Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Allocation Of Stock-Based Compensation Expense) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2013	Jul. 31, 2012	Jul. 31, 2011
Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense	$ 12,349	$ 11,999	$ 12,493
Less: benefit for income taxes	4,709	4,567	4,738
Net stock-based compensation expense	7,640	7,432	7,755
Mountain Operating Expense [Member]
Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense	9,007	7,614	7,140
Lodging Operating Expense [Member]
Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense	1,917	1,744	2,088
Real Estate Operating Expense [Member]
Pre-tax stock-based compensation expense	$ 1,425	$ 2,641	$ 3,265