The most up-to-date information for the Vail Valley

Don't let your un-tuned skis hold you back! Let Gravity Jones Ski Werks, conveniently located on the ground level of the Vail Transportation Center, prepare your skis for you, and outfit your family with warm, durable, elegant ski clothing and accessories.

Founded in 1993, SOS Outreach provides high quality, core value based recreation programs to at-risk and underprivileged youth through skiing and snowboarding. By using the core values of Courage, Discipline, Integrity and Wisdom SOS builds strong morals, self-esteem and interpersonal skills. SOS will bring 2,500 participants to 29 mountain resorts nationally.

State-of-the-art ski & snowboard rentals featuring Salomon, Dynastar, K2, Volkl, Rossignol & Burton. Several slopeside rental & retail locations; Rent, exchange, and return to any location. Free overnight ski storage with rentals. Full-service tuning available. In Vail, located in Vail Village (970) 477-5740; In Golden Peak (970) 754-4912; At the Lionshead Bustop (970) 476-3600; In the Arrabelle (970) 479-4415. www.vailsports.com In Beaver Creek, located at the BASE of the escalators (970) 754-5418; Also in the Ritz-Carlton- Bachelor Gulch (970) 748-6880; In The Westin Riverfront (970) 748-3080. Other locations at The Pines Lodge, Arrowhead, & Beaver Creek Landing. www.beavercreeksports.com

AALTA SPORTS offers two bike tours; guided and self guided. A guided tour includes a professionally trained guide, round trip transportation from the guests lodge, high-end bike and helmet, gel seat for maximum comfort (upon request), spectacular scenery throughout the ride, laughter and fun, personal instruction on the use of the bike, snack and beverages during the trip consisting of an array of granola bars & ice cold beverages. Price $65 Duration 3-4.5 hours. The self-guided tours are for experienced bikers. A self-guided tour includes Cruiser-comfort bike and helmet, transportation to the top of Vail Pass - gel seat for maximum comfort (upon request) and a map to our location. WE HAVE THE EASIEST LOCATION TO FIND IN THE VAIL VILLAGE FROM THE BIKE PATH. Price $35, duration 4-4.5 hours

The Vail Valley hosts a variety of mountain bike roads and trails for all ability levels that will allow you to explore the surrounding mountains. We will provide the guides, bike, helmet, lunch and vehicle support for an amazing day! Full Day (6-8 hours ), Half Day - (4 hours ). Ride into the heart of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Our popular scheduled 5 Day Holy Cross 100 trips circumnavigate the Holy Cross Wilderness ending each day in the ambiance of a high alpine hut.

Vail's only catered bicycle touring company, offers day trips to Glenwood Canyon and Vail Pass to Breckenridge with gourmet lunch. Professional guides, high performance equipment includes top quality road & hybrid bikes designed for touring on pavement. Multi-day trips for groups anywhere in the US.

Vail Bike Tech is conveniently located on the Lionshead Mall just steps away from the Eagle Bahn Gondola. For the last 21 years we have been Vail's leader in quality price and service. We are locally owned and operated with special emphasis on friendly and helpful service. For the summer 2008 season, We will be offering a variety of local Bike Tours. Take in all the beautiful Colorado Scenery with family and friends. All Guides are experienced mechanics with training in CPR and first aid.

Mountain biking on Vail Mountain can come in many forms. Whether you are looking for a heart-pounding climb, an exhilarating single track or a moderate coasting road, there's something just for you! Grab a trail map and head out to explore the miles of wonderful mountain biking terrain! Vail Sports - Arrabelle Located just behind the Gondola in Lionshead Village (970) 479-4415

For a full day of family fun this winter, head to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs, It’s a great complement to your winter vacation, with a variety of exciting activities for both kids and adults. Ride the scenic tram to the top of Iron Mountain then enjoy a guided tour of Glenwood Caverns’ amazing Fairy Caves or experience the thrill of Colorado’s only alpine coaster as it plunges down the mountainside.

The Mountain Musher- Vail's Original Dog Sled Company. Family owned and operated in the Vail Valley for 20 years. Experienced guides, friendly dogs, beautiful private trail only 10 miles from Beaver Creek. Let them show you the backcountry in a way no one else can.

