North Trail Vail
A serene mountain trail near Vail offering stunning fall colors, summer wildflowers, and panoramic vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors
North Trail Vail
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain trail near Vail offering stunning fall colors, summer wildflowers, and panoramic vistas.
"Quiet and scenic, North Trail is perfect for a peaceful hike with beautiful views of Vail."
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use the AllTrails app
This app is great for finding hikes and navigating the North Trail loop. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Aspen Groves
Throughout the trail
Witness a breathtaking spectacle of golden aspen trees, especially vibrant in early autumn.
Panoramic Mountain Views
Higher elevations
Enjoy sweeping vistas of Mount Holy Cross and the Gore Range from the trail's higher points.
Wildflower Meadows
Lower elevations (summer)
Discover a carpet of colorful alpine wildflowers during the summer months.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Peak Beauty
Trail Accessibility & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use the AllTrails app
This app is great for finding hikes and navigating the North Trail loop. :iphone:
🦟 Bring bug spray
Insects can be prevalent during the summer months, especially in certain sections. :bug:
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes or during warmer weather. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use the AllTrails app
This app is great for finding hikes and navigating the North Trail loop. :iphone:
🦟 Bring bug spray
Insects can be prevalent during the summer months, especially in certain sections. :bug:
💧 Stay hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially on longer hikes or during warmer weather. :water_wave:
🚗 Free parking available
Enjoy the convenience of free parking at the trailhead. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise North Trail for its quiet atmosphere, scenic beauty, and accessibility. Many enjoy the flexibility to tailor hike lengths and appreciate the convenience of free parking. While some note exposed sections and potential bugs in summer, the overall experience is highly positive, with many returning for its natural charm.
"Love hiking this trail with family. Very quiet and no bugs and pretty scenic all around. Even when it was busy, you could only hear fellow hikers and not see them. Really enjoy the alpine plants and scenery."
Andy
"It was a nice convenient spot off I70 to hike and stretch your legs while getting a decent climb up and view of Vail. Eating ripe thimble berries was a great bonus!"
Mary Roche
"This is a nice 5 mile trail that is suitable for hiking or mountain biking. At the top, the views of Mount Holy Cross and the Gore Range are amazing. However, on the way up, if you were going east to west, it is very exposed, can be hot, and with lackluster views of I 70 in the valley.
Not many people seem to use this trail, but it is well taken care of. I rode this on my gravel bike, and my son rode his mountain bike.
The descent to the bottom on the west side is great flow and fast."
Peder Horner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
North Trail is conveniently located near Lionshead and Vail Village. You can access it from Buffehr Creek Road. The West Vail Red Bus is a great option to reach the trailhead, just be sure to read the electronic sign for the correct route. 
Yes, the West Vail Red Bus provides access to the trailhead from Vail Village and Lionshead.
You can take the West Vail Red Bus to Buffehr Creek Road, which is a short distance from Lionshead and Vail Village.
Yes, there is free parking available at the trailhead, making it easy to access for day trips.
North Trail in Vail is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away from Denver, making it a feasible day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, North Trail is a public hiking trail and does not require any admission tickets. Entry is free for all visitors.
There are no fees associated with hiking or biking on the North Trail. Parking is also free.
North Trail is accessible year-round, dawn to dusk. However, winter conditions can make it challenging for some vehicles.
Absolutely! North Trail is a popular spot for both hiking and mountain biking, with a fun flowy descent on the west side.
While some reviews mention off-roading, it's primarily a hiking and biking trail. Winter conditions can present challenging, icy terrain.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
North Trail is generally considered a moderate hike, with options to make it as long or short as you like. Some sections offer a decent climb and great views. +1
The North Trail Loop is approximately 6.1 miles, but you can adjust the length to suit your fitness level and time constraints.
Expect beautiful alpine plants, scenic views of Vail, and vibrant wildflower meadows in the summer. In the fall, the golden aspen groves are a major highlight.
While it's a popular trail, it's often described as quiet, with hikers enjoying the scenery without feeling crowded.
The higher elevations offer amazing views of Mount Holy Cross and the Gore Range. You can also get great views of Vail itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden aspen groves in autumn are incredibly photogenic. Summer brings colorful wildflowers, and panoramic mountain vistas offer stunning backdrops year-round.
Early morning or late afternoon light (golden hour) will provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for your photos, especially with the mountain scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views and aspen groves. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting.
The higher points along the trail offer the most expansive and rewarding views for photography, overlooking Vail and the surrounding ranges.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Vail Valley tourism board for current rules regarding drone operation in natural areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look forward to seeing diverse alpine plants and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Summer brings lovely wildflowers, and the trail is generally not overly crowded, allowing for a more relaxed outing. Don't forget snacks and plenty of water!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Summer visitors will be delighted by the vibrant wildflower meadows. Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light to capture the dramatic landscapes and intricate details of the alpine flora.
🚴 Mountain Bikers
While the trail is generally well-maintained, be mindful of its varied terrain. It's a popular route for locals and visitors alike, providing an excellent way to explore the Vail area on two wheels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Fall Colors on North Trail
+2To make the most of your fall visit, consider an early morning hike to catch the soft light filtering through the aspens. The trail offers varying lengths, so you can tailor your experience to how long you want to immerse yourself in the autumn colors. Remember to check the peak foliage reports for the most accurate timing.
While the fall colors are a major draw, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially shorter daylight hours. Dressing in layers is key for comfort as you explore this stunning seasonal display.
Hiking North Trail with Family
Reviewers often mention the trail being very quiet, even when busy, meaning you can enjoy nature without excessive noise. The opportunity to see wildflowers in the summer and enjoy the crisp mountain air makes it a memorable experience for all ages.
Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection. If visiting in the summer, bug spray is a good idea. The free parking adds to the convenience for family outings.
North Trail for Mountain Biking
The trail winds through varied landscapes, providing an engaging ride. While some sections can be exposed, the overall experience is highly recommended by riders who appreciate the flow and the scenic beauty.
Be aware of potential winter conditions, as ice and snow can make the trail challenging and even hazardous for biking. Always check trail conditions before heading out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit