For the discerning cigar aficionado, Vail isn’t just about pristine ski slopes and cozy mountain lodges; it’s an opportunity to savor the finest hand-rolled treasures in an unparalleled alpine setting. As the crisp mountain air meets the rich notes of a perfectly aged cigar, you may find yourself pondering where the best spots in town are to light up and unwind. Dive into my curated guide on where to smoke a cigar in Vail and discover the premium locations and serene spots that cater to the tastes of the true cigar connoisseur embarking on a Vail vacation.
My Ultimate Cigar Retreat: Clark’s Firepit
During the challenging COVID era, Clark’s Firepit was established as a beacon of relaxation and resilience. My friend Clark, prominently featured in the photo with his flowing blond locks, carved out his unique niche as an alternative medicine practitioner. Disenchanted with the stringent constraints of the pandemic, he combined his love for savoring cigars with the breathtaking views of Vail Village and christened this pastime as his alternative medicine ritual. Strategically positioned in Vail Village, Clark’s Firepit offers a picturesque view of the ice skating rink and is a stone’s throw away from the Vail Brewing Company—our favored spot to grab a refreshing drink post skiing.
Captured in the photo, from left to right, are Adrian, my best friend and a part-time Vail resident; Clark, the heart of our group; myself; and my son, David. Thanks to Clark’s widespread acclaim in Vail, Clark’s Firepit has gained legendary status. I often affectionately dub him the “Mayor of Vail.” As we stroll through the town, it’s almost impossible not to bump into someone who greets Clark warmly. A fun fact: Clark formerly owned the renowned Tap Room, where I had the honor of being the best man at Adrian and Christine’s wedding reception in 2001. Nowadays, you can find Clark behind the bar, crafting the world’s finest Old Fashions.
Join us this winter! You’ll often find Clark at his signature Firepit, and I’ll be right beside him, soaking in the Vail spirit, reveling in the art of alternative medicine, and cherishing the bonds of friendship.
Belle’s Camp: A Panoramic Paradise
Perched at the zenith of SkyLine Express Lift (#37) in the majestic Blue Sky Basin, Belle’s Camp proudly features one of the grandest decks on the mountain. Ignite your cigar and let yourself be transported by the breathtaking vistas that stretch endlessly before you. Renowned as a hub for grand celebrations, securing an early spot guarantees the best experience. On a crystalline day, the sweeping panoramas are an awe-inspiring sight to behold!
Hawk’s Nest: Vail’s Elevated Escape
Nestled close to the Blue Sky Basin Overlook and just past the High Noon Express Lift (#5), Hawk’s Nest unveils spellbinding panoramas of the Blue Sky basin and the iconic Mount of the Holy Cross. As your cigar’s aromatic plume rises into the air, lose yourself in Vail’s captivating beauty. Equipped with a communal gas grill, it’s the perfect spot to bring your favorites and savor the ambiance. A word to the wise: the allure of this spot means it buzzes with activity during sunny lunch hours, particularly on weekends!
Henry’s Hut: A Tribute Amidst Tranquility
Adjacent to Buffalo’s and just a snowball’s throw from the Mountain Top Express Lift (#4), discover Henry’s Hut—a welcoming yurt embraced by a rustic wooden deck. This serene spot is a homage to Henry, the revered ski patrol canine, and conveniently stands across from the mountain’s Patrol Headquarters. Light up your cigar and bask in the embrace of nature’s magnificence. Should the weather turn, take solace inside the yurt, where warmth and cozy seating await.
Jebbie’s Deck: Vail’s Premier Gathering Spot
As you glide up the Avanti Express Lift (#2), Jebbie’s Deck comes into view, crowning the Black Forest Epic Mix Racing Course and nestled beside the much-adored Chaos Canyon. Its prime location and easy accessibility make it a favorite destination for families and groups with varied skiing skills. While it may not boast a grill or adjacent dining option, its unmistakable visibility from both the lift and the ski run ensures it remains a vibrant hub for lively gatherings.
Steady’s Deck: A Tribute Overlooking Vail
Marking a fresh chapter for Vail Mountain, Steady’s Deck, inaugurated in the 2016 ski season, stands as a grand homage to the legendary orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Richard Steadman. Perfectly perched off Eagles Nest Ridge and towering over the Pickeroon ski trail, this spot boasts incomparable vistas of the Gore Mountain Range and Vail’s scenic forefront. Though devoid of a grill, the deck’s serene ambiance coupled with these breathtaking sights establishes it as a premier location to savor a cigar during a day on the slopes.
Windows Deck: Vail’s Hidden Gem with Breathtaking Vistas
Several years ago, after a day of exhilarating skiing and snowboarding, my buddy Eric, a seasoned Vail local and snowboarder with a grizzly charm, unveiled to me a cherished spot in Vail – The Windows Deck. More than just a deck, it’s a sanctuary where locals escape to soak in the unmatched vistas of Vail Valley. As you stand there, cigar poised, the expansive views of the Sun Down Bowl and Mount of the Holy Cross captivate your senses. Nestled just off Windows Road and shadowed by the Wildwood Smokehouse atop the Wildwood Express #3, it’s an ideal retreat to relax, further sweetened by the tantalizing aromas of BBQ wafting from nearby Wildwood Smokehouse.
Summary
In the heart of Vail, amidst its world-renowned ski slopes and charming alpine ambiance, lies an underrated luxury—the pleasure of enjoying a premium cigar against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain vistas. From Clark’s enchanting Firepit to the scenic expanse of Steady’s Deck, Vail presents an array of serene sanctuaries that complement the rich allure of a finely crafted cigar. These spots, some well-guarded secrets among locals, offer an escape from the ordinary, blending the rustic charm of the mountains with the sophisticated pleasure of cigar-smoking. So, whether you’re a seasoned cigar aficionado or someone seeking a tranquil spot to reflect and unwind, Vail’s panoramic decks invite you to light up, inhale deeply, and let the mountain’s serenity envelop you. In the end, it’s not just about the smoke; it’s about the experience—relaxation, reflection, and the cherished memories created amidst the snow-capped peaks of Vail.