At Winterhawk we offer the total dogsledding experience. From mild to wild, three different locations, private parties to large groups we have something for everyone. Snuggle up under the warm wool blankets and let an experienced guide do all the work or harness up and drive your own team. Afterwards, take a tour of the kennel and spend some time with the puppies. At Winterhawk it’s more than just a ride.

Alpine River Outfitters is Colorado fly fishing at it's finest. Alpine River fly fishing outfitters offers guided fly fishing trips year round. We offer our float trips and wade fly fishing trips near Avon, Vail, Edwards, Eagle, Gypsum, Glenwood Springs, Aspen and Carbondale, Colorado. Alpine River Outfitters has been involved with guiding fly fishing in Colorado since 1994. We offer overnight float trips on the Colorado River at our new Colorado River Lodge. Visit our web site for the best fly fishing reports on the Eagle River, Gore Creek, Colorado River and the Roaring Fork River near Glenwood Springs. We have many miles of private ranch fly fishing.

Good things come to those who wait. You have waited long enough; it's time to learn how to fly fish. Fly-fishing is complex; Eagle River Outfitters professional guides have the knowledge and patience to get any angler, including beginners, to another level. They offer half and full day, wade or float fishing trips on the Colorado, Roaring Fork and Eagle Rivers. Let Eagle River Anglers help you personalize your trip today. Their fly shop is perfectly located on the Eagle River in the town of Eagle. They are the best at what they do and truly believe "Good things come to those who "wade"! Email eraontheriver@aol.com, Phone (970) 328-2323

Fly Fishing Outfittters is a year-round Orvis Endorsed Fly Shop and Guide Service located in the heart of Colorado Ski Country. While our valley may be better known for the great skiing found at the resorts of Vail and Beaver Creek, we are fortunate enough to have more miles of trout streams nearby than could be fished in a lifetime. These fisheries for wild rainbows, browns, cutthroats, and brookies rival those found anywhere in the United States. We guide everything from small mountain streams, to large western freestone rivers, and famous tailwaters. Most of our scenic trout streams are located within an hour of our shop. All of this lies just a two hour drive from Denver International Airport along the banks of the Eagle River in Vail Valley.

Gore Creek Fly Fisherman was voted #1 Fly Shop by the 2009 Vail Daily Best Of Awards and is the Vail Valley’s most experienced fly fishing-guide service. Gore Creek Fly Fisherman offers a diverse array of guided services and expert advice for anglers of all levels. All four of their shops have a US Forest Service permit allowing guides on high alpine creeks and rivers.This translates to unparalleled accessibility to the best fishing in the Vail Valley and beyond. They offer the finest lines of equipment and apparel for the utmost in performance, durability, service and value. Full and half-day wade and float trips are available. FREE daily casting clinics at 10:30am at all four locations. Vail Village, (970) 476-3296 Beaver Creek Village, (970) 754-5418 Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, (970) 748-6880 Westin Riverfront (970) 748-3080 www.gorecreekflyfisherman.com

Miniature Golf is located at the base of Beaver Creek.

The Vail Golf Club, nestled at the base of the Gore Mountain Range, presents golfers with a unique 18-hole, par 71 experience. The Vail Valley’s most walkable course, the golf club is open to the public and features a full service pro shop, group/corporate outings, professional instruction, driving range, practice area, golf swing analysis and Happy Valley Grill, featuring Rocky Mountain fare at its finest. Recognized by Golf Digest as a "Top 100 Resort Course," golfers enjoy playing greens that follow the Gore Creek and lay adjacent to the White River National Forest. Visit www.vailgolfclub.net or call (970) 479-2260 for details.

For a full day of family fun this winter, head to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs, It’s a great complement to your winter vacation, with a variety of exciting activities for both kids and adults. Ride the scenic tram to the top of Iron Mountain then enjoy a guided tour of Glenwood Caverns’ amazing Fairy Caves or experience the thrill of Colorado’s only alpine coaster as it plunges down the mountainside.

Enjoy a starlit sleigh ride through breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery. Relax to the sounds of sleigh bells and horses prancing, while sipping hot drinks under warm, cozy blankets. Upon return, complete your evening with world-renowned cuisine served fireside in the mountain lodge setting of Cordillera’s Timber Hearth Grille.

