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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
Gore Valley Trail
A group of people riding bikes through the beautiful streets of Vail.
A hotel in the beautiful mountains at dusk in Vail.

Gore Valley Trail West (Lionshead Village to Dowd Junction)

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.

Heading west from Vail Village, the trail transitions into a dedicated path in Lionshead, which is easily accessible from the Lionshead parking structure. It weaves its way along Gore Creek, passing through Lionshead and continuing into West Vail. This scenic route away from the streets makes it a popular choice for moving up and down the valley, offering cyclists and pedestrians a tranquil alternative to road travel. The path provides excellent access to the river, making it a favored spot for fishing and rock skipping.

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.