Fall in Vail is a spectacular time to visit, as the trees turn colors of gold, red and orange, while temperatures cool down, but still allow for plenty of outdoor recreation. Make the most out of your fall Vail vacation with these top fall activities:
Fall Hikes
Hiking through the glorious aspen trees on Vail Mountain and other incredible hikes throughout Vail is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the mountains’ fall colors. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite Fall hiking trails to check out! If you’re looking for a way to complement your day exploring leaf-loaded trails with a splurge-worthy, professionally packed picnic, check out this 5280 Magazine article featuring 3 Vail hikes and picnic pairings.
Strolling & Exploring Vail’s Gardens’ & Parks – Fall is a relaxing time to be here and we invite you to stroll through the villages, along Gore Creek and enjoy the beautiful fall scenery all around you! Be sure to visit the Betty Ford Alpine Garden and the Nature Center and enjoy the special fall plants and flowers of the region.
Fall Biking
Whether you’re looking for the ultimate mountain bike trail or something paved and casual, Vail’s fall biking options will take you through canopies of aspen’s leaves where you feel like you’re following a yellow brick road, not a trail! Check out our favorite fall mountain biking trails!
Jeep Tours/ATV
Looking to get up into the mountains bike would rather not hike or bike, then a Jeep or ATV tour is the perfect adventure to experience fall in the mountains without exerting too much effort. A variety of operators offer various tours that will get you miles away from civilization and into the fall foliage.
Fishing
As the waters calm and cool down around Vail, fall is a great time to get out on the river or lakes with a rod and reel. We have recommendations for the top fishing spots in Vail, as well as fishing guides and what to bring on your fishing adventure.
Vail Mountain’s Scenic Gondola & Epic Discovery
Take a ride up Vail’s Gondola One (out of Vail Village) or Eagle Bahn Gondola (out of Lionshead) for a stunning view of the Gore Range, Vail Village and the golden aspens everywhere. Atop the Eagle Bahn Gondola, Vail’s Epic Discovery activities center offers kids a mountain coaster, ziplines, bungee trampoline, climbing wall, summer tubing and more. The Gondola’s and Epic Discovery activities are open daily: June 17 – September 5, 10am – 4pm and open Friday, Saturday, Sunday: September 9 – October 2, 10am – 4pm
Golf
The Vail Golf Club is open through the fall until the snow starts flying. Nestled at the base of the Gore Range, surrounded by beautiful fall colors, this unique 18-hole course at 8,200 feet elevation is the perfect fall activity.
Relax & Recharge
With the changing seasons, fall is the perfect time to take time for yourself before the long cold winter sets in! And, what better way to relax and recharge than spending the day at one of Vail’s many spas!
Giddy Up!
Horseback Rides & Ranches – Let the horses do the work, while you enjoy the glorious fall colors of Vail. Several outfitters offer horseback riding for all abilities and ages. Vail is also home to authentic ranches, offering true western experiences in breathtaking fall settings.
Rain Activities
Sometimes the fall can bring raining weather to Vail. While this is usually a quick rain storm, we’ve pulled together our favorite things to do if it does rain – even just for a little bit!
Events
Fall Events – Events are a big part of Vail and there’s always something happening, even during the fall months.
