Hiking in Vail, Colorado: A Three-Day Itinerary

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Vail, Colorado, is a marvelous summer hiking destination with day hikes that rival its popular winter skiing season. Situated around 100 miles (161 km) west of Denver, this picturesque mountain town’s breathtaking natural scenery lends itself to hiking and a wide range of outdoor activities. With extensive shopping, lodging, and dining venues, Vail is a solid and rewarding destination for a long weekend of day hiking.  If you’re considering spending a weekend of hiking in Vail, keep reading to learn more about Vail and make the most of your trip with a 3-day itinerary.

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Shortcuts to Main Hiking Content:

Day 1: Walk the Gore Valley Trail
Day 2: Hike to Booth Falls
Day 3: Hike to Beaver Creek via the Five Senses Trail
Bonus Hike: the Berrypicker Trail

About Vail, Colorado

Vail spans an eight-mile (12.9 km) stretch along the picturesque Gore Creek Valley, surrounded by the majestic Gore and Sawatch mountain ranges.

Vail Ski Resort opened in 1962, and Vail was incorporated as a town four years later, in 1966.  The developers initially built Vail in an Austrian Tirol style, and that part still looks like a charming, old-world Alpine village.  Continuously expanding from the start, Vail has grown and transformed to cater to everyone in all seasons. 

One of the best things about Vail is its pedestrian-friendly design. Conceived initially as a car-free zone to attract skiers, Vail still restricts cars from the main public areas, creating town centers focused on pedestrian safety. Even cyclists are required to dismount in certain parts of Vail! 

Why Hiking in Vail in the Summer 

With mostly sunny days and temperatures typically several degrees lower than Denver, Vail in summer abounds with hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, and even mini golf, to name just a few.

The Town of Vail makes it easy to get around in the summer with the following: 

• FREE parking during the day in the town’s parking garages; 
• FREE bus service throughout Vail on multiple routes, and  
• FREE Return to Base Gondola Rides (more on this below)

While Vail is delightful all summer, multiple events and festivals may help you pick a particular weekend for your visit.  Some special events may bring you Vail in the summer:  the Vail Dance Festival, the Vail Jazz Festival, and the Bravo!Vail classical music series, the Vail Concours car show, the Vail Craft Beer Classic, and the Vail Oktoberfest at the very end of summer.  Don’t forget the Vail Farmers’ Market and Art Show, a favorite that happens every Sunday throughout the summer. 

As a walking and day-hiking enthusiast, I recommend visiting Vail for a long weekend to get in various hikes (For a walking-centric weekend outside of Colorado, consider visiting Scottbluff, Nebraska). There are oodles of places to hike in and around Vail that get high reviews, but to keep things simple, I’ll describe hikes that I recommend and that I’ve personally hiked multiple times.  I’ll include my picks for food around town as well. 

Tips for Successful Hiking in Vail

• Vail’s elevation is about 8,150 feet (2,480 m) above sea level. At this altitude, reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels mean a risk of altitude sickness. If you’re new to high altitude:
  • Take it easy and engage in reasonable, not strenuous, physical activity levels for a day or two.
  • Drink plenty of water, more than usual than you think you need.
• The hiking season in Vail typically runs from June to September, with July and August offering the best weather.
• Pack layers:
  • Vail temperatures will be lower than Denver, and mornings and evenings may be chilly  
  • Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
• Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable hiking shoes. I also recommend trekking poles if you use them.

With that, you’re ready to start your hiking-centric weekend in Vail.

Day 1: Walking the Gore Valley Trail 

One day 1, arrive in Vail and start walking immediately on the Gore Valley Trail!  This paved path, combined with Vail’s streets and pedestrian zones, traverses the town from end to end.  With Vail being an average of 8,150 feet (2,480 m) above sea level, this flat walk is a good option if you need time to acclimate to the altitude.  

It’s also a great way to explore the Vail’s different Villages. You’ll find yourself scoping out restaurant menus, peeking into art galleries, and window shopping along the way.  

You can likely hop on the Gore Valley Trail in just a few minutes from anywhere you happen to be in Vail.  Look for the wayfinding signs in town, or follow the Gore Valley route on AllTrails.  Even while passing through the built-up parts of Vail, the trail closely follows the beautiful Gore Creek, a natural landmark for orienting yourself.

