Easy Hikes Activities Vail

During World War II, the Vail area was used for survival training. After the war, a group of veterans returned to the valley with a shared vision of creating a ski community there. In 1962, construction started. Then, in 1966 Vail was incorporated as a town, realizing the vision of its founders. Known primarily for winter sports with its expansive terrain and famous back bowls, a winter trip to Vail is on many skier and snowboarders’ bucket lists. Don’t be fooled however. Vail Colorado is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiast. The temps are a bit cooler during the summer heatwaves than most states in the U.S. due to the elevation. Another plus, there are a lot less tourists. Here are some easy hikes and activities in Vail. Head to the top of the mountain for family fun. These are all accessible via the gondola/lift for a fee, but well worth it.

CLICK HERE to read about my (Kathy Leonardo) personal experience – Reconnecting with my Man in Vail.

Easy Hikes Activities Vail

If you are not an avid hiker, don’t try the ascent, just enjoy the ride up the mountain on Gondola One for stunning views. When you reach the top you’ll find a restaurant named Mid Vail Grill. It serves sandwiches, salads, as well as wine and beer etc. If you do want to hike, this is the place to grab some water, and snacks before your trek to the Eagle Bahn gondola. Of course, you can simply enjoy the view from there, get right back on the same gondola back to Vail Village and skip the trek.

Ask the gondola workers about different trails based on what you feel like doing at the time, factoring in the age of your kids if you have them. My husband and I did a relatively easy hike called Upper Fireweed from Gondola One to the Eagle Bahn Gondola (# 19) – this is a good trail for kids (8+). Other easy trails are Eagle’s Loop and Gore Creek Trail. My husband is way more adventurous than me. He got up super early one morning and hiked a harder trail called Shrine Ridge. He saw an elk and a porcupine as well as lots of wildflowers. I saw the pix. Stay tuned for his article.

Mountaintop Activities

Once you arrive at Eagle Bahn, you’ll see a complex with several eateries along with activities for the kids. The Nature Discovery Center offers free guided tours by Walking Mountains Science Center. Plus there are several types of fun climbing structures, zip-lining, tubing hills, as well as a rock climbing wall for the kids.

*Vail Colorado, Overlook from Eagle Bahn*

Mountaintop Eateries

This is a great place to have a bite to eat. Talon’s Deck Out Door Grill features burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, wine and beer. Or skip right to dessert at Simba’s Cafe: Coffee & Ice cream. Bistro 14 offers a full bar and spotlights Gray Malin’s fine art photography on the walls.

Mountain Biking

Taking the gondola up is extremely popular with the more adventurous local mountain bikers. However, quality bikes can be rented by visitors, and there are numerous routes down the mountain for all skill levels. Take the gondola up with your bike and just ride it down. The attendees at the lift ticket booth will fill you in on the various trails. Visit Discover for additional hiking suggestions – https://discovervail.com