Vail, Colorado is one of the best places to visit in the US! While it is well-known for its ski resort and a popular winter destination, Vail in summer is an absolute dream. If you’ve never visited Vail in summer, then you’re seriously missing out! There is so much to do in Vail in the summer from hiking and horseback riding to fine dining and shopping. Check out the best of Vail, Colorado in summer and the many things to do here!

Things to Do in Vail, Colorado in Summer

1. Explore Vail Village and Lionshead Village

Vail Village and Lionshead Village are two villages at the base of Vail Mountain and they are straight out of a fairytale! You’ll feel like you were transported into a storybook. The architecture here is so charming and it is fun to just walk around town. One of the best parts about Vail is that it is very walkable and car-free. There are unique shops and great dining options in both of these towns.

2. Take a stroll along the river

There is a beautiful river that runs through Vail and the walk between Vail Village and Lionshead Village is beautiful. Walk along Gore Creek to get between the two villages. It is a very scenic trail that takes you away from the bustle of town.

3. Visit the world’s highest botanical garden

Located at an altitude of 8,200 feet, Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is the world’s highest botanical garden. It is free to visit and just a short walk from Vail Village. Come explore this beautiful botanic garden and see unique alpine plants. Be sure to check their calendar before your visit to see if there is a special event going on!

4. See Vail from the scenic gondola

Take the scenic gondola up to Vail Mountain to see Vail from new heights! You can take the Eagle Bahn gondola from Lionshead Village to Vail Mountain. The gondola is open from mid-June to October and provides you access to the various hiking trails atop Vail Mountain. The views from Vail Mountain are spectacular!

5. Experience Vail Mountain’s Epic Discovery

Although you can’t ski in Vail in the summer, there are still plenty of fun activities atop Vail Mountain. Get an Epic Discovery Adventure Pass to experience the many attractions on Vail Mountain from the mountain coaster to mini-golf. The Adventure Pass includes a scenic gondola ride as well so you don’t have to purchase a separate gondola ticket if you’re planning to go up!

6. Have a romantic picnic

There is nothing more romantic and magical than having a private picnic in beautiful scenery. Picnic Vail takes care of everything: the setup, the food, and the cleaning up. Enjoy delicious food and wine while enjoying each other’s company!

This luxurious picnic experience is also a part of Vail’s 10th Mountain Package, a Vail Dream Trip, that you can win! Enter here to win a Vail Dream Trip.

7. Go horseback riding

Going horseback riding through the beautiful Aspen trees in Vail is an unforgettable experience! Vail Stables offers horseback riding tours good for all ages. The tours range from 1.5 hours to half-day and private tours are also available. The stables are only a mile from Vail so it is easy to get to. It is a lot of fun for the whole family or with friends!

8. Play a round…or two of golf

There are several golf courses in Vail Valley and you’re met with a fantastic backdrop! Here are some of the top-rated courses in the area:

• Vail Golf Club
• Eagle-Vail Golf Club
• Beaver Creek Golf Club
• Eagle Ranch Golf Club

If you’re a golf enthusiast, you can win a golf getaway where you can golf and dine with a PGA Pro! Enter here to win a Vail Dream Trip.

9. Experience the outdoors at Piney River Ranch

Piney River Ranch is a private mountain retreat that is set on the edge of Piney Lake and nestled at the foot of the majestic Gore Range. It is only open part of the year, typically from June through September, and it’s only 12 miles from Vail.

It offers both cabins and glamping tents plus a variety of outdoor activities. Even if you are not staying at Piney River Ranch, you can still go horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, fly fishing, hiking, and paddleboarding. It is open to the public and the Piney Lake Trail is a beautiful hike.

10. Go flyfishing

Flyfishing is a very popular activity in Vail! With incredible rivers and creeks in the area, it is no wonder Vail is a flyfishing destination. There are multiple tour operators in Vail offering guided fly fishing trips and tours in Colorado’s Vail Valley.

