Eagle

This down-home, growing, outdoorsy community about 30 miles west of Vail features friendly folks and a cozy mountain setting where residents and visitors love to challenge themselves on some of nature's finest playgrounds.

Not only is this town close to Vail and Beaver Creek ski resorts, it's also just east on I-70 from stunning Glenwood Canyon and some prime whitewater rafting. When you arrive, be sure to stop at information center off I-70, where you can also learn about the area's early homesteads, ranches and Western heritage during the summer months at the Eagle County Historical Society's Chambers' Park Local Historical Museum. 

Centennial Park is a hub of activity in Eagle, with yoga, a playground, Cottonwood-shaded picnic areas, summer concerts and other events. The Eagle Pool & Ice Rink is another hot spot and the launching point for the town’s main trailheads for mountain bikers, trail runners and hikers — Bureau of Land Management and national forest lands offer 300 miles of four-wheel-drive and mountain-biking trails close by.

There’s also a pump track, BMX track and a new radio-controlled car track. Brush Creek and the Eagle River run through town and provide excellent fishing opportunities — stop in to Batsons Corner Store to get the inside scoop on conditions. Anglers can cast right from town along the Eagle River or fish year-round at Sylvan Lake State Park just 15 miles from Eagle. Eagle Ranch Golf Club is one of the state's best mountain courses.

Shoppers will find a variety of mountain gifts in the historic central business district in downtown Eagle. Restaurants offer everything from down-to-earth eateries and cafes to lively watering holes with culinary offerings that reflect the richness and diversity of the region. 

In winter, Eagle is a place where residents take snowmobiles to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. Around here, cross-county skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and ice fishing are just some of the outdoor recreation you can experience.

And the Eagle County Regional Airport is just five minutes from town!

Read A Day of Summer Luxury in Vail & Beaver Creek for an itinerary of things to do in the area.