Vail has a current base depth of 55 inches and 242 inches of snow so far this year. The mountain is in top-notch condition, 100 percent open, and ready to host the 2016 Burton U.S. Open. Add in a big snow sport brand sponsor such as Burton snowboards, 14 million gallons of water to create a 23-foot-high half pipe, and you have the beginnings of an incredible event.

Big Air and Big Names

Starting February 29th, Gold Peak base area comes alive for a few days. Snowboard riders such as Shaun White and Chloe Kim, will compete for almost $350,000 in prize money. Shaun will be going for his sixth U.S. Open gold medal and rumor has it, this may be one of his last. Talented Chloe Kim, only 15 years old and a 2016 X Games gold medalist, will also be competing. The 2016 U.S. Open will also feature long time fan favorite and U.S. Olympian, Kelly Clark. Guests of Vail typically explore all 5,000 acres early and eventually slide over to the terrain park by early afternoon. Often spectators camp out on top of the half pipe for amazing views of both the riders and the mountain backdrop.

For weeks highly skilled snowcat operators have been carving some of the largest jumps ever seen in competition. Professional riders from around the world will be in Vail as it hosts the 34th annual U.S. Open snowboard competition. The “USO,” as people in snow biz prefer to call it, is in its third year at Vail and is known for its fun and competitive atmosphere. Large touring acts will be performing in Vail village nightly. In fact, this year sponsors have put together a line up to include such stand out acts GRiZ, Big Grams, The Bright Light Social Hour, and The Sheep dogs. Come have some fun in Vail.

Check Out the Properties

Chris McDonnell, of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties, will have prime ski in/ski out homes available for private tour during the events. Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties will also have access to rentals in the area. Visit vailskicondosforsale.com for local real estate listings available throughout the valley.

[cf]skyword_tracking_tag[/cf]