Where to Stay in Vail

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Vail, I highly recommend staying at Four Seasons Resort in Vail! I stayed at Four Seasons Vail during my trip to Vail and had an incredible stay. This five-star resort is just steps away from Vail Village. You are in the heart of Vail!

The resort itself is beautiful and the amenities are endless. Some amenities include a fitness center and spa. I loved the pool and hot tub in the center of their property! They also have a Mercedes Benz SUV that is complimentary for guests to use. I took the car to Piney Lake and it was perfect for off-roading.

There are also great dining options at Four Seasons Vail. You wouldn’t even have to leave the property if you didn’t want to! They have in-room dining services and restaurants on the property including the Remedy Bar, which is a great spot for cocktails, and Flame, an upscale steakhouse with an extensive menu.

The resort staff were welcoming and went above and beyond to ensure I had a great stay!

Where to Eat in Vail

There are so many great dining options in Vail and it features some of the best restaurants in Colorado! I am listing some of my favorite places to eat below:

• Vintage: Charming French brasserie serving a menu of classic fare and specialty cocktails; a great spot for brunch!
• Alpenrose: Bavarian-style restaurant that serves German and Austrian food and homemade pastries; a great spot for a romantic dinner.
• Flame Restaurant: Stylish steakhouse in Four Seasons Vail for premium steaks, mountain fare & cocktails; offers an extensive menu from lobster mac & cheese and vegetarian quinoa risotto to premium cuts!
• Le Bottega: High-end restaurant featuring Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list!
• Tavern on the Square: Chic, contemporary New American restaurant & bar featuring creative selections and craft cocktails.
• Rimini Gelato and Chocolate: This cute gelato shop serves a wide variety of sweets! Their hot chocolate is delicious!

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Stunning vistas, beautiful waterfalls, glacier lakes, quaint mountains towns…what’s not to love about Colorado? Colorado is by far one of the most beautiful states in the US! I visited Colorado for the first time in 2020, and have revisited it several times in the span of two years due to its beauty. If you’ve never visited Colorado then I highly recommend you to visit. There are so many hidden gems and natural beauty in this state that deciding where to visit could be overwhelming! But I’ve put together this guide on the best places to visit in Colorado to help you with your travel planning. Check out the best places to visit in Colorado!

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Part 1: Attractions

Piney River Ranch

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If you’re looking for a relaxing mountain getaway, look no further than a stay at Piney River Ranch! Piney River Ranch is a private mountain retreat that is set on the edge of Piney Lake and nestled at the foot of the majestic Gore Range. It offers both cabins and glamping tents plus a variety of outdoor activities. Even if you are not staying at Piney River Ranch, you can still make reservations for horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

This charming mountain retreat is only open part of the year, typically from June through September, and reservations go fast! If you want to visit, I suggest making plans in advance and booking online.

The ranch is also a popular wedding destination and there’s a good reason why! If you’re looking for a wedding venue, Piney River Ranch is also a great option. Also, Piney River Ranch is only 12 miles from Vail so you could combine a visit to the ranch with a trip to Vail.

Red Rocks Park and Amphiteatre

Located less than half an hour from Denver, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is an iconic concert venue set against famed red rocks. Attending a concert here is still on my bucket list, but Red Rocks is also a great place for hiking. It is free to visit and I highly recommend you to go for a hike, especially if you’re near Denver.

My favorite trail is the Trading Post Trail which is an easy 1.5-mile loop trail that takes you through scenic rock formations and beautiful meadows. The trail is good for all levels and ages so it’s a great family hike as well. If you visit in the early morning, you can even see wildlife!

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

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Did you know that the highest suspension bridge in America is in Colorado? Take in scenic beauty while standing 956 feet in the air. Royal Gorge Bridge near Cañon City, Colorado is a popular attraction as there is also a park at the edge of the bridge. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, then it is certainly a place for you to visit! Attractions at the park include zip-lining, climbing, a sky coaster, and more!

Unfortunately, you can’t just cross the bridge. To be able to cross the bridge on foot, you have to have tickets to the park. Book your tickets online in advance here.

