PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION

Vail Basecamp

There’s so much to look forward to on a trip to Vail, and so much to prepare. From getting to the mountain, to planning your stay, finding the best gear, and hitting the slopes, we make it easy with a wealth of resources designed to help get you straight to the fun.
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Vail Mountain information.

Get To Know The Resort

Vail Mountain information.

Mountain Dining

View our on-mountain dining options.

Dining Page

Hours of Operation

See the latest hours of operations.

Hours Of Operations

Trail Maps

Trail and lift information.

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EpicMix

The All-New EpicMix. See the day ahead.

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Events

See our events calendar.

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Explore the Village

Explore Vail Village.

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Current Conditions

Snow & Weather Report

SHIP LUGGAGE & SKIS

Avoid airport hassles by shipping baggage ahead.

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Ski & Snowboard School

Book your lesson today.

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Preparing For Your Trip

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Tips for having a legendary experience at Vail Mountain

  • You can access the mountain from four base areas! Vail Village and Lionshead Village offer gondola access and are the most visited. For a quick and quiet arrival experience, try Golden Peak or Cascade Village.
  • Visiting during a holiday window? Consider arriving outside of our peak arrival windows: before 9:00 a.m. or after 10:00 a.m.
  • Looking for the local's way to the Seven Legendary Back Bowls? Consider Riva Bahn Express (#6) first thing in the morning to Highline Express (#10) and Sourdough Express (#14). It will drop you off right at China Bowl!
  • Mountaintop Express (#4) offers amazing intermediate terrain, and is often one of our most popular lifts. Did you know many of the Back Bowls have groomed intermediate runs that lead to lifts with reliably shorter wait times? Check those out for great intermediate terrain and a spectacular Back Bowl experience.
  • Download the Epic Mix App and check the alerts to get the latest real-time updates on the mountain.

Complete Your Trip

Book Your Activities

Save time and book your activities today.
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Lessons

Whether you prefer steep slopes, technical terrain, or gentle groomed runs - our instructors will help you sharpen your skills and explore more of the mountain with confidence!
Ski & Ride School

Lodging

Enjoy additional benefits and convenience when you book lodging directly with us.
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Vail

Like Nothing on Earth


Family Riding Chairlift on Vail Mountain

FAQS

When do your resorts open for the winter?

Opening Day is Nov. 11, 2022

Is there a height or age requirement or limit to your activities?

There is no specific height or age requirement for lift loading, but as per the responsibility code, prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely. This includes the carpets. For more details on mountain safety, click here.  

Is childcare offered and how can I make a reservation?

We do not currently offer childcare services at Vail. 

Do you allow service animals?

Consistent with the requirements of the Americans with disabilities act and in the interest of the safety of guests, employees and other individuals accessing the mountain, if an individual with a service dog need to ride a chair lift, the service dog must be harnessed, leashed or tethered to the handler at all times while on the lift. The service dog must be unable to move on its own to help prevent the dog from jumping or falling off of the lift, potentially onto a person below, or posing a safety risk to guests or employees using the lift. In addition, the handler must be unhindered by the service animal and able to negotiate and use the lift safely, including loading and unloading the chair properly. Where possible it is strongly recommended that individuals with service dogs' access a gondola, which generally provides safer access than a chair lift for the handler, service dog, guests and employees. 

Do you allow dogs on the gondola?

Consistent with the requirements of the Americans with disabilities act and in the interest of the safety of guests, employees and other individuals accessing the mountain, if an individual with a service dog need to ride a chair lift, the service dog must be harnessed, leashed or tethered to the handler at all times while on the lift. The service dog must be unable to move on its own to help prevent the dog from jumping or falling off of the lift, potentially onto a person below, or posing a safety risk to guests or employees using the lift. In addition, the handler must be unhindered by the service animal and able to negotiate and use the lift safely, including loading and unloading the chair properly. Where possible it is strongly recommended that individuals with service dogs' access a gondola, which generally provides safer access than a chair lift for the handler, service dog, guests and employees. 

How do I cancel or change the date of my lift ticket?

