It’s December and one of the best times of the year to visit Vail, Colorado. In fact, the first ski season for the town was in December of 1962. Vail grew and developed so much over the years that by 1988 it was known as the largest ski area in North America. This cosmopolitan resort town with an Alpine atmosphere is conveniently located less than two hours from Denver along Interstate 70.  No need to rent a car. Simply take a shuttle from the Denver Airport (or seasonally from Vail/Eagle County Airport), and rely on outstanding public or resort transportation in town for the duration of your visit. There’s something for everyone here in a ski town nestled between the Gore and Sawatch Mountain Ranges.  Skiers will delight at the excitement of the Front-side, the Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin.  Go snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ski –biking or ride the Mountain Coaster.  Vail also offers the finest in world-class lodging, apres ski/bars and nightlife, superb dining, shopping and a wide array of cultural events.  Make plans to hit the slopes and spend time in this lovely, pedestrian village.   You’ll understand why December and the holiday season is so special in Vail.

Here’s a short list of things to do in December-

Ski / Snowboard – Miles of well-groomed slopes welcome skiers on the front side and challenging bowls on the back of the mountain offer exceptional Colorado powder and plenty of terrain to choose from for every age and ability.  Sign up for ski school to improve your skills. Children will enjoy the confidence-building Kid’s Adventure Zones.

Vail Holidaze – Events are scheduled this year for December 11^th through the 21^st and again on New Year’s Eve. Stop by Vail Village and Lionshead for seasonal celebrations on charming cobblestone streets. Plenty of fun for the entire family: a visit with Santa, Tree Lighting, Paper Lantern Walk, Vail Winterfest Ice Theater and a New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade and fireworks.

For mountain trail maps, weather reports, trip planning and full event calendar visit:  www.vail.com

When searching for accommodations in Vail, consider The Wren. This RCI Silver Crown resort in the Golden Peak area of town offers studio, 1- and 2 bedroom condominiums with mountain décor and fantastic views of Gore Creek and Vail Mountain. Enjoy all the comforts of home in a spacious unit outfitted with a private balcony, full kitchen, gas fireplace, on-site heated pool, two hot tubs and complementary shuttle to and from the lifts.  The Wren is located next to Ford Park and the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.  A quick, five minute walk takes you downtown to the finest in skiing, shopping, dining and so much more.