North Trail (Buffehr Creek to Red Sandstone)
Distance
3.7 miles (one way)Difficulty
IntermediateCrowds
ModerateClosed April 15-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. After passing a beaver pond on the right, cross Buffehr Creek. From Buffehr Creek, climb steeply for approximately one mile on an open hillside. At the top of the switchbacks, take the right fork to stay on the North Trail (the Buffehr Creek Trail departs the North Trail and heads left/north). From here the trail enters an aspen stand, and openings along the way provide scenic views to the south and east. Begin the descent to Red Sandstone via a series of switchbacks where the stand of aspen begins to thin. The first couple switchbacks offer outstanding views of the Gore Range and the Red Sandstone drainage.
Trail Adopted By: Vail Public Safety, Vail Recreation District, East West Partners, Town of Vail Employees, Marriott Streamside
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: Travel west on I-70 to Exit 173 for West Vail. Turn right and proceed east on the North Frontage Road for 0.5 miles to Buffehr Creek Road. Turn left and continue to the trailhead on the left. There is limited parking at this trailhead.
Bus to Hike
Take the free West Vail Red bus and get off at the Buffehr Creek bus stop. Walk up Buffehr Creek Road a 1/4 mile and you will see the Buffehr Creek Trailhead.
Take the West Vail Red bus
- Park for free in Vail Village or Lionshead structures and take a free bus to West Vail
- Get off at the Buffehr Creek bus stop
- Walk up Buffehr Creek Road a 1/4 mile
- You will see Buffehr Creek Trailhead