Adventure Activities in Vail Colorado

Release your inner adventurer with a variety of outdoor activities designed to get the adrenaline pumping and the courage flowing. Vail, Colorado, with its ideal mountain setting has attracted thrill seekers since its inception. From snowboarding and backcountry skiing in the winter to rock climbing and downhill biking in the summer months, Vail is not for the faint of heart. Whether you come for the skiing or come for summer activities, adventure awaits.

Backcountry Skiing in Vail offers experienced skiers a chance to take their skills to the next level with a guided out-of-bounds expedition to untouched powder. Escape the crowds and enjoy the quiet as you soar through open bowls and gladed slopes.

Downhill Biking in Vail requires skill and fearlessness, as you navigate steep terrain, obstacles, rock gardens and other precariously placed tree branches. There are several trails available in Vail, but proper equipment and experience is needed for the double black trails. A special bike pass can be purchased to bring your bike up on the gondola, but no bikes are allowed up after 6 p.m.

Vail Downhill Biking Trails:

Magic Forest (Black)
Mane Lane (Black)
PMT (Double Black)
Old Nine Line (Double Black)

Other Vail Adventure Activities:

White Water Rafting in Vail provides a variety of challenges for all ages and abilities, and is sure to offer something for even the most advanced thrill seeker. Backpacking is the perfect summer activity, allowing you to choose your own pace, trail, and level of challenge in one of the most breath-taking settings on earth.

Rock Climbing in Vail offers a variety of options, from single-pitch climbing routes to multi-pitch climbs in beautiful terrain with expert guides.

Ice Climbing allows you to scale frozen waterfalls that range from 30 to 100 feet, using the equipment and technique of master climbers.

Adventure Rappelling is often called the zip line of mountaineering. It allows you to enjoy all of the beauty and thrill of rappelling without the climb required in traditional rock climbing adventures. Perfect for beginning adventure seekers.

Want an adventure that is big on thrills, but is easy for beginners?

Hot-Air Balloon Rides in Vail offer a bird’s eye view of Vail, Beaver Creek, and Bachelor Gulch, allowing you to glide over peaks and take in the sights of the majestic natural beauty of Vail year-round. Depending on when you go, you’ll see the white snow glistening in the morning sun, or witness mountains carpeted with wild flowers. Each balloon can hold between four and eight passengers and is flown by FAA certified professionals.

Horseback rides through the Rocky Mountains offer a chance to experience the mountain trails from the saddle of a friendly, well-trained horse. Smell sage, catch a glimpse of elk, and meet new friends as your journey helps you rediscover your sense of adventure. From one hour to four days, there are plenty of horseback tours to choose from.

Exercise your sense of adventure during your next trip to Vail, and make memories that last until your next visit.