There is plenty of trout to be caught in Vail, with excellent fly fishing right in your 🥾🎣 Hiking & Fishing in Vail
Vail offers some of the best outdoor adventures in Colorado—from fly fishing in crystal-clear streams to hiking scenic alpine trails.
🎣 Fly Fishing
There’s plenty of trout to be caught right in your backyard! Vail’s rivers and creeks offer excellent fly fishing opportunities, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting.
🥾 Hiking Trails
Explore the stunning beauty of the White River National Forest with these popular trails:
Booth Falls Trail
Distance: 4.6 miles (out and back) | Difficulty: Moderate | Highlights: Waterfall, wildflowers, alpine views | Season: June to August | Dog-friendly: Yes (on leash)
Lost Lake Trail Distance: 7.5 miles (out and back) | Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Highlights: Serene alpine lake, forested paths | Season: June to September | Dog-friendly: Yes (on leash)
Whether you’re looking to summit a peak, stroll through wildflower meadows, or relax by a mountain lake, Vail has a trail for you.
🍽️ Restaurants & Dining in Vail
Vail offers a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, perfect for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for après-ski drinks, hearty mountain fare, or an upscale dining experience, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
🍽️ Top Dining Spots in Vail (2025)
🏰 Lancelot Restaurant – One of Vail’s most iconic dining establishments, known as the town’s original prime rib house since 1969. Recommendation: Prime Rib.
🍣 Matsuhisa Vail – part of the renowned restaurant group by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, known for blending traditional Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences. Recommendation: Chilean Sea bass or Black Cod.
🍷 Sweet Basil – A Vail classic offering contemporary American cuisine with creative flair. Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional service. Recommendation: Start with Whipped Feta.
🥩 Russell’s Steakhouse – a cozy, creekside steakhouse known for its Certified Angus Beef, Alaskan King Crab legs, and classic American steakhouse charm. Recommendation: King Crab Leg and Filet Mignon.
🥩 Elway’s Vail – refined steakhouse offering USDA Prime beef, fresh seafood, and seasonal specialties in a casual-elegant setting. Recommendation: Bone-In Ribeye.
🍽️ More Dining Spots in Vail
🌊 Up The Creek – Enjoy creekside dining with fresh seafood and seasonal dishes, just steps from the heart of Vail Village.
🍝 La Nonna Ristorante – A cozy Italian restaurant offering homemade pasta, classic flavors, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
🥩 Slope Room – A modern steakhouse with a refined menu, stylish interior, and a perfect setting for a special night out.
🔥 Mountain Standard – Rustic and lively, this spot serves wood-fired American dishes in a warm, inviting setting—perfect for a cozy dinner.
🧀 Swiss Chalet – Located in the Sonnenalp Hotel, this fine-dining favorite features authentic Swiss and European cuisine in a charming alpine setting.
🍔 Bully Ranch – Great for families and casual dining, serving up burgers, ribs, and Southwestern-inspired comfort food in a relaxed setting.
🍳 Breakfast & Brunch in Vail
Start your day right with these top breakfast and brunch spots in Vail:
🍳 The Little Diner – A local go-to for breakfast and brunch, famous for its hearty portions, friendly service, and casual, counter-style vibe. Expect classics like pancakes, omelets, and breakfast burritos served hot and fast. 🥂 Vintage – French Brasserie – Located near The Sebastian Hotel, Vintage is known for its Champagne Brunch and elegant French flair. Signature dishes include Huckleberry Bacon French Toast, Classic Eggs Benedict, and craft brunch cocktails in a charming Belle Époque setting.
🌃 Popular Nightlife Spots in Vail
Explore Vail’s vibrant nightlife scene with these top local favorites:
🎶 The Red Lion – A legendary après-ski destination featuring live music, a lively crowd, and late-night bites. Perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
🍕 Vendetta’s – Serving Vail for over 40 years, this Italian hotspot is known for its authentic pizza, friendly vibe, and unforgettable après-ski energy.
