Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Vail, Colorado, is a premier destination known for its world-class skiing and stunning alpine scenery. But Vail isn’t just a winter wonderland—it’s a year-round destination offering an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, culture lovers, and families alike. Whether you're visiting in the winter for snow sports or during the warmer months for hiking and festivals, Vail has something for everyone.

Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Vail, Colorado, throughout the year.

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

Vail is best known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. The Vail Ski Resort is one of the largest and most famous ski areas in the world, with over 5,300 acres of terrain catering to all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find a variety of runs, from gentle groomers to challenging back bowls.

• Best Time to Ski: December through April.
• Don’t Miss: The famous Back Bowls and the scenic runs at Blue Sky Basin.
• Pro Tip: Purchase lift tickets in advance to save money and avoid lines during peak season.

2. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

For those looking for a quieter winter activity, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer a peaceful way to explore Vail’s snowy landscapes. The Vail Nordic Center provides miles of groomed trails for both sports, winding through beautiful forests and open meadows.

• Best Spots: Gore Creek Trail, Piney River Ranch.
• Rentals Available: Gear can be rented at the Vail Nordic Center.

3. Vail Village: Shopping and Dining

Vail Village is the heart of the town and offers a European-inspired alpine atmosphere. The pedestrian-friendly village is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and upscale restaurants. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, outdoor gear, or handmade jewelry, there’s something for every shopper.

• Dining Options: From casual spots like The Little Diner to fine dining at Mountain Standard and Sweet Basil, Vail’s culinary scene is not to be missed.
• Shopping Highlights: Gorsuch for luxury ski apparel, Peppino’s for local art, and Vail Boot & Shoe for stylish footwear.

4. Gondola Rides and Hiking

During the warmer months, the ski gondolas transform into a scenic ride to the top of Vail Mountain. Both Gondola One in Vail Village and the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead operate in the summer and offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains. Once at the top, you can enjoy hiking trails, nature walks, and mountaintop dining.

• Popular Hikes: Berrypicker Trail, which offers panoramic views of the valley, and Booth Falls Trail, a moderate hike leading to a stunning waterfall.
• Gondola Season: Open from June through October, with fall being especially beautiful as the aspens turn golden.

5. Mountain Biking

Vail’s extensive network of mountain biking trails makes it a fantastic destination for cyclists. You can ride down the same mountains you ski on during the winter, with trails ranging from beginner to expert levels.

• Beginner Trails: Vail Pass Trail is perfect for beginners and families, offering a mostly downhill ride with spectacular mountain views.
• Advanced Trails: For a challenge, try the Radio Flyer trail for thrilling descents.

6. Fly Fishing and Water Sports

Vail is home to some of Colorado’s best fly fishing rivers and streams. Both Gore Creek and the Eagle River are well-stocked with trout, and guided fishing tours are available for those new to the sport.

In the summer, the nearby rivers are also perfect for water sports like white-water rafting and kayaking. The Colorado River offers thrilling rapids, while the Piney River is a more tranquil option for scenic paddling.

7. Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is the highest botanical garden in North America, located at an elevation of 8,200 feet. The gardens are a serene place to explore, featuring beautiful alpine plants, waterfalls, and educational exhibits about high-altitude flora.

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
• Don’t Miss: The adjacent Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, which hosts concerts and outdoor performances during the summer.

8. Attend Vail's Year-Round Festivals

Vail is known for its vibrant festival scene, with events happening throughout the year. Whether you’re interested in music, film, sports, or culture, there’s likely a festival that aligns with your interests:

• Vail Snow Days: Held in December, this event celebrates the start of ski season with concerts, parties, and winter activities.
• GoPro Mountain Games: Every June, outdoor athletes compete in a variety of events including kayaking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. The event also features concerts and family-friendly activities.
• Bravo! Vail Music Festival: Classical music enthusiasts will enjoy this summer festival featuring performances from world-renowned orchestras like the New York Philharmonic.
• Vail Jazz Festival: Held in late summer, this festival brings top jazz performers to Vail for a series of outdoor concerts.

9. Golfing

Golfers will love the chance to play at high altitude in Vail, where the thin mountain air allows your golf ball to travel farther. The Vail Golf Club and Red Sky Golf Club are two of the top courses in the area, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and pristine fairways.

• Best Time to Play: Summer and early fall.
• Pro Tip: Make sure to bring extra water and sunscreen, as the high altitude can make the sun more intense.

10. Relax at a Luxury Spa

After a day of adventure, unwind at one of Vail’s luxurious spas. Whether you’re staying at a high-end resort or just visiting for the day, the town’s top spas offer a variety of treatments, from massages to facials to hot stone therapies. The Sonnenalp Spa and The Spa at Four Seasons Resort are two of the most highly regarded spots for relaxation and pampering.

• Signature Treatments: Try a hot stone massage or a mountain-inspired body wrap to rejuvenate after a day of hiking or skiing.