With loads of epic powder-filled trails and seven legendary back bowls spanning seven miles, Vail consistently ranks as one of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations in North America.

It's unlikely the hundreds of skiers clip-clopping their way through Vail's picturesque town centre realise they're trudging over an artwork. But if they were to glance down as they walk along Wall St, they'd notice a series of curious symbols engraved on the paving stones. It's an artwork by Colorado artist Carolyn Braaksma called Riddles, and it invites the more observant to pause and try to crack the code.

Meet Paul Wertin, creator of Vail's Ice Theater, located by Mountain Standard in Vail Village. Tricia chats with Paul about the challenges and joys of working with ice.

My complete skiing CV consists of a trip to Falls Creek in high school, a couple of weekends at Perisher in my 20s and some gentle cross-country in Canada a few years ago. Still, when asked to check out the ski scene at Vail and Breckenridge, Colorado, I say, “I’ll be there, with sleigh bells on.” I am 52 years old. Crazy, or what?

VAIL – Winter’s not good time to be recovering from shoulder surgery. In the middle of this deep snow season, my doctor has barred me from even the bunny runs.  Although I’m banned from slopes, I can still enjoy the ambiance of a fine winter resort. When my downhilling spouse decided to ski Vail, I tagged along.