Top Things To Do In Vail, Colorado In The Summer

Vail may be best known as one of Colorado’s premier ski destinations, but summer is a fantastic time to visit as well. Once the snow melts, the mountains open up to hiking, biking, rafting, fly fishing, and countless other outdoor adventures.

I’ve lived in the Denver area most of my life and have visited Vail many times over the years. While winter certainly has its appeal, there’s something special about summer in the mountains. Wildflowers are blooming, festival season is in full swing, and long sunny days make it easy to pack a lot into your visit.

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer mountain vacation, here are the best things to do in Vail in summer.

Best Things To Do In Vail In Summer

Explore Vail Village & Lionshead Village

Vail Village and Lionshead are the heart of town and where you’ll likely spend a good portion of your time during your visit. These pedestrian-friendly villages are home to many of Vail’s restaurants, shops, events, and attractions.

Vail Village is the larger of the two and offers the widest variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Lionshead is smaller but equally worth visiting, with beautiful European-inspired architecture, colorful buildings, and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.

Even if you don’t plan to shop or dine, it’s worth setting aside some time to wander. You’ll find everything from outdoor outfitters and art galleries to public art, coffee shops, and scenic plazas.

The two villages are connected by a paved pathway that follows Gore Creek, making it easy to walk between them in about 15 – 20 minutes. There’s also a free shuttle if you’d rather save your energy for hiking and other activities.

One thing that makes Vail unique compared to many Colorado mountain towns is its architecture. While towns like Breckenridge, Leadville, and Georgetown grew out of Colorado’s mining boom, Vail was intentionally developed in the 1960s as a ski resort. Inspired by the European Alps, the town’s design gives it a very different feel from most mountain destinations in the state.

Gondola Rides

Taking a gondola ride is one of the best ways to experience Vail’s mountain scenery without committing to a long hike. During summer, both Gondola One in Vail Village and Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead carry visitors high into the mountains (over 10,000 feet above sea level!), where you’ll find expansive views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Even if you aren’t planning to hike, I still think a gondola ride is worth it. Once at the top, you can grab a drink or a meal, enjoy the scenery, access hiking and biking trails, or visit Epic Discovery. Throughout the summer, you’ll also find special events on the mountain, including activities like Yoga on the Mountain.

Eagle Bahn Gondola is especially beautiful around sunset, when the light begins to hit the surrounding peaks and the crowds start to thin out. 

Piney River Ranch 

Piney River Ranch is one of the most beautiful places in the Vail area and well worth the drive. This scenic destination sits beside Piney Lake with the dramatic Gore Range rising in the background.

There are several ways to spend your time here. Visitors can hike, mountain bike, canoe, paddleboard, or simply relax by the lake and enjoy the scenery. Non-guests are welcome and the grounds are free, with options for canoe and paddleboard rentals.

There’s also an on-site restaurant serving BBQ and drinks, making it easy to spend a half day or even a full day here.

One thing to know before visiting is that the final drive to Piney River Ranch is on a long dirt road. Conditions vary throughout the summer, but expect a bumpy ride and drive slowly.

If you’d like to spend more time here, Piney River Ranch also offers cabin and glamping accommodations during the summer season.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are one of Vail’s most unique attractions and an easy stop to add to almost any itinerary. Located just east of Vail Village, these beautiful gardens are home to hundreds of alpine and high altitude plant species from around the world.

Even if you’re not normally someone who seeks out botanical gardens while traveling, I think this one is worth a visit. The setting is beautiful, admission is free, and it’s a relaxing place to spend an hour wandering through the various gardens and walking paths.

Summer is an especially great time to visit when the gardens are filled with colorful wildflowers and blooming alpine plants.

The gardens are open daily, free to visit, and make a peaceful break from the busier parts of town.

Fun Fact: the gardens were named after former First Lady Betty Ford, who spent many years vacationing in the Vail Valley.

Hiking In Vail 

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Vail during the summer. The area is home to dozens of trails ranging from short waterfall walks to challenging alpine hikes. Along the way, you’ll find mountain views, wildflowers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and plenty of opportunities to experience the beautiful scenery that makes Vail such a popular summer destination.

