Why … Piney River Ranch stands out as a premier hiking spot as it holds an iconic view of the Vail Valley, Gore Range, Colorado and Rocky Mountains.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our concierge staff. Once you near the … Vail is home to some of the most beautiful hiking in Colorado. This fantastic day hike in Vail has everything you need to slake your wanderlust. The trailhead is on the left at the first turn in the road. To get to the Lost Lake trailhead, take Red Sandstone Road towards Piney Lake from West Vail. HIKING IN VAIL Welcome to Vail. Once you get to the graves you follow the signs and take a hard left towards Gore Lake. For those needing a bit of inspiration—or equipment—to enjoy all that Piney Lake has to offer, Piney River Ranch is open from mid-June to the beginning of October annually, and offers everything from canoe rentals to guided horseback rides throughout the area’s mountainous terrain. The Booth Lake Trail is a very popular hike and the amount of use has resulted in trail damage and widening. Below, learn about our trails and find the right hike for you! Please stay on the trail, carry all trash and dog waste out with you, and leave this beautiful place better than you found it so others may continue to enjoy. The trails in East Vail, West Vail, and on Vail Mountain provide gorgeous hiking along mountain streams, past waterfalls, through aspen forests and much more. There are seemingly engless opportunities for hiking in and around Vail, Colorado. This is a dirt road (currently with numerous pot-holes and … Take in all the views and true Rocky Mountain terrain on this rewarding day hike (or you can make it an overnight). Campfires are prohibited at Gore Lake because of a lack of dead/downed timber, and to protect the sensitive alpine vegetation. The route begins at Piney River Ranch where you will find a designated dirt parking lot before entering the ranch. Posted at 4:00 AM, Jul 13, 2017 . Eccles Pass and Red Buffalo Pass Thru Hike. Parking is very limited at this trailhead. Pitkin Lake sits around 8.0km in, dramatically surrounded by tall, gray granite walls and alpine tundra. Posted on October 20, 2020 by. Easy Hikes on Vail Mountain. Bus route/stop: West Vail Green/Red Bus – Chamonix. Here are some of our favorites: Lost Lake Trail (7 miles, easy) Booth Falls (4.2 miles, moderate) Gore Lake (12.5 miles, difficult) Deluge Lake Trail (9 miles, difficult) Upper Piney River Falls Trail (5.9 miles, moderate) Be Prepared. This trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Hope Camp Trail. This section is why this trail has a hard rating. Camping groups are limited to 15 people. 1. The view from the lake is magnificent, and is a welcome spot to take in the scenery, or for late night star gazing. Vail, CO: Gore Lake. Explore the most popular lake trails near Vail with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. I was used to doing quick 1-3 mile hikes, so when I decided to do this 5 mile hike (there and back) I knew I was in for a treat. Worth the sweat, the lake is ringed by peaks of the Gore Range, and offers an icy reprieve for those brave enough to take a dip. Two of these hikes take place on Vail mountain so you will need to take the gondola and buy a lift ticket to access these trails easily. Happy hiking! Visiting Tips. Photo by Greg Jordan. You must obtain a permit to hike this trail. Booth Lake is a beautiful lake tucked away in an alpine cirque with fantastic wildflowers. By: Deb Stanley. Vail Mountain offers fun interpretative hikes where kids can go at their own pace while reading stories about native animals and the environment. Pressed up against the Gore Range deep in East Vail, Gore Lake is a wilderness experience that takes hikers on a 6-mile trek to the high alpine gem via 2,700 feet of climbing. The trail takes hikers 7 miles each way, and offers some pristine access into the surrounding wilderness area. Please consider taking the free Town of Vail bus from the Vail Village parking structure to access this trail. The Booth Lake trail begins at Booth Creek Road and ends at Booth Lake: The trail climbs up the Booth Creek valley through mostly aspen groves before passing the 60-foot Booth Falls. Loch Lake via All Trails . Town of Eagle trails in Eagle Ranch are closed from December 15-April 15. Beyond the falls the trail winds through conifer forests and meadows filled with wildflowers. Camping sites are a frequent sight along the dirt road, with primitive pull offs offering easily accessible spots to pitch a tent for the night. Tucson, AZ. The road to Piney Lake, in particular, is accessible via a dirt road throughout the summer months, and is a favorite among snowmobilers, snowshoers, and backcountry travelers in the winter. The Booth Lake Trail is a very popular hike and the amount