PLAN YOUR TRIP

EVERYTHING YOU NEED BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

New to the pass or just planning ahead, start here. Information on parking, fees, use zones, and safety.

(Photo: Topher Donahue)

PARKING

Where to park

Parking is available at the Vail Pass Rest Area, at Red Cliff, and at three locations off Highway 24 near Camp Hale. Space is limited and lots fill quickly, especially on powder days and weekends.

New for 2026: the renovated Vail Pass Rest Area now has separate parking areas for rest-area visitors, commercial vehicles, day skiers, overnight hut users, and motorized recreationists. Motorized parking has moved off Black Lakes Road (now closed to parking) into the new area to ease congestion and improve safety. Layouts are still settling in, so check the Forest Service page before you go.
1
Vail Pass Rest AreaMain access, I-70 Exit 190 (west side). Separate lots for skiers, hut users, and motorized users.
2
Red CliffAccess off Highway 24.
3
Camp Hale, three lotsThree separate parking areas off Highway 24 near Camp Hale.
Motorized users: the new area is easier than the old Black Lakes Road parking, but rangers and visitors are still working out the smoothest flow. Watch for posted signs and be patient on busy mornings.
Map of Vail Pass Rest Area showing parking lots, a visitor’s center, bike parking, pet area, trails, a creek, and the surrounding landscape.

PASSES AND FEES

WHAT IT COSTS

A pass is required to use the area, seven days a week, for every person age 16 and up. Vail Pass fees are not covered by America the Beautiful or Interagency passes.

Day Pass

$10

Per person, per day, ages 16 and up.

Season Pass

$65

Per person, per season, ages 16 and up.

Where to buy: Self-pay stations at every trailhead. Credit and debit accepted at Vail Pass and Camp Hale. Season passes also at the Dillon Ranger District office.

KNOW THE RULES

Use zones

The area is divided into motorized, non-motorized, and hybrid-use zones, all signed and mapped. It is each user's responsibility to know where they are in relation to the map.These divisions help provide rewarding opportunities for all users and preserve critical habitat for wildlife.

NON-MOTORIZED

Human-powered terrain

Ski, splitboard, and snowshoe zones, including the routes to the Shrine Mountain huts.

MOTORIZED

Snowmobile and snow cat terrain

Snowmobile and snowcat routes, including Shrine Pass Road, Wilder Gulch, and Lime Creek Road.

HYBRID

Shared access

Motorized-access ski terrain such as Black Lakes. Stay on marked routes and be courteous.

COMMON QUESTIONS

FAQ

Do I need a pass?

Yes. A day or season pass is required, paid at any trailhead station.

Where do I park?

Any of the five trailheads: Vail Pass Rest Area, Red Cliff, Pando, Camp Hale Main, or Camp Hale South.

Is it safe for beginners?

Parts of the area suit newcomers, but it is backcountry. Start with the non-motorized routes near the Rest Area and check conditions first.