Vail

How does this resort continue to rank so highly in ski publication polls? While the mountain iteslf is, as it always has been, quite large and offers great variety (except for real steep freaks, cuz they don't have any...not a bit of truly steep stuff)

The killer is this: Vail has lost alot since the departure of George Gillette, and the entry of the corporate vipers. The service, product quality and spirit of the place is gone. Dead. It used to be so much more. Despite certain desireable improvements, it leaves much lacking as the focus is on shareholder returns not quality of experience. It has truly become "Disney Vail". Cheesy, crowded...weekends, forget it.

IF you really want a big mountain experience with true variety, try Snowmass. Worth the extra little drive, not as expensive as you might think, far better service, and if you fly in...closer to the airport. I used to love you Vail...RIP.