of use has resulted in trail damage and widening. Vail Mountain offers numerous hiking trails to be explored, both by foot or by Gondola. The long and winding trail alongside Vail's Piney Lake. Up Valley - mid June to early October depending on the snow. Access : Travel 11 miles via the dirt road from Red Sandstone Road following signs to Piney Lake. Hikers looking for a more strenuous excursion can continue on Upper Piney Trail to Knee Knocker Pass, or push for a summit of Mt. The trail climbs through aspen and mixed conifer forest, crossing numerous little creeks before switchbacking downhill. A few minutes (.3 miles) later you’ll arrive at Beaver Lake, which marks the end of the hardest climbing. … Parking is available on the right just before the turn in the road. Trailhead: Meadow Creek Trail, Frisco, to Gore Creek Trail, Vail 13.6 miles. Beaver Creek Mountain Hikes & Guided Hikes/Tours. If you’ve only skied the mountains of Vail, then you haven’t seen the half of Central Colorado’s majestic peaks. With two young boys (age 5 & 9) from flat, low-elevation Iowa, we sought some easy hikes. Planning a Trip to Vail? These are the best places for couples seeking hiking trails in Vail: Booth Falls Trail; Shrine Mountain Trail; Piney River Trail (Upper) See more hiking trails for couples in Vail on Tripadvisor $ Cancel Unsubscribe. Once on the trail, hikers soon encounter a marked fork. lake hikes near vail. Tucson, AZ. This trail leads you on a short three-mile hike or so to the lake. Once you get up to the ranch you see the beautiful lake. If you are planning on taking the scenic gondola ride up the mountain to hiking. Once the trail crosses the Main Vail service road, it becomes doubletrack and less aesthetic, although the views to the west are still good. Where: Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park Length: 5.7 miles out and back Difficulty: Moderate. We think that the Bighorn Creek Trail is one of the best hikes in Vail. Tucson, AZ. This trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Although the hike is a bit lengthy, it is a good option for … Here's a sampling of some of Vail's best mountain lakes that offer different accessibility and experiences for anyone ready to take the plunge. Wilderness regulations exist and are posted at the trailhead. Keep pushing and get to the lake! You’ll enjoy lush wildflower meadows and beautiful aspen forests, as well as fantastic views over the Gore Range. Pressed up against the Gore Range deep in East Vail, Gore Lake is a wilderness experience that takes hikers on a 6-mile trek to the high alpine gem via 2,700 feet of climbing. Challenging Hikes in Vail. Hunters may use this area during hunting season. Power up more than 2,600 feet of rugged, backcountry trails on this 12.4-mile out-and back that climbs from Vail to a pristine lakeshore in the heart of the Gore Range. Sahuarita, AZ. Access from Vail: Travel west on I-70 to Exit 173 for West Vail. Purchase your scenic gondola ticket below! Here are our top fall hikes in Vail. Please consider taking the free Town of Vail bus from the Vail Village parking structure to access this trail. Be immediately … The trail is neither marked nor maintained for winter and crosses several avalanche paths. Well, this "treat" turned to a full on dessert entree. Stroll past Booth Creek Valley’s aspen groves and panoramic vistas as you work your way towards Booth Creek Falls, rewarding your efforts with an incredible view of the 60-foot waterfall! Tucson, AZ. The view from the lake is magnificent, and is a welcome … Please stay on the trail, carry all trash and dog waste out with you, and leave this beautiful place better than you found it so others may continue to enjoy. Vail Mountain is a great place to enjoy a hike, with trails starting from the base areas as well as the top of Gondola One and Eagle Bahn Gondola (#19). Hike Beaver Creek Mountain to a pristine high alpine lake through a field of wildflowers! Head west out of Vail until you get to Dowd Junctino exit 171 off of I-70. © 2020 RootsRated, Inc. All rights reserved. Winter in Vail is unforgettable, but a visit to the hills around this quintessential resort town in the heart of Colorado’s Gore Range during the warmer months is pure magic. Parking is very limited at this trailhead. Though it takes a little while to get to the trailhead (it’s an eight-mile drive up to Forest Service road #707/ Tigiwon Road in Minturn), this. Seven Falls Trail. Tucson, AZ . Booth Lake was my first solo hike in Colorado and will forever be a memorable one. Mountain goats are prevalent at Gore Lake. After enjoying your well-earned time at the lake, follow the same trail back, through Pitkin Creek drainage, to finish your hike! Getting there. Despite being steep and easily accomplished in a day, up until this attempt I had been 