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A cyclist bikes a portion of the Gore Valley Trail in East Vail. The trail is surrounded by tall grasses, with a reflective body of water to the right and trees in the background.
Gore Valley Trail
An adult and two children in helmets ride mountain bikes down a paved path in Vail. A brown footbridge is seen behind them.
Gore Valley Trail
Gore Valley Trail paved path
Family of four riding down a paved bike path on Vail rental bikes
Gore Valley Trail sign next to paved path

Gore Valley Trail (Vail Village towards East Vail)

Distance
5 miles (one way)
Difficulty
Varies
Crowds
High

Gore Valley Trail is a picturesque, mixed-use paved path stretching from Dowd Junction to East Vail, predominantly following the serene Gore Creek. This 12-mile trail includes dedicated pathways as well as segments that integrate with local streets, offering a smooth experience for both biking and hiking.

Starting from the welcome center in Vail Village, the trail extends east, weaving through the base of the ski mountain towards East Vail. One of the trail’s highlights is the section just beyond the Vail Golf Course clubhouse, where many hikers choose to begin their journey due to its remarkable scenery.

As you traverse this stretch, you’ll encounter vibrant red-sandstone cliffs and follow the meandering path of Gore Creek, the golf course, and local beaver ponds. The trail offers an easy walk through bloom-filled meadows and fluttering aspen groves, providing a tranquil backdrop perfect for a leisurely day outdoors.

Show Your Love for Vail Trails

Hiking in Vail goes hand in hand with caring for our pristine 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 – this is to protect them from wildlife and 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 over a hundred 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.

Driving Directions

Access: The Gore Valley trail is accessible from various points throughout the Town of Vail. Stop by or call the Vail Welcome Center for more information.

Dogs & Leashes

On all trails that enter the Eagles Nest Wilderness, as well as on the North Trail, DOGS ARE REQUIRED TO BE ON A PHYSICAL LEASH. If you would like to hike with your dog off leash, there are several areas you can go, such as any trail, aside from the North Trail, that does not enter the Eagles Nest Wilderness, as well as dog parks within the Town of Vail. Remember that, no matter where you are, when in public, your dog needs to be under verbal control. Also, if you use a provided dog waste bag, please remember to carry it out with you. The bags are not biodegradable.

Discover More Epic Experiences

Pitkin Lake

Pitkin Creek Trail

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
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Deluge Lake

Deluge Lake Trail

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
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bighorn creek trail

Bighorn Creek Trail

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
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An adult and two children in helmets ride mountain bikes down a paved path in Vail. A brown footbridge is seen behind them.

Gore Valley Trail West (Lionshead Village to Dowd Junction)

Gore Valley Trail is a picturesque, mixed-use paved path stretching from Dowd Junction to East Vail, predominantly following the serene Gore Creek. This 12-mile trail includes dedicated pathways as well as segments that integrate with local streets, offering a smooth experience for both biking and hiking. Heading west from Vail Village, the trail transitions into … Continued
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Booth Falls Vail

Booth Lake Trail

There is no parking at the Booth Lake Trailhead or anywhere in the surrounding neighborhood. Violators will be towed. Private vehicle drop-off and pick-up at the trailhead are allowed on a limited basis. Learn More Trail Highlights: The trail climbs steeply from the trailhead through aspen groves for the first mile. Then, the trail climbs more … Continued
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Dirt trail among aspen trees and grasses with mountain views

Buffehr Creek Trail

CLOSED April 15 to June 20 From the Buffehr Creek trailhead, cross the bridge and proceed about 1/4 mile before turning right at the first junction (the trail to the left takes you to Garmisch Drive). Continue north approximately another 1/2 mile, ascending a series of switchbacks, to the North Trail junction and stay right. … Continued
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Grouse Lake trail sign image

Grouse Lake

Grouse Lake trail begins on a logging road but turns to singletrack after 0.3 mile. At the signed junction with West Grouse Creek trail at 1 mile, keep left. The trail continues climbing through mixed forests and provides access to the Holy Cross Wilderness at Grouse Lake. If camping overnight, please visit the Ranger Station … Continued
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Piney Lake near Vail glimmers in shadows with rugged mountains all around it. The sky is cloudy with just a hint of blue peeking out.

Upper Piney River Trail

Upper Piney Trail, located near Vail, Colorado, is a 6-mile out-and-back route that offers a moderately challenging hike with diverse scenery. Starting at Piney Lake, one of Vail’s most picturesque spots, provides a gradual 3-mile ascent to a beautiful cascading waterfall, making it a perfect destination for an afternoon hike. The trail’s path weaves through … Continued
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Pine trees along Two Elk trail

Two Elk

CLOSED May 6 through June 20 The Two Elk National Recreation Trail climbs out of Minturn and follows the creek and enters Vail’s Back Bowls. The trail passes three chairlifts and continues climbing to Two Elk Pass before descending to the Vail Pass Recreation Path above East Vail. Scenic vistas of Mount of the Holy … Continued
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