Discovering Vail beyond its snow-draped mountains offers an unexpected allure that only summer can unveil. Known worldwide as a premier winter resort, Vail transforms into a summertime playground brimming with vibrant activities and breathtaking attractions. From awe-inspiring hikes to lively music performances, Vail in summer provides an enchanting escape for everyone.
This picturesque town beckons adventurers and leisure-seekers alike with its stunning biking trails, scenic vistas, and delightful outdoor activities . With a blend of cultural events and charming shopping experiences, summer in Vail is synonymous with endless discoveries. It’s a season where verdant landscapes and blue skies form the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments.
Join us as we delve into the myriad of activities and attractions that make Vail a must-visit summer destination. Whether you’re drawn by the exploration of nature or the allure of curated events, this guide will be your compass to the best of what Vail has to offer.
Hikes in vail
Vail, Colorado is a summer paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging climb, Vail’s picturesque landscapes won’t disappoint.
Popular Trails on Vail Mountain (Ranked Easy to Moderate).
1. Meadows Loop
Length: 2.1 miles
Skill Level: Easy
Elevation Gain: 482 Ft
Highlights: Wildflowers and wildlife (deer & eagles)
2. Grand Escape Trail
Length: 1.3 miles
Skill Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 643Ft
Highlights: Panoramic views of the Gore Range
3. Kinninkinnick
Length: 1.2 miles
Skill Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 733Ft
Highlights: Mountain streams and rock formations
4. Ptarmigan Loop
Length: 1 mile
Skill Level: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 119ft
Highlights: Views of Mt. Holy Cross, Meadow Mountain, Gore Range, and Vail’s Back bowls
5. Berry Picker
Length: 3.2 miles
Skill Level: Moderate/Difficult
Elevation Gain: 2,300ft
Highlights: Stream crossings and Wildflowers
These hikes promise unforgettable experiences with nature’s pure beauty easily accessible from the base of Vail Mountain. Each trail presents its own adventure, offering hikers the chance to explore the natural beauty that makes Vail an unforgettable summer destination. For additional trails recommended by Discover Vail, head over to their list: 10 Vail Hiking Trails Worthy of Your Bucket List – Discover Vail, they also have a helpful interactive map.
Biking In Vail
Biking in Vail offers an incredible opportunity to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just starting, Vail boasts a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels and types of biking. From Mountain biking, e-biking, to cruiser bikes, there’s a trail for everyone.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Vail Mountain provides an unforgettable adventure with challenging terrains and stunning views. Beginners can enjoy the easier trails, while advanced riders will find their sense of adventure on more rugged paths like the North Trail.
Here is a list of some popular bike Mountain Biking trails by difficulty level pulled from our friends at Discover Vail:
Easy
Gitalong Road
Avanti Lane
Cubs Way
Lucy’s Loop
Golden Gate
Intermediate
Side Kick
Radio Flyer
Big Mamba
Lion Down
Advanced
Grand Traverse
Hank’s Hideaway
Mane Lane
For bikers who want a more leisurely ride, the Gore Creek path is a biking trail along the river and there’s a bike path along I-70 from Vail Pass to Copper.
Vail’s variety of landscapes, from lush forests to open meadows, ensures that each ride is unique, offering both unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views. Whether cruising through Vail Village or exploring the trails of East Vail and West Vail, there’s something for every biking enthusiast in Vail Valley.
Music In Vail
Vail, nestled in the heart of the Rockies, offers a vibrant music scene that thrives in the summer. One of the standout events is the Bravo! Vail Music Festival, where world-renowned ensembles like the New York Philharmonic and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra perform against the stunning backdrop of the Vail Valley.
In 2025, music lovers can look forward to a diverse range of performances. Whether you’re a fan of classical masterpieces or contemporary compositions, the festival accommodates different tastes. Concerts are held at iconic venues such as the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, which provides an outdoor setting amid Vail’s natural beauty.
For those seeking more casual experiences, Vail Village frequently hosts live music at numerous restaurants and bars. Throughout the summer, visitors can also enjoy free weekly concerts in the village, making it easy to stumble upon entertainment while exploring the scenic trails or admiring the panoramic views along Gore Creek.
2025 Show Highlights:
Event | Venue | Date |
Free Bluegrass Festival | Solaris Stage and Gore Creek Plaza Stage | May 23 – May 25 |
GoPro Games Music | Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater | June 5 – June 6 |
The Amp Summer Concerts | Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater | May 25 – Sep. 26 |
Bravo! Vail Music Festival | Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater | June 19 – July 31 |
Free Weekly Concerts | Gerald R. Ford | Weekly on Tuesdays, Summer 2025 |
These musical offerings bring unforgettable experiences to all who visit, leaving lasting impressions of the picturesque Vail Valley.
Vail Scenery
Vail, renowned for its breathtaking views and natural beauty, offers a plethora of scenic attractions that will leave you mesmerized. In the summer, Vail transforms into a vibrant hub of outdoor adventures, with numerous ways to soak in its picturesque landscapes.
One of the top attractions is taking a gondola ride up Vail Mountain. This offers panoramic views of Vail Valley and beyond, providing an unforgettable experience for all skill levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Once at the top, Adventure Ridge provides ample fun activities with stunning views as your backdrop.
For those eager to explore on foot, Vail’s scenic trails offer some of the best opportunities to immerse yourself in nature, from Vail Village to East Vail and West Vail. Gore Creek and Piney Lake are also must-see spots, boasting serene waters and captivating scenery.
