15 Essential Experiences in Vail, Colorado – More Than Just Skiing

Vail’s premier skiing and snowboarding terrain attracts visitors from across the globe. However, this Colorado mountain town offers an extensive array of activities beyond snow sports.

Whether you seek a thrilling outdoor experience in the Rockies or prefer a luxurious afternoon of relaxation, the Vail Valley provides vacationers with myriad recreational options.

From hiking with llamas to sampling local craft beers, here are 15 engaging ways to enhance your next visit to Vail.

1. Sip a flight of craft beers

Craft beer has gained immense popularity in Colorado, with the Vail Valley being no exception. Visit one of the two locations of Vail Brewing Co—Eagle Vail or Vail Village—to sample a rotating selection of their brews. Established in 2014, this veteran-owned brewery offers beers inspired by the valley’s outdoor lifestyle, perfect for sipping after a day of hiking or skiing.

Furthermore, to truly appreciate Vail’s local flavor, engage with bartenders and fellow patrons at any of the valley’s restaurants.

2. Drive bumper cars on ice

Revisit the joy of playfully colliding with friends and siblings in bumper cars at local carnivals, now in a frosty environment.

This nostalgic experience can be relived at Vail’s John A Dobson Ice Arena, which features 12 colorful ice bumper cars for both children and adults, available for rental at $10 for 15 minutes.

Planning tip: Be sure to preregister prior to your arrival at the arena.

3. Go trekking with llamas

Backpacking alone necessitates significant planning and equipment that can become increasingly cumbersome as the day progresses. Consequently, consider recruiting a very unique (and adorable) team to assist with your load. The llamas offered by Paragon Guides in the Vail Valley can carry your gear during multi-day trekking excursions between Colorado backcountry huts.

Planning tip: If time is limited, the llamas are also available for shorter “take a llama to lunch” adventures.

4. Zoom around the slopes on a snowmobile

While skiing downhill can be exhilarating, venturing onto a snowmobile allows for a thrilling rush. These fast machines provide a remarkable opportunity to explore the vast terrain of the Vail Valley during winter, all while elevating your adrenaline. Numerous local companies, including Vail Backcountry Tours, Nova Guides, Sage Outdoor Adventures, and Vail Extreme Rentals, offer tours and rental services.

5. Get out on the water on a stand-up paddle board

Vail’s summer climate is quite pleasant, characterized by mild mid-70-degree highs, abundant sunshine, and gentle breezes. Although beaches are scarce in these mountainous regions, the Vail Valley presents a plethora of opportunities for water activities, such as stand-up paddle boarding (SUP).

If you are new to this activity, consider venturing to the calm waters of Nottingham Lake (where paddle boards and pedal boats are available for rent) or enjoying a stay at Piney River Ranch, granting guests access to Piney Lake.

Detour: Interested in a more thrilling aquatic experience? Engage in white-water rafting with Timberline Tours to immerse yourself in Colorado’s rivers.

6. Glide around on ice skates

Put on your skates and aspire to the elegance of an Olympic figure skater or the athleticism of an NHL hockey player. Ice skating presents a fun, family-friendly pursuit, and the Vail Valley boasts several indoor and outdoor rinks ideal for spending an afternoon gliding on the ice (followed by warming up with hot chocolate).

Explore the John A Dobson Ice Arena, the Alderhof Ice Rink, and the Solaris Plaza Ice Rink in the town, along with the rink at Beaver Creek Village, located just a 15-minute drive west of Vail.

7. Hit the links at one of Vail’s golf courses

With the majestic Rockies serving as a continuous backdrop, Vail is home to several breathtaking golf courses. Regardless of whether you are a seasoned pro or a newcomer, there is a course here to suit everyone’s skills.

Vail Golf Club is a popular 18-hole public course offering views of the Gore Range, while Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club stands out as a premier private club featuring designs by esteemed architects Tom Fazio and Greg Norman. Guests can access the course if they are staying at one of the club’s partner properties.

