Parking next Week
My family and I are staying at Beaver Creek next week but we would like to head to Vail on Friday and give it a try. I've been looking at parking and it looks like the Vail Village Parking Deck is the way to go. In the morning is there a way to drop off my family closer to the Gondola 1, and then I can go park? Also, what's a good time to get there given Gondola 1 opens at 8:30? Do I need to be in line an hour early or is it good enough to be walking up at 8:30? Thanks for the help.
Visiting Vail for a day trip from Beaver Creek is very doable, but planning your parking and timing will make the morning much smoother, especially with family in tow.
Dropping off Family Near Gondola One
Yes, you can drop off passengers closer to Gondola One in Vail Village before parking. There is a designated drop-off/pick-up area near the front of the Vail Village parking structure and at the base of Gondola One. This allows you to let your family out with skis and gear without having to circle looking for parking spots.
- Use the drop-off lane near the Vail Village parking deck; it’s short-term and intended for quick unloading.
- Be prepared for attendants directing traffic in the morning, as it can get busy.
- Have all ski gear ready to minimize unloading time.
Parking Considerations
The Vail Village Parking Deck is indeed the main long-term parking option. It’s within walking distance of Gondola One, but you will need to allow a few minutes to walk back to meet your family if you drop them off first.
- Arrive early, around 8:00–8:10 AM, especially on a Friday, to secure a spot in the main deck. Even though the lifts open at 8:30, parking can fill quickly during peak season.
- Alternative surface lots (like the Covered Bridge or Arrabelle lots) exist but may require a slightly longer walk.
- If you want to guarantee proximity, check the Vail Resorts parking map for real-time availability. Some lots accept reservations or pay-on-arrival options.
Timing for Gondola One
Generally, you do not need to be in line an hour before 8:30, unless it’s a holiday weekend or exceptionally busy day. Walking up around 8:25–8:30 is usually sufficient, as the first gondola runs can accommodate most early arrivals without a long wait.
- Getting there slightly earlier (8:15–8:20) gives you buffer time for parking, walking, and gearing up.
- Weekdays like Friday are busy but not as crowded as weekends; lines form quickly after 8:30.
- If you have small children, aim to be at the base a few minutes early to avoid scrambling with ski gear.
Summary Tips
- Drop your family at the Gondola One drop-off lane, then park in Vail Village Parking Deck.
- Arrive by 8:00–8:10 AM to ensure a parking spot and a stress-free start.
- Walking to the gondola at 8:30 AM is generally fine for weekday crowds.
- Have gear ready for a quick unload and consider using ski racks or storage at the base if needed.
With this plan, your family should be able to start skiing smoothly without the hassle of fighting for parking or waiting in long lines early in the morning.
