Don’t get us wrong — we loooove the outdoors and know you do, too. But sometimes there are places that get a little too much love. In the Vail area, one of those locales is Booth Lake Trail, which is popular for its stunning views of Booth Creek Falls. However, it’s prone to overcrowding, resulting in parking headaches and effects on the terrain. Fortunately, there are plenty of other trails that will lead you to rushing waters and serene alpine lakes. Here’s where you can find top Colorado waterfall hikes and other aqua-ventures around Vail, with a little more solitude.
Upper Piney Trail
Head roughly 15 miles north of Vail Village to start this 6-mile, out-and-back hike from Piney Lake. The journey is considered moderate in difficulty and will take you into the Eagles Nest Wilderness, where aspen groves come alive with stunning orange colors in the fall. The lake itself reflects the surrounding Gore Range, and there are ample spots to stop and soak up the views on your way to the scenic Upper Piney River Falls.
Pitkin Creek/Lake Trail
With a creek, two sets of waterfalls and a lake, there’s no shortage of water on this moderate/hard hike in East Vail. To reach Pitkin Lake you’re looking at approximately 10 miles out and back, but there’s plenty to enjoy along the way — and the views are well worth the effort. The trailhead starts a bit steep, but levels out after a mile or so. The beautiful Pitkin Falls come into view about 2.5 miles in, with another cascade a mile later. Pass through meadows that teem with wildflowers in July and August before you reach aquamarine waters surrounded by dramatic granite walls.
Bighorn Trail
Explore this section of East Vail with a 7-mile round trip to an old mining cabin dating back to the early 1900s. Along the way you’ll pass beaver ponds, cross Bighorn Creek and can view the seasonal Bighorn Falls in the distance. Though it’s considered challenging, this trek affords the best view of the iconic Grand Traverse, a continuous ridge connecting a stretch of 12,000- and 13,000-foot peaks. The classic vista is seen from Vail Village looking east down Gore Creek Drive.
Lost Lake Trail
There are two trailheads for this route, but we recommend heading from the western point to make Lost Lake your destination. This provides an easy/moderate, out-and-back trek of about 7 miles. You’ll follow a ridge that winds through lodgepole pine and aspen groves, framing vistas of Mount of the Holy Cross, Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek in the distance. At the lake, settle in for a quiet picnic next to the placid waters.
Deluge Lake Trail
For a longer and more difficult option, this 9-mile out-and-back trail in East Vail rewards hikers with unbeatable views of Gore Creek Valley, the Sawatch Range and summertime blossoms. It’s ideal for birdwatching and traverses through boulder fields and a creek before you reach the splendor of Deluge Lake’s glassy surface.
Village Streamwalk Trail
You don’t even have to leave town for this easy out-and-back jaunt that clocks in around 1 mile. Start at the historic Gore Creek Covered Bridge and make your way east, following the north side of babbling Gore Creek, also known as Vail’s treasured waterway. As you pass through Vail Village, breathe in the scent of pine trees and keep an eye out for furry and feathered wildlife — the trail is popular with birdwatchers. Once you reach Ford Park you can enjoy Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, which features flowers and plants unique to Rocky Mountain ecosystems, sculptures and water features.
East Vail Falls Trail
You can see East Vail Falls from I-70, but if you want a closer look this is the way to do it. Though it’s about a mile out and back, it’s not for the faint of heart or novice hikers. This steep and difficult route includes sections where you’ll have to use the provided ropes to reach your destination. Be sure to have proper footwear for good traction and avoid going when it’s slippery. Once you’ve made your way to the top, the cooling mist of the falls will greet you.
Gore Creek/Lake Trail
This hike combines two trails, Gore Creek and Gore Lake, for approximately 12 miles to the lake and back. It’s considered strenuous, and this excursion is popular for backpacking and camping. You’ll start on the Gore Creek Trail in East Vail, following Gore Creek for much of it and immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery of the Eagles Nest Wilderness before a final ascent up to turquoise Gore Lake. If you go in the fall, you’ll be treated to an array of vibrant foliage. Mountain goats also frequent the area around the lake, so keep an eye out for them but maintain your distance. Learn about Vail leaf peeping.
Grouse Lake Trail
Southwest of Vail near Minturn is where you’ll find this picturesque — yet difficult — trail that travels roughly 10 miles out and back. As you head toward Grouse Lake, the path crosses back and forth several times over bridges, logs and stones, providing an opportunity to cool off. Continue rising above the aspen, pine, spruce and fir trees until you arrive at the lake’s tranquil waters.
Vail Hiking Tips
Enjoying the outdoors also comes with a responsibility to maintain these gorgeous spaces and ensure your safety. Here are some things to keep in mind before you hit the trail.
• Practice the principles of Leave No Trace.
• Double-check that dogs are allowed on your trail of choice, keep your furry pal leashed and pack out any poo.
• Stay on designated trails and yield to hikers coming uphill.
• Watch out for wildlife and maintain a respectful distance; you should also be familiar with what to do if you encounter certain kinds of animals.
• Keep an eye on the weather. Conditions can change rapidly, and you should start your hike early enough in the day to avoid late-afternoon storms.
• Wear moisture-wicking clothing (especially socks) and appropriate footwear for the conditions.
• Avoid parking struggles at trailheads and take a free bus instead.
More Ways to Play Outside Around Vail:
• Find more top hikes around Vail.