With Sanitized Boulders And Masked-Up Gondolas, Colorado Ski Resorts Hope To Welcome Back Tourists, Not The Virus

Like many ski towns, Vail Village was pretty quiet while its resort was closed due to the pandemic. Since July 1, the town has begun filling back up with summer visitors.

Halfway up Vail Mountain and a few steps from Gondola One’s constant whirl, the view is stunning. Pine trees dot vibrant green meadows, with the grey crags of the Gore Range off in the distance, all under a cloudless blue sky. 

A few small groups of people could be seen along the slopes, too, most hiking in masks. 

Vail Ski Resort is one of many Colorado ski areas that have begun to emerge from hibernation after Gov. Jared Polis closed down the industry in mid-March as coronavirus barreled into the state. Now, these resorts are navigating a summer season like none before.