Family Friendly Hikes in Vail
With 300 sunny Colorado days a year, hiking is a great way to get outside and enjoy Vail's summer weather with the family! Here are our recommended family-friendly hikes in Vail:
Strawberry Lane
Starting from Vail Village, this hike takes you through forests of aspens and wildflowers, streams, and awesome views of Vail and Lionshead Village. It connects with the Berry Picker trail, which can lead you back down to Lionshead Village or to the top of Vail Mountain (where you'll find more Vail activities like the mountain coaster and ziplining)! This trail is great for spotting deer, marmots, and birds.
Booth Falls
Located in East Vail this hike winds through aspen forests and along a flowing river. It will definitely have your heart racing as it is a steady climb, but offers great views of Vail summer resort at the start of your climb! Experience beautiful wildflowers and reward yourself with a giant waterfall and river at the top. There are plenty of rocks to relax and picnic at the top with great views of the Rocky Mountains.
Upper Piney Lake Trail
The perfect place for scenic views, a picnic, and hiking. Piney River Ranch is located an hour drive up the mountain starting in Vail. It features a beautiful lake with activities available for fly fishing, canoeing, and paddle boarding. The hike starts at the lake and takes you through aspens and wildflowers, crossing several creeks, and leading to beautiful waterfalls. This hike is rated as moderate and is your best chance at spotting a moose during your vacation!
Shrine Ridge Trail
Located just 20 minutes from Vail Valley is a local favorite hike for 360 scenic views, lots of wildflowers, and creeks. It is rated moderate but a great start for those traveling from flat lands as it’s not too long. Pack a picnic, the breathtaking views and wildflowers at the top make it a perfect place for lunch!
Davos
This is an easy hike for an evening stroll that starts in West Vail and offers great views of Minturn and Avon. Drive through beautiful houses in West Vail and begin the hike on the dirt road surrounded by aspens and evergreen forests. It is a great hike during the fall as there are tons of aspen trees and flowers with fall views of each town surrounding Vail.
North Trail
If you’re looking for Views of the Vail Valley this hike offers just that! It is great for both summer and fall with spectacular views of both Lionshead and Vail Village and the majestic Gore Range. There is a steady incline throughout the trail but it does offer breaks with some of it downhill and a creek to cool off. Keep your eyes open for lots of deer, birds, and marmots as you climb through the aspens.