Other noteworthy golf courses include EagleVail Golf Club, Beaver Creek Golf Club, and Gypsum Creek Golf Course. Many courses in Vail also provide lessons and feature clubhouses that serve meals, allowing for a full day of family fun.

8. Go cross-country skiing at the Vail Nordic Center

Although Vail is renowned for its downhill skiing, the valley also serves as an excellent venue for cross-country skiing. The Vail Nordic Center features over 10 miles of groomed trails designated for classic or skate skiing, in addition to 6 miles for snowshoeing and 8 miles for fat biking (a winter-friendly biking style using large, cushioned tires). Managed by the Vail Recreation District, the center also provides daily lessons, on-site rentals, and a café for refreshing after a day in the snow.

Detour: EagleVail features 5 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, along with terrain specifically designed for children.

9. Have a fancy picnic

Instead of settling for monotonous trail mix during your hike, why not enjoy an elegant dining experience amid the aspens and evergreens? The local provider Picnic Vail specializes in organizing exquisite picnics, which vary from simple charcuterie boards to elaborate setups arranged by a “picnic concierge.” All necessary seating, tableware, and accessories are included; you only need to savor the views as you dine.

10. Learn about the environment at the Vail Nature Center

Operated by the nonprofit Walking Mountains Science Center, the Vail Nature Center provides a peaceful environment for gaining knowledge about sustainability, nature, flora, fauna, and various related topics. Positioned on a seven-acre plot that once housed a homestead from the 1940s, the free center features interactive walking trails, exhibits, and tours covering everything from birdwatching to observing beaver ponds.

Detour: If time allows, consider exploring Walking Mountains’ other facilities: the Avon Tang Campus and the Nature Discovery Center, accessible via the Eagle Bahn gondola at the ski resort.

11. Zoom across the snow on a dog sled

Experience the exhilarating winter landscape while enthusiastic pups pull your sled through the snow. Operators such as Mountain Musher, Alpine Adventures, and various others provide guided dog-sledding excursions. This adventure typically includes an introduction to the dogs and insights about their unique roles before your snowy ride commences.

12. Dash through the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh

Even if you visit outside the peak holiday season, there is no better way to savor the serene, snow-laden landscape of the Vail Valley than from a cozy horse-drawn sleigh. Located 20 miles west of Vail, 4 Eagle Ranch offers sleigh rides that commence with a warm beverage and a bowl of chili, culminating in a ranch-style dinner and s’mores around the campfire. Sleigh rides are also available through Bearcat Stables and Beano’s Cabin.

13. Tap a guide and go fly-fishing

Regardless of your experience level in fly-fishing, the rivers and creeks of the Vail Valley present an ideal environment for pursuing this leisurely and relaxing pastime. You can venture out independently or enlist a guide to discover the premier locations along the Gold Medal waters of Gore Creek, the Eagle River, or the Colorado River. Operators such as Gore Creek Fly Fisherman, Vail Valley Anglers, Minturn Anglers, Colorado Angling Company, and others offer comprehensive guided trips throughout the valley and beyond.

14. Enjoy open-air concerts and performances at Gerald R Ford Amphitheater

On a pleasant summer evening, nothing compares to laying out a blanket on the lawn of Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater while enjoying orchestral music or a ballet performance.

This outdoor amphitheater, distinguished by its captivating architecture and stunning mountain views, is named after the country’s 38th president, who frequently visited Vail during and after his presidency. Often referred to as “The Amp” by locals, it stands as one of the most picturesque venues for performances, regularly hosting renowned musicians, theatrical productions, dance performances, and various festivals.

15. Indulge yourself with a spa treatment

Following a day of adventure in Vail’s mountains, rejuvenate your body and mind with a spa treatment. With numerous outstanding spas in the region, selecting the perfect one can be challenging; however, your hotel may serve as an excellent starting point. Facilities such as The Sonnenalp, Four Seasons, Grand Hyatt, and The Arrabelle feature world-class spa services. Treatments range from deep-tissue massages to body scrubs and facials, covering all your wellness needs.

This article was first published Jan 6, 2022 and was last updated on Sep 30, 2024.