Winter Activities in Vail, Colorado
Winter in Vail transforms the Rocky Mountains into a snow-covered playground filled with adventure, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable alpine experiences. From skiing legendary powder to peaceful snowshoe trails and cozy evenings in Vail Village, there are countless things to do in Vail in the winter.
Guests staying at Sonnenalp have easy access to some of the most exciting Vail, Colorado winter activities, whether you're visiting in December, January, or throughout the winter season. Our concierge team can help arrange outdoor adventures, family activities, and private experiences that showcase the beauty of Vail in the winter.
From romantic getaways to ski trips to family vacations, you’ll discover why winter in Vail is one of the most magical mountain experiences in Colorado.
The Sonnenalp Hotel operates under a special use permit from the USDA Forest Service.
Top Winter Activities in Vail
When snow blankets the Vail Valley, the mountains come alive with outdoor recreation. Many visitors come for skiing, but there are many other things to do in Vail, Colorado in the winter beyond the slopes.
Popular Vail winter activities include:
- Alpine skiing and snowboarding
- Cross-country skiing through scenic mountain trails
- Snowshoeing through quiet forests and alpine meadows
- Snowmobiling adventures in the surrounding backcountry
- Shopping, dining, and exploring Vail Village
Guided Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing in Vail
Ages 13+ (Private tours available for all ages)
Step beyond the bustle of Vail Village and discover the peaceful side of winter in Vail with a professionally guided hiking or snowshoeing tour in Vail, Colorado. These scenic excursions lead guests through quiet pine forests, snow-covered meadows, and breathtaking alpine landscapes that showcase the beauty of the Rocky Mountains in winter.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle walk through snowy trails or a more active outdoor adventure, our guided experiences are designed to suit a variety of fitness levels and interests. Each tour offers the option of snowshoes or microspikes, allowing your guide to choose the best traction for current conditions while ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable outing.
As one of the most peaceful winter activities in Vail, snowshoeing provides a unique opportunity to explore the mountains away from the ski slopes while enjoying stunning winter scenery.
Daily Guided Winter Tours
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Approximately 2 hours of guided hiking plus transportation time
Ages 13+: $60 per person
Tours are subject to availability. Please contact the Concierge to reserve.
Private Winter Hike & Snowshoe Tours
Guests seeking a more personalized outdoor experience can book a private snowshoeing or winter hiking tour in Vail. These custom adventures are ideal for couples, families, and small groups who want to explore the mountains at their own pace. Your guide will tailor the route, distance, and difficulty level to match your interests while introducing you to some of the most beautiful winter landscapes in the Vail Valley.
$99 per person (2-person minimum) with 20% gratuity automatically applied
Total: $118.80 per person
Private tours can accommodate participants under age 13.
Winter Nature Walks, Hiking & Snowshoe Tours in Vail
Possible Private Excursions
Scenic drive, private hikes/snowshoe tours, destination snowshoe picnic, and family friendly winter nature experience. Call concierge desk/activities coordinator for booking and more information.
Kid & Family-Friendly Winter Nature Experience
Engaging children in the wonderland of nature stimulates an irresistible sense of exploration & discovery, stimulates learning & creativity, and helps burn some of that boundless energy!
Destination Snowshoe Picnic
Snowshoe to a beautiful overlook or view point to enjoy a peaceful gourmet picnic.
Winter in Vail Scenic Driving & Photo Tour
Sit back, relax and take in the sights. Our scenic tours are a great way to experience and learn more about the Eagle & RoaringFork Valleys. Short walks to viewpoints & overlooks offer wonderful opportunities for roadside photography of lakes, canyons, rivers, mountain vistas and so much more.
Ski & Snowboard in Vail
Experience world-class skiing and riding at Vail
- 5,289 acres of terrain
- 33 lifts
- Multiple terrain parks, including a 22 foot half pipe
- Vail’s famous “Back Bowls”
The Sonnenalp Hotel proudly offers our exclusive Sonnenalp Ski Concierge, boasting a private lounge, secure lockers and personalized service located at Gorsuch Ski Café.
Gorsuch Ski Cafe offers top of the line rentals equipment and helmets, along with the latest technology for tuning, repairs and waxing in a private setting just 50 steps from Gondola One.