Intermediate skiers enjoy the well-groomed runs of Whistle Pig, Expresso, and Cappuccino in Vail. The legendary Centennial trail in Beaver Creek is nearly three miles long and was the trail of choice during the 1989 World Alpine Ski Championships. Most of Vail's expert trails are located on the eastern side of the mountain, with the noteworthy exceptions of Giant Steps, Tourist Trap, and Riva Ridge. Meanwhile, Birds of Prey, Grouse Mountain, and the Rose Bowl are favorite expert runs at Beaver Creek. Vail and Beaver Creek also offer numerous places to enjoy the challenging sport of cross-country skiing.
Skiing is but one of the Rocky Mountains' many delights.
Summer Escapes Vail and Beaver Creek are increasingly becoming known as the summer getaway spots of the Rockies. Jr.-designed Beaver Creek Resort course. Other heady summer activities include tennis, balloon rides, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, llama trekking, and, most notably, river rafting. Vail is located between the Colorado and the Arkansas, two of the great rivers in the western United States, and also sits astride the small but glorious Eagle River. Vail Village, Crossroads Mall, and Gateway Plaza feature a variety of stores carrying the latest in skis, boots, snowboards, and accessories, plus elegant and casual American and European apres-ski wear.