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Lost Lake Trail Gallery
Grasses and pine trees along Grouse Lake trail
Grassy area along trail

Sunlight Trail

Distance
0.8 miles (one way)
Difficulty
Intermediate
Crowds
Moderate
Staring Elevation
10,005 Ft (3,335 m)
Ending Elevation
10,251 Ft (3,417 m)
Elevation Gain
249 Ft (83 m)

Pack a picnic for Parker Deck and enjoy taking in panoramic views into Sundown Bowl along Sunlight Trail.

Follow clear signage for Sunlight as you traverse through forested slopes, passing by the Kinnickinnick Trail and crossing the Main Vail service road. The final segment of the trail gradually inclines before reaching the official summit of Vail Mountain at 11,250 feet and the Mountaintop Express lift-top. This area is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The Sunlight trail offers a gentle and smooth terrain, free from roots or rocks.

Sunlight Trail

Care for Colorado: Leave No Trace

Exploring Vail goes hand in hand with caring for our beautiful natural environment. Here’s how you can do your part!

Stay on the Trail

No shortcuts — going off trail compromises trail construction, kills the vegetation, increases soil erosion and may result in reduced water quality.

Pack Out Trash

Stash it until you can trash it — anything you bring with you, you must pack back out. Trash can hurt wildlife and contaminate water ways.

Dog Do's and Don'ts

Do pick up the doo — pack out all dog poop. Don’t let dogs off leash to protect them from wildlife and protect wildlife from them.

Respect Wildlife

Give them space — observe wildlife from a distance and do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals as it can alter their behavior.

Plan Ahead

Take the trail less traveled — there are more than 100 miles of hiking trails in the Vail area! Use the trail guide to discover area trails and, whenever possible, ride a bike or take a free Town of Vail bus to the trailhead.

Find More Leave No Trace Tips

Dogs & Leashes

Dogs are allowed in the White River National Forest, but may not be on permitted in certain areas of Vail Resorts. Please adhere to any posted signs. We recommend that you keep your dog on a leash when you are in Vail Resort and around other forest users, other dogs, or are in bear country.

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