Vail Trail Map

Vail’s terrain is divided into three main zones: the Front Side, the Back Bowls, and Blue Sky Basin. The Front Side is the most accessible, offering groomed runs and beginner-friendly slopes. Key lifts include Gondola One, Eagle Bahn Gondola, and Mountaintop Express. Popular runs here include Born Free, Riva Ridge (Vail’s longest at 4 miles), and Avanti. Families and beginners will find gentle terrain near Golden Peak and Lionshead, with adventure zones and progression parks nearby.

The Back Bowls span over 3,000 acres and include Sun Down, Sun Up, Tea Cup, China, Siberia, and Mongolia Bowls. These treeless expanses offer steep chutes, open powder fields, and natural features. Intermediate skiers can enjoy Poppyfields East and West in China Bowl, while experts can tackle Genghis Khan, Rasputin’s Revenge, and Steep and Deep. The terrain here is expansive and varied, with aspects facing nearly every direction for optimal snow conditions.

Blue Sky Basin offers a more rugged, backcountry-style experience. Runs like Lover’s Leap, Big Rock Park, and The Star wind through glades and natural rollers. Skyline Express and Pete’s Express lifts serve this area, which is popular for tree skiing and quieter laps. Cloud 9 provides a scenic groomer for those seeking a mellow descent with panoramic views.

Vail features three terrain parks: Avanti Park for beginners, Bwana Park for intermediates, and Golden Peak for advanced riders. Golden Peak includes a superpipe and hosts the Burton US Open. The parks are well-maintained and offer a range of features from pint-sized boxes to full-size jumps.

Natural features across the mountain include ridgelines, cliff bands, and glades. The resort’s elevation—ranging from 8,120 ft at the base to 11,570 ft at the summit—ensures consistent snow quality. Snowmaking is available across key areas, and the lift system includes high-speed sixes, quads, gondolas, and surface lifts for efficient access.

For beginners, areas near Gopher Hill and Sourdough Express offer wide, gentle runs. Intermediates can explore Northwoods and Avanti zones, while experts will find challenge and variety in the Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin. Vail’s terrain mix—23% beginner, 34% intermediate, 42% advanced, and 2% expert—ensures something for every skier.