Guide to Vail, CO
Vail Colorado is the premier destination for winter in the US. In a small elite group of world class of ski destinations Vail is number one. The town sits at an elevation 8,160 feet and has a population of 4,531. Historically a ranching community, over the past forty years this quaint little town reminiscent of a historic village has experienced a unprecedented growth. The picturesque cobblestone streets are filled with a wide variety of high end luxury retailers. World class skiing, gourmet restaurants and premium shopping dominate the local economy based almost entirely on tourism. As a result of that tourism, Vail has the largest free transit service anywhere in the United States. With almost 530 skiable acres, Vail is the largest ski resort in the US and the second largest in North America behind Whistler in Canada. It is also the largest single mountain ski resort in the world. A vast 5,390 acres of terrain are dusted with the world famous Vail powder every winter. Ski aficianados from all over the globe come for the world renowned back bowl skiiing. Vail's backcountry and mountain offers challenges and varied terrain for all levels of skier or snowboarder. Celebrities and public figures are seen every day in the winter. Ironically enough the summer has blossomed into another seperate tourism season for the area. There is a local saying, "You come for the winter and stay for the summer". Most people do come for the winter and fall in love with the area. A select group ultimately purchasing Vail real estate or investment property. There are ten areas making up what is considered Vail Valley. Generally considered to be the major resorts are Vail, Beaver Creek, Bachelor Gulch, and Arrowhead. Just a stones throw away and extremely popular are the surorunding towns and villages of Cordillera, Minturn, Avon, Edwards, Wolcott, Red Sky Ranch, Eagle, and Gypsum. A little less busy and just a bit more small town flavour make these great areas to vacation in or purchase a home. Many people enjoy a less commercialized and tourist filled ski vacation and these towns fit that mold.
