Things To Do In Vail With Kids – The Ultimate Year-Round Adventure
Planning a family trip to a world-class destination like Vail can feel like a huge challenge. You want epic adventures, but you also need activities that are safe, engaging for different age groups, and won’t leave everyone exhausted by noon. It’s easy to get lost in a sea of pricey tourist traps and wonder how to create a trip that builds real confidence in the outdoors.
I promise this guide will cut through the noise. This isn’t just another list; it’s a practical, hands-on roadmap to the best things to do in vail with kids, built from years of mountain experience. We’re focusing on real outdoor adventures that create lasting memories, teach valuable skills, and connect your family with the wild heart of the Rockies.
In this comprehensive things to do in vail with kids guide, we’ll cover everything from high-altitude summer hikes to magical winter snowshoeing. You’ll get pro tips on gear, crucial safety advice for the high country, and simple strategies for making your adventure fun, memorable, and sustainable.
Before You Go: A Practical Prep Guide for Vail Family Adventures
A great trip starts with smart preparation. Tackling a few common problems before you even leave home will ensure your family’s time in Vail is spent making memories, not dealing with preventable issues. Following these things to do in vail with kids best practices will set you up for success.
Taming the Altitude: A Safety-First Approach
Vail’s base elevation is 8,150 feet. For most families, that’s a significant change, and altitude sickness is a real concern, especially for children who may not be able to articulate how they’re feeling. The key is gradual acclimatization.
Here’s how to manage it:
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Start drinking extra water a day or two before your trip. Continue drinking more than you think you need throughout your stay. Carry a reusable bottle like a Hydro Flask or Nalgene for everyone.
- Take It Easy: Plan for a low-key first 24-48 hours. Stroll through Vail Village, visit a playground, or enjoy the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Avoid strenuous hikes or activities on your first day.
- Know the Signs: Mild symptoms in kids can look like crankiness, headache, loss of appetite, or trouble sleeping. If symptoms worsen, descend to a lower elevation and seek medical advice.
Dressing for the Mountains: The Art of Layering
Mountain weather is famously unpredictable; a sunny morning can turn into a chilly, rainy afternoon in minutes. The solution is layering. Instead of one heavy coat, dress your family in multiple layers you can add or remove as conditions change.
Your three essential layers are:
- Base Layer: This layer wicks sweat away from the skin. Choose merino wool (like Smartwool) or synthetic fabrics. Avoid cotton, as it holds moisture and makes you cold.
- Mid Layer: This is your insulation. A fleece jacket or a puffy vest works perfectly.
- Outer Layer: This is your shell, protecting you from wind and rain. A waterproof, breathable jacket (like one with Gore-Tex) is a must-have, even in the summer.
Don’t forget sun protection! The sun is intense at high altitudes. Pack wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and a high-SPF sunscreen for everyone.
Unforgettable Summer: The Best Things to Do in Vail with Kids
When the snow melts, Vail transforms into a green paradise of wildflowers and flowing rivers. Summer offers endless opportunities for family adventure. Here’s a breakdown of how to things to do in vail with kids during the sunniest season.
Hiking for All Ages: From Strollers to Summits
Vail’s trail system offers something for every ability level. The key is to pick a trail that matches your family’s fitness and acclimatization level.
- For Toddlers & Strollers: The Gore Valley Trail is a paved, multi-use path that runs the length of the town. It’s perfect for a walk with a rugged jogging stroller or for little ones on balance bikes. The Vail Nature Discovery Center at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola also offers easy, kid-friendly walking paths.
- For Young Hikers: The Vail Memorial Park and the paths around the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens offer gentle inclines and plenty of places to rest and explore. It’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to the trail.
- For Ambitious Teens: The Berrypicker Trail is a challenging uphill hike that rewards you with incredible views. A great pro tip: hike up and then treat everyone to a scenic gondola ride down.
Pro Tip: Always check the weather before you head out. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer. Start your hikes early in the morning to be off the mountain by the time storms roll in.
Epic Mountain Fun at Vail Mountain Resort
During the summer, Vail Mountain’s Epic Discovery is an adventure park in the sky. You can take a scenic gondola ride up the mountain to access a whole world of fun.
Top activities include:
- Forest Flyer™ Mountain Coaster: A thrilling ride that winds you down the mountain on a raised track. Kids and adults love this one.
- Kids’ Tubing Hill: Who says tubing is just for winter? Slide down the summer slopes for a good laugh.
- Bungee Trampoline: Let the kids burn off some serious energy while safely harnessed in.
This is a great option for a high-energy day and offers some of the biggest benefits of things to do in vail with kids—pure, unadulterated fun.
Magical Winter Wonderland: Vail’s Top Family Snow Adventures
Vail in the winter is pure magic. The village is covered in snow and twinkling lights, and the mountains offer a pristine playground. Skiing is the main event, but there are plenty of other incredible winter activities for families.
More Than Just Skiing: First-Timer Tips
If your family is new to skiing, Vail is one of the best places in the world to learn. The Vail Ski & Snowboard School is renowned for its excellent children’s programs. Enrolling the kids in a lesson gives them a safe, fun introduction to the sport and gives parents some time to explore the mountain on their own.
For beginners, stick to the green runs. The Gopher Hill lift at Golden Peak is a dedicated learning area, and the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola has a fantastic, slow-paced learning zone.
Snowshoeing and Nordic Skiing for Families
Looking for a different kind of snow day? Head to the Vail Nordic Center. Snowshoeing is essentially winter hiking—if you can walk, you can snowshoe! It’s an amazing, low-cost way to explore the quiet winter forest.
You can rent all the gear you need on-site. The staff are incredibly helpful and can recommend family-friendly trails. This is one of the best eco-friendly things to do in vail with kids, offering a peaceful way to connect with nature.
Village Magic: Ice Skating and Festive Fun
After a day on the slopes, there’s nothing better than gliding around an outdoor ice rink. Vail has beautiful rinks in both Vail Village and Lionshead Village, surrounded by shops and fire pits.
Rent some skates, grab a hot chocolate, and enjoy the magical alpine atmosphere. It’s a perfect, relatively relaxed activity that kids of all ages can enjoy.
A Guide to Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Adventures in Vail
Part of being an outdoor enthusiast is protecting the places we love to explore. Teaching kids to travel responsibly is a gift that lasts a lifetime. Here are some simple, sustainable things to do in vail with kids to ensure these beautiful mountains stay pristine for generations to come.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles
The core idea of Leave No Trace is simple: leave a place better than you found it. Teach these principles to your kids on the trail:
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Whatever you bring with you, including snack wrappers and apple cores, must go home with you.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them, as it harms their health and makes them dependent on humans.
- Stay on the Trail: Walking off-trail can damage fragile alpine vegetation that takes decades to grow back.
Use Public & Free Transportation
One of the best features of Vail is its excellent, free in-town bus system. Parking can be difficult and expensive, so leave the car behind. The buses are easy to navigate and can get you almost anywhere you need to go, reducing traffic and your carbon footprint.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Vail with Kids
What is the best time of year to visit Vail with kids?
It completely depends on your family’s interests! For hiking, biking, and warm weather, visit between late June and August. For a magical, snowy experience with skiing and other winter sports, January through March is prime time. September offers stunning fall colors and fewer crowds.
Is Vail stroller-friendly?
Yes, Vail is surprisingly stroller-friendly. The pedestrian villages are paved and easy to navigate. For trails, the Gore Valley Trail is perfect for any stroller, though a rugged jogging stroller will give you more options for exploring some of the gentler dirt paths around the base areas.
How do we handle the high altitude with our children?
The best strategy is prevention. Acclimatize slowly by taking it easy for the first day or two. Make sure everyone, especially the kids, is drinking plenty of water. Avoid big, strenuous hikes right away. If your child complains of a persistent headache or feels nauseous, it’s best to consult a local clinic.
Are there free things to do in Vail with kids?
Absolutely! Some of the best family memories are made without spending a dime. Hiking on the vast network of public trails, exploring the charming Bavarian-style villages, playing at the incredible Pirate Ship Park, and riding the free town bus are all fantastic and completely free activities.
Vail is more than just a destination; it’s a world-class outdoor classroom and a playground for the adventurous family. By preparing properly, choosing activities that fit your family’s pace, and respecting the natural environment, you can craft an unforgettable trip that goes far beyond a simple vacation.
Now you have the knowledge and a roadmap full of tips. Get out there, explore confidently, and make some incredible memories in the mountains. Stay safe and have an amazing adventure!
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