There are few places that hold a piece of my heart quite like the Vail Valley.
I’m so lucky I get to say that I grew up here, surrounded by aspen groves, wildflower-filled meadows, and the endless call of adventure that only a mountain town can offer. Each summer, as the snow melts and the sun warms the valley, I find myself reconnecting with the trails, rivers, markets, and memories that define my favorite season at home (besides winter, of course).
When I think of summer in Vail, I think of the simple traditions I’ve shared with my family over the years, like early mornings on the trail with our dog, delicious food in the village, fishing with my dad, and pickleball with my mom. Summer means being with family, soaking up sunshine, and enjoying places and moments that feel like part of me.
I’ve compiled a few of my favorite ways to spend a summer day in the Vail Valley, from outdoor adventures to exploring local spots with my loved ones.
Morning Adventures & Outdoor Favorites
One of my favorite ways to start a summer day is with a hike or bike ride, especially when I’m with my family and our dog, Kenzy. The trails here are like a second home to us. Some of our go-to trails include Lee’s Way Down and the Berry Picker Trail.
- Lee’s Way Down in Avon is a popular biking trail amongst the locals, and Berry Picker, which winds its way up from Edwards, is a family favorite since it overlooks the neighborhood where I grew up.
- The North Trail is another gem, and my favorite trail to mountain bike. While it’s a brutal workout given the extremely high elevation of Vail, it stretches along the valley from Vail to West Vail, with a stunning view and epic downhill.
Mountain biking is a great way for me to train cardio, and it’s way more fun when I get to ride with my brother in our hometown. Lee’s Way and the North Trail are our usual stomping grounds, and truly nothing beats the thrill of a fast descent after a rewarding climb. Every now and then, we can’t resist a couple of gondola laps on Vail Mountain to get our adrenaline pumping on shaded, flowy downhill trails. We always walk around the village post-ride to grab a slice at Blue Moose Pizza.
Hikes with my sister, mom, and Kenzy are a bit more leisurely, filled with conversation, laughter, and frequent photo stops. Those simple moments, catching up on life together and sharing a deep gratitude for the beauty around us, are so special to me.
Water Adventures
Summer in the valley isn’t complete without some time on the water. Whether it’s fishing in Gore Creek or the Eagle River, or floating the Upper Colorado on our raft, days on the river are the absolute best. One of my most vivid memories is catching my first fish on a fly rod in East Vail on Gore Creek. I remember gasping as I felt a slight tug on the line, and the pride that came with holding up that tiny rainbow trout was unmatched.
These days, my Dad and I fish together whenever we can, finding calm and connection on the riverbank, often not catching a ton but enjoying ourselves nonetheless because of the serene and tranquil process of tying flies, casting back and forth, and mindfully watching our lines for any movement.
While my Dad and I share a love of fishing, rafting is the real family favorite. The mix of mellow stretches and splashy rapids on the Upper Colorado River is just right for all ages, and there’s nothing quite like soaking up the sun while floating downriver together. We’ll often bring a paddleboard and a duckie too (inflatable canoe for two people), and these toys hold my most exciting memories on the river with my brother and sister as we got soaked from rapids and laughed so hard our bellies hurt.
Pickleball Fun
Pickleball has become a new favorite over the last couple of summers, especially with my mom.
She’s insanely good, and we love to play together at the local courts in Vail, where she gives me tips regarding the tactical side of the game. While pickleball is known to be fast-paced and easy to pick up, my mom has taught me just how technical and challenging it can be, and we have so much fun together. It’s the perfect activity for some friendly (but definitely competitive) family bonding, and while it is a great workout and opportunity for cross-training, it’s just one of my favorite ways to spend time with my mom.
Markets & Local Finds
Another one of my favorite weekend rituals is visiting the local farmers’ markets. Each one has its flavor and charm. The Edwards Farmers Market, the Minturn Market, and of course the Vail Farmers Market are all must-sees for a summer in the valley. They always have:
- Handmade local arts and crafts
- Delicious farm-to-table foods
- Live music
- Incredible mountain views
And as much as I love the markets, I equally adore thrifting. I got this trait from my mom, and growing up, we always went to the Edwards Thrifty for cool finds, unexpected treasures, or just a fun afternoon browsing the racks and shelves. Holy Toledo in Minturn is like a vintage wonderland, for women’s clothing specifically. I never fail to walk out with a gem.
Where I Love to Eat
Summer adventures work up an appetite, and luckily, the Vail Valley has no shortage of amazing places to grab a bite. For quick eats and casual hangouts, I have a few favorites I return to again and again.
- Ed’z in Edwards is a staple for classic dinners that hit the spot every time.
- El Segundo has the best margaritas and yummy tacos with a classic Vail Village vibe right on Gore Creek that makes it a great place to chill with family and friends.
- When I’m in the mood for sushi, Joy Sushi in West Vail never disappoints. Fresh, flavorful, and totally satisfying.
- Rocky Mountain Taco is also a local legend. Their food truck-style setup and bold flavors are a must after a long hike or bike ride.
- The Smiling Moose has been my go-to for breakfast sandwiches for as long as I can remember.
Wrapping It Up: My Summer in Moments
When I think back on my summers in the Vail Valley, what stands out most are those small, special moments. Floating down the river with my family, watching the golden hour glow light up the Gore Range mountains, and morning walks with Kenzy around the neighborhood.
Every summer is a collection of these memories. Some new, some repeated traditions, all stitched together into a season that feels endlessly meaningful. I’m so grateful for the time spent with my family here, for the grounding that the mountains provide, and that this place will always be my home.
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