By any measure, Vail ranks as one of the premier winter sports centers in the world. The resort opened in 1962 with just three lifts, and the daily ski pass cost $5. Today, there are 32 lifts (including two gondolas) that provide access to 278 marked trails, from bunny hills to the famed Back Bowls. Vail comprises three contiguous sections: Golden Peak to the east, Vail Village in the middle and Lionshead to the west. Vail Village has evolved considerably over the years. Mountain Plaza is now a pedestrian-friendly cobblestone gathering place at the base of the mountain. Vail is easyto reach, thanks to Eagle County Airport, 45 minutes to the west. Alaska, American, Delta and United all fly direct from many major U.S. markets during ski season.