Additionally, a visit to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens will enchant you with its floral displays, while Vail Pass affords breathtaking views ideal for photography. To ensure you capture the best scenic overlooks and experiences, consider the following highlights:
Scenic Spot | Features |
Vail Mountain | Gondola rides, panoramic views |
Gore Creek | Tranquil water vistas, ideal for hiking |
Betty Ford Gardens | Colorful floral displays |
Vail Pass | Stunning photography opportunities |
Whether you’re seeking a sense of adventure or tranquil relaxation, Vail’s summer scenery promises unforgettable memories.
Summer Events
Vail in the summer is packed with vibrant activities and events that cater to all interests. Located in the heart of Vail Valley, Vail Village is bustling with events such as the renowned GoPro Mountain Games. This event is a must-see for adventure enthusiasts, offering competitions in biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and even a dock dog competition.
Another highlight is the Vail Farmer’s Market, running every Sunday from June to October. Here, you can indulge in local delicacies, fresh produce, and unique crafts against the picturesque backdrop of the Gore Creek.
For those who appreciate natural beauty, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is a lush retreat showcasing stunning plant displays and breathtaking views. Hikers can explore Vail Mountain and discover scenic trails with panoramic views, from East Vail to Piney Lake.
Journey through unforgettable adventures at Adventure Ridge, where adrenaline junkies can try zip-lining, tubing, and more. In West Vail, the Vail Pass offers biking and hiking trails with dramatic vistas.
Here’s a quick look at Vail summer events:
Event | Highlights |
GoPro Mountain Games | Adventure sports for all skill levels the first weekend in June |
Vail Farmer’s Market | Local produce and crafts sold down East Meadow Drive every Sunday, June 15 – Oct. 5, 2025 |
Alpine Gardens | Beautiful botanical displays |
Adventure Ridge | Outdoor fun activities and stunning views |
Explore Vail’s outdoor adventures for an unforgettable experience this summer!
Shopping in Vail
Shopping in Vail promises a delightful experience, offering a diverse array of stores that cater to all tastes and preferences. Nestled in the heart of Vail Village, you’ll find an assortment of boutique shops and luxury retailers. The charming pedestrian streets make it easy to explore everything from high-end fashion to unique mountain souvenirs.
For nature lovers, the nearby Betty Ford Alpine Gardens’ gift shop offers beautiful home decor inspired by the natural beauty of the gardens. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can find a plethora of gear shops catering to various skill levels, perfect for gearing up for the many outdoor activities available.
If you’re looking for artisanal crafts and one-of-a-kind items, be sure to visit the local art galleries and craft shops that highlight the talent of local artists.
Shopping Highlights in Vail Village:
Type of Shop | Description |
Luxury Retailers | Betteridge, The Golden Bear, Squash Blossom, Karats Vail, Michele’s Estate Jewelry and Silver, Lamina Jewelery & Gallery, Axel’s of Vail, Gorsuch, Avalon Clothing Company, Perch Vail, Luca Bruno, Blitz Boutique, Lady Jones, Kemo Sabe, Dennis Basso, Loro Piana, Manrico Cashmere, Ogier, Fusalp, Anatomie, Worth Home, Sabbia Talenti |
Art Galleries | Ridgeline Maps, Raitman Art Gallery, Lionshead Jewelers, Gallery 166, John Richter Fine Art, Artful Sol, Vail International Gallery, Vail Village Arts, Piece Arts Gallery, J. Cotter Gallery, Galerie Zuger, Gib Singleton Gllery |
Gear Stores | Vail Bike Hub, KJUS, Vail Sports, Ogier, Moncler, Burton, Vail Wheel Base, Helly Hansen, Outdoor Divas, 8150 Ski Shop, Venture Sports, Vail Bike & Ski Tech, Salomon, the North Face. |
Kids Shops | Rocket Fizz, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, The Market at Vail, Lionshead General Store, Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory, Wishes Toy Store, Aviator Nation, Vail Sports Kids, Skipper & Scout, KidSport, Generation Vail |
Outdoor Eating in Vail
Vail offers an exceptional dining scene complemented by stunning outdoor patios that allow you to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re in Vail Village or West Vail, you’ll find various options to enhance your dining experience.
Top Restaurants with Great Outdoor Patios in Vail:
Restaurant | Location | Highlights |
Mountain Standard | Vail Village | Situated creekside, this rustic and relaxed tavern features a welcoming patio along the Gore Creek and a menu centered around open wood-fire cooking. |
Sweet Basil | Vail Village | A long-standing Vail favorite, known for its modern American cuisine and a delightful summer patio often adorned with flower boxes, located in the heart of Vail Village. |
La Tour | Vail Village | Contemporary French-American cuisine with an inviting patio. |
Vendetta’s | Vail Village | A popular spot for pizza and Italian classics. |
Vail Brewing Company | Solaris | Local brewery overlooking the Vail Village |
Garfinkels | Lionshead Village | Sports Bar and Grill located at the base of Lionshead with a large deck facing the mountains. |
Talon’s Deck at Eagle’s Nest & Mid Vail Grill | On Vail Mountain | Casual grill fare with expansive views of the Gore Range and Mount Holy Cross. |
Vail in the summertime offers a diverse array of activities and attractions that cater to every interest, transforming this famed winter destination into a vibrant summer playground. From challenging hikes and scenic biking trails to world-class music festivals and unique shopping experiences, Vail provides endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the beauty of Vail Mountain, enjoying outdoor dining with breathtaking views, or immersing yourself in the local arts and culture, Vail promises unforgettable summer memories.
This guide has showcased just a glimpse of what Vail has to offer in the warmer months. Embrace the natural beauty, partake in the lively events, and discover the charm of Vail Village. Summer in Vail is a season of vibrant landscapes, engaging activities, and moments that will leave you wanting to return year after year.