Curator’s statement
Vail is renowned for its ultra-luxury hotels and top-notch skiing, but it offers so much more. This charming mountain town in Colorado shines throughout the year with its diverse attractions. In the fall, it’s a hidden gem for leaf peeping, as the aspen trees transform into brilliant shades of gold, orange and red, with smaller crowds to enjoy the scenery. Winter turns Vail into the ultimate ski destination, while late spring and summer offer stunning hiking opportunities, with epic ski runs evolving into breathtaking trails. It's hard to pick a favorite season in Vail, but it remains at the top of my list year-round!
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Things to do in Vail
Winter activities:
Skiing or snowboarding, of course. Get up early and hit the slopes — be sure to scope out the mountain. The backbowl is one of the best and the runs on that side are less crowded. Insider tip: Getting a private ski instructor for the day is a great way to get the inside scoop on the best hidden runs and extra bonus you can skip the lift lines.
For a more thrilling adventure, try snowmobiling through the White River National Forest, with incredible views and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path areas.
Always partake in après-ski. With plenty of cozy bars and restaurants, you can unwind with a warm drink and enjoy live music after a day on the slopes.
Hiking trails:
Berrypicker Trail is my go-to Vail hike. It's a roughly three-mile trail that takes you from Vail Village or Lionshead to the top of Vail Mountain. It’s a bit steep, but the views at the top of the surrounding mountains and valleys are well worth it. Take the gondola back down to town if you don't want to hike back down. Insider tip: This is a great hike in the fall for leaf peeping. Fall foliage typically starts in early September and can last until mid to late October.
Booth Falls Trail is another popular four-mile round-trip hike that leads you to Booth Falls, a 60-foot waterfall. You can take the trail to Booth Lake, making it a bit more challenging 10-mile round-trip for those looking for a longer adventure.
To catch the best wildflowers in spring, head to Beaver Lake Trail which is a five and a half-mile round trip trail that climbs 1,600 feet to Beaver Lake. Insider tip: Wildflower season in Vail is typically May to August with peak months in July and August.
If water is more your thing, try whitewater rafting on the nearby Eagle, Colorado or Arkansas Rivers. Or try fly fishing for trout in the Eagle River.
All year round you can explore Vail Village and Lionshead Village and spend the day shopping at the many boutique stores from luxurious fur coats to the latest ski gear.
A note from Theresa
Check out the nearby town of Beaver Creek, just a quick 15-minute drive from Vail. It's a family-friendly mountain that's for both winter and summer activities. In the winter, Beaver Creek is typically less crowded than Vail and the ski runs are just as good.
Places to eat & drink in Vail
La Nonna Vail is my favorite Italian restaurant in all of Vail. I have never had a pasta dish that I didn't like here and their espresso martini is spot on.
The Alpenrose is a cozy German Austrian restaurant. It's great for appetizers and a few drinks. I love their Mountain Negroni.
Matsuhisa is a classic and trendy spot for sushi. They also have great hot dishes and handcrafted cocktails.
Osaki's is my favorite sushi in Vail and always insanely fresh. Much smaller than the above, but the quality is top notch.
Vail Brewing Co. is great for late night beers.
The Swiss Chalet Restaurant inside the Sonnenlap Hotel is a cozy spot for fondue.
Red Lion is the spot for après-ski — take off your boots, grab a drink and listen to some music after a long day on the mountain.
Head to the Remedy Bar at the Four Seasons for their famous hot chocolate — you will not be disappointed.
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Theresa Baumann
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Vail. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Theresa Baumann's guide, Savoring Paris: A Guide to Culinary Charms & Chic Retreats.