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Three women walking in a grassy field with mountains in the background.
Meadow mountain dirt trail amongst grassy field with mountain in distance
Grassy area along trail
Mountain views along Upper Piney River Trail
wildflower field Vail

Ridge Route Trail

Distance
1.4 miles (one way)
Difficulty
Intermediate
Crowds
High

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 several service roads converge from the Eagles Nest Ridge, look for the Grand Traverse bike trail signs. Pass Grand Traverse and continue up the service road for another 20 yards until you spot the Ridge Route trail marker.

Initially, Ridge Route runs parallel to the Grand Traverse trail but gradually diverges, leading you across ski runs, wildflower meadows, and shaded groves. Near the top, Ridge Route intersects with Ptarmigan Loop but officially concludes at the summit of Game Creek bowl. From here, you can choose to either switchback to the top of the Wildwood ski lift or bushwhack a few feet up to the Game Creek ski lift.

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.

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.

Discover More Epic Experiences

Lost Lake Trail Gallery

Sunlight Trail

Pack a picnic for Parker Deck and enjoy taking in panoramic views into Sundown Bowl along Sunlight Trail. Follow clear signage for Sunlight as you traverse through forested slopes, passing by the Kinnickinnick Trail and crossing the Main Vail service road. The final segment of the trail gradually inclines before reaching the official summit of … Continued
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Ptarmigan Loop

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 … Continued
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A silver gondola with a Vail logo on it heads up the mountain on a series of cables. Green trees and foliage blanket the terrain in the background.

Cabin Trail

Cabin Trail is a moderately steep 2 mile single track trail, which crosses a few small streams along with groves of aspen trees and an abundance of wildflowers. The trail ends at the “Head First” ski run. From there, you can go downhill to the Main Vail dirt road or to get to Vail Village, … Continued
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A group of people hiking on a trail with mountains in the background.

Berry Picker Trail

The well-known and loved Berry Picker Trail offers an exhilarating hiking experience with stunning alpine scenery. Beginning at the base of the Lionshead gondola, the trail winds its way up the east side of the Bwana ski run before delving into the tranquil woods. Despite its initially challenging start, hikers are rewarded with captivating views … Continued
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Family hiking through aspens

Strawberry Lane Trail

This alternative beginning of the Berry Picker Trail starts from the Vail Village Gondola One base. Ascend steeply through aspen groves, navigating small streams—some bridged, some not. Mind your step along this slick lower stretch of Strawberry Lane. As you climb the trail, you’ll cross ski runs amidst flourishing wildflowers and eventually reach a pond … Continued
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A family of four hikes amongst wildflowers with evergreens and mountains behind them in Vail.

Meadows Loop Trail

Meadows Loop Trail offers a scenic 2.5-mile journey through alpine meadows and forests. Purchase a Scenic Gondola Ticket and ride Gondola One from the Village up to Mid-Vail. The trailhead will be on your right. Hikers, bikers, and trail runners can enjoy wildflowers, tranquil lakes, and panoramic views of Holy Cross Wilderness. Keep an eye … Continued
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group hiking

Shrine Ridge Trail

Shrine Ridge Trail begins at the trailhead located off I-70, leading hikers through lush alpine meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers during the spring and summer months. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Mount of the Holy Cross. The trail is categorized as intermediate, with some … Continued
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Grand Escape Trail

The Grand Escape Trailhead begins at the top of Wildwood Express Lift area. This moderately challenging and well-marked trail promises breathtaking alpine scenery and panoramic views of the surrounding Gore Mountain Range. Keep an eye out for native wild flowers and wild life all along the way.
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autumn landscape with chairlift

Kinnickinnick Trail

From the top of Gondola One at Mid-Vail, towards the 10th Restaurant, there will be a a skinny path uphill to the Kinnickinnick Trailhead alongside Meadows Loop Trail. The initial stretch winds uphill, intersecting several ski runs amidst blooming meadows. Despite occasional steep segments early on, the trail mellows out after crossing several small mountain … Continued
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