Vail, Colorado

We love Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado in both winter and summer. There are endless activities and adventures for the entire family, year round. In the summer we spend time in both places (about 15 minutes apart by car), exploring the villages, the parks, the trails and the mountains. Since our kids were very small (about 2) we've been hiking from Beaver Creek Village up to Beaver Lake. The kids have always believed that all the mica in the lake has magical powers. It shimmers in the sunlight and refuels their bodies for the return trip to the village. It's about 7 miles round trip. Stop along the way up at the teepee village for a snack before heading on to the lake for your picnic lunch. Friday Nights on the Green in Beaver Creek are so much fun for families. Young kids, tweens and teens all love the activities from pony rides, to fly fishing lessons, frisbee golf to mountain biking... all free activities. We've enjoyed horseback riding through the aspen trees in both Beaver Creek and Vail (helmets required) and the whitewater rafting excursions are always a thrill! Our favorite place to spend a day in Vail is at the Betty Ford Alpine Garden and Ford Park. Pack a picnic and plan to spend the whole day there! The gardens are the highest botanical gardens in the world and are truly spectacular. The park is fun for kids of all ages and dogs love playing frisbee in the field. Often we're still playing there into the evening, allowing us to enjoy the music coming from the adjacent Ford Amphitheatre. Our kids and friends love splashing around in Gore Creek and even fishing in the crystal clear waters. Both Beaver Creek and Vail are full of things to explore beyond the shopping and restaurants. The bike trails are great for cycling in the summer and fall and cross country skiing on in winter. After going there many times, in all seasons, we'd have to say we still haven't uncovered all there is to do... but we'll keep on trying! It's always an adventure!