The mountains have a secret season; if you time it correctly, you can enjoy Vail almost entirely to yourself with a visit to Vail in the spring. Locals know it as Mud Season- the ideal period between the end of ski season and the start of summer. During this time, crowds disappear, travel costs drop, and the mountains come alive in a new way. While some people write it off as the sleepy season, budget-savvy travelers know better. This is when you can soak up the fresh mountain air, score unbeatable deals, and experience Vail like a local — without breaking the bank.
What’s Mud Season, Anyway?
Mud season runs from mid-April, after the mountain closes, to the end of May. It’s a time when the winter snow melts away, and the landscape shifts from white to a vibrant kelly green as the mountains come alive after a long winter. One day could bring sunshine and t-shirts, the next a surprise dusting of snow or rain. Spring is a wildcard season, but that’s part of the charm. Pack a rain jacket, a down jacket, sunglasses, and a sense of adventure, and you’re good to go.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly escape with plenty to do, this is your golden ticket. From free events to outdoor adventures, here’s how to make the most of Vail in the Spring:
Seasonal Deals: How to Live Large for Less
The best-kept secret about Vail in the spring? The deals. Locals wait all year for this window of opportunity when restaurants, hotels, and spas slash their prices. Here’s how to take advantage:
Where to Stay:
For an affordable stay that feels indulgent, check out The Inn at Riverwalk in Edwards. As the only independent hotel in the heart of Riverwalk, The Inn offers unbeatable discounts on outdoor outfitters, dining, and other local experiences exclusive to guests. Settle into a modern riverside room with plush bedding and thoughtful amenities. Sip complimentary coffee from the 24/7 Lavazza Coffee & Tea Bar on your river or mountain view patio and soak in the riverside pool and hot tub — all included in your booking. Plus, Edwards stays lively with locals, so you’ll get an authentic taste of mountain town life.
Where to Eat:
Off-season means restaurant specials. Think pre-fixed menus, happy hour steals, and hefty discounts at top spots around the Vail Valley. Want in on the best deals? Check the Vail Daily for restaurant ads or ask the front desk at The Inn at Riverwalk for the latest specials.
Where to Unwind:
Spring is the perfect time to indulge in some self-care. Many high-end spas offer discounted treatments during mud season, like deep-tissue massages, rejuvenating facials, or a full-body treatment. Even better? Before or after your spa appointment, you can access all the spa amenities, including steam rooms, saunas, and pools.
What To Do:
Vail in the spring season is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who love adventure but prefer to avoid crowds. Families can take advantage of discounted lodging, kid-friendly events, and quiet parks and trails. Couples can indulge in spa treatments and intimate dinners at a fraction of the cost and none of the peak-season hassle. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the lack of packed tours and semi-private guides for experiences like fly-fishing and Jeep tours. As an added bonus, guests of The Inn at Riverwalk score exclusive discounts on activities and shopping, stretching your dollar even further.
Free & Affordable Events: Entertainment Without the Price Tag
Just because things slow down in the mountains doesn’t mean they stop. Mud season is host to numerous events, free of ticket prices.
- SpringFree Bluegrass Festival, May 23-25: Three days. Three stages. Zero cost. This free bluegrass festival fills Vail Village with boot-stomping, string-picking energy from 11 am to 10 pm Friday through Sunday. The lineup includes PHoffman of Greensky Bluegrass, Nicki Bluhm Band, Terrapin Family Band, and more. For families, there’s a dedicated kid’s stage and plenty of open space for them to dance and play. Pro tip: Set up a blanket or chairs just behind the stage at Solaris Plaza for prime listening with room for kids to roam.
- Vail Comedy Festival, May 23-25: Need a good laugh? Some of the best comedians in the country take the stage at this three-day festival, featuring talent from HBO, Comedy Central, and beyond. With over 30 comedians performing across multiple venues, this event is a must for comedy lovers.
- Blues, Brews, and BBQ, May 24-26: What’s better than smoky BBQ, cold craft beer, and live blues music? Not much. Held at the base of Beaver Creek Mountain, this festival serves up mouth-watering meats from some of Colorado’s top pitmasters, paired with local brews and live music all day. Bring your appetite and a love of good tunes.
- Vail Recreation District Race Series: If you’re the type that packs trail runners before dress shoes, the Vail Recreation District’s iconic races are for you. The early season lineup includes:
- Boneyard Boogie, May 17: Take on a 6K or 14K race through scenic singletrack in Eagle.
- Vail Whitewater Series, May 6 – June 3: Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and two-person rafts tackle fresh snowmelt rapids in the heart of Vail Village every Tuesday.
Why Mud Season is the Best Kept Secret in Vail
Visiting Vail in the spring is like having a backstage pass to the mountains. The crowds dissipate, the prices are unbeatable, and the town slows down in the best possible way. Whether hiking solo on the trails, enjoying a bluegrass festival or soaking in the hot tub after a relaxing massage, you’ll experience the mountain towns of the Vail Valley in a way that most visitors never do.