If more than seven days before your first planned day, please call or email us; If less than seven days, please call us at 970-754-0005 to allow adequate time to make this change. If you have already arrived at your resort, or if it is the day you would like to ski, please feel free to stop by any ticket window to make your changes. All lift ticket change pricing will be for the date of request regardless of when the ticket was purchased. For example: if a ticket is purchased with advanced ticket pricing and then changed inside of 7 days of the start date, the pricing will not receive advanced ticket pricing.

Do you offer an early bird "First-Tracks" Program?

Yes, our ticketed first tracks program will be coming back this winter!  Please contact  our group sales team to learn more about pricing and availability at Groups@vailresorts.com. For large groups, please visit our website to submit a request:  

Where can I view mountain cams?

Check out our mountain cams here

Billing Questions?

Stop by one of our 4 ticket office locations located in Vail and Lionshead village. If more convenient, you can call (970) 754 8245 or email vailinfo@vailresorts.com.

What winter activities do you offer?

In addition to skiing, we offer a variety of fun and memorable winter activities including: 
Ice Skating in Vail Village and Lionshead, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and back country tours through our Nordic Center. 

You can also visit our events page to see what apres experiences will be happening when you are here. 

LEARN MORE

Is night skiing included in my pass or lift ticket?

No, we do not offer night skiing. Check out our apres experiences and restaurants throughout the villages for a fun night!  

Is a lift ticket included in my ski lesson?

Group lessons may be eligible for a discounted lift ticket. Please note, Private lessons do not include lift tickets. 

Where can lessons be reviewed and booked?

Vail offers a variety of lessons for all skill levels including private and group lessons for children and adults. To view all lesson options please visit HERE 

I am not seeing availability online, is there a waiting list we can be added to?

Please call (970) 754 8245 or email us at vailskischool@vailresorts.com. 

I need to change the date of my ski school, how can I do that?

Please call (970) 754 8245 or email us at vailskischool@vailresorts.com. 

How can I cancel my ski school?

Please call (970) 754 8245 or email us at vailskischool@vailresorts.com. 

Do I need a reservation?

Lift tickets, rentals and lessons are inventoried products that sometimes sell out. We encourage purchasing these products in advance. Reservations are not required for skiing or riding with your Epic Pass.

I bought my pass/ticket, now what?

Passes are shipped to your home address. If you receive it in the mail, you can head straight to the lift! If you didn't receive it in the mail, head to any pass office at any of our base locations. If you have an old pass on the same account, you can reactivate the card at a ticket office. For tickets that are shipped, if purchased far enough in advance, tickets can be loaded to your previous card if you have one, or can be picked up at the ELTP (Express lift ticket pick up) line. If you need rentals, please order on line in advance or visit our rental shops.

How to check if my pass has access to specific resort?

Please go to EpicPass.com, and then to “Passes” (top left) on the Epic Pass homepage. Then click on your specific pass and scroll down to “Resort Access.” Please read carefully, as all passes provide specific access, and can have restrictions involving both resorts and active dates.

Where can Lift tickets be reviewed and purchased?

Tickets can be purchased by visiting our resort websites and selecting the dates you would like to ski. Be aware that lift-ticket sales are limited this season to enhance the on-mountain guest experience, so lift tickets (or days) do sell out. We highly recommend purchasing lift tickets in advance.

We will mail all tickets that are ordered more than 9 days prior to arrival. Please go to any of our ticket offices, present a photo ID, where you can also pick up your ticket. Please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005 with any questions prior to your arrival, or contact a ticket agent via Live Chat at EpicPass.com.

What are the Passes that have access to Vail?

A variety of Passes include access to Vail Resort. Be aware that passes can have restrictions on the number of days or the dates of access. For detailed information, please go to www.EpicPass.com, go to Passes (found on the menu bar at the top of the page), and click on the specific pass you would like more information on. 

Where do I buy buddy tickets/ski with a friend tickets?

