I love Vail in the summertime. This is not to say that the winters aren't great too, but the summers are when my family really gets to enjoy all that Vail has to offer. Blue skies, green mountains, clean fresh air, and creeks full of melting snow after a great ski season are some of the things that I love about this area.
My family has been coming up every summer since we moved to Colorado in 2005. We bring our bikes and picnics and enjoy the town. We stay for a few days and just... slow down.
My love of summer bike rides on vacation began some time ago. I am originally from Georgia and we would go to the beach nearly every summer. Hilton Head was only about two hours for us in the car so it was an easy trip. Bikes were a great way to get around this low country area with a bit of exercise thrown in. We would ride on the beach and dart back onto the main road here and there to grab a drink or an ice cream.
Vail has now become that bike ride trail for my family. From east to west or west to east, Vail has a great bike path for kids and families to enjoy together. We bike from park to park, stopping along the way to put our toes in the creek and enjoy the scenery.
If you are starting in West Vail, park your car for FREE at Donovan Park. This is the park that you can see from 1-70. Donovan is an incredible work of wood craftsmanship. There are structures for both big kids and little ones, and if you need a break to cool off just head down to the creek. The bike trail is right behind the park and winds through trees and along the creek.
 |
As you wind your way through the forest, your next stop is the center of Vail. We usually bike through town to the covered bridge. The covered bridge is one of our favorite photo opportunities — I have years of pictures of our son on this bridge! There is a water feature before you get to the bridge and you are likely to see kids playing on the rocks here. If no kids are playing here, you won’t need to go far to find them.
Continue down the bridge into the main square to the fountain next to Pepe’s. Bring a swim suit, water shoes, and a towel. In the center of Vail, there are places to relax, grab a bite to eat, and just enjoy the beautiful scenery and flowers while the kids play. Behind the fountain is also a gentle entrance into the creek if you are so inclined. Don’t miss the street entertainers in this area too!
 |
Pirateship Park is located near the ski lifts so head north. This is a custom-built wooden ship with three decks (including a crow’s nest), climbing nets, and even a plank to walk the little brother off of! Let the little guys explore their inner pirate on this one. You'll find a gentle entrance to the creek here as well.
Next stop is Ford Park. Head back through town a bit toward Golden Peak and then along the creek. Follow the bike path signs east. The park is about one mile or so from here. The Ford Park playground is an enormous structure featuring multiple towers with bridges, slides, and climbing. Kids of all ages will enjoy this park. There are fields here to play soccer, baseball, and more.
Another don’t miss feature is the Betty Ford Garden. Take the time to stroll around and enjoy the winding paths. This is also a beautiful spot for the family holiday picture. If you are lucky enough and you time it just right, you might even be able to catch a show in the amphitheater.
All in all, Vail is a great way to spend time as a family and reconnect. Enjoy the time together as you bike around the town with great stops along the way, all while you enjoy the gorgeous scenery infused with giggles, laughs, and smiles!
Learn more about Vail Parks & Playgrounds.
 |
