Trails and grooming

The track is groomed daily at 8 a.m. for both skating and classic skiing, and if six inches of new snow falls by midday, the 5K loop gets a second pass. The trails run over the golf course, which is why beginners can find their feet here. Opening day depends on early-season snow.

Lessons

PSIA-certified instructors run daily beginner group lessons in classic technique and private lessons in classic or skate. Clinics through the season cover skate and classic technique, women-only sessions and an introduction to alpine touring. A short lesson makes a first day much easier, and space is limited, so call ahead.

Rentals and the shop

You can arrive with nothing. Rentals cover classic, skate, alpine touring and backcountry skis, snowshoes, fat bikes with helmets and pull sleds for children, and a second rental on the same day is half price. The pro shop carries Fischer, Salomon and Rossignol skis and boots and handles waxing and binding mounts, and there is a Nordic lodge area for changing and warming up.

Before you go

Trail passes, lessons and rentals are priced separately, and children five and under ski free. The center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter. Parking at the clubhouse is free, and the free Town of Vail bus stops at the Clubhouse stop. Prices and dates are in the FAQ below.

At the Vail Golf & Nordic Clubhouse

Grill on the Gore, the clubhouse restaurant, serves a bottomless soup and chili lunch buffet in winter with hot drinks and a full bar, an easy warm-up stop between laps.

From late spring the same ground is Vail Golf Club, the Recreation District's public 18-hole course.

The clubhouse also hosts winter weddings, rehearsal dinners and corporate events in its Gore Range Room, which seats up to 160, and a golf or Nordic outing can be added to an event.

Sources: Vail Nordic Center, Vail Golf Club, clubhouse events, Grill on the Gore. Checked September 23, 2026.