Vail, Colorado, on the list for most beautiful mountain towns in the Rocky Mountains, has it all. Surrounded by the White River National Forest, Vail is considered one of the world’s best alpine resorts for skiing and snowboarding. Not to mention snowshoeing, Nordic ski tracks, tubing, and snowmobiling in the winter. In the summer, there is kayaking and rafting, mountain biking, hiking, golf, fly fishing and more. Vail is broken up into three parts: East Vail, Vail, and West Vail. The main Vail area is Vail Village which hosts boutique shops, high-end apparel, casual and fine dining, world-class galleries, chic spas, cultural events, concerts, family-fun activities and the largest farmer’s market in Colorado, all with the beautiful backdrop of aspens and pines that cover the mountains which surround.
It’s from this farmer’s market that many of Vail’s five-star restaurants obtain the locally grown and organic ingredients that they feature, which you can savor from the many sun-kissed decks around town. The locals are friendly and helpful, openly offering their advice on everything from which runs have the best powder, to where to enjoy the best pizza after an active day.
Nothing should get in the way of your perfect experience. Check these helpful tips for ensuring a smooth journey.
VIEW LISTThe weather changes quickly in the mountains. In summer months, expect afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Dress appropriately for changing conditions especially when hiking. In the winter months, layering your clothes will give you the most versatility for temperature changes.
As a person climbs to higher elevations the air becomes thinner. In Vail the amount of oxygen in the air is 30 percent less than at sea level; humidity is 50 percent less. Most visitors can expect some degree of change in their bodies. Symptoms range from restlessness to shortness of breath, coughing, dizziness, headaches, and increases in heart rate. To avoid the symptoms make sure you are well rested prior to arriving. Upon arrival, drink lots of water and don’t overexert yourself. Avoid alcohol and caffeine and increase your water intake by 50 percent.
Additionally, when traveling to higher altitude liquids like shampoo, lotions, creams, etc. can open or burst due to a change in pressure. It is recommended you pack your liquids and lotions separate plastic bags in case they open.
Vail is in the Mountain Time Zone and observes Daylight Saving Time from late March until late October.
If you are traveling with prescription medicines, carry them in their original containers and bring a copy of your prescription. If you buy medications abroad, be aware that they may not be FDA-approved or allowed into the United States. For more information on customs rules and regulations, please contact 202.354.1000 or visit www.cbp.gov.