Crystal Mill

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Isn’t this site just stunning? Built in 1892, Crystal Mill was never a working mill, but it is one of Colorado’s most photographed spots today. Crystal Mill is located near the town of Marble and about an hour and a half from Aspen. The mill is only accessible in the summer and fall when there is no snow.

To visit Crystal Mill, you can either drive, hike, or bike. To go there by car, you either need to go on a group tour or have a four-wheel-drive vehicle for the rough terrain. The road leading to the site is a 4-mile long dirt road with challenging terrain. To go there on foot, it is a 9-mile roundtrip hike so be sure to be prepared for the long hike and bring plenty of water and snacks. Once you get there, it is a $10 per person fee to see the mill from the water but you can also view it from the road.

Part 2: Parks

Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument is a treasure! Located in western Colorado, Colorado National Monument is more than just a monument. The vast landscape there is incredible! It is near the city of Grand Junction and offers stunning canyon views and rock formations. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, but you can also drive through the park. The 23-mile Rim Rock Drive takes you through Colorado National Monument and you can easily pull over to admire the landscape.

It is $20 per vehicle to enter the park and I highly recommend getting America the Beautiful Pass if you plan on visiting more than two US National Parks in a year. The America the Beautiful Pass grants you access to more than 2,000 federal sites and covers entrance fees at all US national parks, wildlife refuges, forests, and more. The pass is only $80 a year so it’ll pay for itself if you visit multiple sites.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of my favorite US National Parks! I think it is severely underrated. You can easily spend several days here exploring this vast area. Here are some spots you cannot miss in this park:

• Sprague Lake
• Bear Lake
• Emerald Lake
• Sky Pond
• Trail Ridge Road

The entrance fee is $25 but you can use the America the Beautiful Pass here! You need to obtain a timed permit to visit in the summer (typically from May through October) so make sure to check the reservation system on the NPS website.

I also visited in the winter once and it was a winter wonderland! If you do plan on visiting in the winter, check out the best winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

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Can you believe this is in Colorado? Great Sand Dunes National Park is known for its towering sand dunes but it also offers a diverse landscape of grasslands, forests, lakes, and wetlands. It is open year-round and there are no reservations required to visit!

There are plenty of things to do in this US National Park including hiking and backpacking, sandboarding and sand sledding, fishing, and camping. This is a great place to experience the night sky as well! With little light pollution, high elevation, and dry air, it is a great place to go stargazing. You may even see the Milky Way!

Garden of the Gods

Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is an incredible geological wonder! I cannot believe this beautiful park is free to visit. It is a popular spot for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and photography. Some spots you cannot miss include Balanced Rock, Siamese Twins, and Kissing Camels. I would also recommend the Perkins Garden Trail, which takes you through the park’s iconic formations, and the Palmer Trail which gives you great vantage points of the park and Pikes Peak.

Mesa Verde National Park

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You can explore thousands of archeological sites and cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park! It is known for its preserved Puebloan dwellings and petroglyphs. The park protects the rich history and culture of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in this area for over 700 years. Some points of interest within the park include:

• Park Point: Short walk to the highest point in the park (8,572 feet) with spectacular views
• Spruce Tree House: Offers views of the park’s best preserved cliff dwelling
• Far View Sites: Easy walk (less than a mile) through a forest that connects a community of farming villages and an ancient reservoir
• Mesa Top Loop Road: Six mile drive with cliff dwelling overlooks
• Cliff Palace: Largest cliff dwelling in North America

Dinosaur National Monument

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Can you imagine stumbling across a fossil on a hike? Dinosaur National Monument marks a place where you can see the fantastic remains of dinosaurs who once roamed here embedded in the rocks. This is a great place to visit and take a step back in time. There are over 210,000 acres for you to explore! You could raft through remote canyons, camp in any of its six campgrounds, see petroglyphs embedded on the walls, and hike through miles and miles of trails. The options are endless here!

