PINEY LAKE WATERFALL HIKE
The route begins at Piney River Ranch, and the trail starts to the left of the lake, where a colorful aspen forest welcomes you. Continuing on, you’ll quickly come to an opening where views of Piney Lake and the towering peaks of the Gore Range stand in the background. Stay right at every fork, and once you reach an overlook point looking back at the Valley and lake, you’re about 15 minutes from the scenic waterfall views.
LOST LAKE TRAIL
One of the easier trails in the Vail Valley, Lost Lake Trail keeps its elevation gain to under 1,000 feet and delivers big with its swaths of aspens and lodgepole pines. The trail gradually climbs to its highest point, then drops slightly to Lost Lake. You’ll see mountain views of Beaver Creek, Vail Mountain and Mount of the Holy Cross along with Gore Range vistas at almost every turn.
GROUSE LAKE TRAIL
The Grouse Lake trailhead is located just before the town of Minturn and ends at the picturesque, high-alpine Grouse Lake, one of the prettiest lakes in the valley. The trail rises through aspen, pine, spruce and fir trees. There are short, steep sections and several “false summits” (meaning you’ll think you’re at the top only to have to keep going), but you’ll have the chance to cool off as you cross water six times over bridges, logs and stones (maybe pack an extra pair of socks …). The final climb takes you through a series of meadows as you enter the Holy Cross Wilderness and find Grouse Lake at the foot of Grouse Mountain.
GAME CREEK TRAIL
Your chances of seeing wildlife are high along Game Creek Trail that parallels rushing water. It’s a somewhat lesser-known trail, because the most difficult part about it is simply finding the trailhead! The trail is peppered with seasonal wildflowers and, in August, bring a container to fill with wild raspberries. This can be an out-and-back hike or make it an all-day destination with the intent to reach the top of Vail Mountain. For a one-way trip, arrange a car shuttle to Vail and take the Eagle Bahn Gondola down to Lionshead. Pro Tip: You can hike this in reverse, starting atop Vail Mountain at the Eagles Nest, then head downhill, ending in Minturn.
BERRY PICKER TRAIL
Berry Picker is one of the signature hikes on Vail Mountain. Starting from Lionshead, the trail climbs steeply through aspen groves, mountain forests and grassy meadows over the 3.2 miles. This trek is not for the faint of heart: It should be hiked with proper gear and preparation. At the top, you have the option to hike back down or relax and rest on the ride down the Eagle Bahn Gondola.
PITKIN LAKE TRAIL
Pitkin Creek Trail makes for an adventure-filled day with a tumbling waterfall and crystalline lake as the payoff. Less traveled than its neighbor Booth Creek Falls, this gorgeous trail starts off steep, but quickly levels out as it winds through an Instagram-worthy aspen grove, grassy meadows and stands of lodgepole pines. Keep watch for Pitkin Falls, around 2.5 miles into the trek. The last half of the trail ascends the valley to the stunning lake that sits below East and West Partner peaks.