Mountain Biking in Vail: A Local's Guide to the Best Trails

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While Vail is best known for world-class skiing, locals know summer is just as exciting. As the snow melts, the mountain transforms into miles of flowing singletrack, scenic climbs, and thrilling descents through aspen groves, wildflower-filled meadows, and evergreen forests.

Whether you prefer lift-served downhill laps, earning your turns with a climb, or exploring the quieter trails north of Interstate 70, Vail offers some of Colorado's best mountain biking.

Ride Up or Take the Gondola

One of the best things about mountain biking in Vail is that you can choose how much climbing you want to do.

If you're looking to maximize downhill riding, load your bike on the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead and access Vail's network of lift-served trails. From the top, riders can explore everything from beginner-friendly flow trails to longer descents weaving through forests and open ski runs.

Many locals, however, skip the lift and pedal up one of the mountain's Forest Service roads before enjoying the ride back down. A favorite after-work ride is the climb from Vail Village up the dirt road toward Chair 10, followed by a fast, flowing descent on one of the mountain's singletrack trails. It's a great workout without taking up your entire afternoon.

Favorite Trails on Vail Mountain

Vail Mountain has enough trail combinations to keep riders coming back all summer.

Some local favorites include:

Big Mamba
One of Vail's signature trails, Big Mamba features smooth berms, playful rollers, and sweeping turns through beautiful aspen forests. It's fun for a wide range of riders and one of the mountain's most popular descents.

Hank's Hideaway
A fun intermediate trail that's easy to combine with several other routes for shorter loops or longer adventures.

Son of Simba
A longtime local favorite, Son of Simba delivers flowing singletrack, moderate technical sections, and plenty of opportunities to carry speed through the trees.

Whether you're climbing under your own power or riding the gondola, these trails showcase why Vail has become one of Colorado's premier mountain biking destinations.

Explore the North Side of I-70

Some of Vail's best riding isn't on Vail Mountain at all.

Across Interstate 70, the network of trails stretching toward Buffehr Creek, Piney Lake, and the North Trail offers a quieter, more backcountry feel with fewer crowds and incredible scenery.

The North Trail is a longtime local favorite, winding through dense pine forests and open hillsides with spectacular views back toward Vail Mountain and the Gore Range. It's a fantastic cross-country ride that can be enjoyed on its own or connected with nearby trails for a longer adventure.

Looking for more of a challenge? Son of Middle delivers a mix of flowing singletrack, rocky sections, and technical features that reward experienced riders. It's one of those trails locals seem to return to again and again.

For riders wanting a longer endurance day, the dirt road toward Piney Lake provides a classic Colorado ride. The gradual climb through Buffehr Creek Valley offers incredible mountain scenery before connecting with additional trail options or simply rewarding you with a beautiful ride back down. It's less about technical riding and more about soaking in one of the most scenic valleys surrounding Vail.

Ride with Women

One of the best ways to discover new trails, build confidence, and make friends is to join a local group ride. The Vail Valley has a welcoming mountain bike community with women's organizations that host rides for a wide range of abilities.

The Vail Valley Vixens organize women's road, gravel, and mountain bike rides throughout the riding season, making them a great resource for meeting other cyclists and exploring new routes.

For women looking to build skills and connect with other outdoor enthusiasts, the Gore Range Gravity Alliance hosts regular women's mountain bike meetups in Vail during the summer, along with trail runs, educational clinics, and social events. Their mission is simple: create an inclusive, supportive community that helps more women enjoy the outdoors with confidence.

Whether you're new to mountain biking or simply looking for riding partners, these groups are a fantastic and fun way to experience riding in Vail.

Local Tips

• Ride early to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
• Carry plenty of water. The combination of elevation and dry mountain air can be surprisingly dehydrating.
• Pack a lightweight rain jacket. Mountain weather changes quickly, especially at higher elevations.
• If you're using the gondola, remember that lift operations may pause during lightning.
• Wildlife is common. Keep an eye out for deer, marmots, moose, and even black bears along the trails.
• Many of Vail's best rides can be linked together, so it's worth carrying a trail map or GPS app if you're planning to explore.

Gear You'll Want to Bring

Before heading out, don't forget:

• Mountain bike helmet
• Gloves
• Moisture-wicking riding apparel
• Padded bike shorts
• Hydration pack
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Flat repair kit, pump, and multi-tool

Experience Summer in Vail on Two Wheels

There's something special about seeing Vail without snow. Ski runs become carpets of wildflowers, cool mountain streams tumble through the forests, and every turn reveals another incredible view of the Gore Range.

Whether you're riding lift-served trails on Vail Mountain, climbing to your favorite descent, or exploring the quieter singletrack north of Interstate 70, mountain biking is one of the very best ways to experience summer in Vail.

Post-Ride Favorites

One of the best parts of mountain biking in Vail is relaxing after the ride. Celebrate with a pizza at Pazzo's, a local craft beer at Vail Brewing Company, or a glass of wine and small plates at Root & Flower. If you finish in Lionshead, Bart and Yeti's patio has been a favorite après spot for decades.

Need to replace a forgotten essential or upgrade your trail gear? Stop by outdoor DIVAS in Lionshead Village. From breathable apparel to sunglasses, sun protection, and expert local advice, we'd love to help you make the most of your time in the mountains.