There’s more to Vail than epic powder days and après-ski cocktails—way more. When the snow melts and the sun warms the slopes, this Rocky Mountain gem transforms into a mecca for mountain bikers. Wildflower-lined trails. Swooping singletrack. Breathtaking alpine views. Whether you’re chasing downhill adrenaline or just looking to cruise through aspen groves, Vail’s summer bike season hits different.
In this guide, we’ll lay out the ultimate three-day itinerary for mountain biking in Vail—complete with trail recommendations, dining spots, relaxing extras, and local secrets to make the most of your time on the mountain. Ready to ride? Let’s go.
Getting There: Scenic, Simple & So Worth It
Getting to Vail is part of the adventure. Just under two hours west of Denver along I-70, the drive winds through some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the country—dense forests, sweeping valleys, and charming mountain towns.
- From Denver International Airport (DEN): 119 miles west, mostly via I-70.
- From Colorado Springs: About 2.5–3 hours via I-25 N and I-70 W.
- Parking: Vail Village & Lionshead garages offer easy access to lifts and trails, with $2/hour daytime rates (first hour free) and free overnight parking after 3 p.m.
- Prefer to skip the drive? Epic Mountain Express offers shuttles from DEN and Eagle County Airport (just 30 miles away), and Epic Pass holders save 20%.
Day 1: Arrival & Warm-Up Rides
Stay: The Lodge at Vail, a RockResort
Steps from Gondola One, this iconic alpine-inspired lodge blends luxury with location. Unload your gear, check in, and get ready to explore—everything in the village is right outside your door.
Bike Rentals: Rent full-suspension trail bikes, e-bikes, or downhill rigs at one of several spots near the base. Rentals often include helmets and protective gear—just ask.
Trail Time:
Ease into the elevation with a mellow ride:
- Golden Gate Trail: 2.3 miles of flowy singletrack, perfect for getting the feel of the terrain. Take Sidekick or Mill Creek Road to access Golden Gate.
- Gore Creek Trail: Wide and mostly flat, this unpaved trail winds through town and is ideal for beginners or a recovery spin.
Dinner: After your ride, stroll through Vail Village and grab a bite at the Tavern on the Square at the Arrabelle - their delicious and creative menu and relaxed atmosphere hit the spot after a travel day.
Day 2: Epic Rides & Big Views
Breakfast: Fuel up at Yeti’s Grind for coffee and pastries or grab a loaded breakfast burrito from Loaded Joe’s.
Ride:
- Grand Traverse to Mid-Vail Escape
Start at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola and cruise across Game Creek Bowl on one of Vail’s most beloved alpine trails. With panoramic views of Mount of the Holy Cross and Vail’s Back Bowls, this gently climbing trail feels like riding through a postcard. - Want a longer loop? Connect to Mid-Vail Escape, Lucy’s Loop, or stretch all the way out to Outer Mongolia Bowl.
Lunch:
- Mid-Vail Grill: Chow down on ramen bowls or smoked sausage gumbo while soaking up views of the Gore Range. Summer menu features smoked meats, sandwiches and more!
- Talon’s Deck (Eagle’s Nest): Grab a Southwestern wrap or hearty bowl at this taqueria-inspired quick spot. Summer menu features several types of chicken sandwiches (fried, baked, pesto, sweet and sour), deli sandwiches, pretzel bites and salads.
Afternoon Flow:
From Eagle’s Nest, drop into Vail’s most popular trail:
- Radio Flyer: 2.75 miles of sculpted rollers and berms (including a section of non-stop rollers!)
- Big Mamba: Three miles of fast, banked switchbacks.
- Hank’s Hideaway: A smoother, forested finale with killer views and just enough twist to keep things playful.
Dinner & Entertainment:
After a long day, unwind at The Gambit Bar. Sip an artfully crafted cocktail, listen to live music, and recap the day’s rides with your crew over small plates by Chef Kevin Erving. Classy but comfortable—just like Vail.
Day 3: Recovery & Local Finds
Breakfast: Head to Big Bear Bistro—a locals’ favorite for hearty breakfasts, killer coffee, and crepes made with love. They’ve got vegan and gluten-free options too, if that’s your jam.
Rejuvenate:
Book a post-ride treatment at RockResort Spa at The Lodge at Vail. Choose from alpine-inspired massages, organic facials, and eco-conscious wraps. The co-ed relaxation lounge and whirlpool? Just icing on the cake.
Shop:
Before you head out, swing by the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Gift Shop. You’ll find thoughtful, alpine-inspired souvenirs—and every purchase supports the neighboring botanical gardens. If you’ve got time, take a stroll through the gardens themselves. They’re a short walk from the village and full of peaceful, flower-filled paths.
Quick Tips for Your Vail Bike Trip
- Take It Easy on Day One: High altitude = thinner air. Hydrate like crazy and pace yourself.
- Use the Gondola: Skip the climb—Gondola One and Lionshead Gondola offer bike hauls.
- Know the Code: Yield to hikers, announce your pass, and be mindful of blind corners.
- Book a Guide: Want to go deeper or challenge yourself? Book a tour with Paragon Guides or Apex Mountain School.
Plan Your Vail Summer Getaway Today
Whether you’re here for the big climbs, fast descents, or the pure joy of riding through alpine meadows, Vail serves it all up with style. Add in killer food, cozy lodging, and some well-earned spa time, and you've got a weekend that’ll leave you craving more.Book your mountain biking getaway to Vail today—your summer adventure starts at altitude.
