Best Hikes Near Vail, Colorado
9 curated trails near Vail — with stats, difficulty, parking info, and what to expect on the ground.
Booth Falls
A beautiful waterfall hike through aspen and conifer forests leading to a 60-foot cascade. Popular among Vail visitors for its accessibility and scenery.
Fourmile Falls
An easy family-friendly hike to a beautiful waterfall through aspen and conifer forests. Popular with Vail visitors seeking a gentle nature walk.
Pitkin Lake Trail
A challenging hike in the Eagles Nest Wilderness climbing nearly 3,000 feet to a stunning alpine lake. The trail offers dazzling views of East Vail and the surrounding peaks, with the final approach through open alpine terrain.
Booth Lake Trail
Extends beyond popular Booth Falls into the Eagles Nest Wilderness backcountry to a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by rugged peaks. Wildflower meadows and wildlife viewing opportunities reward those who push past the falls.
Gore Lake Trail
A long and rewarding hike through the Eagles Nest Wilderness to a remote alpine lake beneath the dramatic Gore Range. Stunning fall colors, rocky terrain, and wildlife sightings make this a Vail-area classic for experienced hikers.
Notch Mountain Trail
Climb to the summit of Notch Mountain in the Holy Cross Wilderness for one of Colorado's most iconic views: the cross-shaped snow couloir on Mount of the Holy Cross. A historic stone shelter sits at the top.
Upper Piney River Falls Trail
A scenic, family-friendly trail following the Piney River past Piney Lake through open wildflower meadows, aspen stands, and pine forests. The waterfall at the end is a refreshing reward with views of the Gore Range.
Missouri Lakes and Fancy Lakes Loop
A stunning loop through the Holy Cross Wilderness visiting multiple alpine lakes and crossing Fancy Pass at 12,005 feet. The route passes through pristine forests, wildflower meadows, and offers views of the Sawatch Range.
Gore Creek Trail to Red Buffalo Pass
Follow Gore Creek deep into the Eagles Nest Wilderness through meadows, aspen groves, and conifer forests to Red Buffalo Pass. The first 4 miles are relatively gentle before the trail steepens significantly toward the pass.