Although the Vail Valley is most famous for its skiing and snowboarding, the area provides an abundance of activities in the summer and fall as well. Both Beaver Creek and Vail Resort operate all summer long, providing plenty to do for the whole family. One of Vail’s largest summer attractions is its Forest Flyer Coaster, which rockets 3400’ through the forest to the base of the mountain. The resort is also known for its variety of zip line courses, providing great views of the Gore Mountain Range and the forest habitat. Beaver Creek offers a similar array of summertime activities, but is particularly known for its horseback riding and hiking, offering a more relaxing way to take in the dense pine forests and crisp mountain air of the Rockies. Both resorts offer a variety of hiking and mountain bike trails, Vail being particularly known for its lift-serviced freeride trails. The Eagle River and Gore Creek both have great fishing, rafting, and kayaking, with tours available in Vail, Beaver Creek, and Avon.
Perhaps Vail Valley’s best known activity aside from skiing is its golfing, with 17 courses easily accessible within a 38-mile radius, many of which have received international acclaim. The area can cater to every type of golfer whether it be the Willow Creek Par 3 course, perfect for beginners, or the Eagle Ranch Golf Club, a favorite of golfing legend Arnold Palmer. Other notable courses in the area include the Red Sky Ranch and Golf Club, which was listed among the “Best 20 Golf Resorts” by Golf Digest, and the Beaver Creek Golf Club, which was voted as one of the top 100 courses in the country. Regardless of the course you choose to play on, you’ll be sure to have great views of the mountains and the surrounding areas, especially in the fall, when the valley’s forests become alive with vivid shades of orange and yellow.