On the entire length of the trail, you’ll pass through broad meadows, shady aspen groves, quiet treed neighborhoods, and the heart of Vail Village, which can be bustling!   

From Vail Village to Lionshead, look for water features and public art. 

West of Lionshead Village, enjoy creek views and the quiet charm of Cascade Village.  

West of Donovan Park, the trail becomes less scenic and noisier as it follows the highway frontage road.  

Practical Trail Information

While the AllTrails route shows the path continuing along the Frontage Road west of Vail for about 1.9 miles (3 km), I have found that a convenient endpoint on the West side of town is the Conoco gas station close to West Vail highway exit 173. 

From the East Vail Trailhead to Conoco, the trail is about 7.4 miles long  (11.9 km) one way.  But there is no worry about going too far.  If you’ve had enough walking, just find the nearest bus stop on Vail’s free bus system to catch a ride back to your starting point.  

It’s also easy to add to this by exploring one or more of Vail’s outdoor attractions.  Some suggestions are Memorial Park in East Vail, the Vail Nature Center, Ford Park, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, and Donovan Park.  

Note:  Don’t confuse the Gore Valley Trail with the Gore Creek Trail, a 7.1-mile (11.4 km) trail in the White River National Forest originating east of East Vail. 

How to Get There

As indicated above, you’re likely only steps away from the well-marked Gore Valley Trail route from anywhere in Vail.  Look for the signs, pull out a map, or ask someone to get on your way.  

To start at the trailhead in East Vail, take the East Vail bus to the Pitkin Creek stop. The paved trail begins just a short distance away, near the intersection of Bighorn Rd and Bridge Street.  

Day 1 Food and Drink

I’ll recommend two casual spots in Vail Village with hearty food and an alcohol menu for après hiking. The first is the Big Bear Bistro at the top of Bridge Street (297 Hanson Ranch Road). This counter-serve eatery is extremely popular so be prepared to wait a bit as you settle in to their cozy dining room, or perhaps score a shaded patio table. They serve a variety of sandwiches as well as crepes, and an all day breakfast.

The second place is La Cantina, serving “San Diego style Mexican food.” Located on the third floor of the Vail Village Transportation Center parking garage (241 South Frontage Road), it gets rave reviews not only for delicious food, but also for some of the most affordable meals in Vail.   

Treat yourself to a German-Austrian meal at Alpenrose in Vail Village (100 E Meadow Dr.) on the patio for dinner.  Alpenrose is a family-owned restaurant serving home-style classics like goulash, dumplings, and German sausages.  Numerous imported beers and wines complement the food.  And if that isn’t enough, finish your meal with a traditional dessert from the Alpine region. Dinner reservations are highly recommended for Alpenrose.

Note: Alcohol and altitude sickness are a poor combination.  You may want to skip alcohol on day one if you are new to high altitude.

Day 2:  Hiking in Vail: Hike to Booth Falls

On day two, prepare for a proper waterfall hike from East Vail.  Booth Falls is a popular destination in the Eagles Nest Wilderness area of the White River National Forest.  This hike on the Booth Lake Trail has a round-trip distance of 3.9 miles (6.3 km). Traveling roughly parallel to Booth Creek, this moderately challenging trail switchbacks up a bit and climbs a little over 1,300 feet (396 m) before reaching the falls.  Allow about 2 hours and 30 minutes for this hike.

Along the way, hikers will enjoy the rugged beauty of the Gore Range, mountain wildflowers, shaded areas, and open meadows.  In either direction, there are sweeping views of the Vail Valley.  

The water flow over this 60-foot (18.3 meters) waterfall can be spectacular, but it will vary depending on the amount of prior snowpack, rainfall, and the time of year. At the beginning of September, there is usually enough water to make the hike worthwhile. 

Add-on option:  For experienced hikers wanting more of a challenge, the trail continues past the falls to Booth Lake. The entire trail to the lake is approximately 10 miles (16.1 km) long, with about 3,000 feet (914 m) of elevation gain.

How to Get There

The Booth Falls Trailhead is at the end of Booth Falls Road in East Vail.  There is a small parking lot at the trailhead,  but parking here is no longer allowed.  (And no parking is permitted on Booth Falls Road.)  

