Vail, Colorado is renowned for its world-class skiing and stunning mountain landscapes, but beyond the traditional attractions lies a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be discovered. If you’re seeking unusual things to do in Vail Colorado, look no further. From exhilarating outdoor adventures to quirky local spots, Vail offers a diverse range of activities that will add a touch of excitement to your visit. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, Vail has something special in store for you. Join us as we explore the offbeat side of this picturesque mountain town.
Snowcat Tour at Game Creek
Essential Information
– Address: Vail, Colorado
– Opening Hours: Varies, typically during winter season
– Fee: Starting at $200 per person
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
When it comes to exploring the snowy landscapes of Vail, Colorado, the Snowcat Tour at Game Creek stands out as a truly unique experience. Unlike traditional skiing or snowboarding adventures, this tour offers visitors a chance to delve deep into the backcountry in a specialized snowcat vehicle.
The journey begins as you hop aboard the snowcat, a powerful machine designed to navigate the rugged terrain with ease. As you ascend the slopes of Game Creek, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The thrill of riding in a snowcat adds an element of excitement to the adventure, making it a memorable experience for adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of the most unusual aspects of the Snowcat Tour is the opportunity to explore remote areas that are inaccessible by foot or traditional ski lifts. The snowcat takes you off the beaten path, allowing you to discover hidden gems and untouched powder fields that few have had the chance to see. Whether you’re snapping photos of the stunning scenery or simply soaking in the tranquility of the wilderness, this tour offers a unique perspective on the beauty of Vail’s backcountry.
As you traverse the snowy terrain, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as elk, deer, and even the occasional fox. The chance to spot these creatures in their natural habitat adds an extra layer of excitement to the tour, making it a truly immersive experience for nature lovers.
Overall, the Snowcat Tour at Game Creek offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines the thrill of off-road exploration with the serenity of the winter wilderness. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this tour is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of Vail’s stunning landscapes.
Ice Climbing in East Vail
Essential Information
– Address: East Vail, Vail, Colorado
– Opening Hours: Varies depending on weather conditions
– Fee: Equipment rental and guide fees apply
– Visit Duration: Half-day to full-day experience
– Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts and thrill-seekers
Why is it so unusual
Ice climbing in East Vail offers a unique and thrilling experience for outdoor enthusiasts looking to push their limits. Unlike traditional rock climbing, ice climbing involves scaling frozen waterfalls and ice formations, adding an element of challenge and excitement to the adventure. The icy terrain provides a stark contrast to the usual rock faces, requiring climbers to use specialized equipment such as ice axes and crampons to ascend.
One of the most unusual aspects of ice climbing in East Vail is the ever-changing nature of the ice formations. As temperatures fluctuate, the texture and structure of the ice can vary, presenting climbers with new challenges and obstacles to overcome. This dynamic environment keeps the experience fresh and exciting for both beginners and experienced climbers alike.
Another unique feature of ice climbing in East Vail is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds climbers as they ascend. The frozen waterfalls and snow-covered landscapes create a picturesque backdrop for this adrenaline-pumping activity, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a first-timer looking for a new adventure, ice climbing in East Vail offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to test your skills and immerse yourself in the beauty of Colorado’s winter wonderland.
Snowshoe to Piney River Ranch
Essential Information
– Address: Piney River Ranch, 700 Red Sandstone Rd, Vail, CO 81657
– Opening Hours: Seasonal, typically 9am-5pm
– Fee: Varies, check website for current rates
– Visit Duration: Half-day to full-day excursion
– Ideal for: Outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers
Why is it so unusual
Snowshoeing to Piney River Ranch in Vail, Colorado offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for visitors seeking adventure in the great outdoors. What sets this activity apart is the opportunity to explore the pristine winter wonderland of the Rocky Mountains on snowshoes, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the snow-covered landscape.
As you trek through the snow-covered trails, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and frozen waterfalls, creating a picturesque backdrop for your adventure. The silence of the winter wilderness envelops you, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Upon reaching Piney River Ranch, you’ll be greeted by the rustic charm of the mountain lodge and the serene beauty of Piney Lake, frozen in time under a blanket of snow. Here, you can warm up by the crackling fire, enjoy a hot beverage, and savor the moment of tranquility in the heart of nature.
For those seeking a more active experience, you can try your hand at ice fishing on the frozen lake, a truly unique winter activity that offers a glimpse into the local outdoor lifestyle. Or, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can simply relax and take in the stunning surroundings, watching as the snow gently falls around you.
