At A Glance
Season:
Summer
Months:
June - Sept
Family-Friendly Hikes in Vail
When you want to share the beauty of Colorado’s soaring mountains, flower-strewn meadows and stands of aspens, there’s nothing quite like a family-friendly hike in Vail. Set off on treks fit for feet of any size, featuring views of dramatic landscapes for adults and engaging activities to entertain (and maybe even tire out) the kids. So, fill up the water bottles, pack up the day bag and rally your crew for these favorites that ring in under 5 miles.
1. Vail Nature Center & Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Located in the heart of Vail, the Vail Nature Center is a local gem with 7 acres of mountain glades and creekside trails. It’s the perfect place to get away from the bustle of town while still being close to everything. More of a nature walk than a hike, this path is very mellow with no elevation gain. The Ford Park and Betty Ford Alpine Garden sections are great options for a wheelchair-friendly trek.
Route suggestion: From Ford Park (before or after a stop at the playground), head through the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens where you can pick up a kid’s scavenger hunt map. After you cross the bridge, follow the trail east as it meanders along Gore Creek to the Vail Nature Center. Take a break and stop inside for some educational exhibits, guide-led nature programs and maybe even a s’more-making session. Continue east on the trail to the tucked-away lodge — a kid-approved hideaway — for a snack break.
Tip: Celebrate completing your jaunt by dipping your toes in the chilly creek waters or playing on Ford Park’s playground.
2. Hikes From Vail Village & Lionshead
One of the easiest and shortest Colorado hiking trails in the area is the Eagle’s Loop atop Vail Mountain. Kids will love the gondola ride up and chances to see and learn about local critters, like soaring bald eagles, while views of snow-streaked mountains (yes, even in summer) and verdant valleys will wow adults. Keep an eye out for the interactive and educational signs along the path. Don’t miss the Nature Discovery Center atop Eagle’s Nest where kids can explore inside a massive yurt, complete with animal displays, puzzles and fun trivia.
Route suggestion: Start by riding the Eagle Bahn Gondola to the summit. The Eagle’s Loop is a 1-mile trail with Insta-worthy views of the Vail Valley. The path leads across the mountain and ends at Mid-Vail. From here, you can simply take Gondola One down into the village or hike the 1 mile back to Eagle’s Nest and take the Eagle Bahn back down. This can be done in either direction.
Tip: Reward kiddos for their hiking accomplishment with a trip to Fuzziwig’s Candy Shop in Vail Village for fresh-made fudge and candied apples, or Rocket Fizz in Lionshead for bottles of soda pop and candy novelties.
3. Gore Creek Trail
There are many sections of the Gore Creek Trail without elevation gain, offering easy hiking for families. The section through the Vail and Lionshead villages features improved gravel with some paved sections wide and smooth enough for strollers. Along the trail, you can watch anglers fly fishing and glimpse stunning European architecture — always with sky-tickling peaks in the background.
Route suggestion: Take the covered bridge to Ford Park where the kids can run wild or trek from Vail Library to the Lodge at Lionshead in Lionshead Village.
Tip: For a sweet and refreshing treat, snag a sprinkle-topped cone of classic strawberry or vanilla ice cream from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Vail Village or Häagen-Dazs® in Lionshead.
4. Gore Valley Trail
The Gore Valley Trail is a shared hiking and biking path that follows the burbling waters of Gore Creek. The full trek stretches from Dowd Junction to East Vail (about 19 miles) with access spots for a fishing break and wading in the chilly water. For a shorter family outing, choose between the west and east portions of the trail.
Route suggestion: The East Vail portion of the Gore Valley Trail is an ideal afternoon stroll with plenty of tables and benches for taking a breather. Pack a picnic with to-go sandwiches and goodies from local cafes like First Chair, Big Bear Bistro or Yeti’s Grind — just be sure to pack out what you bring in. Starting at the East Vail trailhead, this easy hike in Vail leads past a vibrant-red sandstone cliff band and into verdant glades surrounded by aspen-laden forests all the way to the golf course.
Tip: Return to this trail in early to mid-autumn when leaf-peeping season is in full swing. Bring your camera to capture dazzling displays of the golden-tinged mountainsides.
5. North Trail Sections
While the North Trail provides 12 miles of routes for hiking and biking from Davos Road to Spraddle Creek, there are shorter sections ideal for a family adventure. Dotted with shade from aspen groves along the way, the trails are a favorite because of their easy access points and stunning scenes of Vail Mountain, the Gore Range and Mount of the Holy Cross.
Route suggestion: For a quicker hike that doesn’t skimp on views, try the 2.5-mile out-and-back path to North Trail Lookout Point. Start at the Buffehr Creek Road trailhead and embark on a relatively short but challenging climb to the top of a flat clearing. Here, reward your little adventurers with a treat while everyone enjoys the sweeping panoramas.
Tip: All trailheads are accessible from North Frontage Road. Grab a Vail Hiking Map from the Vail Welcome Center or check out the online hiking map for more info.
6. Shrine Ridge Trail
Shrine Ridge Trail off Vail Pass is a gradual, short hike (793-foot elevation gain, 2.2 miles one-way) that winds along lush meadows, pine-peppered hills and two small ponds to the top of Shrine Mountain. It’s a must-see during peak wildflower season when vibrant pink, crimson, yellow and amethyst flowers pop against the alpine landscape. Plus, your reward is incredible 360-degree views of Copper Mountain, Mount of the Holy Cross, the Gore Range and Vail’s Back Bowls. Impress your family by pointing out and naming some of these towering peaks.
This trail starts at 11,000 feet above sea level, so be prepared for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Wear layers and pack extra warm and water-resistant options.
Route suggestion: Take I-70 to Exit 190 for Vail Pass. After you exit, turn right onto the Shrine Pass dirt road (FSR 709). Continue for 2.4 miles just past Shrine Pass. The trailhead is on the left. Parking is limited.
Tip: Create a scavenger hunt or bingo game with items in nature for the kids to find along their hike. One way to play: Stop along the trail, close your eyes and listen — you’ll be surprised at how much noise nature makes.
Discover More
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.