The ability to purchase discounted Buddy Tickets and Ski-With-A-Friend Tickets are included with certain passes, if purchased in the spring. If you have Buddy or SWAF tickets included with your pass, you can purchase the discounted lift tickets at www.EpicPass.com or at a ticket window. To avoid delays, we encourage you to purchase online. To purchase online, a Pass Holder must sign into “My Epic Account” (top right) at EpicPass.com, click on the “Passes” tab and navigate to the “Benefit Tickets” section. You can select the specific day and resort after you click on “Buy For A Buddy” or “Buy For A Friend.” Once purchased, the lift tickets must be picked by the Pass Holder at the Resort by displaying their pass. For more information, please go to www.EpicPass.com, Benefits (top, center) then Ski With A Friend and Buddy Tickets.

Do you offer discounts for military personnel?

Yes. There are two different options and the most economical is the Epic Military Season Passes. We provide options for Active, Retired, and Veteran military members and eligible Dependents. U.S., Canadian, and Australian personnel and their eligible dependents qualify. Military Passes require verification of current military status and verification CAN NOT be completed in the resort. For more information, please refer to this link: https://www.epicpass.com/pass-results/military.aspx Please Note: Partner resort access and Buddy Tickets are NOT included with any Military Passes. Ski-With-A-Friend Tickets ARE included. For more information, please go to EpicPass.com, Need Help? (Top center) and then Military Passes. The second option is Military Lift Tickets. We offer discounted Military Lift Tickets for Active and Retired military members and eligible dependents. Guests can purchase Military Lift Tickets at the ticket window or by phone at 970-754-8245. Military Lift Tickets require verification of current military status at the ticket window or at the time of purchase by phone. Please Note: Veterans and their Dependents do NOT qualify for Military Lift Tickets. 

Do you offer professional discounts for non-Vail Resorts Ski Patrol?

Yes, we offer professional discounts for National Ski Patrol (NSP) members, along with other professional organizations, such as PSIA, CSIA, and others. NSP members can purchase one discount lift ticket per day. Discounted Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window or by calling the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005. Whistler-Blackcomb guests call 800-766-0449. You also can contact an agent via Live Chat at EpicPass.com. A current NSP ID must be presented at the time of purchase. 

How do I cancel or change the date of my lift ticket?

To change or cancel a lift ticket date, please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005. Whistler-Blackcomb guests call 800-766-0449 or go to the resort ticket window by 5 pm on the expiration date of the lift ticket. In addition, be aware that two or more day lift tickets have a range of dates of use, depending on the number of days of the ticket. For example, a two-day ticket can be used anytime within a three-day range. A three-day ticket has a five-day range of use, etc. Stop by a ticket window for more details. Also be aware that lift-ticket sales are limited this season to enhance the on-mountain guest experience, so lift tickets could sell out. We highly recommend purchasing lift tickets in advance. If a resort is not sold out, lift tickets can be purchased online or at the resort, but not by phone. For more information, please go to Snow.com, Tickets (top, center), and then scroll down to FAQs.

Is my pass or lift ticket transferable to my friend or family member?

No. Season Passes and Lift Tickets are non-transferable and they are assigned to an individual person. Anyone caught using another person’s Lift Ticket or Season Pass will be removed from the mountain and could face other additional penalties. 

What discounts are include with my pass or lift ticket?

There are many season-long discounts attached to your Season Pass. Benefits include Epic Mountain Rewards of discounts up to 20 percent on food and beverages, lodging, group lessons, and gear rentals, among other benefits. Other Season Pass benefits include discount Buddy Tickets and Ski-With-A-Friend Tickets, and Summer Access. For more information, please go to EpicPass.com, Benefits (top, left) then View All Benefits.
All Epic Day passes include season-long Epic Mountain Rewards discounts. Other benefits and access are determined by the type of Epic Day Pass purchased. For more information, please refer to this link: https://www.epicpass.com/passes/epic-day-pass.aspx Please Note: Epic Day Passes do NOT include Buddy Tickets, Ski-With-A-Friend tickets, or Summer Lift Access.
For discounts and benefits attached to Whistler Blackcomb Passes, please refer HERE 
Lift ticket benefits include the ability to change the date and also refund all unused days.

Can I buy lunch with my pass?

Yes! You just need to make sure you have resort charge set up. Learn more on how to set up resort charge here 

Do I get my Epic Mountain Rewards at your restaurants?