🎸 Shakedown Bar – A high-energy live music venue with local bands, dancing, and a rock-and-roll atmosphere. A must-visit for music lovers.
🍺 Pepi’s Bar & Restaurant – Step into a Bavarian-style bar with festive entertainment, alpine charm, and a cozy ambiance that feels like a European getaway.
🍸 Bad Kitty Lounge – A sleek, speakeasy-style bar offering craft cocktails and an intimate setting. Ideal for a stylish night out.
🦫 The George – A locals’ favorite with a laid-back, divey vibe, known for its happy hour deals, affordable drinks, and casual comfort food.
🌙 Chasing Rabbits – Vail’s most eclectic nightlife experience—featuring Mediterranean dining, craft cocktails, private events, and a luxurious, immersive atmosphere.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or planning a memorable evening out, Vail’s dining and nightlife scene is sure to impress. Be sure to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
🎿 Skiing in Vail & Beaver Creek
With access to both Vail and Beaver Creek mountains, your winter getaway offers endless opportunities for adventure on the slopes. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find terrain that suits your style—from gentle groomers to legendary back bowls.
⛷️ Vail Mountain – The largest ski resort in the United States | Over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain | Famous for its seven legendary back bowls | Ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all levels
🏔️ Beaver Creek Resort Known for its immaculate grooming and family-friendly atmosphere | Offers a mix of challenging runs and gentle slopes | Home to the Birds of Prey World Cup downhill course | Whether you’re carving fresh powder, exploring tree runs, or enjoying après-ski in the village, Vail and Beaver Creek deliver a world-class mountain experience.
The🎉 Events & Things to Do in Vail
Winter in the Vail Valley and Beaver Creek is all about celebrating snow, adventure, and mountain life in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. From December through April, both resorts host a packed calendar of events that offer something for everyone—from families and foodies to music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
🌞 Summer Events in Vail – 2025 Vail comes alive in the summer with music, art, food, and outdoor adventure. Here are some of the top events happening throughout the season:
⛳ A Challenging Vail Golfing Vacation
The Vail Valley is a golfer’s paradise, offering breathtaking mountain views, sunny skies, and a variety of championship-level courses. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to enjoy a scenic round, the golf clubs surrounding Vail deliver an unforgettable experience.
From Avon to Vail, you’ll find 18-hole courses that challenge your skills and reward you with stunning alpine scenery. Notably, Arrowhead Golf
Club has earned national recognition, named one of theearned national recognition, named one of the “Top 75 Public Golf Courses” by Golf Digest. With high-altitude fairways, pristine greens, and dramatic mountain backdrops, golfing in Vail is more than a sport—it’s a true Rocky Mountain adventure.
Here are some of the top golf courses in the Vail Valley as of 2025, offering a mix of public and private options with stunning mountain views and challenging layouts:
🏌️♂️ Top Golf Courses in Vail Valley
Vail Golf Club (Vail, CO)
Type: Public
Highlights: Located at over 8,200 feet elevation, this scenic course offers a walkable layout with views of the Gore Range.
Rating: 4.1/5 (Tripadvisor)1
Website
Sonnenalp Club (Edwards, CO)
Type: Semi-private
Highlights: Known for its pristine conditions, family-friendly atmosphere, and the Balata restaurant with valley views.
EagleVail Golf Club (Avon, CO)
Type: Public
Highlights: A mountain-style course with a mix of challenging holes, water features, and elevation changes.
Rating: 4.56/5 (AmazingGolfCourse) 2
Red Sky Golf Club (Wolcott, CO)
Type: Private (with limited public access via resort stay)
Highlights: Two championship courses designed by Tom Fazio and Greg Norman, consistently ranked among Colorado’s best.
Beaver Creek Golf Club (Beaver Creek, CO)
Type: Private (resort guests can play)
Highlights: A Robert Trent Jones Jr. design nestled in the mountains, known for its tight fairways and beautiful setting.