The parking is available for drop off and pick up, but the best way to get to the Booth Falls Trailhead is to take the free East Vail or Hiker Express bus.  Both routes originate at the Vail Transportation Center in Vail Village.  Get off at the Booth Falls stop and walk up Booth Falls Road for a quarter mile (0.4 km) to reach the trailhead.  

What to Eat and Drink on Day 2 

Fuel your hike by picking up a quick breakfast at Les Délices de France in Lionshead Village (531 E Lionshead Cir Ste 6).   I’m partial to the Petit Dejeuner: french bread accompanied by cheese, fruit, and your choice of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.   

After the hike, have a proper breakfast at The Little Diner in West Lionshead Village (616 West Lionshead Circle).  This family-owned eatery makes all the breakfast classics with its from-scratch recipes.

The Little Diner can be very busy with long wait times, but by having breakfast after your hike, most of the crowds will have thinned out.  The restaurant closes at 2 PM, and casual lunch dishes of burgers and sandwiches are also available after 11:30 AM.  

Après Hike

To continue the après hiking theme during your afternoon, head to the Fall Line Kitchen+ Cocktails in Vail Village (232 Bridge St.).  The Fall Line has excellent mixologists, and the cocktails are continually inventive, balanced, and tasty.  While the bar area isn’t on a patio, the restaurant has a sophisticated yet casual interior with large windows facing Bridge St. that remain open in good weather.  

Get ready for tacos and tequila because tonight’s dinner is at El Segundo  (223 Gore Creek Dr.).  Get a patio table if you can.  You can relax as you sip a craft margarita and overlook Gore Creek as the sun goes down. The chorizo queso fundido makes a good starter while you’re deciding which of their fancy tacos to order.  Burritos, burgers, and bowls are also available.

Note: El Segundo does not take reservations, so arrive early to put your name on the waitlist.  

Day 3: Hike the Beaver Lake Trail via the Five Senses Trail

On day three, head to the Beaver Creek Resort in Avon, Colorado, to hike from the resort to Beaver Lake in the Holy Cross Wilderness of White River National Forest.  For this hike, I recommend parking in the resort’s Ford Hall Parking Garage (parking is free in the summer) since no parking is allowed at the Beaver Lake Trailhead.

About the Five Senses and Beaver Lake Trail Hike 

An out-and-back hike, this route covers 6 miles (9.8 km) with an elevation gain of close to 1,700 feet (516 m). Allow at least three and a half hours for this hike.

This hike includes the short Five Senses Trail, followed by a short walk on Elk Track Road to get to the trailhead for the Beaver Lake Trail. Click here for the entire trail route. 

Starting the Hike to Beaver Lake

To start this hike after exiting the Ford Hall parking garage, face the ski slopes behind Beaver Creek Village and look for the Centennial Express gondola/chairlift on your left.  Walk to the right, watching for a sign announcing the Five Senses Trail.  Follow the pavement past the Beaver Creek Chophouse. This path will turn left alongside Elk Track Road, passing by the Beaver Creek Interfaith Chapel. The trail continues alongside the actual Beaver Creek.  

At around half a mile (0.8 km) one way, the Five Senses Trail is a family favorite. Signs encourage little hikers (and big ones!) to use all of their senses to explore the outdoors.  This interpretive trail also educates hikers about responsible wilderness behavior and environmental stewardship.

From the Five Senses Trail, transition onto Elk Track Road. At the end of the road, just past the fire station, you can start hiking on the Beaver Lake Trail.  The distance from the start to here is about one mile (1.6 km).  

The Beaver Lake Trail (Forest Service Trail #2109) continues to follow Beaver Creek as it ascends through the forest.  As the route progresses, the trail rises higher and higher above Beaver Creek.  

You’ll want to spend some time admiring the lake once you arrive.  Surrounded by tall evergreen trees, the lake can produce stunning reflections. You’ll likely see backpacker campsites, anglers, and other hikers enjoying this pristine alpine lake. 

Alternate Return Route from Beaver Lake 

An alternative to return to the start is to take the Royal Elk Trail across the resort. Look for the intersection with the Royal Elk Trail shortly past the sign marking the Holy Cross Wilderness border as you descend the Beaver Lake Trail. This route has ups and downs as it passes through peaceful forest land and traverses steep ski runs. The 2.5-mile (4 km)  route ends at the Spruce Saddle Lodge adjacent to the Centennial Express gondola/lift, which you will use to return to the base of Beaver Creek Village.  Like at Vail Resort, taking the gondola back to the base is free.  The Lodge has food, drink, outdoor activities, and restrooms.  

