As autumn sweeps through Vail, Colorado, the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of golden yellows, ruby reds and flaming oranges. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and fallen leaves on winding trails and scenic overlooks. Gaze at fiery aspens that light up the hillsides and reflect on alpine lakes. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking or simply enjoying a stroll, Vail’s fall foliage provides a breathtaking backdrop for your trip.
- What is leaf peeping?
- Where to see fall foliage in Vail
- When is the best time to leaf peep?
- How to leaf peep in Vail
What Is Leaf Peeping?
Leaf peeping refers to taking in the beauty of fall foliage. And some of the best fall foliage can be found in Vail, where quaking aspens turn bright gold, creating shimmering pathways for hikers and bicyclists. The best leaf peepers come armed with:
- Suitable shoes, like hiking boots or trail runners
- A jacket and/or chunky sweater
- A camera to get those once-in-a-lifetime shots
- Water, snacks and sunscreen for high-elevation adventure
Where to See Fall Foliage in Vail
The Vail Valley is packed with prime leaf-peeping spots, all of which serve up stunning views of the changing leaves in a deciduous forest of aspen trees. Whether you’re on foot, aboard a bike, riding a horse or in a car, please do your part for the environment and community. Trash your trash and pick up after your pup on the trails. Consider taking the free public bus to surrounding trailheads, as parking is limited. Check out these trails to see fall foliage in Vail:
Gore Creek Path
Easy
If you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll rather than a more strenuous hike, leaf peeping on Gore Creek Path is the way to go. Paved and welcoming to walkers, hikers and bikers alike, the Gore Creek Path is easily accessible from both Lionshead and Vail Village. Gorgeous foliage surrounds this 1.8-mile path, taking you along a stretch of Gore Creek from Lionshead to Donovan Park.
Strawberry Lane Trail
Moderate
Even though the name implies red strawberries, you’ll actually get bright yellow hues from the brilliant grove of aspen trees at the Strawberry Lane Trailhead. This 2.7-mile hike kicks off in Vail Village near Gondola One. Trek along ski runs, past ski lifts and plenty of pretty poplars. Take the trail to its conclusion and for an elevation gain of 682 feet, although you can also turn around any time once you get your fall-color fix.
The North Trail
Moderate
This nearly 12-mile trail system runs parallel to I-70 from Davos Road in West Vail to Spraddle Creek in the middle of town, and takes you to overlooks with sweeping views of the Vail Valley’s summits ablaze with aspens. You can hike any portion of the trail — or all of it if you’re feeling ambitious. A popular starter hike is the 2.5-mile out-and-back to North Trail lookout point from the Buffehr Creek trailhead. After climbing a series of switchbacks from the trailhead for about a mile, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Vail’s villages and Vail Mountain.
Berrypicker Trail
Difficult
A challenging option on Vail Mountain, the Berrypicker Trail is worth the strenuous, 7.9-mile trek. The trail switchbacks up the Vail Ski Resort, winding through peaceful quaking aspen stands along the way. It’s an out-and-back with an elevation gain of 2,286 feet. Keep an eye out for meandering moose and other Colorado wildlife (and remember to keep your distance!). Get to the summit, and you’ll be treated to expansive outlooks of the Gore Range’s craggy peaks.
Best Time to Leaf Peep in Vail
The prime fall foliage season in Vail is typically short, consisting of a two-week period in mid- to late September. Your best bet is to plan ahead and book lodging early. Once you see what the fall-color fuss is all about, you’ll understand why autumn is one of the most dazzling times to visit Vail.
How to Leaf Peep
While there’s no right or wrong way to leaf peep, there are different options you can embrace to suit your mood. Learn more ways to leaf peep in Vail.
Serene Hikes
When you’re feeling tranquil and in the mood for some peaceful pathways, a meandering walk or hike is the ideal leaf-peeping choice. Not only can you trek as fast or as slow as you please, but you can stop at special spots and snap a photo. While some may liken serenity to slow and easy, there is a certain level of peace you get from conquering a steep trail surrounded by white-trunked trees all the way to the top.
Thrill-Filled Mountain Biking
Looking for some fast and furious leaf peeping? This calls for one of Vail’s top fall activities: mountain biking. Mountain biking through the shimmering foliage gives you the best of both worlds — a strenuous workout and slower ride as you pedal toward the peak. And once you’re ready to head back down the mountain, prepare for a thrill. Flying down the trail with the wind on your face is an experience you’ll never forget, especially with the leaves zooming by in a swirling palette of stunning fall colors.
Joyful Horseback Riding
Horseback riding among the glorious fall foliage is an instant mood lifter. An additional layer of loftiness comes from being on horseback. Here you’ll enjoy the crunch of the leaves beneath a horse’s mighty hooves as you take in the colors from a unique perspective. Because you’re connecting with your noble steed, horseback riding can give you an even deeper connection to nature than other leaf-peeping options.
Low-Stress Driving
A laid-back mood is the perfect time for a scenic drive through the fall colors, and you have several ways to make it happen. If you’re visiting Vail and plan on landing in Denver, you’ll automatically get to leaf peep on your drive west from the airport. The most popular route takes you along I-70 into the Rocky Mountains where fabulous fall colors abound.
Discover More Vail Adventures
Looking for more things to do during your fall vacation in Vail? Check out these resources: