12 Day Trips From Vail CO

Famous for its world-class ski slopes and beautiful mountain views, Vail, Colo., has so much more to offer. Day trips from Vail provide a wide range of experiences, from exploring historic towns to enjoying outdoor adventures and relaxing in natural hot springs.  Whether you’re interested in the rich history of Leadville, the scenic beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, or the charming streets of Aspen, there are countless options to make your time in Colorado memorable.

If you're planning a visit and want to make the most of your time, there are plenty of fantastic day trips from Vail that will add variety to your stay. Each destination offers something unique, from charming mountain towns to breathtaking natural attractions.

Here are some great day trips from Vail that are worth your time.

Minturn is a quaint town eight miles from Vail, making it an easy and convenient destination for a short day trip. Despite its small size, Minturn is charming and offers a unique glimpse into Colorado’s mountain culture. The Minturn Market, held on Saturdays in the summer, is a popular attraction featuring local vendors, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. The Minturn Mile is a backcountry ski run that ends in the town, providing a great adventure for experienced skiers.

Avon and Beaver Creek are just 11 miles from Vail, making them perfect for a quick day trip. Avon is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities, with Nottingham Lake providing opportunities for paddleboarding, fishing, and picnicking. Just a short drive from Avon, Beaver Creek Resort is a great place to experience more of Colorado’s renowned skiing or to hike the scenic trails during the summer. The village of Beaver Creek offers a range of luxury amenities, including boutique shopping, art galleries, and fine dining.

Located just 27 miles from Vail, Frisco is situated along the shores of Dillon Reservoir, providing opportunities for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Frisco Adventure Park is also popular, offering activities such as tubing, biking, and hiking. Frisco’s charming Main Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a great place to stroll and enjoy the local atmosphere. The town’s proximity to the reservoir and the mountains makes it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Leadville is one of Colorado’s most historic towns and makes for an exciting day trip from Vail CO. It’s just 36 miles away, and the drive takes about an hour, offering scenic views along the way. Leadville is the highest incorporated city in North America, sitting at over 10,000 feet above sea level. Once in Leadville, you can explore the town's rich mining history by visiting The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum. Leadville also offers excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking and biking along trails that provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Located about 37 miles from Vail, it takes less than an hour to get to Breckenridge by car. The town is known for its well-preserved historic district and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and skiing. Breckenridge Main Street is lined with shops, boutiques, and restaurants, making it an ideal place to spend a few hours. In the summer months, you can also take the Breckenridge Gondola to access hiking trails and enjoy the breathtaking views from the mountaintop.

Georgetown is a historic mining town located about 50 miles from Vail. It’s known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and scenic mountain views. A highlight of visiting Georgetown is riding the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which takes you on a journey through the mountains, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The town’s mining history is evident in its attractions, and you can even take a tour of the Lebanon Silver Mine. Georgetown's charm and historical significance make it a delightful destination for a day trip.

Known for its natural hot springs, Glenwood Springs allows visitors to unwind in soothing mineral-rich waters. The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is one of the world's largest mineral hot springs pools and is a must-visit. Glenwood Springs is also home to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which combines cave tours with an amusement park experience. You can enjoy a thrilling gondola ride up the mountain to explore the caves or experience one of the park's rides.

Buena Vista is known for its incredible views of the Collegiate Peaks and the Arkansas River, which offers some of the best white-water rafting opportunities in the state. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a beginner, Buena Vista has something to offer for all adventure levels. Buena Vista also features several hot springs to unwind and take in the mountain views if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The nearby trails provide excellent opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.

Idaho Springs is a small town located around 70 miles from Vail, making it a convenient day trip destination. The town is rich in mining history and offers several attractions that give you a glimpse into Colorado's past. The Argo Gold Mine and Mill is a popular spot to tour and learn about the Gold Rush era. Idaho Springs is also home to the Indian Hot Springs, a perfect place to relax after exploring. The town’s historic downtown area features charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Rocky Mountain National Park is an excellent option for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The drive is worth it, as Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Colorado, with rugged peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. The road provides access to amazing vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park also offers countless hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado.

Denver, Colorado’s capital city, is approximately 97 miles from Vail and can be reached in under two hours. A day trip to Denver offers a change of pace, with a wide range of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options. You can visit Denver Botanic Gardens and the Denver Art Museum or spend time exploring Larimer Square, a historic area with boutique shops and restaurants. Denver’s vibrant food scene is another highlight, offering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences.

A trip to Aspen is the perfect way to experience another side of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. Located around 100 miles from Vail, Aspen is a beautiful town known for its high-end shopping, upscale dining, and skiing. The drive from Vail to Aspen takes you through scenic mountain passes, offering views of forests, peaks, and open valleys. Once you arrive in Aspen, you can explore Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. The mountains and reflective lake make it an ideal location for hiking, photography, or simply enjoying the view. Aspen's quaint downtown area offers unique shops and restaurants for a relaxed day of browsing and fine dining.

Barbara Gardner brings extensive real estate, historical, and community knowledge of the Vail Valley and applies these attributes for optimal results for her clients. A resident herself for over 30 years, Barbara’s sales production consistently ranks within the top 2% for the Vail Valley and her total sales volume exceeds $165M for 2024.  Armed with a wide range of project management and real estate development experience, Barbara develops creative solutions unique to a client’s real estate situation in order to best benefit her clients.

Hire Barbara Gardner for your real estate needs in Vail and benefit from top-class expertise, dedication, and the powerful network of Sotheby’s International Realty.