Vail Hiking Trails

The Vail Trail

The Vail planners loved the outdoors. They also realized that not everyone skis. Guests had to be able to walk as well. Thus the Vail Trail, which rises and falls, straightens and curves all the way from the Westin Hotel to the Antlers condos, the Lodge at Vail, past the library and east toward the Vail Manor, then uphill toward Vail Pass. The trail is kept snow-free all winter and is a delight in summer.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

    Spend the afternoon wandering on up through the village--but watch your footing if you find yourself on one of the cobblestone byways. Or emulate the fitness-minded Swiss and take a longer walk: Head back to the covered bridge, where you pick up the Gore Creek Trail. A short walk east brings you to the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, edged with turning aspens, rock gardens, and waterfalls.

The location is easy to find; just follow the lovely Gore Creek to the Gerald Ford Park, and you’ll come upon the public gardens at 8,200 feet, reputedly the highest public alpine gardens in the world. Take the trail back to East Meadow Drive, passing burbling Gore Creek along the way. The dedication took place in August 1989, with the former First Lady in attendance.

Come summertime, a profusion of crocus, heather, forsythia, wild roses and perennials of all kinds greet the visitor. There is no charge to visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Donations, however, are accepted. For details, write to Vail Alpine Garden, 183 Gore Creek Drive, 81657.

 

Shrine Ridge

Shrine Ridge is an easy hike that can be accomplished in two to three hours. You climb through open meadows with abundant wildflowers, then up the steepest part of the trail to the 12,000-foot summit. While atop the mountain, look for Lord Gore, a man-shaped rock to the northwest.

To reach this spot, take I-70 to Vail Pass, Exit 190. Proceed on road #709 to Shrine Pass Summit. Turn left here and drive to Shrine Mountain Inn, where you can park.

 

Missouri Lakes

Hikers are sometimes discouraged by evidence of a water project at the start of this trail. However, after the first mile, the trail cuts into the plush wilderness. Rustic log bridges help you cross Missouri Creek on your way to the crystal clear lakes. Anticipate a walk of approximately five hours if you go all the way to the lake within Holy Cross Wilderness.

To get to Missouri Lakes, take I-70, Exit 171, to Highway 24. Drive south to Homestake Road #703. Turn right. Turn right again onto #704 and travel to a T in the road. The trailhead is on the left.

Merrell Hiking Centers

You can rent hiking boots at the Vail or Beaver Creek Merrell Hiking Centers. Call Vail Associates for more information,  970/476-5601.

Llama trekking, Backpacking, and Backcountry skiing

If you plan on more advanced, more remote or simply longer Vail area adventures, contact the Paragon Guides, Box 130, 81658,  970/926-5299. This adventure and guide outfit can satisfy your needs in llama trekking, backpacking, and backcountry skiing. Trips last from three days to a couple of weeks.

Long Hikes, Rock Climbing, River Rafting, and Other Action Sports

Call Rock Gardens Rafting toll free 1-800-958-6737 or the local telephone number 970-945-6737