Gondola One
Ascend to breathtaking mountain vistas via Gondola One, offering unparalleled views and access to scenic hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Gondola One
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend to breathtaking mountain vistas via Gondola One, offering unparalleled views and access to scenic hiking trails.
"Expensive but worth it! We hiked from the first gondola to the second one & it was super fun and had beautiful views."
💰 Budget for the Ride
Gondola One tickets are pricey, around $60-$65 per person. Factor this into your trip budget.
🥾 Hike Uphill or Downhill
Use the gondola for transportation to hike up or down the mountain. Trails offer amazing views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Mountain Views
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. A must-see for nature lovers.
Hiking Trail Access
Direct access to numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs.
Smooth and Well-Maintained Ride
Enjoy a comfortable and safe journey up the mountain in a modern, well-kept gondola.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Summer Gondola Access
Gondola Ride Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Budget for the Ride
Gondola One tickets are pricey, around $60-$65 per person. Factor this into your trip budget.
🥾 Hike Uphill or Downhill
Use the gondola for transportation to hike up or down the mountain. Trails offer amazing views.
🌦️ Prepare for Rain
August can bring periodic rain. Pack accordingly for a more comfortable experience.
👨👩👧👦 Summer Group Rides
In summer, you're likely to get your own gondola. Winter rides may involve sharing.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Budget for the Ride
Gondola One tickets are pricey, around $60-$65 per person. Factor this into your trip budget.
🥾 Hike Uphill or Downhill
Use the gondola for transportation to hike up or down the mountain. Trails offer amazing views.
🌦️ Prepare for Rain
August can bring periodic rain. Pack accordingly for a more comfortable experience.
👨👩👧👦 Summer Group Rides
In summer, you're likely to get your own gondola. Winter rides may involve sharing.
✨ Worth the Splurge
Despite the cost, many find the experience and views well worth the investment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gondola One for its breathtaking mountain views and convenient access to hiking trails. While the ticket price is noted as expensive, many find the experience and the quality of the ride to be well worth the splurge, making it a memorable highlight of their trip.
"$65 per person for a day pass gondola. It was worth it to access all the nice hiking trails that loop around the mountain and go up and down the mountain as well. Be mindful that in Aug it could rain periodically before stopping. Gondola runs smoothly and is well maintained."
Andy
"Expensive but worth it! We hiked from the first gondola to the second one & it was super fun and had beautiful views all the way up to the top."
Kauai Cakery
"Grateful to have had the gondola to provide transportation up to the top of the mountain, but man is it a bit pricey if all you're wanting to do is go hiking higher up on the mountain."
Kason G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gondola One is typically accessed via the resort it serves, often located in mountain towns like Vail. Check the specific resort's website for directions and parking information.
Parking availability and cost vary by resort. It's advisable to check the resort's official website for the most up-to-date parking information and potential shuttle services.
Some mountain resorts offer public transportation options. Research local bus routes or shuttle services that may connect to the gondola base.
The closest airport will depend on the specific location of Gondola One. For Vail, Denver International Airport (DEN) is a common gateway, followed by a scenic drive.
Many gondola locations are situated in areas with stunning natural beauty. The drive to the resort itself often offers picturesque views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Gondola One can be expensive, typically ranging from $60 to $65 per person for a day pass. Prices may vary by season.
For summer rides, tickets usually become available closer to the season's opening. It's best to check the official resort website for specific purchase dates.
Yes, purchasing tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially avoid queues.
Look for potential discounts through resort season passes, package deals, or by visiting during off-peak times. Check the resort's promotions page.
A day pass typically grants you access to ride the gondola up and down the mountain, providing access to hiking trails and summit views.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy hiking on various trails, take in panoramic mountain views, and often find dining options or visitor centers.
Yes, the gondola ride and the accessible trails at the top are generally family-friendly. Kids often enjoy the novelty of the ride.
Absolutely! Many visitors choose to hike down the mountain after riding the gondola up, offering a different perspective and a good workout.
Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential, and bring rain gear just in case.
Typically, the summit stations have restrooms and often a restaurant or cafe. It's wise to check the resort's amenities list beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography
The gondola ride itself offers incredible photo opportunities. At the summit, look for viewpoints overlooking the valleys and surrounding peaks.
Yes, the windows of the gondola provide excellent vantage points for capturing the ascent and the expansive scenery.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and on resort properties for safety and environmental reasons. Always check local regulations.
Look for designated scenic overlooks or natural clearings that offer unobstructed views of the mountain ranges.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ticket price can be a consideration for families, many parents find the experience well worth the cost for the joy and wonder it brings to their children. It's a memorable outing that combines a thrilling ride with the beauty of nature. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and dress everyone in layers for comfort.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider if the views and trail access justify the expense for your budget. If not, explore alternative, ground-level hiking options in the surrounding areas. If you do opt for the gondola, make the most of it by spending ample time at the summit enjoying the scenery and hiking.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Enjoy the stunning mountain scenery from both the gondola and the trails. Be sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, and pack accordingly for a rewarding day in nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gondola Experience
+1While the primary purpose for many is to access hiking trails, the gondola ride itself is often cited as a highlight. The feeling of gliding above the landscape, with the vastness of nature unfolding below, is truly memorable. It's a chance to appreciate the scale and beauty of the mountain environment from a unique perspective.
It's important to note that the experience can vary slightly by season. Summer rides are often focused on accessing summer activities, while winter rides are integral to ski resort operations. Regardless of the season, the gondola provides a spectacular introduction to the mountain's grandeur.
Hiking from the Summit
Many reviews emphasize that the gondola is a valuable tool for accessing higher-altitude hiking. It allows visitors to bypass the initial strenuous climb and focus on the more rewarding upper-mountain trails. The well-maintained paths ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience, even for those who aren't seasoned mountaineers.
Remember to be prepared for mountain weather, which can change rapidly. Wearing appropriate footwear and layers is crucial for a comfortable hike. Always carry water and snacks, and be mindful of trail conditions, especially after rain.
Cost and Value
However, many visitors find the experience to be 'worth it' despite the cost. They justify the expense by the unparalleled mountain views, the convenience of accessing hiking trails, and the overall quality of the ride. For many, it's a bucket-list item that provides lasting memories.
When planning your visit, it's advisable to factor this cost into your overall budget. Purchasing tickets in advance can sometimes help secure your spot, and checking for any seasonal promotions might offer slight savings. Ultimately, the perceived value depends on individual priorities and what one hopes to gain from the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit