At A Glance
Months:
June - Sept
Vail Epic Discovery Activities
Epic Discovery at Adventure Ridge — located at the top of Vail Mountain near Eagle’s Nest — offers some of the most thrilling Vail summer activities for families. This mountaintop adventure zone features a mix of high-energy attractions and kid-friendly fun surrounded by sweeping alpine views.
What Are the Epic Discovery Vail Rides & Attractions?
Find outdoor amusement for all ages, from heart-pumping action to more leisurely pursuits. Here’s what awaits at Epic Discovery that belongs on your list of things to do in Vail, Colorado, in the summer:
- Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster: Glide down 3,400 feet of track on this gravity-based alpine coaster at your own pace in an individual sled, whether you want to zoom away or take it slow to admire the scenery.
- Bungee Trampoline: Jump, flip and soar toward the sky on this high-energy harnessed trampoline experience.
- Paramount Peak Climbing Wall: Test your strength on the various routes of a 35-foot rock wall and take in spectacular views once you reach the top.
- Eagle’s Nest Tubing: Kids and adults can feel the wind in their hair as they race down 550-foot tubing lanes, then take the magic-carpet lift back up to do it all again.
- Marmot Mini Kids Tubing: Little ones can try Vail tubing on this gentler hill that’s safe yet still exciting for younger kids.
- Little Eagle Kids Zipline: This 10-foot-high zipline offers a confidence-boosting thrill designed for small adventurers.
- Gore Creek Mini Golf: Located at the bottom of the Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19), play endless rounds on this mountain-inspired mini-golf course while taking in Vail’s vibrant summer scenery.
Epic Discovery is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, June through Labor Day weekend, and then Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in September. Check for current season dates.
What Is the Vail Adventure Pass?
The best way to experience all the fun at Vail Mountain’s Epic Discovery for one bundled price is to purchase an Adventure Pass. The pass includes three total rides on the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster and one-day unlimited use of all the other attractions that you meet the age, height and weight requirements for. It offers excellent value for families who want to do multiple activities throughout the day, and you can choose a lunch option that comes with a coupon to use for mountaintop food and beverage. Find current Vail Epic Discovery prices here.
Do I Need Vail Mountain Gondola Tickets to Reach Epic Discovery?
Yes, a scenic gondola ticket or an Adventure Pass is required to access Vail Adventure Ridge on the mountaintop. Your Adventure Pass includes a ride up the mountain, giving you direct access to Epic Discovery. For gondola-only tickets, one child age 12 or under rides free with the purchase of each adult ride ticket. You can pick up your Epic Discovery Adventure Pass or purchase gondola tickets at the Lionshead ticket office, then ride the Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19) to Eagle’s Nest. Vail gondola hours and pricing are dependent on the season, so verify before you go.
What Else Is There to Do at Eagle’s Nest on Vail Mountain?
Once you’ve had your fill of Epic Discovery excitement, enjoy a blend of adventure, nature and Vail mountaintop dining. Start with the Nature Discovery Center, an all-season yurt offering unique exhibits about wildlife and free guided nature hikes led by naturalists — choose from an easy or moderate outing. When hunger hits, Eagle’s Nest offers plenty of casual options. Grab burgers, hot dogs or chicken tenders at Talon’s Grill — home to Vail’s largest deck, order drinks from Bistro 14’s bar or indulge in a pick-me-up of coffee or ice cream at Simba’s Café. From here, you can also access a network of scenic trails with family-friendly hiking and biking routes that showcase impressive views of Vail Valley.
Epic Discovery At Adventure Ridge
Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster
Eagle's Nest Tubing
Paramount Peak Climbing Wall
Marmot Mini Kids Tubing
Gore Creek Mini Golf
What Should You Know Before Visiting Vail Epic Discovery?
Before heading up to Epic Discovery at Adventure Ridge, it’s helpful to know how to prepare for the weather, altitude and more.
What to Wear
Fully enclosed footwear (no heel straps) is required for all activities — think tennis shoes or hiking boots. Be aware that mountain weather changes quickly and there is usually at least a 10-degree temperature difference from the bottom to the top of the gondola. Bring a raincoat or light jacket and dress in layers. Hair ties are suggested for shoulder-length hair or longer.
Sun Protection
At an elevation of roughly 10,000 feet, UV exposure is significantly stronger than it is at sea level. We recommend sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, as well as sunglasses and/or a hat.
Weather on Vail Mountain
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the mountains and may cause interruptions and delays in summer activities and gondola operations. Epic Discovery doesn’t close due to rain, but will close for lightning. Take proper precautions when you see or hear a storm developing: seek shelter and avoid ridgelines, lift towers, power lines, open spaces, lone trees and signposts.
High-Altitude Preparation
If you live at a lower elevation, you may tire more easily. Take it easy at first, plan short trips until you’re acclimated and drink plenty of water. Some visitors may experience symptoms associated with Vail’s high altitude like headaches, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, restless sleep, coughing and difficulty in breathing. If symptoms persist or if you have a concern about your health, you should seek medical attention.
Activity Restrictions, Requirements & Accessibility
Some Epic Discovery activities have requirements or limits for age, height and/or weight, in addition to proper footwear, so be sure to review them in advance. The Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19) is wheelchair-accessible to reach Eagle’s Nest, where you can enjoy views, dining and more. Learn more about accessibility in Vail.
FAQs About Epic Discovery in Vail
Where Is Epic Discovery Located?
Epic Discovery is located at Eagle’s Nest at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19), which leaves from Vail’s Lionshead Village. Epic Discovery is not accessible by car.
What Is the Adventure Ridge Elevation?
Eagle’s Nest, where you’ll find Epic Discovery at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19), sits at an elevation of 10,350 feet.
Where Do I Buy Vail Gondola Tickets? Does Vail Have a Free Gondola?
Vail’s gondolas aren’t free, but you can purchase gondola tickets online or at the Vail Village and Lionshead ticket offices. Adventure Passes for Epic Discovery include a gondola ticket. In addition to Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19), which goes to Eagle’s Nest and Epic Discovery from Lionshead Village, Gondola One (#1) departs Vail Village to take you to Mid-Vail at 10,250 feet, which has stunning vantage points and dining. Both gondolas provide access to Vail Mountain’s hiking and biking trails (with bike haul service).
Is Epic Discovery Good for Younger Kids?
Absolutely. The Marmot Mini Kids Tubing Hill, Little Eagle Kids Zipline and mini golf make it a favorite for families.
Is Adventure Ridge Open Year-Round?
No, Epic Discovery is a summertime activity, typically open June–September.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Epic Discovery?
Mornings often have calmer weather and shorter lines. Afternoons may bring storms but temperatures can be warmer.
What Is the Forest Flyer Alpine Coaster?
The Forest Flyer is Vail’s signature mountain coaster, winding through the forest on an elevated track with spectacular views.
What Are Vail Epic Discovery Prices?
Pricing varies seasonally, but the Adventure Pass typically offers the best value for families or anyone planning multiple activities.
Learn More About Family Vacations in Vail
- Find Vail’s most family-friendly restaurants
- Book these unforgettable Vail resorts for multigenerational families
- Learn what teens will love about summer in Vail
- Plan the ultimate seven-day Vail summer vacation itinerary
- Discover the top summer activities in Vail for families
- Visit Vail in winter for these favorite kids’ activities
