Top Summer Activities And Attractions In Vail, Colorado
Imagine traveling to a picturesque Bavarian village decorated with cobblestone streets, half-timbered buildings, large overhanging eaves, and quaint covered bridges. Towering mountain peaks dotted with Lodgepole Pines, Quaking Aspens, and blossoming wildflowers paint a magical, Monet-like backdrop. Five-star restaurants and boutique shops line the quaint, made-for-a-postcard streets while children laugh and play in the alpine river below. You probably picture yourself in Zermatt, Switzerland, or Oberstdorf, Germany. Think again! In 1966, pioneer Peter Siebert designed Vail, Colorado, to resemble a traditional Bavarian mountain village. Unlike other Colorado mountain towns built around mining and agriculture, Vail was crafted as a resort paradise for travelers worldwide to experience Bavaria in the Rocky Mountains.
Ask any Coloradan, and they will tell you most people come to Vail for the winters but stay for the summers. Sure, Vail has world-class skiing, but during the warm summer months, Vail transforms into a veritable outdoor playground, providing endless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and soaking in the breathtaking outdoor beauty.
For your convenience, we have compiled a detailed guide of our top summer activities throughout Vail Valley, Colorado. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast seeking a new challenge or a relaxing mountain family getaway, this Bavarian-style village promises to elevate your summer vacation experience to new heights.
Experience The Vibrant Vail Village And LionsHead
Limestone and basalt cobblestone streets lead you through covered footbridges, passing along sculpture water fountains and an iconic clock tower. In the faint distance, gentle Gore Creek rapids rush over mossy rocks, an Eagle River tributary flowing through the heart of Vail. A red-tail hawk calls above, and as you look up, you are enchanted by the towering Rocky Mountain peaks soaring into Colorado blue skies. Welcome to Vail Village and Lionshead!
If you are new to the region, Vail Village and Lionshead humbly sit on the south side of Interstate 70, nestled against Vail Mountain. Interconnected by pedestrian roads, shuttle buses, and the tranquil Gore Creek trail, these infamous alpine villages are the two bases at the bottom of Vail Mountain. Littered with five-star restaurants, luxury hotels and spas, and endless shopping, Vail Village and Lionshead are a must-visit for Colorado summer travelers.
Bike Rental Heaven: Miles Of Paved And Trail-Riding
If Winter Park is Colorado’s unofficial mountain bike capital, Vail Valley is the king of cycling views and panoramas. From beginner-friendly paved trails winding along Eagle River to rugged terrain and steep off-road mountain biking inclines, the opportunities for cycling exploration are endless. Vail Valley biking is unique compared to other Rocky Mountain towns due to its accessibility to all cycling skill levels. For thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, we recommend gearing up and conquering Game Creek Bowl on a mountain bike, while casual riders can trek across Vail Pass on an electric bike. Here is a helpful guide on cycling through Vail Valley and Summit County.
Attend Culinary Events, Art Shows, And Music Festivals
Culture is the heartbeat of any vibrant community, and there’s no better way to experience Vail than by attending a summer cultural event. These experiences offer a unique opportunity to dive deep into the heart of local traditions, appreciate the creative talents of artisans, and savor the flavors that define Colorado’s culinary heritage. Several iconic Vail annual summer events we recommend include:
Vail Arts Festival—Situated at the base of Vail Mountain in beautiful Lionshead Mall, the festival offers visitors a rare opportunity to interact with artists up close and witness the creative process firsthand.
Bravo! Vail Music Festival—The six-week festival begins in late June and ends in early August. Programming includes chamber music, classical music, jazz, and pop concerts.
Taste of Vail—Although it is not technically a summer festival, as it takes place in the Spring, this fantastic event still makes our list as one of the Rocky Mountains’ top food and wine festivals.
Support The Vail Farmers Market
For over twenty years, the Vail Farmers’ Market has been a vibrant hub of local farmers, artisans, and mountain vendors showcasing the best of the region’s bounty. Grown to approximately 150 tents spread across the famous Meadow Drive in Vail Village, this “can’t-miss” summer event occurs on Sundays, seventeen weekends of the year. From the moment you stroll through the bustling market, you’ll be greeted by the warm smiles and friendly banter of the passionate vendors, each eager to share the stories behind their carefully crafted Rocky Mountain products. Some of our favorite annual vendors include Mt Garden Fruit and Vegetable, Pazzos Pizza (a local favorite), The Whole Empanada, and Wynn Farms. Parking can fill quickly, so here is a helpful summer Vail parking guide.
Exploring The Stunning Natural Beauty Of Vail Hiking Trails
If you don’t have hiking shoes, now is the time to purchase a new pair and lace up because Vail Valley boasts an unparalleled network of hiking trails that run through miles of breathtaking wilderness. Experience translucent flowing rivers rushing with snowmelt rapids along Pitkin Creek Trail or pink geranium wildflowers popping through Strawberry Trail Lane. The extraordinary thing about Vail Valley’s hiking trails is they offer something for all ages and skill levels. From grandparent to grandchild, mountaineer to casual stroller, the whole family has an opportunity to smell the sun-warmed pine needles in the crisp Rocky Mountain air while trekking across miles of exploration and fun. Here is a helpful article on the best hiking trails near Vail.
Conclusion
With the arrival of summer, the Rocky Mountains beckon us to explore its rugged beauty and exhilarating adventures. Although Vail Valley is famous worldwide, it has countless hidden gems you can’t find pinned on Google Maps. For some, a rare find may be your next favorite eatery nooked down a Bavarian Vail Village or Lionshead side street. For others, tucked away on the south side of a shaded hiking trail is a vailed marvel of idyllic summer paradise. Whichever summer activity invigorates your senses, you can find it in the majestic Vail Valley.
When planning your next Vail vacation, please entrust Charter Sports with your bike and ski rentals. We are honored to help you create cherished memories with your family that will last a lifetime.
