by Michele Kadison

Quick! What’s the first place you think of when you think of skiing in Colorado? Vail, right? Pretty amazing, as Vail is one of the youngest towns in the Colorado Rockies! The town has been around a mere 50 years, which is comparable to being a Canadian Rocky teenager compared with many of its frontier neighbors who’ve been around for more than 100. And what a popular teen Vail is! As a magnet for celebs, the rich, the sportive, and the nature hungry, this Colorado city is the place to be, especially during ski season. Vail comes on strong in the summer months too, with golf being one of the major activities. Check out the local courses, all of which are world-class.

Located in the Vail Valley and approximately 25 miles from Camp Hale where the 10th Mountain Division of soldiers were trained during World War II, Vail hosts many annual events that attract tourists from far and wide. The World Alpine Ski Championships, the Food and Wine Festival, and the famed summer music and dance festivals are just a few examples of Vail’s hospitality. And with the generosity of former president Gerald R. Ford and his wife, the city is home to the spectacular Ford Amphitheatre Performing Arts Center and the gorgeous Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.

For nature watchers, Vail is a haven for wildlife. Deer, elk, and many other large and small game as well as birds of all description will inspire you to take out that camera and practice your National Geographic moves. Spend a day in the Holy Cross Wilderness Area where tranquil lakes abound or challenge yourself with a hike up the Mount of the Holy Cross to look down on the wide valleys below.

Directions:
Take I-70 to exit 176. Follow the roundabouts to South Frontage Road and head east. Park in the Vail Village parking structure and go east 2 block to find the Vail Valley Chamber & Tourism Bureau located on the right, just across the street from the Sonnenalp Resort.

Travel Resources:
Vail Valley Chamber & Tourism Bureau
100 E. Meadow Drive
Suite 34
Vail, CO 81657
970-479-1046 or 800-525-3875

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