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

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Aren’t the colors incredible here at Paint Mines Interpretive Park? This park is free to visit and it is one of Colorado’s most colorful places. It has evidence of human life dating as far back as 9,000 years! Take the Paint Mines Trail, which is a 3.4-mile loop, to see great views of the hoodoos and colorful geological formations.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison Park

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Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is Colorado’s own version of the Grand Canyon! It’s called the Black Canyon because the walls are often cast by the shadows, making them appear black. This is a great spot for scenic drives to see the Gunnison River below. There are numerous scenic overlooks and plenty of trails as well. If you’re an experienced rock climber, this is a great spot to climb as well. Come see the dramatic canyon for yourself!

Part 3: Mountain Towns

Vail

Vail looks straight out of a fairytale! This spot is known as one of the best places to ski in the US, but be sure to check out the town as well. There are two charming towns at the base of Vail Mountain: Lionshead Village and Vail Village. You’ll find delicious restaurants, boutique shops, and so much more! Some of my favorite places to eat include Alpenrose, Vintage, and Rimini Gelato and Chocolate.

For me, I really enjoyed just walking around town and admiring the European-styled architecture. If you want to see other fairytale places in the US, check out these hidden gems.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is located less than an hour from Vail, and is another renowned ski resort! The downtown area is super charming, but what I found extra special about Breckenridge is one of its residents.

Pictured above, I want you to meet Isak, the Breckenridge Troll. You can meet Isak on a very short walk in the woods and he is quite popular. Trolls are actually very popular in Scandinavian countries and he is one of many wooden trolls scattered around the world created by Mr. Thomas Dambo.

Be sure to pay Isak a visit when you visit Breckenridge!

Telluride

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If you want to take a step back in time, be sure to visit Telluride! This former Victorian mining town preserves much of its building and history from the past. This beautiful mountain town is also a renowned ski resort, but you would be remiss to not learn about the history of the place. The downtown area is very scenic with historic buildings juxtaposed against majestic mountain peaks.

Crested Butte

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Crested Butte is a charming ski town in the rocky mountains of Colorado. It truly is a great place to visit year-round! Visit in winter for its renowned ski resort and vacation in the summer for mountain biking and its scenic meadows full of vibrant wildflowers. Come in fall and witness the aspen trees turn color. Crested Butte is never a bad idea!

Ouray

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Known as Switzerland of America, Ouray is located in southwest Colorado, in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. It is a great base to explore the town and its scenic surrounding areas. This town is full of wonderful surprises and there’s something for everyone here from outdoor adventure to shopping. Don’t miss out on the hot springs in town!

Part 4: Natural Wonders

Pikes Peak

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You have to visit one of America’s most famous mountains when you’re in Colorado! Sitting at 14,115 feet, Pikes Peak is one of the best places to visit. Enjoy Pikes Peak by taking a scenic drive on Pikes Peak Highway and passing through a variety of terrains as you reach the summit.

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you could also hike or bike Pike’s Peak as well!

Maroon Bells

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The Maroon Bells are one of the most photogenic places in the US! They are actually two mountain peaks (Maroon Peak and Elk Peak) in the Elk Mountains. It is near the town of Aspen, and you can visit in summer and fall.

Hiking is the best way to experience the Maroon Bells! You can take a shuttle to Maroon Bells and there are plenty of hiking trails at the base. Some of the more popular trails include:

• Maroon Lake Scenic Trail: 1 mile loop that takes you around Maroon Lake
• Maroon Creek Trail: 6.9 mile out and back trail that takes you through alpine meadows, aspen forests, and rocky slopes; great trail to spot wildlife
• Crater Lake Trail: 3.5 mile out and back trail that offers closer looks at the Maroon Bells; be sure to look out for mountain goats!

Note: Dogs are welcomed on the shuttle and on the trails.

Hanging Lake

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Hiking Hanging Lake should be on every nature lover’s bucket list! Hanging Lake is located in the heart of Glenwood Canyon and you reach it by a 1.2 mile hiking trail. The Hanging Lake Trail is steep and rigourous, but you’ll be rewarded by a stunning view of waterfalls into the lake.

Note: Dogs are not allowed on trail.

