In 1957, Pete Seibert - a World War II veteran of the 10th Mountain Division - and local resident Earl Eaton discovered an uncharted mountain in Colorado that would change the ski industry forever. After serving in the war, Seibert returned to the mountains with an unshakable vision: to create a ski resort of unprecedented scale and beauty. Eaton led Seibert to the pristine slopes of what would become Vail, recognizing its perfect terrain and abundant snowfall. Together, they founded Vail Associates and opened Vail Mountain in December 1962 with two chairlifts and one gondola, laying the foundation for what would grow into the world's premier mountain resort company.
From that bold beginning, Vail Resorts has evolved into a global powerhouse operating 40+ resorts across three continents. The company revolutionized the industry with innovations like the Epic Pass in 2008, which democratized access to multiple world-class destinations, and technology like EpicMix that digitally captures guests' mountain experiences. Today, guided by a mission to create the 'Experience of a Lifetime' for employees and guests alike, Vail Resorts has expanded from its Colorado roots to iconic destinations including Whistler Blackcomb, Park City, and Perisher, while maintaining its founding commitment to service, sustainability, and mountain stewardship.
