Fall is our favorite time of year in the mountains! Late September brings crisp mountain air, golden aspens, and some of the most beautiful scenery of the entire year. Whether you want to spend the day outside on the trails or wandering through the villages, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time in Beaver Creek and Vail.

LEAF PEEPING & SCENIC DRIVES
Late September is prime aspen season and the colors can be incredible. A favorite local drive is over to the quirky mountain towns of Minturn and Red Cliff, where you will find beautiful aspens, and old mining town charm. In Red Cliff, Mango’s is a classic stop. In Minturn, we love Rocky Mountain Taco or Kirby Cosmos.

If you are up for a bit more adventure, Piney Lake outside of Vail is a stunning destination with incredible views of the Gore Range. Just know it is a bit of a commitment to get there and the dirt road can be bumpy, but the views are worth it.

HIKING & BIKING
The mountains around Beaver Creek and Vail offer endless hiking and biking trails. On weekends, both Beaver Creek and Vail run their gondolas, which is a great way to get up the mountain without the climb. From there you can explore the trails, walk back down, or take the gondola down.

For those feeling a little more adventurous, you can also rent a bike and try downhill mountain biking. If you are interested in downhill riding, we recommend doing it in Vail.

Here is a link to Beaver Creek’s hiking trail system. Some of our favorite Beaver Creek hiking trails include:

• Village to Village
• Allie’s Way
• Beaver Lake — if you are feeling ambitious

You can explore Vail’s hiking and biking trails here as well. Some great hiking options in Vail are:

• Berry Picker
• Cabin Trail

EXPLORE BEAVER CREEK VILLAGE
Beaver Creek Village is full of charming shops, restaurants, and scenic walking paths. If you’re looking for mountain gear, please visit Base Mountain Sports, or Grouse Mountain Supply Co.

VISIT VAIL VILLAGE
Just about 15 minutes from Beaver Creek and Avon, Vail Village offers world class dining, shopping, and beautiful alpine architecture. It is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon exploring.

GOLF
If you are looking to play a round, the Vail Valley is home to several incredible mountain golf courses with stunning views.

EATING
There are so many great places to eat throughout the Vail Valley. Below are a few of our favorites if you are looking for a good meal while you are in town.

• The Craftsman — Edwards | Dinner or Lunch
• il Mago — Edwards | Dinner or Lunch
• Sato Sushi — Edwards | Dinner or Lunch
• Zino’s — Edwards | Dinner
• Hovey & Harrison — Edwards | Breakfast or Lunch
• Village Bagel — Edwards | Breakfast or Lunch
• The Boardroom Deli — Edwards | Breakfast or Lunch
• The Dusty Boot — Beaver Creek | Dinner or Lunch
• Hooked — Beaver Creek | Dinner or Lunch
• Northside Kitchen — Avon | Breakfast or Lunch
• Loaded Joe’s — Avon | Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
• Sauce on the Creek — Avon | Lunch or Dinner
• Vail Brewing Co. — Avon & Vail | Brewery
• The Little Diner — Vail | Breakfast or Lunch
• Alpine Pizza Company — Vail | Lunch or Dinner
• Mountain Standard — Vail | Lunch or Dinner
• Root & Flower — Vail | Cocktail Bar and Snacks
• Two Arrows Coffee — Vail | Coffee and Cocktail Bar
• Rocky Mountain Taco — Minturn | Lunch or Dinner

You really cannot go wrong with any of these spots, and they are all places we enjoy.

ALTITUDE
The Vail Valley sits at over 8,000 feet above sea level. If you are visiting from a lower elevation, you may notice the altitude. We recommend drinking plenty of water, limiting alcohol on your first day, and taking it easy if you plan to hike or be active. Staying hydrated will help you feel your best while enjoying the mountains.

We are so excited to share this special place with you and hope you enjoy your time in the mountains as much as we do!