Bridal Veil Falls

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Bridal Veil Falls is the tallest free-falling falls in Colorado! It is a 365 foot waterfall at the end of a box canyon near Telluride. You can hike to the top of the falls through a series of switchbacks. The hike starts at the parking lot and is 4 miles round trip.

Dallas Divide

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The Dallas Divide is a scenic drive just west of Rideway, Colorado. It is a great way to experience Colorado’s fall colors! If you’re planning on driving through Colorado, this is a scenic highway you cannot miss.

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Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful places in America I’ve ever visited! I’ve been to over 20 US National Parks, but this national park in Colorado has a special place in my heart. Rocky Mountain National Park is stunning year-round, but I would say it’s even more so in the winter. A visit to Rocky Mountain National Park during winter is an enchanting and magical experience! The snow turns this place into a winter wonderland. It doesn’t get much than white snowy mountains peaks, frozen glistening lakes, and the gentle falling of snow. The best way to take in the wintery scenery is by hiking! Some might be hesitant to hike in the snow but I think it is something you need to experience at least once in your life. You just need to be prepared with the right gear and you should be all set. Find out the best winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park!

How to Get to Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is located in northern Colorado, and the closest airport is the Denver International Airport. If you’re flying, I recommend flying into the Denver airport and then renting a car. It is about an hour and a half drive from the airport to Estes Park, which is the gateway city to the national park.

Where to Stay Near Rocky Mountain National Park

I recommend staying in the town of Estes Park while you’re exploring Rocky Mountain! It is the closest town to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park is a very charming town with delicious dining options, unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. The businesses in Estes Park are independently owned which makes it the perfect place to find unique gifts and mementos. A true treasure cove! Be sure to spend time in Estes Park when you visit.

There are plenty of accommodation options in Estes Park as well from campgrounds and RV parks to lodges and inns. If you’re visiting in winter, then I recommend trying to get a cabin to truly embrace the overall atmosphere! There are numerous cabin rentals available, some even on the river! My suggestion is to also look at options on vacation rental sites such as Airbnb or Vrbo for unique private cabins that might not be part of any hospitality groups.

I stayed at Boulder Brook on Fall River and I thought it was a great stay! The price was very reasonable and I got a small private cabin on the river with great views. It has a full kitchen, tub, and was perfect for two people. Another plus is that there is a hot tub on the property!

Preparing For Winter Hikes

You need to be well prepared for winter hikes if you’ve never hiked in snow before. It is so important to gather as much information on the weather and check for trail info and notices from the National Park Service before you begin any hikes. The weather can change abruptly in the winter so I recommend wearing plenty of layers. I suggest bringing gloves, hats, waterproof clothing, and wool socks. It is also crucial that you stay hydrated so bring plenty of water, and also don’t forget to apply sunscreen! You’re at a higher altitude so you could get burnt even if you don’t see the sun. Don’t forget snacks as well!

Another important item is to make sure you wear proper shoes. You should be fine with waterproof hiking shoes on most of these hikes below, but if you are planning on walking on any frozen lakes, then look into traction chains for walking on ice. Another option you could look into is snowshoeing! If you’ve never done it before, there are several tour operators in Estes Park.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter

There are so many benefits to visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter! Significantly fewer people frequent this national park during the winter months so you get to avoid crowds and experience the winter landscape in peace. There were portions of trails where no other group was around and I experienced total tranquility. When I paused, I could hear the snow falling. Few people get to experience Rocky Mountain National Park like this.

However, I do have to mention that some trails are not accessible in the winter, but there are still plenty of hikes that are accessible. The west side of the Rocky Mountain National Park experiences deep snow, but the east side leaves low elevation trails open for hiking. Another drawback is that the scenic Trail Ridge Road is closed in the winter, typically from December through March.

Best Winter Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Sprague Lake

• Length: 0.8 miles
• Rating: Easy
• Type: Loop
• Elevation gain: 36 ft

Sprague Lake Trail is a very easy trail that takes you around the frozen Sprague Lake in the winter. This could be a great first trail if you’ve never hiked in snow before. There is a parking lot at the trailhead which is located off Bear Lake Road roughly 5.5 miles from the turn-off at Highway 36. The trail is virtually flat and offers beautiful views of the snow-covered mountains. It is very beginner and family-friendly. Great for all ages!