If you decide to take this route, ensure you’ll finish during the Centennial Express operating hours (during the summer, the last chair down is generally at 4:30 pm).  

How to Get There

From Vail, travel west on I-70 to Exit 167 for Avon. From the exit, head south from the roundabout onto Avon Road (going under the interstate) and pass US Hwy 6—the road name changes to Village Road. Stay on Village Road to reach the entrance gate at Beaver Creek Resort.  Continue on Village Road past the gate to get your starting spot at the Ford Hall Parking Garage.  

Where to Eat and Drink on Day 3  

Swing by Vail Mountain Coffee and Tea’s Beaver Creek Cafe for a light breakfast before hitting the trail.  It’s easy to find from the parking garage and close to public restrooms.  

After your hike, you can explore the shops and restaurants of Beaver Creek Village. I like to do this hike on Labor Day weekend because I can go to the Beaver Creek Oktoberfest in the Village after I finish my hike. I always look forward to getting a bratwurst, German potato salad, and an Austrian beer while listening to live music.  

Aprés Hike in Vail

Absent an Octoberfest, you can wet your whistle on the way back to Vail at the Vail Brewing Company in Eagle-Vail (41290 US-6, Units B-2 & B-3). With the tagline “Crafted with Altitude, Brewed for Adventure,” the VBC delivers a thoughtful array of beers with varying flavor profiles and offers a tasting flight if you can’t pick only one.  

The Rocky Mountain Taco truck outside the brewery is top-rated for its street tacos and homemade salsas. Burritos, tortas, quesadillas, and nachos are also available.  

Vail Brewing Company also has a tasting room in Vail Village (141 E. Meadow Dr., Suite 209).  This classic and cozy taproom is much smaller than the brewery in Eagle-Vail and does not have a restaurant or associated food truck, but it does serve up the same quality beers.  

Vendetta’s (291 Bridge Street) bills itself as “Vail’s premier Italian restaurant & pizza bar,”  and it’s my pick for dinner. Their pizza is the best I’ve had in Vail.  While waiting for your pizza, start your meal with one of Vendetta’s fresh and satisfying salads.  (Reservations are strongly recommended at Vendetta’s).

Bonus Hiking in Vail: Hike the Berrypicker Trail on Vail Mountain

I’m including an engaging bonus hike in case you stay an extra day in Vail or just want an additional challenge. 

In the summer, the Vail Mountain ski resort hills are covered with hiking and biking trails, which are easy to access from either Vail Village or Lionshead Village.

The Berrypicker Trail is a challenging hiking trail that starts by crossing the bridge next to the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead Village.  The 3.9-mile (6.4 km) trail (one way) seems to head straight up the mountain in places!  

You’ll climb through grass-covered ski runs and stands of trees.  The trail passes under dormant ski lifts, but don’t be surprised to see or hear maintenance work on resort equipment since the next ski season is approaching. As the elevation rises, the excellent views of the Gore Range mountains are a treat.  

And yes, there are bushes sporting berries along the way.  

The trail ends within sight of the Eagle’s Nest Marketplace atop the Eagle Bahn Gondola.  

On the final stretch, you’ll pass some Epic Discovery Adventure Park attractions, like a tubing hill, a mini roller coaster, and a bungee trampoline.  If you would like to partake in these activities, buy an Adventure Pass at the ticket window in Lionshead before your hike.  

I prefer to head to the observation deck for stunning views of the Sawatch Mountain Range, including the inspiring Mount of the Holy Cross. It is named after a snowfield on the mountain’s northeast face that forms in the shape of a cross. The peak is a 14er with a summit at 14,011 feet (4270.5 meters) above sea level.  

Returning from the Eagle’s Nest after Hiking Berrypicker

Instead of doing a round-trip hike, I recommend returning to the start by taking the Eagle Bahn gondola back down the hill–trust me, your knees will thank you. 

While a paid ticket is required to take the gondola UP to the Eagle’s Nest area ($55 at this writing), the return trip down requires no ticket.  In other words, returning to Lionshead Village via the gondola is FREE.  Summer gondola hours are typically 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, so schedule your hike accordingly.

