2026 Eagle County Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in February)

#skitrip Vail is known for its vast ski area and smooth skiing experience. The wide runs make it comfortable to ski without feeling crowded, even during peak times. The lift system is efficient, allowing you to spend more time skiing and less time waiting. I liked how the village layout made moving between slopes, food, and rest areas very convenient. This destination is ideal if you enjoy long ski days and well-designed resort facilities in a relaxed setting. #travel #travel2026

#skitrip There’s no denying the mountain is incredible, but the "Vail Tax" is real. To make this work without going bankrupt, you must have an Epic Pass; the walk-up window prices for lift tickets are offensive. I stayed down the road in Avon and took the free bus in, which saved me hundreds on lodging and parking. I also packed my own lunch to eat on the lifts. If you’re a serious skier, you come here for the 5,000+ acres of terrain, not the $1,000-a-night hotels. The skiing is 10/10, but the commercialism can be a bit much.

#skitrip I don't ski, but I joined my friends on their trip and was never bored. The shopping in the village is world-class—everything from high-end art galleries to custom cowboy boot shops. I took the gondola up as a foot passenger to meet the group for lunch at The 10th, which had stunning views of the Gore Range. I also spent a day at the Sonnenalp Spa, which was one of the best spa experiences I've ever had. You don't need to touch a pair of skis to have a legitimate "alpine" vacation here.

#skitrip Vail is the "Wall Street" of ski resorts. I stayed at The Sebastian, and the level of service was impeccable. From the ski valet who has your warmed boots ready to the heated cobblestone streets that prevent slipping in your designer gear, every detail is considered. Dining at Almresi felt like a trip to Austria, with authentic decor and incredible schnitzel. Yes, it is eye-wateringly expensive—be prepared for $25 burgers and $20 cocktails—but if you want a vacation where you never have to lift a finger (except to ski), this is the place.

#skitrip The transition from skiing to partying at Vail is legendary. Around 3:30 PM, the energy in the village is electric. The Red Lion is a mandatory stop—it’s a classic spot with live music and massive plates of nachos. For a more "local" vibe, we found The George, which is tucked away in a basement and has much better prices for drinks. If you want something upscale, Pepi’s porch is the best place to people-watch while sipping a beer. The best part is that everyone is still in their ski boots, creating a great "we’re all in this together" atmosphere.

Vail, Colorado, is one of North America's premier ski resorts, famous for its vast terrain and world-class village atmosphere. Located about 100 miles west of Denver (DEN), the drive takes roughly 2 hours via I-70 West. For transport, consider booking a shuttle service like Epic Mountain Express, or renting a 4x4 vehicle for the mountain passes. The resort is broken into three main areas: the Front Side, the legendary Seven Back Bowls, and Blue Sky Basin. For first-timers, start with the wide-open cruising runs on the Front Side (like Born Free and Riva), but the must-do activity is exploring the Back Bowls—they offer challenging, untracked powder skiing, an experience unique to Vail. Don't miss the chance to ski the iconic Sun Up Bowl on a bluebird day! When it comes to accommodation, Vail Village offers luxurious, ski-in/ski-out lodges like The Lodge at Vail and the Four Seasons, where prices can range from $400 to $1,000+ USD per night during peak season. A more budget-friendly option is staying down the road in nearby West Vail or Lionshead Village. For food, you must try the famous hot chocolate and French Onion Soup at Sweet Basil (reservations essential!) and grab a quick, hearty breakfast burrito at Loaded Joe's before hitting the slopes. Pro Tip: The best time to visit is late January to mid-March for the deepest, most reliable powder conditions. To save money, purchase your lift ticket (Epic Pass) well in advance, and always check the official Vail app for real--time lift closures and snow reports. Remember to acclimatize to the high elevation (over 8,000 feet) by drinking plenty of water upon arrival! #skitrip #SkiTheBowls #EpicSkiing #PowderDay #BackBowls #MountainLife #SkiResort