One of the area’s most popular hikes is Booth Falls. This 4.2-mile round-trip trail climbs steadily through the forest before reaching a scenic waterfall. Its location close to town makes it especially convenient, though parking can be limited. If possible, consider taking the free shuttle to the trailhead.

A few other popular hikes in the Vail area include:

• East Vail Falls (.9 miles round trip)
• Upper Piney River Falls (5.9 miles round trip)
• Berry Picker Trail (6.7 miles round trip)
• Pitkin Lake (9.5 miles round trip)

If you’re visiting in July or August, keep an eye out for wildflowers. Many trails around Vail put on an impressive display during peak summer.

One important thing to know is that afternoon thunderstorms are common throughout the summer months. Plan to start hikes early and avoid being above the tree line when storms begin to develop.

Vail Farmers Market & Art Show 

If you’re visiting on a Sunday during summer, make time for the Vail Farmers Market & Art Show. Stretching through the heart of Vail Village, this popular weekly event features more than 100 vendors selling everything from local food and fresh produce to artwork, jewelry, home goods, and handmade crafts.

Even if you’re not planning to shop, it’s a fun way to spend a few hours exploring town. You’ll often find live music, food vendors, and plenty of opportunities to sample local products while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

The market typically runs throughout the summer and into early fall. Check the website for current dates, hours, and special events: Vail Farmers Market.

Fly Fishing 

Colorado is known for its fly fishing, and Vail is no exception. The Eagle River flows through the valley and is home to rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, making it a popular destination for anglers of all experience levels.

If you’ve never tried fly fishing before, guided trips are widely available and can be a great introduction to the sport. Local outfitters provide equipment, instruction, and help finding productive fishing spots, making it easy for beginners to get started.

Epic Discovery Vail

Located at the top of Vail Mountain, Epic Discovery is one of the area’s most popular family-friendly attractions. Operated by Vail Ski Resort, the adventure park offers a variety of activities ranging from alpine coasters and zip lines to climbing features, mini golf, and tubing.

It’s an especially good option for families with younger children, though there are plenty of activities adults can enjoy as well. Even if you’re not interested in the attractions themselves, visiting Epic Discovery can be a great excuse to ride the gondola and spend some time enjoying the mountain scenery.

White Water Rafting

If you’re looking to add a little adventure to your Vail vacation, white water rafting is a great option. Several outfitters in the area offer guided trips on nearby rivers, with options ranging from beginner-friendly floats to more exciting Class III and IV rapids.

Even if you’ve never been rafting before, guided excursions make it easy to give it a try. It’s a fun way to spend a summer day and experience some of Colorado’s beautiful scenery.

Sage Outdoor Adventures is one of the closest rafting outfitters to Vail.

Biking In Vail

Vail is one of Colorado’s top summer biking destinations, with options ranging from paved recreation paths to challenging mountain bike trails. Whether you’re looking for a casual ride or a full day on the trails, you’ll find plenty of options throughout the valley.

Mountain bikers can access an extensive trail network on Vail Mountain, including trails for a variety of skill levels. Gondola bike haul services are also available during the summer, allowing riders to skip much of the climb and spend more time on the trails.

If you prefer paved routes, popular options include Gore Valley Trail, Vail Pass Trail, Eagle Valley Trail, and the Bald Mountain Recreation Path.

Bike rentals are widely available throughout the Vail Valley, and guided tours are offered for visitors who prefer to explore with a local guide.

Walk Or Bike Gore Creek

If you’re looking for a more casual bike ride, check out Gore Valley Trail. This paved recreation path runs through much of Vail, connecting East Vail, Vail Village, Lionshead, and Cascade Village.

The trail follows Gore Creek for much of its route and offers a scenic, easy way to explore town. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or biking, it’s a great way to spend a summer morning in Vail.

If you’re planning to ride the trail, get an early start. It becomes increasingly busy with walkers and runners as the day progresses.

Attend A Festival Or Event In Vail

Summer is one of the liveliest times to visit Vail, with festivals and special events taking place throughout the season. It’s definitely worth checking if any events are scheduled during your visit.