For the most part - absolutely! All of our cafeteria style restaurants on mountain offer the EMR discount (20%!) on food. Alcohol is excluded at all locations and there is limited participation among our fine dining and full service restaurants. Be sure to look HERE to see everywhere you can use this awesome pass holder discount

Do I need a reservation to have lunch on mountain?

No! No reservations required to enjoy our convenient on-mountain cafeterias this year. Just ride until you're hungry, and then pop in.

I want to have lunch with a big group, is it okay if I save a bunch of tables?

It depends, but we, and a lot of the other guests on the mountain, would really prefer you do not save tables so that those who are looking to sit can find a place to enjoy their lunch. If you want to eat with a big group all together, we recommend trying before noon or after 1:30 PM.

Last year you told me I had to leave after 45 minutes, is that still true?

Thankfully we are in a different place than last year and required table time limits are no longer in effect. However, out of respect for other guests, we do ask you to be thoughtful and limit your time at the table, especially during peak times and holidays. Go ride!

When is the best time to eat lunch?

When you're hungry! But also, to get the most out of your day, consider dining outside of our peak hours of 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM. We always recommend an early start, an early lunch (11:00 is awesome), and an early apres.

Where can I get my skis or board tuned?

Vail Sports

Where do I search and book online or call to review my vacation plans?

Check out our lodging options across our resort portfolio here

How do I find ski in/ski out lodging?

You can filter for ski in/ski out properties on many of our search and book pages. Select which resort you'd like to visit to search properties

Where's the best place to stay in-resort?

Check out our recommended signature properties across our resort portfolio here

Can I bring my pet?

Some of our properties are pet friendly. You can review the detailed information on property amenities on our resort search and book pages.

How do I get to the resort?

For directions to Vail, parking information and transportation options, click here 

Does the resort offer lockers? Do I need to purchase in advance? How much is a locker pass for the season?

For more information on locker pricing and availability, click here

Where can I park? How much does it cost?

For parking information, click here 

What time do I need to arrive for ski school?

We ask all guests to be completely ready 15 minutes early. If picking up tickets/rentals, prepare an hour early.

Private Lessons start at 9:00am
Children's Group Lessons start at 9:30am
Adult Group Lessons start at 10:00am

For more tips and information, check out our Know Before You Go page

Where to meet for Ski school?

Lionshead: Private lessons at the base of Gondola 19 (there are signs posted), Adult beginner meet at the bottom infront of Lionshead Ticket Office, Adult intermediate and above meet the top of Gondola 19, Children's lessons all meet in the yard next to Chair 8

Vail Village: Private lessons at the base of Gondola One by Express Lift restaurant.

Golden Peak: Private lessons in front of GP ticket office (there are signs posted), Adult groups on the snow by Chair 6, and Children's at the GP Children's Ski School day 1.

What transportation options exist from the airport?

For airport transportation options, click here 

What is the weather like when I arrive?

For the latest snow and weather conditions, click here

Where do I find the daily morning snow conditions report?

For the latest snow and weather conditions, click here 

Where are the ticket window locations?

Lionshead: Ticket office at base of Gondola 19. Children's Ski School under the Arrabelle.

Vail Village: Ticket office & Ski School at base of Gondola One.

Golden Peak: Ticket office at base of Gopher Hill/Chair 6 and Children's Ski School at the other end of the car drop off.

Cascade: At the base of Chair 20 is a small ticket office. Not open at the start of the season until the chair is operational.

How do I activate the card I have?

When purchasing online, you can select "have a card" while logged into your epicpass.com account, select pass number of the card you have to continue to use the card you have in your possession.

I never got my pass in the mail. Can I still go skiing?

Absolutely. All Season Passes provide access as determined by that particular pass, even if you don’t have the physical pass in hand. Please go to any Vail Resorts ticket office, present a photo ID, and a new pass will be issued. If time permits, please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005 and a new pass will be mailed. Whistler-Blackcomb guests call 800-766-0449. Or contact a pass agent via Live Chat at www.EpicPass.com to have a new pass issued.