#postandearn #attractive #stunningview Covering over 2.3 million acres, the White River National Forest is Colorado’s most visited national forest—and for good reason. From snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes to vibrant wildflower meadows, this wilderness offers endless adventures in every season. ❄️🌸 ✨ Why Visit? Scenic Landscapes: Explore iconic spots like Maroon Bells, Hanging Lake, and Mount Sopris. Outdoor Activities: Hike, camp, bike, fish, or paddle in pristine surroundings. 🚴♀️🏞️ Winter Paradise: Home to world-class ski resorts like Aspen and Vail. 🎿 Wildlife Watching: Spot elk, deer, black bears, and soaring eagles. 🦅 🌟 Highlights for Visitors Drive the Independence Pass Scenic Byway for jaw-dropping views. Visit Maroon Bells—one of the most photographed peaks in North America. Camp under a sky full of stars in quiet backcountry sites. Enjoy fall foliage drives when the aspen trees turn golden. 🍂 💡 Travel Tip: Summer and fall are ideal for hiking and scenic drives, while winter transforms the forest into a snowy playground. 📍 Location: Central Colorado, spanning from Glenwood Springs to Dillon and Aspen. White River National Forest is where Colorado’s wild heart beats year-round—whether you seek adventure, peace, or both. 🌲✨ #postandearn #WhiteRiverNationalForest #Colorado #NatureEscape #AdventureAwaits #USAtravel

#skitrip Skiing with skis | Couple's outfit | Ski suit for skis ⛷️ Went to Telluride Colorado to ski during Christmas I have only been to Aspen, Park City, and Deer Valley before Telluride was a really pleasant surprise Very low-key and beautiful, few people and quiet, the staff are super warm and cute There is no Uber, so we take the cable car between towns It feels like our favorite ski resort in Colorado As a fashion industry worker, I have no motivation to ski unless I dress well I bought a very good ski suit when I learned to ski two years ago I feel that I would be sorry for my clothes if I don’t learn to ski well 🙂↔️ I have always liked ski fashion in the 90s Especially when I saw House of Gucci before, the male lead in the white one-piece ski suit was so handsome, especially when Cole started skiing at the age of three, he would be super handsome I searched all over the Internet and bought it when it was on sale at the beginning of this year! ! Not only did I find a white men’s one-piece ski suit, I also bought a fake suit ski suit! The whole piece is made with standard ski suit craftsmanship The black part under the lapel of the suit is actually a down jacket He was praised like crazy while skiing on the mountain these days Men, women, young and old, going up and down the mountain, and the old lady in the staff elevator They praised him like crazy and asked where he bought it After a day of skiing, I met passers-by and someone said that he saw Cole on the mountain, hahaha The center of attention

Today visited the Vail Village @ Colorado, it is a small town located at the base of Vail mountain. It is also the home of the huge Vail Ski Resort. During Winter Season, this town is a gateway for winter sport such as skiing and snowboarding. Many sking lovers will come to this popular destination. This town is famous specially to the wealthy people because of its luxurious resorts, world-class ski slopes, and scenic mountain views. Recommended you guys if you are in Colorado, you can visit too.#visitusa #wheretogo #tripaway

"Hi there! First of all, thank you so much to everyone who's following along my journey!" Beyond the curated frames of Instagram lies the story of Maria—a wanderer, a storyteller, and a seeker of connection. A re-introduction that delves beyond the screen, inviting followers to share their stories and embark on a collective journey.

"No rose-colored glasses, only ski goggles with such a view." Amidst the snow-clad slopes of Vail, perspectives shift, and reflections take hold. With each exhilarating descent, a symphony of thoughts arises, and amidst the whirling snowflakes, clarity emerges. A moment to embrace the magic of the mountains, where @beavercreek's allure casts its enchanting spell. ❄️⛷️

There’s at least one place in Alaska where you won’t have to fight crowds of tourists. In fact, you might not see anyone at all. It’s Kennicott Ghost Town, and it’s been long abandoned by those who used to live and work there. The heyday of the town was in the early 1900s when people flocked to the nearby copper mines in search of wealth and fortune. A bustling community grew around the mines, one that included shops, saloons, schools, post offices and even brothels. Over time, the mines dried up, and the people moved on. Kennicott Ghost Town is now a relic of turn-of-the-century living. Visitors can explore it at their leisure or even talk to the handful of residents who still live in the surrounding areas, but don’t expect any fireworks here. It’s a calm, quiet and slightly eerie destination, and as such, it’s one of the most memorable of Alaska’s attractions. Address: McCarthy Rd, Chitina, AK, United States