Uphill Access Policy

Back to Our Multi-Use Mountain

UPHILL ACCESS CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

With heavy machinery operating on uphill routes, ALL uphill access is closed for the remainder of the season. 

Please respect this closure for your safety and the safety of our mountain operations teams.

Policy Overview

  • Uphill travel is prohibited during normal daytime operations. Always call the Uphill Access Trail Hotline for schedule and availability: (970) 754-1023
  • No emergency services are provided outside of normal operating hours.
  • Uphill activities may present a high danger of personal injury.
  • Contact the Uphill Access Trail Hotline prior to access.
  • Motorized vehicles, snowmaking, and other ski area operations may be encountered and must be avoided.
  • Avalanche mitigation may be in progress.
  • User assumes risks and acknowledges that runs are not maintained for uphill travel. Avalanche hazards may exist.
  • Motorized uphill travel by guests is always prohibited.
Skiers hike uphill during non lift operating hours at Vail Resort

During Non-Lift Operating Hours

  • Call the Uphill Access Trail Hotline for information: (970) 754-1023
  • Leave Fido at home: Dogs are prohibited at all times.
  • Stay towards the side of the trail.
  • Position yourself so that you are visible from above.
  • Wear brightly colored and reflective clothing.
  • Obey all pertinent signage.
  • Avoid all areas where machinery is operating.
  • Be aware that ski area emergency services are not available.
  • No motorized vehicles.
  • During these hours you must use only these designated routes and descend the same travel route.
Skiers tour on a powder day in the off season at Vail Resort

Early Season and Off-Season

Uphill access will not be allowed on trails during mountain preparation, early season snowmaking, or immediately following the close of the resort. The work taking place makes it unsafe for public use.

Non-lift access to ski area facilities, such as uphill snowshoeing, hiking, skinning, or backcountry touring may present a high danger of personal injury to participants or others, and may be limited or forbidden based on conditions, on-mountain activity, and/or Resort policy

Conditions and permission to access backcountry areas vary by resort; please consult the hotline for your information on the resort at hand.

The links provided on this page are for informational purposes only. Vail Resorts does not endorse or approve the content on the sites and bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or content of the sites. Contact the site owner for answers to questions regarding their content.
Return to Safety & Experience