Ski season’s winding down, but Vail Valley’s spring hiking trails are just getting started. One day, you’re dodging a rainstorm. The next day, you’re lacing up your hiking boots and strolling along a sunny trail surrounded by budding aspen trees.
In Edwards, Colorado, the spring hiking season starts early due to the dry, high desert environment on the valley’s north side, which enjoys ample sunshine. With low sagebrush and little tree coverage, these slopes bask in full sunlight while views across the highway reveal stunning snow-covered peaks. The trade-off: these sunny-side trails don’t provide much shade. So pack a hat, apply sunscreen, and bring plenty of water.
If you’re eager to trade ski boots for hiking boots and explore the Vail Valley on foot this spring, you’re in luck. There are many early-season hiking trails near Edwards. From gentle riverside strolls to singletrack with panoramic views, here’s your guide to the best dry trails this spring—ideal starting points for discovering Vail Valley’s spring hiking trails.
The Best Spring Hiking Trails
Just one mile from the Riverwalk at Edwards, Berry Creek is a local’s favorite for a quick escape into nature. There are a few options for hiking.
Begin on a wide dirt road and gradually ascend approximately a mile up the valley. Your first decision will come at the initial fork in the road. Continue straight for an out-and-back hike along Berry Creek Road, or turn left to choose between a 2.5 or 4.5-mile loop onto Berry Creek Trail.
Once you turn left, the trail becomes slightly steeper — but don’t worry, it doesn’t last long. In half a mile, the road levels out, presenting your next option: a short or long loop. If you prefer the shorter loop, turn left here and follow the Berry Creek Trail singletrack. Otherwise, continue straight on the road for one more mile until you reach Berry Creek Trail on the left.
Either way, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek, and New York Mountain.
Tucked in the Singletree neighborhood in Edwards, June Creek Trail is a mellow out-and-back trail that is easy and wide. There’s no water or shade, but the gentle, consistent grade makes this a pleasant, easy walk.
You can walk straight until the path merges with June Creek Road for an out-and-back trail or peel off onto Wild West Ridge, where switchbacks climb towards the Wildridge neighborhood.
Another favorite in Singletree, located about a mile from the Riverwalk at Edwards, is the Mesquite Trail, which begins at the end of Mesquite Drive. This singletrack trail winds through desert sagebrush and ascends to the dirt service road. If you head left, it will lead you down to Berry Creek Road, or you can turn right on the road to climb higher.
Either way, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of Lake Creek Valley and Beaver Creek Resort.
Looking for a flat and dog-friendly trail? Miller Ranch Open Space, located a mile and a half east of the Riverwalk at Edwards, is your perfect destination.
This 32-acre protected parcel along the Eagle River features an easy two-mile out-and-back route with minimal elevation gain. Several river access points to shallow eddies make it a favorite spot for fly-fishing, dog-splashing, or simply dipping your toes in the water.
Located five miles east of Edwards, this 11-mile network of singletrack is a choose-your-own-adventure playground for hikers, runners, and mountain bikers.
At the end of the frontage road just north of the Avon exit, you’ll find the trailhead. Explore a mix of mellow trails, punchy climbs, and one epic downhill descent. Lee’s Way, a downhill-only trail, is loaded with berms, jumps, and flowy features. But don’t worry; hikers have their own paths, too. Enjoy a longer loop by combining Wyse Way and Saddleridge.
Not all spring trails are dirt. The Eagle Valley Trail is a multi-use paved bike path along the beautiful banks of the Eagle River. Starting from Edwards, you can cruise east towards Avon or Vail to explore tranquil riverside stretches or grab a bite to eat. This scenic and smooth path is ideal for walking, jogging, or cruising with a bike. Hint: Grab a set of wheels from the complimentary Gear Garage at The Inn at Riverwalk. See Our Favorite Easy Hiking Trails Between Vail, Avon, and Edwards, Colorado.
Spring Weather: Be Ready for Anything
Spring in the mountains keeps you guessing. One day it’s 70 and sunny, the next it’s raining—or even snowing.
To hike smart this time of year, pack layers. This includes a rain jacket, an insulated jacket, and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen). Waterproof hiking boots are also essential for navigating puddles and crossing streams safely.
If you encounter mud on the trail, resist the temptation to tiptoe around and seek a dry path. Instead, walk straight through it. Skirting muddy spots harms vegetation and broadens trails, contributing to long-term erosion. Mountain bikers should avoid muddy trails altogether, as their tires create ruts that take longer to fix.
For the most up-to-date conditions, visit Vail Valley Mountain Trails Alliance for trail updates.
Where to Stay: The Inn at Riverwalk
After a day on the trail, you’ll want a cozy and comfortable place nearby to relax. The Inn at Riverwalk, situated in the heart of Edwards, strikes the perfect balance between being close to the action yet away from it. This independently owned hotel is just minutes from several of the Vail Valley’s spring hiking trails and only steps away from restaurants, coffee shops, and boutique stores.
The Inn is the perfect home base for hikers, with a complimentary trail mix bar in the lobby, a hot tub overlooking the Eagle River, and spacious, mountain-living inspired pet-friendly rooms.
So pack your boots, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore hidden springtime gems in Edwards. Book your stay at The Inn at Riverwalk today.
