Vail, Colorado, is world-renowned as a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding, but its charm extends far beyond its snow-covered slopes. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Vail offers year-round activities that cater to adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking a luxurious getaway. Whether you’re visiting during the winter season or exploring in the warmer months, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Vail, Colorado, no matter when you visit.

1. Skiing and Snowboarding in Vail Ski Resort

Vail’s Ski Resort is legendary, boasting over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest and most diverse ski resorts in the world. Known for its world-class slopes, powder-filled bowls, and tree-lined runs, it’s a skier's paradise. Vail Mountain offers runs for all skill levels, from beginners enjoying the gentler slopes to expert skiers and snowboarders tackling the famous Back Bowls.

For non-skiers, there’s also a range of winter activities like tubing, snowshoeing, and guided snowmobile tours, making Vail a fantastic winter playground for everyone.

2. Hiking and Mountain Biking

When the snow melts, Vail transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and mountain biking. The area is crisscrossed with scenic trails that range from easy walks to challenging summit hikes, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

• Booth Falls Trail: A popular 4.2-mile round-trip hike, Booth Falls offers stunning views of wildflowers, aspen groves, and a picturesque waterfall at the end.
• Gore Valley Trail: This paved trail is perfect for biking or a leisurely walk along Gore Creek, with panoramic views of the mountains.
• Piney River Falls: For those seeking a more remote adventure, the hike to Piney River Falls is a 6-mile round-trip that ends at a stunning waterfall with views of the Gore Range.

Mountain bikers will love the extensive network of trails that offer everything from smooth, scenic rides to thrilling downhill routes.

3. Adventure Ridge

Located atop Vail Mountain, Adventure Ridge is a year-round activity hub that offers fun for the whole family. In the winter, visitors can enjoy tubing, ski biking, and snowshoe tours. During the summer, Adventure Ridge offers zip lining, a mountain coaster, climbing walls, and even disc golf. Accessible via the Eagle Bahn Gondola, it’s a great way to add some adrenaline to your day.

4. Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Situated in Ford Park near Vail Village, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is the highest botanical garden in North America, sitting at an elevation of 8,200 feet. It’s a peaceful and beautiful spot to explore, showcasing a wide variety of alpine plants and flowers that thrive in the Rocky Mountain environment. The gardens are free to visit and open year-round, though the best time to experience the blooms is during the summer months. It's an ideal stop for nature lovers and those looking to learn more about the local flora.

5. Vail Village

Vail Village is a charming pedestrian-only area that transports you to a European-inspired alpine village. Cobblestone streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and award-winning restaurants line the village, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a romantic evening.

Some key highlights in Vail Village include:

• Ice Skating: During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skating at the outdoor rinks in the center of Vail Village.
• Dining: From cozy après-ski spots to fine dining, Vail Village offers an array of culinary experiences. Try the famous Game Creek Club for a luxurious meal, or visit Matsuhisa for world-class sushi by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
• Shopping: Explore luxury boutiques, outdoor gear stores, and artisan craft shops. Vail Farmers' Market in the summer is also a popular spot to find local produce and handcrafted goods.

6. Gondola Rides

For those looking to take in the mountain scenery without hitting the trails, the gondola rides up Vail Mountain are a must. The Eagle Bahn Gondola and Gondola One offer incredible views of Vail’s valleys and peaks, and during the summer months, visitors can take the gondolas to access hiking trails or enjoy mountaintop dining at places like Bistro Fourteen or Sundeck at the Top of the Mountain.

7. Golfing in the Rockies

Vail is home to some of the most picturesque golf courses in Colorado. The Vail Golf Club, with its challenging fairways surrounded by aspen groves and mountain views, is a favorite among golfers. During the warmer months, the club offers a full 18-hole course as well as practice greens and a driving range. Nearby, the Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club offers two award-winning courses that rank among the best in the state.

8. Rafting and Kayaking

For water sports enthusiasts, rafting and kayaking in Vail are thrilling ways to experience the natural beauty of Colorado. The nearby Eagle River and Colorado River offer rafting trips that range from gentle float trips for families to more intense whitewater rapids for adrenaline junkies. Several local outfitters offer guided trips, ensuring a safe and exciting adventure for all experience levels.

9. Spa and Wellness

For those looking to relax and unwind, Vail boasts a number of world-class spas. Whether you’ve spent the day on the slopes or hiking through the mountains, the town’s luxury spa retreats provide the perfect antidote to an active day. The Spa at Vail Vitality Center and The Sonnenalp Spa offer rejuvenating treatments, from massages and facials to yoga and meditation classes, ensuring that your body and mind are equally pampered.

10. Cultural Experiences

Vail is not just about outdoor adventure; it also has a vibrant cultural scene. The Vail International Dance Festival, held every summer, draws some of the world’s best dancers and choreographers to perform in open-air venues. Meanwhile, the Bravo! Vail Music Festival brings classical music performances to the mountains, featuring internationally renowned orchestras like the New York Philharmonic.

The Colorado Snowsports Museum in Vail Village is another great spot to explore, offering a fascinating history of skiing and snowboarding in the state, as well as exhibits on the 10th Mountain Division, a group of World War II soldiers who trained in Colorado’s high-altitude conditions.

Conclusion

Vail, Colorado, offers something for everyone, from world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter to breathtaking hikes and outdoor adventures in the summer. Whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Vail’s diverse activities and stunning natural surroundings make it a destination worth visiting year-round. From exploring Vail Village to hiking iconic trails and soaking in the scenic views, a trip to Vail is sure to be an unforgettable experience.