Visiting Vail? That’s certainly something we love to do! So, in partnership with the longstanding Vail Lacrosse Tournament, we’ve put together a list of our top ten things to do in Vail, CO, off the field. Our hope is this will help provide a bit of guidance to fellow lacrosse enthusiasts who visit Vail in the future. Enjoy!
10) See the Valley from a Scenic Overview or even a Hot Air Balloon
Jump in your car and drive up the mountains to a scenic overview so you can see what the entire Vail Valley really looks like. Or, if you want some adventure, but don’t want anything too scary, go on a hot air balloon trip. It’s a great way to see the valley, and it will be an experience you’ll never forget. You’ll soar above the beautiful Eagle River Valley – seeing Vail and Beaver Creek from the perspective of a bird. Look no further than Camelot Balloons.
9) Cycle The Gore Range Trail
The undisputed favorite for locals and tourists alike, the Gore Range Trail is an epic 45-mile ride through the stunning scenery of the White River National Forest. Bike rentals start at just $10 per hour and the trail is free to all.
8) Take a 4WD, ATV or Off-Road Tour
An off-road Jeep or ATV can be one of the best ways to see the incredible rugged mountain terrain of the Colorado Rockies. Take the whole family and escape into the vast trails surrounding the Vail area. Try Sage Outdoor Adventures, Timberline Tours or Mountain Wolf Jeep Adventures for the ultimate thrill ride!
7) Go Horseback Riding
Embrace Colorado’s rich cowboy heritage and experience the mountains and countryside on horseback. Whether it’s a short beginner ride or a longer trek, you can saddle up and go the way of the settlers without taking a single step. Bearcat Stables is the best place to book your ride.
6) Go get yourself a spa treatment (yes, you read that right)
Treat yourself at the Aria spa at the Vail Cascade to a soothing massage, relaxing facial, or any of the roman soaking tubs, saunas, and steam rooms.
5) Take a stroll through the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Sitting at 8,200 feet in the Rocky Mountains, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens boasts being the world’s highest botanical gardens. Just a few minutes’ walk from the Vail Village, this enchanting attraction offers a place to relax and clear your head among waterfalls, ponds, bird life, and the unfettered beauty of the Rocky Mountain flowers. The gardens are open year-round from dusk until dawn, though peak flower season is June through August.
4) Zipline, Tube, Coaster & More At Epic Discovery
With two miles of zipline and a top speed of over 60mph, Epic Discovery is one of the best spots for an adrenaline-fueled afternoon at the top of Vail Mountain. For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, their Forest Flyer alpine coaster is a high-speed roller-coaster that you control. Tubing, climbing, bike clinics, bungee trampolines and adventure courses are also part of the fun at Epic Discovery.
3) Try Fly Fishing
Or, if you’re already a pro just go on and soak it all up in Colorado’s world-class alpine streams. The wild trout fishing in Colorado is unreal. Stop into the local fly shop for lessons and insider tips on the area or book a guided trip on private water.
2) Catch A Show At The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Take in a show at Vail’s best outdoor music venue. You can pair tunes with tastings from Crazy Mountain Brewery and fun yard games at this incredibly scenic outdoor amphitheater.
1) Vail Mountain Eagle Bahn Gondola
The gondola ride provides awesome views of the Gore Range (look down the mountain as you go up), and once you’re at the top, Adventure Ridge is right there. It has a climbing wall, bouncy trampoline and “Dino Dig” for kids; hike the marked trails; or ride a mountain bike back down the hill. No kids in tow while visiting Vail? Hang out at Talon’s Deck from 5 p.m. on Friday evenings with live music and drink specials.
There are many other fun things to do while visiting Vail
Head over to VisitVailValley.com to find out about more summer activities you can take advantage of during your stay!
And hey, if all else fails or you’re simply not in the mood to be social, you don’t have to do any of the above. The only thing you really need do to enjoy your time visiting Vail is to step outside on the back porch with a cold one (no alcohol necessary) and look up at your scenic view!
