Things to do in Vail
Vail is one of those Colorado towns that feels purpose-built for vacation mode—in the best way. It’s polished, easy to navigate, and surrounded by huge views in every direction. The resort is known for its wide-open Back Bowls in winter and its lush, high-alpine scenery in summer, which means there’s always something to do no matter the season. Winter brings deep-snow ski days, relaxed après spots, and plenty of off-mountain fun like snowmobiling, sleigh rides, and beginner-friendly snowshoe tours. When everything thaws, Vail turns bright green and becomes a basecamp for hiking, rafting, fly-fishing, horseback riding, and scenic lift rides that give you those big-mountain views without the cardio.
If you want something quick and easy, short snowshoe tours and mellow float trips are the go-to options. Travelers who want a more adventurous day usually lean toward backcountry snowmobiling in winter or class-III rafting on the Eagle River in summer. Families tend to gravitate toward lower-key outings, while friend groups often pick activities with a little more speed. And like all our Colorado destinations, every tour we recommend is backed by real testing, guest feedback, and a clear sense of what consistently delivers a great experience.
21 Activities
Things To Do in Vail, Colorado
Vail Village and Lionshead are both walkable, easy-to-love base areas with shops, restaurants, and lift access right out the door. Because the resort is spread across a massive amount of terrain, you can pick your pace—cruisy groomers, tree runs, or a day exploring the Back Bowls. For travelers who want something off the slopes, snowmobile tours are the most popular winter pick. Short scenic tours work well if you just want big views, while half-day rides take you into higher basins and tend to fill 1–2 weeks ahead during holidays. Snowshoeing and sleigh rides stay popular for families since they’re relaxed, scenic, and don’t require any experience.
Summer brings a completely different feel. Guided hikes in the Gore Range are perfect for travelers who want classic Colorado views without worrying about route-finding. If you’re looking for something more active, rafting on the Eagle River offers a good mix of splashy waves and approachable rapids. Visitors who prefer calmer outings often choose fishing trips or scenic lift rides, especially on warm afternoons when the views stretch for miles. No matter the pace, it’s easy to shape your trip around the activities that match your style—Vail has a way of making every experience feel a little elevated.