The Colorado Snowsports Museum gives visitors a look at the people, equipment, and ideas behind Colorado skiing and snowboarding. Located in Vail Village, the nonprofit museum offers free admission and exhibits that connect mountain recreation with military history, competition, and changing technology.
Finding the Museum
The museum is at 231 South Frontage Road East, Vail, Colorado 81657. Its official directions place it on the third level of the Vail Village Parking Structure, adjacent to the Vail Village Covered Bridge.
Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. Before visiting, check the museum’s visitor information for current hours or call (970) 476-1876. Check parking arrangements separately when planning your trip.
Exhibits to Explore
The museum’s exhibit guide lists several ways to explore Colorado’s mountain history:
- Climb to Glory examines the 10th Mountain Division, including its training at Camp Hale and service in Italy during World War II.
- Skiing Through Time follows developments in Colorado skiing, from early skiing communities to lifts and organized ski patrol.
- Out There explores snowboarding’s development and the people who helped establish the sport.
- Colorado Ski Resorts uses an interactive display to introduce operating ski areas and resorts that have closed.
Choose the subjects that interest you most rather than treating the galleries as a checklist. Someone interested in military history may spend more time with the 10th Mountain Division exhibit, while a snowboarder may prefer to begin with Out There.
Meet the People Behind the Sports
The Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame recognizes athletes and other contributors to the state’s skiing and snowboarding heritage. Discover Vail highlights honorees including Gretchen Bleiler, Jeremy Bloom, and Buddy Werner. Its museum overview also describes displays featuring artifacts associated with athletes such as Mikaela Shiffrin.
Walking Tours and Special Displays
The museum offers a historical walking tour that starts at the museum and explores Vail Village. Contact the museum to confirm availability, departure times, reservations, and the current charge before planning your day around a tour.
In 2026, the museum is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a dedicated exhibition. Check the official museum website for current displays and event announcements, particularly if you are visiting for a specific program.
Planning Your First Visit
Keep your schedule flexible so you can spend time with the exhibits that catch your attention. You can also browse the museum’s gift shop, then continue exploring Vail Village. You do not need to be a skier to approach the visit with a useful question: how did these sports help shape Colorado’s mountain communities?
Photo credit: Kara Freedman
