Finding parking in ski towns for your day out on the slopes can be quite challenging, especially if you’re not staying nearby. I’m not a big fan of paying $20 to $30 per day for parking while I’m skiing and inevitably already spending too much to eat and drink out on the slopes, not to mention that those lift tickets and season passes aren’t exactly cheap either! Not spending that extra money on parking is definitely high up on my priority list.

Luckily, there is free parking to be had at or near most ski resorts, and Vail is no exception.

The best place to park for free in Vail is at Donovan Pavilion.

Donovan Pavilion is super easy to get to, just off of I-70, and less than a mile away from Lionshead Village. Of course, walking is an option, but that is a lot of work with skis and boots and a bunch of winter gear. Luckily there’s a bus that stops by Donovan Pavilion every 30 minutes that will take you to Lionshead or the main Vail Village. Your best bet will be to take the red line to the resort, and take the green line back. You can view a detailed map here.

Enjoy your ski season and let me know if you know of places to park at Vail that are even better than Donovan Pavilion!