2. Gem Lake

• Length: 3.1 miles
• Rating: Moderate
• Type: Out and Back
• Elevation gain: 1000 ft

Gem Lake Trail is a moderate-strenuous trail that leads to Gem lake and offers great views of Estes Park, Longs Peak, and the Continental Divide along the way. The hike to Gem Lake begins from the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead, located just north of Estes Park. The trail climbs for the first two miles with several short switchbacks. Make sure to take a moment to take it all in when you reach Gem Lake! Spikes and poles are recommended for this trail.

3. Deer Mountain

• Length: 6 miles
• Rating: Strenuous
• Type: Out and Back
• Elevation gain: 1,400 ft

The Deer Mountain trail leads to Deer Mountain peak and offers panoramic views of the Rocky Mountain National Park from above. It starts off in a valley and soon enters a forested area with many switchbacks with constant elevation gain. Once at the summit, you’re rewarded with stunning views! Snowshoes and spikes are recommended on this hike.

Note that this is one of the more popular hikes so try and get to the trailhead early to get a parking spot.

4. Bear Lake

• Length: 0.7 mile
• Rating: Easy
• Type: Loop
• Elevation gain: 49 ft

The Bear Lake trail takes you around Bear Lake and offers stunning snowy scenery in the winter with snow-capped mountains and evergreen trees. When I did the hike, the lake was frozen solid so I could run on the actual lake! The trail is very easy so it is great for all skill levels. However, the parking lot for Bear Lake is limited so I highly recommend getting here early. I had to circle the parking lot for over 30 minutes before finding a spot.

5. Emerald Lake

If you’re looking for a slightly more challenging hike, continue from Bear Lake to Emerald Lake. The Emerald Lake trail takes you to Emerald Lake, but you’ll pass by Nymph Lake and Dream Lake along the way as well. This hike is one of the most popular hikes in the park and I like to say that this hike gives you the best bang for your buck! You’ll hike through beautiful pine forests, see incredible vista points, and pass by three alpine lakes. Snowshoes and spikes are recommended. Note: this is the same parking lot as Bear Lake so arrive early to secure your spot.

5. Upper Beaver Meadows

• Length: 1.5 miles
• Rating: Easy
• Type: Loop
• Elevation gain: 140 ft

This easy hike offers a chance to see wildlife such as elk and deer! There is hardly an elevation and another great winter hike option for people of all ages.

6. Sky Pond

• Length: 9.4 miles
• Rating: Strenuous
• Type: Out and Back
• Elevation gain: 1,758 ft

I have to be honest – the hike to Sky Pond is not for the faint of heart but it is so rewarding! You have to be well prepared for this hike and it is not a trail for beginners. Not only do you have to be an experienced hiker, but also well-prepared for winter conditions. Depending on when you do the hike, snow can be waist-deep and requires climbing over boulders. I am not saying this to sway you from attempting the hike, but I want you to be well-prepared. Snowshoes and spikes are highly recommended for this trail.

Now getting to the good part! The Sky Pond Trail features some of the best views in the entire park. Beginning at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead along Bear Lake Road, this route will take you by Alberta Falls, the Loch, Timberline Falls towards Sky Pond. The final stretch of the trail offers incredible views of the famed jagged peaks of the Rockies.

Final Thoughts

Before you start any hikes, please check the weather and the NPS website for notices and trail closures. I also recommend downloading offline maps for the Rocky Mountain National Park area and any winter hikes you plan to attempt. Be well prepared for your hike and make sure you bring plenty of water and spikes, hiking poles, and snowshoes when necessary. I like to go on All Trails and read reviews left by other hikes who recently hiked the trail. There is also no shame in turning around if a trail is in bad condition and/or you’re not comfortable with proceeding on a hike. As always, listen to your body and enjoy the hike!

If you’re looking for more places to visit in Colorado, check out my guide on the most beautiful places in Colorado here.

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