Feel-Good Fun at Vail
Vail Resorts’ Epic Discovery summer program has pioneered a “learn through play” approach to environmental education, and while launching some thrilling outdoor adventures. Options include the Forest Flyer alpine coaster, a bungee trampoline and a 35-foot-tall climbing wall.
Break for a Bite: Bowl a few strikes (or gutter balls?) at Bol, then celebrate (or nurse your ego?) with their burgers and root beer floats.
Up, Up & Away at Aspen Snowmass
Any summer family foray in the Aspen and Snowmass area must begin with a gondola ride. Board the Silver Queen from downtown Aspen and travel to 11,200 feet for a bird’s eye view. At the top, take a twisting traipse through the trees along flower-lined hiking trails.
Break for a Bite: To fuel your family fun, stop at Grateful Deli for speciality subs, like the Shakedown (made with delicious turkey, provolone, basil pesto and much more).
Downhill Thrills at Crested Butte
Since Crested Butte is known as the birthplace of mountain biking, why not have your family saddle up? Beginners won’t be disappointed on the Awakening trail at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. After your trek, hit the Adventure Park for gem panning with Tin Cup Mining Co.
Break for a Bite: While the kiddos are happily munching tacos, adults can indulge on Teocalli Tamale’s famous margaritas.
Lift-Off at Telluride
At the Telluride Balloon Festival, your family can gaze in awe as more than a dozen colorful balloons take flight against a dramatic mountain backdrop. On the last night of the festival, pilots inflate their balloons all along Main Street for an evening glow. Throughout the summer, you can also go on a 13-minute, free gondola ride to the mountaintop resort and be rewarded with “the best commute in town,” plus 360-degree views of Telluride and the San Juan Mountains.
Break for a Bite: Since Brown Dog Pizza won first place at the Pizza World Championships in Italy, we’re pretty sure it’s worth stopping for.
Cast Away Your Cares at Keystone
Families can spend hours on the Snake River near Keystone Resort catching and releasing brook or rainbow trout. Keystone also has a summer-long line up with festivals celebrating everything from bacon and bourbon to art and bluegrass.
Break for a Bite: If there is a surefire way to turn a hunger-induced frown upside down, it’s heading into Pizza 101 for a slice of pie.
Want More?
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