Skiing Vail Mountain as a beginner can be a bit overwhelming, but American Ski Exchange is here to help you make the most of the experience. Our top recommendation is to stick to the front side of Vail Mountain, where you’ll find plenty of long, beautiful, groomed runs. The back side is best left to intermediate and advanced skiers.
Need equipment? We’re happy to fit you with the right skis, snowboards, boots, or clothing. Plus, we’ll provide pointers for navigating the mountain! Below are some of our favorite beginner-friendly runs on Vail Mountain:
1. From Wildwood Express Lift (Lift 3)
A) Lost Boy in Game Creek Bowl
- Access:
- Take Vista Bahn Express Lift (Lift 16) from Vail Village.
- Ski over to Wildwood Express Lift (Lift 3).
- At the top, ski The Meadows back to the same lift or head to Lost Boy via a catwalk past Game Creek Express Lift (Lift 7).
- Take Vista Bahn Express Lift (Lift 16) from Vail Village.
- Highlights:
- Features rolling hills and breathtaking views of the Gore Range—a perfect photo op.
- Fun early morning warm-up run.
- End at Game Creek Express Lift for another ride up Game Creek Bowl.
- Features rolling hills and breathtaking views of the Gore Range—a perfect photo op.
2. From Mountaintop Express (Lift 4) and/or Northwoods Express (Lift 11)
A) Ramshorn
B) Swingsville
- Access:
- Take Vista Bahn Express Lift (Lift 16) from Vail Village.
- Ski over to Mountaintop Express Lift (Lift 4).
- From the top, choose either Ramshorn or Swingsville.
- Take Vista Bahn Express Lift (Lift 16) from Vail Village.
- Highlights:
- Both runs are well-groomed and offer long, smooth descents.
- Both runs are well-groomed and offer long, smooth descents.
3. From Sourdough Express (Lift 14)
A) Tin Pants
B) Boomer
C) Sourdough
D) Flapjack
- Access:
- Take Vista Bahn Express Lift (Lift 16) to Mountaintop Express Lift (Lift 4).
- Ski down Timberline Catwalk (keep your speed to avoid getting stuck).
- Take Sourdough Lift (Lift 14) to the top.
- Take Vista Bahn Express Lift (Lift 16) to Mountaintop Express Lift (Lift 4).
- Highlights:
- Runs like Sourdough and Boomer are favorites for Ski School.
- Enjoy a meal at Two Elk Lodge near the top—try the buffalo chili or a burger.
- Runs like Sourdough and Boomer are favorites for Ski School.
4. From Vista Bahn Express (Lift 16) to Avanti Express (Lift 2)
A) Top of Lion’s Way
B) Overeasy
- Access:
- From Vista Bahn Express (Lift 16), ski Lion’s Way.
- At the end of the run, take Avanti Express Lift (Lift 2).
- At the top, ski Overeasy to reach Wildwood Express (Lift 3) or Mountaintop Express (Lift 4).
- From Vista Bahn Express (Lift 16), ski Lion’s Way.
5. From Eagle Bahn Express Gondola (Lift 19)
A) Cub’s Way
B) Bottom of Lion’s Way
C) Bottom of Born Free
- Access:
- From Lionshead Village, take Eagle Bahn Express Gondola (Lift 19).
- At the top, ski Cub’s Way to Giant Steps Lift (Lift 1).
- Continue on the lower half of Lion’s Way, then finish with the lower half of Born Free.
- From Lionshead Village, take Eagle Bahn Express Gondola (Lift 19).
- Highlights:
- This series of runs ends conveniently at Lionshead Village.
- This series of runs ends conveniently at Lionshead Village.
Need More Help?
Stop by American Ski Exchange for equipment rentals, ski clothing, or advice on navigating Vail Mountain. Let us help you make your skiing adventure unforgettable!
Have questions or need assistance? Contact American Ski Exchange, or call at 1-800-327-1137. We’re here to ensure your trip to Vail Mountain is as smooth and enjoyable as possible!