Vail and Beaver Creek are a winter-lover’s paradise. It’s heaven for skiers and snowboarders alike, but is it worth making the drive up to the mountains in winter if it’s not your thing? It’s imperative you know the best things to do in Vail and Beaver Creek besides ski to help inspire your winter trip to the mountains. After spending, oh so many winters up here, myself along with friends and family, have done more than a fair share of winter activities and can confidently say that the magic of the mountains is not confined to the slopes. 

But let’s say you’ve come all the way to the Vail Valley in the winter, and for whatever reason, you’re not hitting the slopes this year. 

Perhaps you have a bad knee, or maybe you find yourself here while pregnant – congrats! Or it’s as simple as hurling yourself down a mountain at high speeds just isn’t your idea of a good time. 

Whatever the reason, fear not – there are so many incredible things to do in Vail and Beaver Creek besides ski where you can still experience the beauty and spirit of these mountains.

No matter how much you love clicking into those skis or snowboard, it’s tough to do it every day. It takes a toll on your body, and even the most avid skiers and snowboarders need to take a day off from the slopes from time to time.

So curl up with a blanket and cup of hot cocoa, and read on for the amazing things to do in Vail besides ski for the first part of this season. 

5 Things You Might Not Know About Vail

  • Vail has more than 5,200 acres of terrain and trails for all levels, there’s something for everyone! 
  • If you’re an intermediate or advanced skier, prepare yourself for a powdery paradise! Perched atop a treeline with breathtaking views and 3,000 acres of wide-open terrain spread across seven bowls to explore – pure snow heaven. 
  • Vail is a multi-seasonal paradise! Whether you’re looking to be one with nature in the summer months by taking guided hikes, or finding your inner cowboy while horseback riding through picturesque mountains – Vail has something for everyone. Not only that but the town also features unique cultural and culinary offerings, offering music venues, a dance festival and delectable restaurants all year round.
  • Vail is an alpine paradise with a twinkle of small town charm! Boasting over 10,000 people – half residents and the other holding second homes – Vail offers all the perks of resort life plus that cozy community vibe.
  • Vail’s outdoor amphitheater is fittingly named after Vail’s most distinguished resident, the 38th President of The United States- Gerald R. Ford! It stands as a tribute to his many accomplishments and is guaranteed to be an eventful experience for all who visit it.