In the world of ski resorts, where luxury can often overshadow the real reason you’re there, the Grand Hyatt Vail stands out by getting it right. Nestled in West Vail, far enough from the crowds but still within easy reach of the slopes, it’s a place that understands what skiers really need: quick access to the mountain, no-frills but high-end amenities, and space to recover after hours spent pushing yourself to the limits on Vail Mountain. I would return here in a heartbeat.
For this trip, I was at the Hyatt wrapping up a season of testing touring bindings for GearJunkie. With the days getting longer and the season winding down, I needed a basecamp that would give me access to the slopes and the time to put in as many laps as possible before packing it all up for the year. The Grand Hyatt Vail delivered on all fronts.
No-Frills Access to the Slopes
When you’re here to ski —not to chase après-ski cocktails—the last thing you want is to waste time getting on snow. The Grand Hyatt Vail’s ski-in, ski-out access means there’s no shuttle or parking lot to deal with, which for me is huge. You’re literally stepping out the back door, clicking in, and riding the lift within minutes. When I do testing trips like this on my own, getting on snow fast, dialing in gear with quick access to multiple pairs of skis, and putting in real time on the snow is what matters, and the Hyatt makes that process seamless.
The essentially private access to Chair 20 means I’m able to quickly swap between testing skis and touring gear—no logistics, no hassle. With all the gear storage I need in the hotel’s dedicated ski room, I can leave skis overnight to dry, pick up warm boots in the morning, and make the most of my day. When we’re testing gear, the less I have to think about how to manage it, the better.
Afterwards, you want a place that supports the mission, and The Grand Hyatt does that in every regard. The fitness center is very nice, highly functional—not overly fancy, but it’s enough for a post-ski stretch, a yoga class, some cardio or a lift to keep everything fresh.
The heated outdoor pool and hot tubs are equally as essential. After shrolping for hours and skiing hard in varied conditions, there’s nothing better than soaking in the warm water while the mountains loom in the background and the creek gurgles below you. Simple, beautiful, and it does the job.
I think most seasoned travelers agree it’s the small things that matter. The ski valet at the Hyatt keeps your equipment organized and ready to go—without the fuss of having to drag gear to and from the room. When you’re switching between different bindings, skis, and boots, that level of service is crucial, and the staff is trained to handle the needs of all types of skiers, including rentals. After hours spent on skis the day before, some of that touring uphill, having a pair of dry, warm boots waiting for you the next makes all the difference.
The Grand Hyatt Vail is a luxury resort, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a place that understands what serious skiers need to perform at their best and make the most of their time in town. The ski-in, ski-out access is ideal for getting the most time on snow, the walk-out gear storage is amazing, and the recovery options are effective. If you’re looking for an uncomplicated basecamp that helps you focus on skiing, the Grand Hyatt Vail should be at the top of your list.
Makoto Sushi: A Hidden Gem
The Makoto Sushi restaurant inside the Grand Hyatt is a bit of a surprise, in the best way possible. While many resorts offer great sushi, Mako gets it right, 10/10, without the hype or crowds. The authenticity and attention to detail in preparation and menu choices transports you to another world. The vibe is relaxed and unpretentious—a perfect place to settle into after a day on the mountain. And the omakase, a great option if you want to sit back and let the chef select the best cuts of the day. Whether it’s the buttery smoothness of fresh yellowtail or the satisfying bite of a perfectly-seared tuna nigiri, it’s clear the quality of the fish is what makes Mako stand out. The menu isn’t vast, but it’s thoughtful. There’s a reason this sushi restaurant is a local favorite.
Makoto also does a solid job pairing sake selections with its dishes. After a full day in and out of the cold, working up a sweat, and shredding some choppy and messy variable spring conditions — including more than a foot of fresh on my last day — there was nowhere in the world I would have rather been.

–Author Aaron Bible is an award-winning travel and outdoors writer with more than 30 years experience covering the outdoor lifestyle industry. Follow him @DefinitelyWild for more adventures, gear reviews, and travel trends and insights.