Overall, snowshoeing to Piney River Ranch offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines the thrill of outdoor exploration with the serenity of nature, making it a truly unusual and unforgettable experience for visitors to Vail, Colorado.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Vail Valley
Essential Information
– Address: Vail, Colorado
– Opening Hours: Early morning flights available
– Fee: Prices vary, check with local operators
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
When it comes to exploring the stunning landscapes of Vail Valley, a hot air balloon ride offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Soaring high above the picturesque mountains and valleys, this activity provides a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking scenery below. What sets a hot air balloon ride over Vail Valley apart is the opportunity to witness the sunrise casting a golden hue over the snow-capped peaks, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.
As you gently float through the crisp mountain air, you may spot local wildlife such as deer, elk, and even the occasional bear from a completely different perspective. The tranquility of the experience, with only the occasional sound of the burner firing up, allows for a peaceful and meditative journey unlike any other.
One of the most unusual aspects of a hot air balloon ride in Vail Valley is the chance to interact with the skilled pilots who navigate these colorful giants through the sky with precision and expertise. Passengers can even assist in the inflation and deflation of the balloon, adding a hands-on element to the adventure.
Overall, a hot air balloon ride over Vail Valley offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and serene beauty, making it a must-do activity for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Dog Sledding Adventure
Essential Information
– Address: Vail, Colorado
– Opening Hours: Varies, typically morning and afternoon sessions
– Fee: Starting from $150 per person
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Dog sledding in Vail, Colorado offers a unique and thrilling experience for visitors seeking an unconventional adventure. Unlike traditional winter activities, dog sledding allows you to harness the power of a team of energetic huskies as they glide through the snow-covered landscapes.
One of the most unusual aspects of dog sledding is the opportunity to interact closely with the sled dogs. Before embarking on your journey, you’ll have the chance to meet and greet these friendly and hardworking animals. You can even help harness them to the sled, forming a bond that adds a personal touch to your adventure.
As you set off on the trail, you’ll feel the rush of the cold wind against your face as the sled glides effortlessly over the snow. The rhythmic sound of the dogs’ paws hitting the ground creates a mesmerizing soundtrack to your journey.
During the ride, you’ll have the chance to take in the breathtaking winter scenery surrounding you. The vast expanse of snow-covered forests and mountains provides a picturesque backdrop for your dog sledding adventure, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
For those seeking a break from the ordinary and a taste of the extraordinary, dog sledding in Vail, Colorado offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with nature, experience the thrill of speed, and create lasting memories in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
Axe Throwing at Bol in Vail Village
Essential Information
– Address: 141 E Meadow Dr, Vail, CO 81657
– Opening Hours: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
– Fee: $25 per person for 30 minutes
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Groups of friends, team building activities
Why is it so unusual
Axe Throwing at Bol in Vail Village offers a unique and thrilling experience for visitors looking to try something out of the ordinary during their time in Vail, Colorado. While Vail is renowned for its skiing and outdoor activities, axe throwing provides a different kind of excitement that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Participants can test their skills and aim by hurling axes at wooden targets in a safe and controlled environment. The adrenaline rush of hitting the bullseye is unmatched, making it a popular choice for groups of friends or team building outings. It’s a great way to unwind and release stress while engaging in a friendly competition.
Unlike traditional sports or recreational activities, axe throwing at Bol in Vail Village offers a hands-on experience that challenges both physical coordination and mental focus. It’s a refreshing break from the usual tourist attractions and allows visitors to tap into their primal instincts in a fun and controlled setting.
Whether you’re a seasoned axe thrower or a complete beginner, the experienced staff at Bol will provide guidance and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. So, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure in Vail, be sure to add axe throwing at Bol to your itinerary for a memorable and unconventional experience.
Ghost Town Exploration in Gilman
Essential Information
– Address: Gilman, Colorado
– Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
– Fee: Free
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History enthusiasts, adventure seekers
Why is it so unusual
Gilman, a ghost town nestled in the mountains of Colorado, offers a unique experience for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. What sets Gilman apart is its eerie atmosphere and the remnants of a once-thriving mining community that now lay abandoned. Visitors can explore the decaying buildings, rusty machinery, and remnants of a bygone era, providing a glimpse into the harsh realities of mining life in the early 20th century.
One of the most unusual activities in Gilman is the opportunity to wander through the abandoned mine shafts and tunnels that crisscross the mountainside. Brave souls can venture deep into the darkness, guided only by the dim light of a flashlight, to experience the claustrophobic conditions that miners once endured.
For those with a taste for the macabre, the old cemetery in Gilman offers a haunting glimpse into the lives of the town’s former residents. Weathered headstones tell stories of lives cut short by accidents, disease, and the harsh conditions of mining life.
Exploring Gilman is not for the faint of heart, as the town’s dilapidated structures and crumbling infrastructure pose potential hazards at every turn. However, for those willing to take the risk, the rewards are unparalleled. Ghost Town Exploration in Gilman offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and witness the haunting beauty of a town frozen in decay.