The Rocky Mountain Carriage Company offers horse-drawn carriage tours that allow guests to experience the life of a pioneer in the old West. Tours include the 15-Minute Vail Village Tour, which features notable shops and restaurants, a 25-Minute Mill Creek Circle Tour, featuring houses of the rich and famous, and the 50-Minute Ye Olde Towne Tour, which features Beaver Dam Road filled with scenic mansions. Telephone Number: (970) 904-6198. Hours: Tours 4pm-10pm daily.

Horseback rides at Bearcat Stables cater to those who would like to experience a horseback ride in beautiful Rocky Mountain scenery, but have limited time or horseback riding experience. The terrain is easily navigable and can be enjoyed by people of nearly all ages and skill levels. Each ride is limited to eight guests to ensure a quality horseback ride experience. Larger group rides are available only by special request.

It's time to get back up on a horse! Bring your family for a memorable, fun, and safe trail ride in the Rocky Mountains. We offer one hour ride, two hour ride, three hour picnic rides, and an all day ride to Beaver Lake. The trail winds through aspen groves that canopy overhead, and onto hillsides and ridges for views of the valley! Wildflowers of all colors line the trail, and some of the wildlife we look for are deer, black bears, and red-tail hawks. What a value for the highlight of your vacation! Call (970) 845-7770 for reservations.

Your wilderness experience awaits at Piney Stables. A beautiful drive on a dirt road through the wilderness takes you right to the Piney Lake, where your family can spend the day riding horses, canoeing, eating lunch, hiking, and resting in the peacefulness. Look for the local moose near the lake! The trail rides offer a chance to explore the surrounding aspen meadows and picture-perfect views of the Gore Range which tower over the lake. Piney is perfect for multi-generation families who want to experience the mountains together. Please call (970) 477-1171.

Horseback rides, Horsemanship Camp, Advanced Horse Camp, Pony Camp, Nature Camp, Private riding sessions. All for Kids. Also there are Horseback rides for teens, adults, families and groups. Open from May 22, 2009 to September 30, 2009.

Cattle Roundups, Saddles and Paddles, Western Performance Rides, Beginners to Advanced Trail Rides, Western Family Night, Lunches Hay Rides and Family Fun. Triple G. Outfitters has been in operation since 1991 and is located on the 4 Eagle Ranch, in Wolcott, Colorado. We pride ourselves on our experience and level of safety. Each horseback ride starts with an informational safety and demonstration talk to help riders feel comfortable while out on a ride. Our unique ranch setting offers breathtaking views of the Sawatch Range, Castle Peak and Red and White Mountain. All of this located just 23 miles from Vail and 16 miles from Beaver Creek.

Vail’s oldest operating hot air balloon company invites you to experience the fantasy in a majestic mountain setting. Flights originate from the Vail/Beaver Creek area at sunrise. Each flight is unique, the views are spectacular, it is common to see wildlife and it is generally warmer in the air than on the ground! Their complimentary post flight ceremonial champagne celebration is legendary and includes a commemorative certificate of your journey. FAA certified. National Aeronautical Association record holder. Reservations required. MC/V/D/AX accepted. Phone (970) 328-2290 or visit www.camelotballoons.com

Imagine the World’s Largest Hot Springs Pool, a three-hundred foot long swimming pool kept at 90 degrees all year long, and a therapy pool that relaxes muscles and relieves aches at 104 degrees. Water This is a must do attraction to elevate the experience of your Colorado ski vacation.

Vail Rock and Ice's guides have been teaching new Ice climbers and guiding experienced ones for more than a decade in the Vail area. Lessons and guided trips are offered by CPR/First Aid certified guides. Rock climbers can expect to pay US$95 per person, and ice climbers will pay US$140 per person. (It's substantially more for single climbers.)

Black Family Ice Rink in Beaver Creek is open year-round, including in summer 6-10 pm. Skating in shorts among blooming flowers is a real thrill. The rink is at the base of the mountain. (Also nearby is a kid-sized climbing wall, miniature golf and bungee-trampoline jumping.) The cost to skate is US$2, rental skates are available for US$10 for adults, US$5 for kids. Phone (970) 845-0438

THE ONLY JEEP TOUR WITH A naturalist/guide & yodeler extraordinaire!! CONTACT: Wolfgang Uberbacher "THE WOLF", TELEPHONE: (970) 926-WOLF (926-9653). Mountain Wolf Jeep Adventures, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and operates on a special use permit on the White River National Forest and BLM.

