh local provisions

 

Lionshead Village

  • Tavern On The Square: Global fusion cuisine with an artisan twist

  • Garfinkel’s: Classic sports bar with can’t-miss nachos

  • Vail Chophouse: Slopeside restaurant offering creative cocktails

  • The Revel Lounge: Mid-century styled lounge offering a chic après experience

  • Alpine Pizza: Grab-and-go Detroit-style slices with crispy cheese edges

 

Capture the Moment

Opening Day memories are meant to be shared—tag your adventures with @VailMtn and show us how you celebrate the start of the winter season.

 

Here’s to bluebird skies and the thrill of your first run. We’ll see you on the slopes!