Not a skier? Not to worry. Vail, Colorado, still brings the wow factor for winter visitors who’d rather spa, shop and dine over making turns on perfectly groomed corduroy. You can see all the sky-tickling, snow-covered peaks you like from the vantage point of a comfy gondola.
The Gondolas in Vail Aren’t Just for Skiers & Snowboarders
If you’re trying to figure out things to do in Colorado if you’re not a skier, a scenic gondola ride in Vail should be at the top of your list. Plan a relaxing jaunt up to Vail Mountain via Gondola One (it departs from Vail Village) or the Eagle Bahn Gondola (this one leaves from Lionshead Village). You’ll enjoy truly startling Gore Range views on the way up, then again coming down. Insider’s tip: Gondola One out of Vail Village even boasts heated seats!
What Should You Wear on a Scenic Gondola Ride in Winter?
Even though you’re ditching those unwieldly ski and snowboard boots, you’ll still want to dress for the elements. Plan to wear insulating base layers to keep you warm along with waterproof outer layers. Cozy winter hats, protective gloves, UV-protective sunglasses and your favorite winter boots will complete the look. Before heading up, you should also check the Vail Snow Report. Get tips for dressing for the mountain
How Much is a Vail Gondola Ride if You Don’t Plan to Ski?
A winter scenic gondola ride costs $82 for adults (ages 13 and up) if you purchase your ticket online. Children (ages 5–12) cost $58. Want to add lunch at Mid-Vail or the Eagle’s Nest Marketplace? You can add on a discounted food voucher to your scenic-gondola-ride ticket so you can nom on smoked sausage gumbo and ramen bowls. See more details
When Does the Vail Gondola Open?
Gondolas in Vail open at 9:30 a.m. daily, so there’s time to plan a leisurely breakfast in Vail Village first. Head over to Loaded Joe’s for an egg-and-Swiss breakfast burrito alongside your caffeine fix. If you’re more of a brunch enthusiast, Vail’s Vintage is beloved for its take on Eggs Benedict — not to mention its French-brioche French toast. Find more ideas
How Long is a Vail Gondola Ride?
A scenic gondola ride takes around 15 minutes from top to bottom (one way), so keep your phone camera handy for pics of the forested wonderland below. When you capture your most perfect winter image riding up, remember to follow and tag us @DiscoverVailCO and use #DiscoverVail.
Why Vail is One of the Best Colorado Ski Towns for Non-Skiers
Non-skiers love Vail because there’s so much to do besides schussing downhill — and you can still get those top-of-the-world views from the village base. Vail’s robust wellness and spa scene means you can pamper yourself morning, noon and night. You can delight your taste buds at MICHELIN-recommended restaurants like Sweet Basil and Osaki’s. Plus, non-skiers will delight in all the adventurous activities that don’t require ski boots — they’re popular, too, so be sure to book them ahead of time. More ideas for having a dream winter vacation in Vail