Vail Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Play in the Rockies

You might think a place that gets over 300 inches of snow a year wouldn't be garden-friendly—but Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in Vail totally proves otherwise. Open year-round, this spot has five unique gardens to explore—like the Children’s Garden, Meditation Garden, and Alpine Rock Garden. Come summer, you can join a public or private tour, and in winter, snowshoeing through the gardens is an awesome way to see them in a whole new light.

Highlights:

• Five unique themed gardens open year-round
• Snowshoe tours in winter
• Public and private garden tours in summer
• Education center with alpine house and rooftop terrace
• Amphitheater, museum, and gift shop on site

Pro Tip:

Try the snowshoe tour in winter—it's peaceful, scenic, and way more fun than you'd expect!

522 South Frontage Road E, Vail, CO
Phone: 970-476-0103

If you're into hiking and don't mind a bit of a workout, the Booth Falls Trail is a solid choice. It’s an out-and-back trail around 10 miles total, with about a 3,000-foot elevation gain—so yeah, it’s a bit of a climb. It's considered intermediate, but heads up: if you're not used to the altitude, it might feel more like a challenge.

Highlights:

• 10-mile round-trip out-and-back trail
• 60-foot waterfall just 2 miles in
• Booth Lake offers scenic views and trout sightings
• Wildflowers, wildlife, and alpine forests along the way
• Epic panoramic views of the Gore Mountain Range

Pro Tip:

Start early and pack layers—weather shifts fast up there, and the lake views are best before the afternoon clouds roll in.

Vail Village Welcome Center, 241 South Frontage Road, Suite 8150, Vail, CO
Phone: 970-477-3522

If you're in one of the top ski towns in the country, you’ve got to stop by the Colorado Snowsports Museum. It’s a fun, free way to dive into the history of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado—and trust me, there’s a lot to take in. The museum packs in nine different exhibits, including a 140-year skiing timeline and a tribute to the legendary 10th Mountain Division ski troopers from WWII.

Highlights:

• 140 years of Colorado skiing history in one place
• WWII 10th Mountain Division exhibits
• Historic gear—skis, snowboards, bindings, and more
• US Ski Team and Olympic heritage
• Colorado Snowsports Hall of Fame

Pro Tip:

Admission is free, so swing by before or after hitting the slopes—it’s a fun way to warm up (or wind down).

231 South Frontage Road E, Vail, CO
Phone: 970-476-1876

For Nature Lovers

If you're up for a serious challenge and big rewards, the Deluge Lake Trail should be on your list. It’s the toughest of the three trails heading to Deluge Lake, with a steep, rocky climb that definitely earns its “difficult” label. You’ll start out at Gore Creek Campground and hang a left at the first fork—don’t accidentally end up on Gore Creek Trail!

Highlights:

• Steep and scenic high-elevation trail
• Stunning fall foliage through aspen groves
• Panoramic views of Gore Creek Valley
• Wildflower-filled meadows and chances to spot wildlife
• Peaceful alpine lake above the tree line

Pro Tip:

Bring plenty of water and start early—this trail is no joke, but the views at the top are 100% worth it.

Gore Creek Campground, Big Horn Road, Vail, CO
Phone: 877-444-6777

If wildflowers and mountain views are your thing, you *have* to check out the Shrine Ridge Trail. Tucked into White River National Forest, this trail puts on one of Colorado’s best wildflower shows—especially from late July to early August. The views of Mount of the Holy Cross are pretty epic too.

Highlights:

• Jaw-dropping wildflowers in late summer
• Panoramic views of Mount of the Holy Cross
• Historic trail route used by Ute Native Americans
• Forests, streams, meadows, and red rock formations
• Beginner-to-intermediate hike with gentle elevation gain

Pro Tip:

Time your visit for late July or early August for peak wildflower season—bring your camera, you’ll want it.

900 Grand Avenue, Glenwood Springs, CO
Phone: 970-945-2521

For a scenic alpine hike that’s not too tough but still packed with views, the Upper Piney Lake Trail is a total win. Located deep in White River National Forest, this 6-mile roundtrip trail is easy to moderate with just a 350-foot elevation gain—so it’s manageable but still gets your heart pumping a bit.

Highlights:

• 6-mile roundtrip alpine hike with mellow elevation gain
• Wildflower-filled meadows and scenic river views
• Waterfall and lake along the trail
• Great for hiking or horseback riding
• Picnicking, camping, and fishing opportunities

Pro Tip:

Plan to arrive early—the drive in is bumpy, but the lake views and peaceful setting are totally worth it.

900 Grand Avenue, Glenwood Springs, CO
Phone: 970-945-2521

Unique Attractions

If you’re looking for non-stop winter fun, Vail Adventure Ridge is basically a massive snow-filled playground for all ages. Open from winter through mid-April, this spot is packed with activities like tubing, snowshoeing, ski biking, and even a bungee trampoline. It’s an all-day adventure zone that doesn’t slow down—even after the sun sets.

Highlights:

• Snow tubing, snowmobiling, ski biking, and more
• Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster—3,400 feet of alpine thrills
• Kid-friendly snowmobile track and tubing lanes
• Evening gondola rides and fun after dark
• On-site dining at Bistro 14

Pro Tip:

Bundle up and stick around after dark—the night tubing and coaster rides under the stars are a blast.

600 W Lionshead Circle, Vail, CO
Phone: 800-649-9960

Tucked between a peaceful mountain meadow and Gore Creek, the Vail Nature Center is a super chill spot to unwind and connect with nature. Managed by the folks at Walking Mountains Science Center, this cozy seven-acre property feels like a hidden gem just outside the hustle of Vail Village.

Highlights:

• Beautiful 7-acre setting along Gore Creek
• Guided hikes focused on birds, wildflowers & beavers
• Classes on stargazing, fly-fishing, and art in nature
• Open from Memorial Day weekend through late September
• Peaceful and family-friendly atmosphere

Pro Tip:

Stop by in the early morning for birdwatching—it’s quiet, beautiful, and the trails feel like your own private escape.

601 Vail Valley Drive, Vail, CO
Phone: 970-479-2291

Whether you're carving through fresh powder or soaking up mountain views in the sun, Vail Ski Resort is the ultimate year-round playground. With over 5,000 skiable acres and more than 370 inches of snow a year—plus 300+ days of sunshine—it’s no wonder this place is a bucket-list destination for snow lovers.

Highlights:

• Massive resort with 5,000+ skiable acres
• 370+ inches of annual snowfall and sunny skies
• Year-round activities: skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, zip-lining & more
• Three awesome on-mountain restaurants
• Scenic views of the Sawatch and Gore mountain ranges

Pro Tip:

Book dinner at Game Creek for a sunset view you won’t forget—just be ready for a snowcat ride to get there in winter!

600 W Lionshead Circle, Vail, CO
Phone: 800-649-9960