A few of Vail’s most popular summer events include:

• GoPro Mountain Games (early June)
• Vail Dance Festival (typically late July through early August)
• Vail Craft Beer Classic (mid June)
• Vail Wine Classic (early August)
• Vail Jazz Festival (Labor Day Weekend)

Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, live music, wine, beer, or the arts, there’s a good chance you’ll find an event worth planning around. For a complete calendar of upcoming events, check out Discover Vail.

Summer Concerts

One of my favorite things about summer in Vail is the amount of live music. Throughout the season, you’ll find everything from casual outdoor concerts and bar pop-ups to performances by internationally renowned musicians.

The most popular concert series is Hot Summer Nights, held at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. These free outdoor concerts take place throughout the summer and are a great way to spend an evening after a day of hiking or exploring town. Bring a blanket or low-back chair and don’t forget a jacket, temperatures can cool off quickly after sunset.

If you’re interested in classical music, definitely check out Bravo! Vail. Held throughout the summer, this renowned festival brings world-class orchestras and musicians to the Vail Valley and has become one of the country’s premier classical music events.

Go For A Scenic Drive

Vail is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, so a scenic drive is a great way to explore beyond town. Whether you’re looking for a quick outing or a half day adventure, there are several worthwhile drives nearby.

One of the best options is Shrine Pass Road. This seasonal dirt road climbs into the mountains above Vail Pass and offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks, along with colorful wildflowers in mid-summer.

Another (much easier) option is driving over Vail Pass itself. Most visitors pass through on their way to or from town, but it’s worth stopping at the scenic overlook to take in the views.

If you’re looking for a longer excursion, consider heading toward Leadville via Tennessee Pass. The drive offers beautiful mountain scenery and makes it easy to combine a scenic drive with a visit to one of Colorado’s most historic mountain towns.

Vail Nature Center

The Vail Nature Center is located on a historic 1940s homestead along Gore Creek, just a short walk from the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. The property itself is fairly small, but it’s worth stopping by for a quick visit or if you’re interested in joining one of the center’s guided nature programs.

The center hosts a variety of free programs, including guided hikes, birding walks, beaver pond tours, wildflower outings, and stargazing events. It’s a great option for visitors who want to learn more about the local environment while spending time outdoors.

Many programs are family-friendly and open to both visitors and residents. Check the current schedule at Vail Nature Center.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is one of those classic Colorado summer experiences, and the Vail Valley offers plenty of opportunities to get out on the trails.

Several local outfitters offer guided rides through forests, mountain meadows, and backcountry terrain, providing a unique way to experience the area’s scenery. Depending on the ride you choose, you may see wildflowers, historic ranch land, mountain views, and even wildlife along the way.

Many rides are beginner-friendly, making this a good option even if you have little or no horseback riding experience. Popular outfitters in the area include Vail Stables, 4 Eagle Ranch, and Bearcat Stables.

Summer rides can book quickly, especially on weekends, so definitely reserve in advance.

Golf

Golf is another popular summer activity in Vail, with several highly regarded courses located throughout the valley.

Vail Golf Club is the most convenient option near town. The 18-hole championship course sits at the base of the Gore Range and offers beautiful mountain views throughout the round.

You’ll also find several excellent courses within a short drive of Vail, including Beaver Creek Golf Club, EagleVail Golf Club, and Red Sky Golf Club. Red Sky is particularly well known for its two championship courses and is often considered one of the premier golf destinations in Colorado.

Eagle Ranch Golf Club in nearby Eagle is another favorite. Designed by Arnold Palmer, it’s arguably the best affordable golf course in the entire state of Colorado (according to my husband, that is).

Public Art Pieces In Vail

Vail is home to an impressive public art collection, with more than 55 works scattered throughout Vail Village, Lionshead, and other areas of town. You’ll find everything from sculptures and murals to interactive installations and artistic playground features.

One of the easiest ways to explore the collection is by following the Vail Public Art Walking Map as you wander through the villages. Even if you’re not actively seeking out the artwork, you’ll likely stumble across several pieces during your visit.

If you’re interested in learning more about the collections though, consider joining one of the town’s weekly Art Walks held during the summer months, you can find details at Wednesday Art Walks.

Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame

Located in Vail Village, the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame explores the history of skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports in Colorado.

Exhibits cover everything from the evolution of ski equipment and fashion to the history of Colorado’s ski industry. One of the most interesting displays focuses on the 10th Mountain Division, the World War II military unit that trained in Colorado’s mountains and played an important role in the development of the state’s ski culture after the war.

The museum is open year-round and admission is free, making it a really easy stop while exploring Vail Village.

Local Breweries & Distilleries 

After a day of hiking, biking, or exploring town, consider stopping by one of Vail’s local breweries or distilleries.

Vail Brewing Company is a popular local brewery known for its laidback atmosphere and craft beer selection. If beer isn’t your thing, consider sampling a whiskey flight at 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company instead.

No matter which you choose both are a great place to relax after a busy day of outdoor activities.

Spa Day In Vail

When you’re ready to rest from hiking, biking, and Vail’s many other outdoor adventures, consider treating yourself to a spa day.

Vail is home to several excellent spas offering massages, facials, body treatments, saunas, and other wellness experiences. Whether you’re looking to soothe tired muscles after a day on the trails or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon, you’ll find plenty of options throughout town.

Some of the most popular spas in Vail include The Spa at The Arrabelle, The Sonnenalp Spa, and Bloom Spa at The Sebastian.

Hot Springs Near Vail

If you prefer recharging in nature, consider taking a day trip to nearby Glenwood Springs. Located about an hour west of Vail, the town is home to several popular hot springs, including Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and Iron Mountain Hot Springs.

Soaking in a hot spring is definitely one of the best ways to unwind after a few days of hiking and exploring Colorado’s mountains. The combination of healing mineral water and mountain scenery is hard to beat.

For more nearby hot springs, check out my guide to the Best Hot Springs Near Vail.

 

Visit Beaver Creek

Located just 15 minutes west of Vail, Beaver Creek makes a great addition to a Vail itinerary, either as a half day or full day excursion.

Like Vail, Beaver Creek is best known as a ski destination, but summer is a wonderful time to visit as well. The pedestrian village is beautiful to explore and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and seasonal events, all surrounded by mountain scenery.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do here too. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, golfing, and scenic chairlift rides. Beaver Lake Trail is one of the area’s most popular hikes and rewards visitors with beautiful alpine scenery.

One thing I particularly like about Beaver Creek is that it tends to feel a little quieter and more relaxed than Vail. If you’re looking for a slower-paced afternoon, it’s well worth the short drive.

Go For A Day Trip

While there’s more than enough to keep you busy in Vail, the surrounding mountains are home to several excellent day trip destinations.

One of the easiest is nearby Beaver Creek. Located just 15 minutes west of Vail, this upscale mountain town offers a beautiful pedestrian village, hiking trails, restaurants, shopping, and a slightly quieter atmosphere than Vail.

For something completely different, head to Minturn. Just a few minutes down the road, this former mining town has a more local feel and is home to great restaurants, small shops, and a charming historic downtown.

Other popular day trips from Vail include:

• Glenwood Springs for hot springs and cave tours
• Leadville for history, mountain scenery, and Colorado’s highest incorporated city
• Breckenridge for shopping, dining, and summer events
• Frisco and Dillon for lake activities and waterfront recreation
• Twin Lakes for lakes and beautiful mountain scenery

Many of these destinations are less than an hour from Vail, making them easy additions to a longer summer itinerary.

Whether you’re spending your days hiking, relaxing by a mountain lake, or exploring Vail’s charming villages, summer is a fantastic time to visit. Hopefully this guide helps you make the most of your trip!

Any questions or additional ideas? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Vail and Colorado guides below.

More Information For Your Summer Vacation In Vail, Colorado:

• Vail Craft Beer Classic: Everything You Need To Know
• Top Hot Springs Near Vail, Colorado
• Best Hotels In Vail, Colorado
• All Vail, Colorado Guides

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

• Top Summer Mountain Towns In Colorado
• Best Colorado Mountain Towns For First-Time Visitors
• Luxury Getaways In Colorado
• Colorado Travel Guide (how to plan your trip!)
• All Colorado Guides