Alternate Trails:  If the Berrypicker Trail seems too difficult, check the hiking map on display near the gondola for less steep alternate routes.

How to Get There 

The Berrypicker Trail in Lionshead Village is adjacent to the Eagle Bahn Gondola and is a short walk from the Lionshead Parking Garage. 

Via bus, the West Vail Green, West Vail Red, and In-Town buses stop at the Lionshead Transportation Center next to the Parking Garage or West Lionshead Plaza, just steps away from the trail start.  

Bonus Day Food

After descending to Lionshead Village on the Eagle Bahn Gondola, you won’t have far to walk for your post-hike meal at Garfinkels (536 E Lionshead Circle).  This classic sports bar with a sizeable patio is right next to the Gondola.  Satisfy your post-hike hunger with a burger, wings, or soup of the day.  Garfinkel’s also serves several types of sandwiches, salads, and a few surprises like a Pacific noodle bowl.  The full bar features many beers, many from Colorado breweries.  

More Tips on Dining in Vail

Vail has many restaurants, but most are modestly sized and can fill up quickly, especially on peak weekends. If you’re interested in a specific restaurant, make dinner reservations early to avoid disappointment.  

To mitigate the risks associated with no-shows and limited seating capacity, note that some restaurants in Vail require a credit card to guarantee a reservation.  Be on time, or your card will be charged a no-show fee.  

Tips on Lodging in Vail 

With so many places to stay in Vail, picking a place right for you can take time and effort. Do you just want the familiarity and convenience of a chain hotel or a boutique hotel with Vail-specific flair?  Will you rent a condo for homey comfort or go all out for a spacious vacation home?  

The type of atmosphere you want will also dictate where you stay.  Staying in Vail Village will no doubt be convenient for all of Vail’s retail locations, but it is also likely to be very crowded and noisy.  On the other hand, East Vail is high on tranquility, but with few services, staying in this area requires a 10-minute drive to Vail Village (or up to a 30-minute bus ride).  

Possible Hidden Lodging Costs in Vail

• When searching for a place to stay in Vail, it’s essential to look for extra costs that can quickly cause your lodging bill to balloon.  These include: 

• Taxes.  When choosing a place to stay, be aware of the Colorado State Tax, the Town of Vail tax, and any other taxes added on.  The last time I stayed in Vail, these taxes amounted to a little over 10% of the base room rate.  
• Resort fees.  Resort fees are another common charge, often covering amenities like pools, gyms, and Wi-Fi, but they can be pretty steep.  Check whether a resort fee applies before completing your booking.
• Cleaning fees.  Your condo or vacation rental in Vail may look like a deal, but read the fine print.  In my experience, such “deals” can cost as much or more than other places due to a hefty cleaning fee being tacked on.  
• Strict cancellation policies. In Vail, lodging cancellation policies can be harsh.  As many accommodations have strict or non-refundable policies, don’t book until you know your plans.  For example, at one condo complex where I stayed, full payment was due three days before arrival, and the entire stay became nonrefundable after the final payment.  This policy was even stricter in winter.  Consider travel insurance to counter inflexible cancellation policies in case your plans change unexpectedly. 
• Parking fees.  Parking is at a premium in Vail, so don’t forget to inquire about parking fees at your lodging. And remember, Vail parking garages are free only during the day.  
• Other fees. Hotels and resorts are always coming up with new and different fees, so it pays to double-check for any other add-ons before committing to a stay.  For example, on my last visit to Vail, my hotel bill included a fee for “Damage Protection.” 

Knowing these potential charges, you can better plan your budget and avoid unpleasant surprises.  Then, you’ll be able to enjoy your hiking weekend in Vail to the fullest.  

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Summing up a Weekend of Hiking in Vail, Colorado

Vail, Colorado, offers a spirited summer experience, rivaling its well-known winter attractions with its stunning natural beauty, pedestrian-friendly design, and abundant outdoor activities. This guide provides a 3-day itinerary for a memorable hiking weekend, from exploring the scenic Gore Valley Trail to challenging hikes to Booth Falls and the picturesque Beaver Lake. Immerse yourself in Vail’s mountain aesthetic with diverse culinary offerings and outdoor majesty to ensure a rewarding getaway in this alpine treasure.

This post was updated on September 10, 2024.