Things to Do in Every Season in Vail

Vail, Colorado isn’t just a winter wonderland – it’s a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone who wants to relax in the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains. At SkyRun, we have an experienced staff that is ready to offer the best recommendations for your trip. We consider ourselves local experts on the best things to do in Vail – we’ve seen it all, and we’ve experienced it all. No matter when you visit, our mountain town offers something special for every season. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best activities in Vail throughout the year.

Summer Activities in Vail

When the snow melts, Vail transforms into a lush alpine paradise perfect for outdoor exploration. It’s the perfect time to get out in nature and see the vast landscapes and views that are blanketed in snow in the winter.

Horseback Riding

Saddle up and experience Vail’s stunning backcountry on horseback. Guided tours will take you through wildflower-filled meadows, rolling hills, and scenic mountain trails. It’s a great way to see the Rockies from a different perspective while enjoying a unique adventure in the great outdoors.

Whitewater Rafting

Feel the thrill of whitewater rafting on a guided trip down the Colorado River or the Shoshone River. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, there are trips for all experience levels. If you have kids, we suggest a more leisurely paddle in the Upper Colorado River where you’ll move through scenic canyons and splash in swimming holes. For the more adventurous crews, we suggest navigating your way through the class III rapids of Glenwood Canyon. The cool spray of the river and the excitement of the rapids make this a summer activity you won’t forget.

Fall Activities in Vail

Autumn in Vail is a hidden gem – crisp air, mountain peaks, and vibrant golden aspens make for a magical mountain experience. Pack your coziest sweaters and hiking boots and get ready to immerse yourself in the stunning fall landscapes.

Leaf Peeping

Vail’s fall foliage is simply spectacular. Take a scenic drive along Vail Pass or explore trails like Booth Falls or Shrine Ridge for unforgettable views of fiery oranges and vibrant golds. And be sure you bring your camera – these beautiful views are Instagram heaven, providing a stunning backdrop for your vacation photos.

Hiking

The cooler temps and softer, golden lighting of autumn make this season one of the best times for hiking. In Aspen, you can explore miles of trails for all skill levels, from leisurely nature walks to challenging alpine routes. The combination of blue skies, golden leaves, and snow-dusted peaks is pure magic. For an easy stroll, we suggest accessing the East or West sections of the Rio Grand Trail. Though this trail stretches 42 miles, it’s easy to break into smaller sections for all skill levels. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, you may want to check out Ute Trail. This route has over 3,000 feet of elevation gain and takes you to the top of Aspen Mountain where you can get 360-degree views of the fall landscape.

Winter

Winter is when Vail truly shines. With world-class skiing, charming alpine villages, and snow-covered scenery, it’s a dream destination for snow lovers. Whether you want to get out in the fresh powder and explore or prefer to stay cozy by the fireplace, your perfect winter escape begins in Vail.

Hit the Slopes

Spend your days carving your way down exciting runs on your skis or snowboard. The Vail Valley area has thousands of acres of skiable terrain to try out – Vail Ski Resort boasts 5,317 acres and Beaver Creek Resort offers an additional 1,832 acres to explore. To make your experience even better SkyRun guests receive 25% off with Ski Butlers, a service that brings all your ski gear directly to your door. With unlimited equipment swap-outs and professional boot fittings, you’ll be ready to hit the slopes as soon as you arrive.

Snowmobiling

Craving an adrenaline rush? Snowmobiling through Vail’s backcountry will give you your fix. Guided tours let you speed across wide-open meadows and take in panoramic mountain views you can’t see from the slopes. Whether you are a first-timer or an experienced rider, there are tour options for all. We suggest checking out the tour options with Sage Outdoor Adventures to find an excursion that matches your skill level.

Dog Sledding

For a truly unforgettable and unique mountain experience, we recommend visitors try dog sledding! Bundle up and let a team of energetic huskies whisk you through snowy forests for a magical adventure straight out of a winter fairy tale. You can book a dog sledding outing with the family-owned company, Mountain Musher. Their experienced staff of mushers will take you on an exciting ride down a private trail to ensure the best experience.

Sleigh Rides

Slow things down with a cozy sleigh ride through the mountains. Snuggle up with a warm blanket and enjoy the peaceful beauty as a pair of hoses pull you along the snow-covered trails. Add in a hot cocoa and a fireside dinner for the perfect romantic ending to your outing. 4 Eagle Ranch is a great option for a sleigh ride experience in Vail – you’ll start the evening with a warm beverage before heading out for your ride beneath the star-lit skies. Upon your return, you’ll enjoy an authentic ranch dinner, fireside entertainment, and s’mores around the outdoor campfire.

Spring

As winter winds down, spring brings bluebird skies, warmer days, and a mix of snow and sunshine – the best of both worlds. If you want to experience the beauty of snow-covered mountains, but prefer the sun to be shining, spring is the perfect time to visit Vail. There’s also fewer crowds during this time, as the ski crowd begins to wane in the late season.

Final Ski Days

Spring skiing in Vail is as good as it gets. You’ll be able to enjoy softer spring snow, sunny patios at the lodge, and fun après-ski vibes as the season draws to a close. The warmer temps of the spring also mean less need for bulky jackets and winter gear. In the late season, you’ll see people making their way down the mountain in sweatshirts or even short sleeves! Just be sure you check the weather on the day of your outing and bring layers as conditions can change quickly. And don’t forget your sunscreen – those mountain rays are strong!

Snowshoeing

When the ski runs start to melt, snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore the quieter side of Vail’s mountains. Trek through serene snow-covered forests and take in the peaceful transition from winter to spring. Vail Mountain’s Nordic School offers guided snowshoe tours well into the spring, which is great for beginners that are new to the sport and are learning to navigate trails in the winter.

Plan Your Vail Getaway Today

No matter the season, Vail offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. When you book your stay with SkyRun, you can enjoy the comfort of a beautiful vacation rental just steps from the action. Whether it’s a summer rafting trip, a fall hike through golden aspens, or a cozy winter sleigh ride, Vail is calling – are you ready to answer?

The Perfect Rental for Your Vail Vacation

SkyRun has the best rentals for group getaways. The Potato Patch Club is one of our stunning rentals that is ideal for large groups and multi-family vacations –  there are 5-bedrooms and the home can accommodate up to 10 guests. It’s also in the perfect location, especially for ski season, as it is directly across from the ski slopes at Vail Ski Resort. Consider booking a stay here or at any of our other professionally managed homes for your next getaway to the Vail Valley.