While Vail is known for its legendary Back Bowls and Beaver Creek its Birds of Prey runs, there's more to these Tyrolian-inspired villages and more to do than just skiing and snowboarding in the winter. On your day off from the slopes, or for those non-skiers in your group, experience a different memorable mountain adventure, from snowmobiling to snow tubing and ice skating, and more.
Check out our top picks for off-the-slopes winter adventures in Vail and Beaver Creek.
There’s more than one way to dash through the snow and snowmobiling is always a favorite off-mountain activity. Thousands of acres, groomed trails, tree-lined meadows, and open space offer plenty of room for high-powered playtime. There are numerous options for all ages and abilities.
A favorite for kids and thrill seeking parents alike, tubing is a must. Slide down snow-covered hills on an inner tube. One tubing adventure starts with a boat ride. Yes, you read that right! Instead of a lift to get you to the top of the hill, you'll be towed in a big yellow inflatable raft by a snowmobile. From there you can conquer two epic slopes –a gentle green run of 150 yards and an exhilarating blue run of 300 yards.
Glide along miles of daily-groomed skate and classic track at the Vail Nordic Center or McCoy Park in Beaver Creek. The Vail Golf Course transforms into a Nordic center once it's covered in snow. In Beaver Creek, McCoy Park is a spectacular lift-accessed natural area with breathtaking views of the Sawatch Range. If you want to explore at a lower elevation, there are groomed trails on the Beaver Creek Golf Course.