0-2 on this trail. Hiking Trails Near Vail. Proceed west on the North Frontage Road for 1/4 mile. One needs to drive about an hour to get there. Mountains and hiking go hand-in-hand (or better yet, foot-in-foot), especially during Colorado’s sunny summer months. Whitney Lake hike is a pleasant hike not far from the Antlers at Vail and the town of Vail Colorado. A simple 9.1 mile hike staring in East Vail, Colorado. Lost Lake near Vail is an excellent and accessible moderate hike to a gorgeous mountain lake. Reservations are required. Loch Lake. Rillito River Park. Booth Lake is a beautiful lake tucked away in an alpine cirque with fantastic wildflowers. The next 1.8 miles are steep. Tucson, AZ. Some Vail trails on the north side of I-70 are closed until June 15. Be aware that this trail is neither marked nor maintained for winter use, and it crosses several avalanche paths. Have you been to Lost Lake… Live like a Boulder local whenever, wherever, Outdoor destinations + local stories & exclusive outdoor events. The 5 yr-old ran out of gas before the lake, but no complaints and the trail was very do-able for him. Gore Creek Trail is the lake’s only access point, and offers exceptional views of Vail’s signature Gore Creek and the East Vail chutes as it winds through pine and aspen forest. Thick snow, […]

We did the entire loop starting from Fancy Pass over to Missouri Lakes and back to parking lot. Tucson, AZ. Wilderness regulations exist and are posted at the trailhead. One of the best ways to experience Vail in the fall is hiking one of the many trails in the area. Hunters may be in this area during hunting season. Wilderness regulations exist and are posted at the trailhead. Upper Piney River Falls Piney Lake in the fall. Please stay on the trail, carry all trash and dog waste out with you, and leave this beautiful place better than you found it so others may continue to enjoy. Ironwood Forest National Monument. Sabino Canyon Recreation Area. A must while in town, Piney Lake has long been a favorite for visitors and locals looking to quietly relax by the high alpine lake, or experience a bit of adventure in the heart of the Gore Range. 7 "Lost Lake" hikes in Colorado. Hugh Norris Trail. Wilderness regulations exist and are posted at the trailhead. Chimney Rock. The reward is Upper Slate Lake, one of the prettiest and most remote wilderness gems in Colorado. I loved that this hike has it all. Two Elk and Whiskey Creek are closed until July 1. Access : From exit 180 off of I-70, head west on the North Frontage Road. Gore Creek Trail is the lake’s only access point, and offers exceptional views of Vail’s signature Gore Creek and the East Vail chutes as it winds through pine and aspen forest. The first few miles undulate gently through meadows with good spots for lunch, relaxation, and great views. The first two times that I attempted this trail was in the winter, and both times resulted in failure. After entering and exiting a few sets of trees, the trail appears to end at a service road and a nearby tubing area lift. From the trailhead you rise in elevation pretty quick, so be ready to start with a climb. No matter how much of a pro or newbie you are, wear appropriate footwear and keep these other tips in mind when you hit the trails! Where to Hike Near Vail, CO. Thick snow, […] Whether you’re looking for a heart-pumping workout or a leisurely stroll, there are hikes to fit every mood and skill level at Vail. The trailhead is north of the town of Silverthorne, 7 miles on … Please consider taking the free Town of Vail bus from the Vail Village parking structure to access this trail. Booth Lake is a beautiful lake tucked away in an alpine cirque with fantastic wildflowers. Four-wheel drive is recommended, but not a must. The trail climbs through forest and meadows past Booth Falls, a 60-foot waterfall. Booth Falls Trail is a lightly traveled hiking trail that winds its way from Booth Creek Road all the way to Booth Lake. and last updated 2017-07-14 09:53:14-04. You are in and out of the trees that first 4 miles with good views. Piney Lake is just as welcoming to visitors looking to independently take in the views and recreation around the area as well, and hiking trails abound, with the Upper Piney Trail being a popular option. Vail, CO, Hiking: 5 Stunning Trails That Anyone Can Enjoy Booth Falls Trail. The trail grants a bit of scenery for hikers not quite ready to conquer the trail in its entirety as well, as Booth Falls is a popular turnaround point on the trail, and offers visitors a popular vista to take in the 60 foot waterfall. Bring your own water as the creek is not always near the trail. Down Valley - mid April to late October. The East Vail trails (Booth Lake, Deluge Lake, Gore Creek, and Bighorn Creek) are getting overwhelmed by visitors and the trails