Timberline Tours is one of the most experienced jeeping outfitters in Vail. Enjoy a Vail jeep tour up Castle Peak at sunset, when the light is at it's best. Vail jeep tours will expose you to native wildlife, wildflowers and breathtaking vistas you've only dreamed about.

Alpine Quest Sports and Alpine Kayak School is Colorado's spot for for climbing, kayaking, telemark skiing, backcountry gear & kayak instruction. We are located in the Vail Valley right in the center of Colorado's Rockies. We literally have year round kayaking in this area (if you can deal with the cold water in the winter). Alpine Kayak has been teaching kayaking since 1989. We have one of Colorado's largest kayak schools and pride ourselves on the quality of instruction and all around experience we can provide to our guests. All of Alpine Kayak's instructors are First Aid/ CPR Certified, have Swiftwater Rescue & are certified by the American Canoe Association (ACA) to teach. We recruit instructors from all across the United States to make sure that we have instructors that will not only teach you the skills, but assure that you will have a great time while learning!!

These trips go into the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Camp is set in the upper reaches of the Pitkin Creek Valley. With a backdrop of high peaks and a pristine Alpine Lake, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of rock climbing and mountaineering. Depending on the length of the trip; rock climbing, rappelling, snow climbing, low impact camping and the mountain environment will be covered. The focus of these programs is to give each person a basic understanding of climbing and the systems that make it safe. We stress understanding mountain climbing concepts and provide plenty of time on the rock. Camp life is enhanced with hearty meals, and a sharing of knowledge of many aspects of backpacking, climbing, mountaineering and Natural History.

We offer professional tandem paragliding adventures and instruction for an Eagle's eye view of the beautiful Vail Valley. All you need is desire. We provide you with digital cameras to capture your experience for a lifetime of memories. We customize your own website where you can share your photos with friends and family on-line.

Let Lakota Guides take you to new adventures!! Lakota offers whitewater rafting tours and off-road Jeep and Hummer tours. With more than 29 years of experience, Lakota has been setting the standards for river trips, equipment, transportation and safety in the central Rockies. Not to mention...their guides have a blast. That means your family will too. Three trips are offered each day on the Eagle, Colorado or Arkansas rivers with beginner, intermediate, and advanced sections. The popular Night Vision raft trip is an experience to be remembered. They provide all you need for the river and include a lunch or snack. Offering complimentary transportation from hotels and condos around the Vail Valley. For the Time of Your Life!! Call (970) 845-RAFT or visit www.lakotariver.com

From wild to mild, Rock Gardens Rafting offers inspiring Colorado River adventures in scenic Glenwood Canyon. Whether you’re looking for rip-roaring whitewater, or a scenic and relaxing family float, the experienced staff at Rock Gardens Rafting is committed to providing you with a safe and fun-packed trip. Leave your worries behind and enjoy an exhilarating adventure on the gorgeous Colorado River as you float through spectacular Glenwood Canyon! Trips depart four times per day. KIDS RAFT FREE (one child, 12 and under) with every paying adult on full day river adventures. Reservations are required and subject to availability, excluding holidays. Rock Gardens Rafting is located off I-70 Exit 119 at No Name. Multiple daily departures. (800) 958-6737 or visit www.rockgardens.com

Vail rafting is some of the best in the country. From a relaxing, sun-drenched float trip down the upper Colorado River to the heart-pounding adventure of the Class V Gore Canyon, Timberline Tours offers a Colorado river rafting experience for everyone. Colorado rafting is the perfect remedy for a hot summer day in the mountains surrounding the Vail Valley.

First Descents strives to become the leader in innovative camps supporting young adults with cancer. Using kayaking, extreme sports and professional athletes, First Descents offers young adults with cancer outdoor experiences that will forever change their lives.

The Vail Recreation District offers year-round fun for all ages, including golf at Vail’s only public golf course, the Vail Golf Club; children’s learning and discovery programs at the Imagination Station; youth summer day and sports camps; adult sport leagues; running and mountain bike racing; ice skating and hockey at Dobson Ice Arena; naturalist programs at the Vail Nature Center; tennis on some of the best clay courts in the state at the Vail Tennis Center; and gymnastics, martial arts and fencing at the Vail Gymnastics Center. Visit www.vailrec.com or call (970) 479-2279 for details.