Where do I pick up my pass?

Please go to any Vail Resorts ticket office, present a photo ID, and you’ll be able to pick up your pass. If time permits, please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005 and a new pass will be mailed. Whistler-Blackcomb guest call 800-766-0449. Or contact a pass agent via Live Chat at www.EpicPass.com to have a new pass issued.

Where do I pick up rentals?

Vail Sports

Are there any Covid restrictions in the restaurants?

At this time we have no COVID-19 related restrictions in our dining facilities - that means no reservations, no proof of vaccines, no masking requirements, and no social distancing. Of course we always recommend you and our team follow common sense best practices, wash your hands frequently, and please stay home if you're feeling sick or have a fever.

What food and beverage options are open, and what are hours of operation?

We have a variety of dining options at Vail. For the most up to date information on locations and hours of operations, click here 

What are our options for on-mountain dining for lunch?

Click here to view our on mountain dining options 

Someone in my family has a food allergy or sensitivity, are your lodges able to accommodate them?

We strive to offer meals that suite a variety of modern lifestyle and dietary preferences, due to the nature of our menus, please ask locally during your visit.

Do you take cash in your restaurants?

At this time, Vail Resorts does not accept cash in it's restaurants. All major cards, ApplePay, and resort-charge are accepted.

I just want to keep skiing, do you have grab & go options?

Yes, most lodges offer snacks, protein bars, and to go sandwiches and salads to keep you fueled and on the go!

What time do lifts close?

For the most up to date information on lift and terrain hours, click here 

When do different sections of the mountain close?

For the most up to date lift and terrain information, click here 

Why are some trails groomed and other not?

Vail Mountain has a variety of trails including seven back bowls. Please view our lift and terrain status page for what terrain is groomed and ungroomed. 

How to contact safety/ ski patrol

For information on how to contact ski patrol, visit here

Which runs are open?

For the latest trail and lift status, click here 

Which base areas are open?

For the latest trail and lift status, click here 

What transportation options exist within the resort?

Vail offers free bus services in Vail Village and Lionshead Village. Click here for more information 

Where to get a refund?

For tickets and lessons: Stop by one of our 4 ticket office locations or call (970) 754 8245 to have a ticket agent process the refund. We are open 8:00-4:00. All ticket adjustments should be done the day of or before the end of the current ticket date. Lessons have the same 48 hours cancellation policy as Beaver Creek.. Full refunds are available 48 hours in advance and lessons cancelled within 48 hours may be subject to a cancellation fee.

For Epic Passes: We are unable to process refunds/downgrades at the resort. Guests eligible for a claim can connect with Sedgwick.

Refunds can take up to 5 business days to appear on the guests bank account. 

Why didn't Epic Mountain Rewards apply?

The Epic Mountain Rewards discount is available at eligible Vail Resorts restaurants, lodges, rental shops, golf courses, and other businesses and activities. The discount applies to all food and non-alcoholic beverages. The pass holder must present their eligible pass to receive the discount. For more details, Please go to www.EpicPass.com, Benefits, then Epic Mountain Rewards to learn more, or click here

Where to return rentals?

Vail Sports 

Where is the closest retail outlet?

Vail Village or Lionshead. 

Do you sell skis/snowboards?

Vail Sports, Burton, Salomon, True North 

I forgot my boots, where can I rent additional gear?

Vail operated rental shops including Vail Sports, Soloman, Burton, and True North. Info can be found here

Where can I book dinner?

We have a wide variety of restaurants in Vail and Lionshead village. We recommend you make a reservation in advance. You can check Tok and Open Table as well as visit our town website to see options available.  

Where can I take my family for a quick dinner for tired kids?

There are plenty of options throughout both villages that offer easy food and ice cream!  

Where can I go for apres ski?

Express Lift at the base of Gondola 1 in Vail Village 

Do you provide over-night ski storage?

We do not offer ski storage unless it is through hotel or rental shop. Some hotels offer ski valet to one of our 3 main base locations (Lionshead, Vail Village, & Golden Peak) or complimentary ski lockers.

View Live Resort Conditions
  • The Back Bowls