are becoming diminished, so we suggest finding alternatives to these crowded hikes on the trails page. East and West Partner, at 3977m, reside above the lake. There is something for everyone, with hikes ranging from easy, paved trails, to diffi cult, It's worth it. Saguaro National Park. Loading... Unsubscribe from FreedomSpotz Films? This trail is located about a 45 mins drive up a 2 lane dirt road with lots of rocks and bumps. After about a mile you get to a more moderate incline all the way to "the graves" which is around 4 miles total. MUST TRAILS TO HIKE NEAR VAIL, COLORADO BOOTH LAKE TRAIL FreedomSpotz Films. Leave a car at the start of the Gore Creek Trail in East Vail, then drive over Vail Pass to Frisco to begin at Meadow Creek (the hike is … Nearly 10 miles round trip, this hike’s halfway point is a beautiful high elevation lake that sits on the doorstep of the Gore Range. Park in one of the garages at Beaver Creek Village, then look for the Beaver Lake Trailhead (Trail #2109) near the Centennial Express and follow the well-traveled creekside path for 3 miles to the Holy Cross Wilderness boundary. This trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness. The best months to hike Vail’s Booth Falls Trail to Booth Lake are July, August, and September – after the previous winter’s snowpack has melted but before fall blizzards have covered the trail once again. Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Regional Park. The hike starts at the lake and is 3 miles in one way. Guided Hikes and Private Tours are also available. Trail Summary: Booth Lake is a popular out and back hike located in Vail, Colorado. Hiking options abound throughout the hills surrounding Vail, but it’s the high alpine lakes hidden in the upper reaches of the Gore that make for some of the most rewarding of adventures. Next head south for 13 miles on highway 24 heading through the town of Minturn, up over Battle Mountain pass. A photographers dream. The Booth Lake Trail is a very popular hike and the amount of use has resulted in trail damage and widening. The Pitkin Lake Trail ascends a lush valley, passing by two gushing waterfalls, before … Powell, a 13er that boasts the highest elevation of any of the peaks in the Gore Range. Enjoy the breathtaking views! The lake is near treeline - arrive early to beat afternoon thunderstorms. Pitkin Lake Trail Hike: Looking for a little adventure? This trail is a great family full day hike, and is a more moderate trek than many of the difficult lake hikes here in our valley. The Upper Piney River Falls hike is one of the most popular trails in the Vail Valley. It is possible to hike the trail with snowshoes during off-season months, but doing so means a more challenging and technical adventure. Anamax Park. The trail can also be extended to an enjoyable loop trip if done with the Fancy Pass Trail and is perfect for an avid hiker who is seeking a challenge. After passing Vail Mountain School, turn right onto Booth Falls Road. Tucson, AZ. The trailhead is located at the end of this road. Another Vail area classic, Booth Lake is accessible via a 4.1 mile one-way trek and over 3,000 feet of elevation gain on Booth Creek Trail. Head right to Gore Creek Trail. It embodies everything we love about where we live. *o* *o* *o* Please consider taking the free Town of Vail bus from the Vail Village parking structure to access this trail. This trail enters the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Wildflowers and Watering Holes: A Road Tripper's Guide to Texas Hill Country in the Spring, Insider’s Guide to Mesa Verde National Park, Insider's Guide to Lake Clark National Park & Preserve, Discover Elkin, North Carolina’s Next Great Trail Town. The infamous Deluge Lake hike. Once you hit the conifer Forrest you have about 30 mins hike until you get to the waterfalls. The Lost Lake trail was described as EASY by the Vail hiking guide and we felt that was accurate. Please keep your distance, keep your pets leashed, and do not approach or feed them. Tucson, AZ. 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Area during hunting season a climb.3 miles ) later you’ll arrive at Beaver Lake follow. Good views trail, Frisco, to Gore Creek trail, hikers soon encounter a marked fork Falls!, Colorado Booth Lake trail leads you on a short three-mile hike or so to the waterfalls Vail Village structure... Hikes in Vail Vail, CO trails to hike near Vail is an excellent and accessible moderate hike a! Your pets leashed, and do not approach or feed them walls and alpine.! To finish your hike West out of Vail, CO, hiking: 5 Stunning trails that Anyone can Booth..., especially during Colorado’s sunny summer months and is 3 miles in one way trailhead: Meadow trail... You are planning on taking the scenic gondola ride up the Mountain to pristine!