Top 10 Things to Do in Vail This Summer
- Ben Hilley
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
When the snow melts, Vail transforms into a sun-drenched alpine wonderland packed with unforgettable experiences. Whether you're here for adventure, wildlife, wellness, or just to soak in the mountain vibes, here are the top 10 summer experiences in and around Vail that you absolutely can’t miss:
1. Off-Road Heaven: Top of the Rockies Jeep Tour – Vail 4x4 Tours
Kick off your summer adventure with a jolt of adrenaline on Vail 4x4’s iconic Top of the Rockies Jeep Tour. This high-altitude thrill ride takes you deep into the Rockies, cruising along rugged mining roads, crossing wildflower-filled meadows, and climbing up to 12,000+ feet in elevation. The views? Jaw-dropping. The stories? Rich in Colorado history. The Jeeps? Fully customized for off-road comfort. It’s part scenic photo tour, part Indiana Jones adventure, and 100% unforgettable.
2. Betty Ford Alpine Gardens – Explore the Gardens
Escape into one of the most serene corners of Vail: the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Set against the backdrop of the Gore Range, this is the highest botanical garden in North America, showcasing rare alpine plants from around the globe. Wander the tranquil meditation garden, marvel at cascading rock waterfalls, or sit quietly and watch hummingbirds dart between blooms. The gardens are free to enter, and you'll leave feeling deeply recharged.
3. Gondola Ride & Epic Discovery at Vail Mountain – Plan Your Visit
Soar above the treetops aboard the Eagle Bahn Gondola, whisking you up to Eagle’s Nest on Vail Mountain. From there, you're in the heart of Epic Discovery: hiking trails with panoramic views, ropes courses, alpine coasters, ziplines, and more. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer a mountaintop picnic with a view, the gondola delivers a quintessential Vail experience.
4. Hiking Vail’s Majestic Trails
There’s no better way to connect with the Rockies than on foot. Vail’s trails range from casual creekside strolls to challenging alpine ascents. Booth Falls Trail rewards hikers with a dramatic 60-foot waterfall. For a true alpine escape, head to Piney River Trail for epic lake and mountain views. Every trailhead starts with a postcard view—and ends with a memory worth framing.
5. Wildlife Watching at Piney River Ranch – Visit Piney
Tucked away at the end of a scenic dirt road, Piney River Ranch feels like a hidden world of alpine lakes, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife. The best part? It’s a known hotspot for moose sightings—especially early or late in the day. Paddleboard across Piney Lake, hike through pine forests, and keep your camera ready for a moose photobomb.
6. Fly Fishing with Minturn Anglers – Book Now
Whether you're a seasoned angler or casting a line for the first time, Minturn Anglers delivers an authentic fly fishing experience on Colorado’s pristine rivers. Their expert guides know the secret trout spots on the Eagle, Colorado, and Roaring Fork Rivers, and they provide all the gear and know-how you need. The only thing more peaceful than the casting rhythm is the quiet hum of river water rushing past your waders.
7. Local Flavor at the Vail & Minturn Farmers Markets
🥕 Vail Farmers Market (Sundays)
🍅 Minturn Market (Saturdays)
From June through early fall, these charming open-air markets offer a vibrant taste of the Rockies. Sample artisan cheeses, fresh-baked pastries, organic veggies, and handmade crafts. The Vail Market sprawls through town with live music and art vendors, while Minturn’s market offers a more intimate, locals-first vibe.
8. Whitewater Rafting with Sage & Timberline Tours
Trade your hiking boots for a paddle and take on Colorado’s wildest whitewater! Sage Outdoor Adventures and Timberline Tours run rafting trips on rivers ranging from mellow floats to heart-pounding rapids. Both companies offer top-tier guides and equipment—just bring your sense of adventure and prepare to get soaked.
Our friends at Timberline Tours are the best in the business!
9. Glenwood Canyon Day Trip + Transfer Trail Jeep Tour
Ready for a full-day adventure? Head west for an epic combo of thrills and relaxation. Start with the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, where cliffside rollercoasters and underground caves await. Then, unwind in the famous Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, a natural geothermal oasis. Cap off your day with Vail 4x4’s brand-new Transfer Trail Jeep Tour, which begins in the heart of Glenwood and leads you up 4000 vertical feet to the most epic view of Glenwood Canyon you can get!
10. Goat Yoga in the Mountains – Find a Class
Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like—and it’s as adorable as it is relaxing. At Vail Stables, you can practice yoga in a scenic outdoor setting while friendly goats roam around, hop on your mat, and maybe even strike a pose with you. It’s lighthearted, fun, and surprisingly centering. Come for the yoga, stay for the selfies.
🌄 Final Thoughts
Vail in summer is pure magic—blending adrenaline and serenity, wild nature and local charm. Whether you're climbing mountain passes in a Jeep, zenning out in a garden, or getting nuzzled by a baby goat during yoga, you're sure to leave with unforgettable memories (and probably a few hilarious photos).
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