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Ptarmigan Loop

1.2 miles (roundtrip)

Intermediate

High

A family of four hikes amongst wildflowers with evergreens and mountains behind them in Vail.
Two people walking on a grassy field at sunset.
View of Holy Cross from Eagles Nest

If you’re a fan of wildflowers and stunning vistas, Ptarmigan Loop trail is a must-visit. Starting from the end of Ridge Route and the peak of the Game Creek ski lift, it winds around Ptarmigan ridge and Ptarmigan Point (at 10,977 feet).

This mostly flat loop can be hiked in either direction. Along the way enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Holy Cross, Meadow Mountain, the Gore Range, and Vail’s back bowls.

The north end of Ptarmigan Loop has been extended to connect with the Grand Escape Trail giving you the option to complete the loop where you began (at the end of Ridge Route), or continue north along the top of the Wildwood Express chairlift, descending briefly towards town until crossing a service road and intersecting with the Grand Escape Trail.

Ptarmigan Loop

Care for Colorado: Leave No Trace

Exploring Vail goes hand in hand with caring for our beautiful 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 to protect them from wildlife and protect 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 more than 100 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.

Find More Leave No Trace Tips

Dogs & Leashes

Dogs are allowed in the White River National Forest, but may not be on permitted in certain areas of Vail Resorts. Please adhere to any posted signs. We recommend that you keep your dog on a leash when you are in Vail Resort and around other forest users, other dogs, or are in bear country.

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Cabin Trail

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Shrine Ridge Trail

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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
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Meadow Mountain Trail

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Grand Escape Trail

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Strawberry Lane Trail

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Three women walking in a grassy meadow with mountains in the background in Vail, Colorado.

Ridge Route Trail

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
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