Winter in Vail gets all the attention, summer is lovely and filled with color, but fall may be my favorite time to visit this mountain town. For a few weeks every September and October, the Aspens change to a golden yellow that lights up the whole town! Here is how to make the most of a weekend.
kyliebearse
Vail
(1.8 miles/easy) Stroll right along Gore Creek from Lions Head to Vail Village on this paved path. Great for kids and families with lots of shade and stunning views of Vail Mountain.
(2.7 miles/moderate) Hike across ski runs starting in Vail Village for stunning views of Vail Valley.
(6 miles/Moderate) Only a few miles from Vail, it’ll take about 40 minutes on a dirt road for incredible views and Aspen-lined trails.
(3.3 miles/Hard) Challenging but worth it as you hike straight up from Lionshead Village through Aspens and ski runs. Come back down on the gondola for free or head back down to make it 6.6 miles. ^All of these are incredible for fall colors!
If you’re lucky enough to make it up for the first couple of weekends in September, you can take part in Vail’s famous Oktoberfest! Polka bands, stein lifting competitions, bratwursts – Vail already feels like you’re in a quaint European town, so it gives some authenticity to the festival. Plus, the German food in Vail is some of the best I’ve had outside of Munich.
Every Sunday for 20 years, dozens of local vendors set up for possibly the world’s most beautiful farmer’s market (ok, that’s my bias, but the mountains make it so gorgeous.) Yes, farmers’ markets give more of a summer feel, but I love that Vail keeps theirs going through September.
Brand new sushi spot in Grand Hyatt Vail.
Michelin recommended with gorgeous river views.
Dog-friendly with a patio perfect for people watching in Vail Village.
Always a favorite for delicious cocktails!
Traditional Austrian restaurant with a dog-friendly balcony. Perfect for you and your furry friend.
Farm-to-table restaurant in Gravity Haus.
Fresh off its summer renovation, the Sitzmark Vail has one of the best locations in Vail Village and now has the looks to match. They have a pool and hot tub just above the people walking the Village with sweeping views of Vail Mountain. The rooms are gorgeous and modern with some of the most comfortable beds. Plus, they have apres cookies every day and a continental breakfast included. Brewster’s favorite part was the bowl of treats and dog bed waiting for him upon arrival!
