Scenic Drives &

Attractions

Photo courtesy Minturn Saloon

Historic Mountain Drive

Stop 1: Minturn Saloon 

The Minturn Saloon is the most historic restaurant in the Vail Valley. Folks have been enjoying great food and drinks at this location since 1901 from a variety of owners sporting various restaurant names. The Minturn Saloon has been a “must” for valley locals and visitors. Recently renovated to preserve its iconic past and bring the building into the future, the renowned restaurant and bar blends the old with the new.

Photo courtesy Colorado Department of Transportation

Stop 2: Town of Red Cliff 

The Town of Red Cliff is the oldest town in Eagle County. It was the first County Seat for Summit County, which included the current areas of Summit and Eagle Counties. At 8,650 feet above sea level, Red Cliff boomed at the turn of the century as a mining town with saloons, a bank, sawmills and even an opera house. The town established in 1879, was mapped and patented in 1883 by the U.S. Government. Today, it is a quaint mountain community that continues to attract rugged individualists from business entrepreneurs to outdoor enthusiasts.

Photo courtesy Nova Guides

Stop 3: Camp Hale 

Camp Hale Continental Divide National Monument sits at an elevation of 9,200 feet, offering guests a wonderful setting for recreation and relaxation. Camp Hale is historic because the 10th Mountain Division, an unit of 15,000 men, trained here in mountaineering and skiing techniques during World War II.

In 2022, President Biden designated the 53,804-acre Camp Hale a National Monument to preserve the area’s important historic, natural and recreational values.

Glenwood Canyon Drive

Stop 1: Glenwood Canyon

The gateway to Glenwood Springs, was carved over 3 million years by the power of the Colorado River. This 16-mile canyon provides endless opportunities for recreation including hiking, biking, rafting, horseback riding and more.

Photo courtesy Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Stop 2:  Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Glenwood Springs’ most popular attractions is the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park featuring cave tours, thrill rides, special events and a restaurant. Start the day with a cave tour exploring the stunning caverns and formations in Colorado’s largest show cave. Then take turns on the rides and attractions at the park. You can fly down the mountain on the Alpine Coaster and soar high above the town on the Glenwood Canyon Flyer. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is burstin’ with fun and adventure all year long!

Photo courtesy Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Stop 3: Iron Mountain Hot Springs

On your way home stop by the Iron Mountain Hot Springs and soak in their geothermal pools. There are 16 natural mineral hot springs soaking pools and a freshwater family pool with a jetted spa. More than 14 different minerals are found in their water, including iron and sulfate which are known for their relaxing qualities. Sit back, relax and enjoy the majestic mountain views. 

Activity Providers

Sure, Vail is world-renowned for its skiing and snowboarding, but the Vail Valley offers plenty beyond vast bowls of bluebird powder days and grippin' groomers. Whether you prefer your adventure water-drenched, iced, air-borne, cliff-side, cycled, motorized or snowy out mountain recreation covers it- and much, much more.

Restaurants and Bars

In the Vail Valley, eating isn't merely sustenance - it's an important part of the lifestyle. From fine dining hotspots to casual comforts, it's not hard to find great food. Colorado is known for their locals breweries, distilleries and even wineries. Come sample a taste of Colorado and even international spirit favorites.

Vail Valley Events

Ski terrain and wonderful snow put the Vail Valley on the map, but it's more than just a ski resort. The calendar is packed with events that are a big part of the Vail Valley's culture. From outdoor concerts at the Ford Amphitheater to bull riding at the rodeo, it's easy to stay busy.