The Best Ski Runs in Vail for Every Level: Green, Blue, and Black
Vail is one of the largest and most iconic ski resorts in North America, with over 5,300 acres of terrain and a wide variety of trails. Whether you're strapping on skis for the first time or chasing powder through legendary back bowls, Vail caters to every skill level. In this guide, we break down the best ski runs in Vail for beginners, intermediates, and experts—so you can plan your day on the mountain with confidence.
Best Green Runs in Vail (Beginner-Friendly Terrain)
Perfect for first-timers and those still mastering their turns
Vail is incredibly beginner-friendly, especially near the Lionshead and Golden Peak areas where the terrain is wide, gentle, and easy to navigate.
Top Green Runs:
Sourdough – Located off the Sourdough Express Lift (#14), this is a long, scenic trail with low traffic and consistent pitch—great for building confidence.
Bear Tree – Accessible from the Avanti Express Lift (#2), this run gently winds through trees and offers great views without too much challenge.
Little Eagle – Near the Eagle Bahn Gondola, this trail is ideal for brand-new skiers taking lessons or warming up.
Insider Tip:
The Gopher Hill Lift and Practice Parkway near Golden Peak are excellent for kids and beginners looking to ease into the sport with ski school access and shorter slopes.
Best Blue Runs in Vail (Intermediate Terrain)
Ideal for confident skiers ready for speed, variety, and light challenge
Intermediate skiers will find a playground of perfectly groomed cruisers, steeper pitches, and tree-lined trails across Vail Mountain.
Top Blue Runs:
Avanti – A favorite off the Avanti Express Lift (#2), this run offers wide turns, a fun rolling profile, and easy access to more challenging terrain.
Lodgepole to Simba – Start near the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola and link Lodgepole with Simba for a long, scenic descent.
Coyote Crossing – On the Game Creek side, this lesser-known trail offers great grooming and fewer crowds.
Whistle Pig – A smooth, quiet blue that’s great for carving and catching your breath.
Insider Tip:
For intermediates ready to test their skills, explore the Blue Sky Basin, which features longer blue runs with optional glades and natural features.
Best Black Diamond Runs in Vail (Advanced & Expert Terrain)
Challenging, steep, and rewarding—designed for experienced skiers
Advanced skiers come to Vail for one reason: the Back Bowls. But there’s incredible black-diamond terrain throughout the resort, from tight tree runs to wide-open powder fields.
Top Black Runs:
Ricky’s Ridge – One of the iconic Back Bowl lines, accessed via Sun Up or High Noon Bowl, offering steep powder turns and expansive views.
Blue Ox – Located on the Front Side and served by the Highline Express Lift (#10), Blue Ox is steep, fast, and rarely crowded.
Forever – Aptly named, this popular black in Sun Down Bowl offers long, steep skiing with optional drops and tree sections.
Prima, Pronto, Log Chute – A thrilling trio off the Northwoods Express Lift (#11), packed with moguls and steep pitches.
Expert Tip:
Double blacks in Blue Sky Basin like Lover’s Leap or Steep and Deep are for serious thrill-seekers—check conditions before diving in.
Bonus: Vail Terrain by Area
Want to explore by region? Here's where to find your match:
Front Side: Beginner & intermediate-friendly with family zones and groomers
Back Bowls: Open advanced terrain with iconic black diamond runs
Blue Sky Basin: Natural terrain, glades, and bowls for intermediate to expert skiers
Conclusion
From gentle greens to adrenaline-pumping double blacks, Vail offers some of the best ski runs in Colorado for every ability level. Whether you're just starting out or looking to conquer expert terrain, the mountain has something tailored to your skills. For a seamless stay, pair your trip with a premium Vail vacation rental from LocalVR—just steps from the lifts, with all the comforts of home.