Our guides will introduce you to the gear, gracefulness and challenge of the vertical world. You will learn to appreciate protection systems and the dynamics of rope handling, while developing a sense for comfortably moving on rock. Full Day- (6-8 hours), half Day(4 hours), Custom Day Trips and Two Day Workshop also available.

Our Rock Climbing and Adventure Series have grown out of integral components of our wilderness trips and offer local youth ongoing outdoor adventure education opportunities. Rock Climbing is a challenge that pushes individuals physically, emotionally and mentally. All wilderness trips offer a backcountry climbing opportunity which many consider to be a life changing experience. SOS & Meet the Wilderness merged!

Vail Rock and Ice's guides have been teaching new rock climbers and guiding experienced ones for more than a decade in the Vail area. Lessons and guided trips are offered by CPR/First Aid certified guides. Rock climbers can expect to pay US$95 per person, and ice climbers will pay US$140 per person. (It's substantially more for single climbers.)

Beaver Divers is Colorado's finest, full service scuba diving shop. Since 1986 Casey Zwaan has operated the dynamic personalised scuba shop, located between Beaver Creek and Vail. Beaver Divers is the most successful dive shop in the Rocky Mountains offering all levels of certification classes from beginner through instructor. We provide friendly and professional service for divers and snorkelers.

Nova Guides has been Vail's premier outdoor recreation company for over 2 decades. Offering a variety of winter activities including snowmobile tours & rentals, snowcoach tours and dogsledding. Summer adventures include, whitewater rafting, Jeep & Hummer Tours, ATV tours & rentals, mountain biking and fishing trips.

Adventures snowmobiling is some of the finest in Colorado. Piney offers close proximity to Vail and Beaver Creek and host spectacular scenery of the Gore Mountain Range, Piney Lake, and unrivaled views of Eagle Valley including Mt of the Holy Cross. Your tour start at the base of Red Sandstone Road right here in Vail. You and your guide will wind over the trails through the trees with a destination of Piney Rive Ranch 11 miles into the wilderness. On the way you will have a chance to let loose in our groomed play area know as the "fox farm", named for its purpose back in the early 1900’s. When you arrive at Piney River Ranch you are welcomed by a warm roaring fire, hot beverage, and fantastic picture opportunities. If you are with us for our lunch tour you get to stay in this winter wonder land just that much longer and enjoy some of the best BBQ around. When it is time to leave the ranch your adventure does not end there. Your group will detour up Red & White Mountain trail and get you a taste of real Colorado powder. All and all you will travel about 30 miles with us. From the individual with no experience to the avid snowmobiler, you are sure to make lasting fun filled memories with us.

Join us at our cozy Backcountry Cabin at the Arrowhead Ski Area for an enjoyable snowshoe experience. Part of the original homestead, wood heat and a rustic look make for a warm comfortable setting. A picnic lunch or wine and cheese cap off the day with good friends. Professional guides, snowshoes, poles, gaiters and snack provided.

Imagine the World’s Largest Hot Springs Pool, a three-hundred foot long swimming pool kept at 90 degrees all year long, and a therapy pool that relaxes muscles and relieves aches at 104 degrees. Water This is a must do attraction to elevate the experience of your Colorado ski vacation.

Hike with the companionship of a llama willing to share the burden of your gear. Llamas have a curious, gentle and intelligent nature making them an ideal addition for your backcountry adventure. Camps are situated in secluded alpine settings or at high 10th Mountain Huts surrounded by alpine lakes and peak summits. There is always time for fishing, hiking, rock climbing and exploring the surrounding mountains.

The original and core program of Meet the Wilderness which now merged with SOS Outreach, our six day trips introduce youth groups and individuals to the Colorado backcountry. These trips include two days of teambuilding and preparing at our Minturn base camp and Teams Course. We all pack gear and food and depart for 4 more days of backcountry adventure. Hiking and camping in remote wilderness areas, carrying all of the gear and working as a group all serve our mission to teach life skills, teamwork and leadership. We succeed seeing participants return home with broadened horizons and a greater sense of self.