“Not yet.” That was the response of my first ski instructor when I took a tumble, landed smack on my back, looked up at the bluebird sky, and said, “I’m just not very good at this.” Humbling is perhaps the best word to describe my first ski trip 20 years ago as a newlywed. At 26 I had never considered myself athletic and my inner perfectionist detested not being good at something, but this girl from Alabama (where we might get an inch dusting every other year) didn’t give up even though she felt like Bambi taking those first steps. With my fear at an all-time high and my frustration nearing an all-out hissy fit, what began as wanting to prove something to my husband became something I had to prove to myself.
Now at 46, skiing has become one of my greatest joys in life and it didn’t come naturally - it came with practice, lots of frustration, and gaining confidence.
Skiing allows you to go places and to see places that you would never experience without skis.
With the magic of a snow-blanketed landscape, the warmth of a roaring fire, the rush of skis hitting the slopes, the indescribable feeling as a parent to see your child conquering their fears, and the vastness of the horizon looking out at 11,500 feet, Vail offers a family trip like no other.
Where To Stay
Arrabelle Vail is luxury in the heart of Lionshead. This ski in/ski out property is one of the best hotels you will ever experience. The rooms are exceptional and spacious, many equipped with large balconies overlooking the slopes where you can enjoy morning coffee and sunrise. Don't miss the full European breakfast served every morning or the perfect place to apres, the rooftop hot tub and heated pool. vailarrabelle.com
Where To Eat
Slope Room
Slope Room, an alpine bistro focused on the connection with Rocky Mountain farmers and ranchers. Creative dishes with local ingredients star at this sophisticated yet cozy restaurant and bar that pays homage to the sexy and dangerous allure of the Old West with a decidedly modern twist on the traditional new American and steakhouse menu. sloperoom.com
La Tour
Oysters, mussels, caviar, foie gras - this French staple is delicious from first bite to last. Enjoy dining in one of their outdoor globes. latour-vail.com
Mountain Standard
From flames to flavors, Mountain Standard embodies the essence of the Rockies. With wood-fired dishes and casual yet refined service, this is a great place to dine with family and friends. mtnstandard.com
El Segundo
Mexican by the slopes? Yes, please! Located in Vail Village, El Segundo offers fantastic tacos in so many flavor combinations along with craft cocktails and mocktails. The apres can be quite the scene too. elsegundovail.com
Where To Play
A sleigh ride dinner at 4 Eagle Ranch is a wonderful way to see the mountains. The drive from Vail to Wolcott is less than 30 minutes and very scenic. The team at 4 Eagle Ranch provides the exact kind of hospitality you might expect to find on a ranch – friendly, accommodating, and down-to-earth. The fireside meal is excellent with options to accommodate different dietary needs on request. Enjoy nightly music and hot cocoa by the fire. 4eagleranch.com
Where To Shop
Gorsuch
One of the most beautiful stores you will ever set foot in. This cozy, high end boutique offers multiple floors of gorgeous ski clothes, every day wear, American and European designers, and home decor. The friendly service and greeting guard dog make it a memorable stop whether you are just browsing or gearing up on the finest. gorsuch.com
Pepi Sports
Carrying a variety of brands, Pepe Sports is a must stop for any avid skier. pepisports.com
Aviator Nation
The Aviator Nation outpost near Gore Creek is full of loud colors, fun music and a hip crowd, making this the 'it' store of the moment. Don't recognize these rainbow stripes, never heard of the brand? Ask someone under 30. Whether it's comfy sweats with their signature rainbow stripes or an inflatable snowmobile to sled down the slopes, imagine if Barbie had a ski chalet equipped with closets of colorful clothes and toys, and you will start to understand why Aviator Nation is a favorite of the younger generation. aviatornation.com