The well-known and loved Berry Picker Trail offers an exhilarating hiking experience with stunning alpine scenery. Beginning at the base of the Lionshead gondola, the trail winds its way up the east side of the Bwana ski run before delving into the tranquil woods. Despite its initially challenging start, hikers are rewarded with captivating views … Continued
This alternative beginning of the Berry Picker Trail starts from the Vail Village Gondola One base. Ascend steeply through aspen groves, navigating small streams—some bridged, some not. Mind your step along this slick lower stretch of Strawberry Lane. As you climb the trail, you’ll cross ski runs amidst flourishing wildflowers and eventually reach a pond … Continued
Meadows Loop Trail offers a scenic 2.5-mile journey through alpine meadows and forests. Purchase a Scenic Gondola Ticket and ride Gondola One from the Village up to Mid-Vail. The trailhead will be on your right. Hikers, bikers, and trail runners can enjoy wildflowers, tranquil lakes, and panoramic views of Holy Cross Wilderness. Keep an eye … Continued
Shrine Ridge Trail begins at the trailhead located off I-70, leading hikers through lush alpine meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer months. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Mount of the Holy Cross. The trail is categorized as intermediate, with some … Continued
The Grand Escape Trailhead begins at the top of Wildwood Express Lift area. This moderately challenging and well-marked trail promises breathtaking alpine scenery and panoramic views of the surrounding Gore Mountain Range. Keep an eye out for native wild flowers and wild life all along the way.
From the top of Gondola One at Mid-Vail, towards the 10th Restaurant, there will be a a skinny path uphill to the Kinnickinnick Trailhead alongside Meadows Loop Trail. The initial stretch winds uphill, intersecting several ski runs amidst blooming meadows. Despite occasional steep segments early on, the trail mellows out after crossing several small mountain … Continued
Finding this popular trail can be a bit tricky for first-timers. From the Eagles Nest gondola area head south towards signs for Game Creek. Shortly after, at a junction where several service roads converge from the Eagles Nest Ridge, look for the Grand Traverse bike trail signs. Pass Grand Traverse and continue up the service … Continued
The first mile of the trail is strenuous as it climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley. Fallen trees along the trail are evidence of past avalanches. The grade levels out somewhat as the trail passes through mature aspen groves and spruce-fir forests and a series of moraines from an ancient glacial retreat. After about … Continued
The Deluge Lake Trail splits from the Gore Creek Trail about 0.1 mile from the Gore Creek trailhead. Take this left onto the narrow trail which heads north before curving and heading northeast the rest of the way. The trail will pass through several boulder fields, and then cling to a very steep slope as … Continued
The first 1/2 mile of the trail climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley, then more gradually climbs up through stands of aspen and pine. The trail passes beaver ponds and the remains of old mining camps as well as Bighorn Falls. Near mile 2, the views of Vail and Bighorn drainage are exceptional. Around … Continued