Vail's 50th Anniversary

Vail’s 50th Anniversary

Despite Vail’s modest early snowfall, local and traveling powder hounds alike are anxious to get back on the mountain. With only 2 runs available this past weekend, the lift lift lines proved that skiers and snowboarders are a dedicated bunch willing to wait their turn. Most of Vail’s full time residence relocated primarily for the premium mountain access. Forgive us if we spray you with powder, we’re just excited.

Last year was Breckenridge’s 50th Anniversary and they didn’t fail to remind you each and every day with crazy promotions, epic photos with the “50th Anniversary” and heavy online marketing. Their initial marketing idea was the most aggressive. On opening day they were preparing to give anyone who wanted one a FREE Breckenridge Resort “B” tattoo. It got the kabosh last minute which was probably a good play, but that didn’t stop them from stretching out the festivities over the course of the winter. Good for them, it’s a feel good marketing campaign.

The “One”, Vail’s New Gondola

But, this year, there’s a new birthday kid in town! It’s Vail’s turn to celebrate while Breckenridge, Beaver Creek and A-Basin take a backseat. Vail’s done a great job by generating buzz about the “One” launch. The name "One" commemorates Vail's First Gondola in that very location.

The “One” is Vail’s new state-of-the-art Vail Gondola that will sport wifi, heated leather seats, room for 10 and be the fastest in the world. The speed and capacity change alone will create a 40% increase in uphill capacity. Not too shabby eh?

Vail’s new gondola will replace the existing Vista Bahn Express Lift. The new ride will be a lightning 7.5 minutes versus the old 9 minute ride at a new world record gondola speed of 1,200 feet per minute.

Rumor had it they were doing free rides before the opening and had fresh baked cookies at the top. Can anyone confirm or deny this delicious claim?

If you’re getting really serious about Vail’s upcoming winter season, check out these Featured Vail Properties. Never worry about lodging or parking again. -Wouldn’t that be nice?!

Complimentary Ski/Snowboard Tours

During the winter season, Vail’s Community Guest Service volunteers are offering complimentary tours of Vail Mountain for anyone who ski’s or snowboard’s at an intermediate or above level. All 3 tours are considered ‘Familiarization Tour’ of the mountain and should last around 2 hours. -If skiing isn’t your thing, explore Vail’s amazing snowshoeing trails.

Here’s The Quick Run Down On The 3 Different Tours

General Mountain Tour: This tour is everyday at 10:30am starting at the Le Grand Rouge Coffee house at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola and also at the Vista Bahn Mid Vail Ski School desk. Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes early because you will have to fill out a liability form before starting your tour.

Blue Sky Tour: If you’re a high level to intermediate skier or snowboarder, this is the tour for you. It starts at 11:00am everyday from Henry’s Hut across from PHQ (top of Chair 4). Again, they ask that you arrive a minimum of 15 minutes early to fill out the liability form.

50+ Tour: This fun tour for the older powder hounds leaves every Monday at 9:30am from Eagles Nest.

Also, make sure to take advantage of Vail Resort’s guest service’s at the Mountain Information Center. They are a wealth of knowledge, can answer any of your questions, reservation requests or recommendation.

Opened 8am-5pm throughout the winter season you can find them at their office location in Arrabelle at Vail Square in Lionshead or give them a call at the numbers below.

Mountain Information Center: 800-503-8748
Lost & Found: (970) 754-3059
Game Creek Reservations: (970) 754-4275

Ski Safe. Ride Hard. Have Fun.