How Vail Resorts became the most powerful — and most hated — name in skiing

Vail Resorts, a ski behemoth that owns 42 resorts worldwide — including Park City, Beaver Creek, and Stowe — has become the target of resentment from some skiers who say the company's pursuit of profits has made skiing less enjoyable.

Rick Bowmer/ AP Photo

• Vail Resorts was in the hot seat this month when a Park City ski patrol strike disrupted holidays.
• For years, Vail's rapid acquisitions and high costs have sparked criticism from skiers and locals.
• Here's how the company grew to be the biggest in skiing ...