This Colorado Alpine Trail Delivers Incredible Mountain Views

Exploring the mountains of Colorado means enjoying a chance to admire some exceptionally stunning views on beautiful alpine hiking trails. For those who seek a challenging trek with inspiring sights as a reward at the peak, the Berrypicker Trail is a solid adventure. The trail is just a few minutes' walking distance from Vail Village and about a 90-minute drive from Denver.

This beloved 3.1-mile, one-way or out-and-back Vail hiking trail gains more than 2,000 feet of elevation on a climb that offers sights of stunning wildflowers in the spring and summer and breathtaking foliage in autumn. Whether you’re climbing up, trekking down, or both, it’s a steep haul and a challenging workout. But the views from the top are some of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen (making it worth the trip!) Plus, since you can take the gondola back down for free as a hiker, you only have to travel one way. 

Since you’ll be hiking at elevation, prepare appropriately by bringing extra water and sunscreen and taking it slowly (especially if you live somewhere at sea level). The hike begins at the base of Lionshead Gondola in Lionshead Village. From Lionshead Village, you’ll cross a bridge next to the Eagle Bahn Gondola, which passes over Gore Creek.

Watch out for mountain bikers, with whom you’ll share the pathway, and follow the signs pointing straight ahead for “Berrypicker Trail.” The trail snakes its way up the east side of a ski run called “Bwana” (under the “Born Free” chairlift) before disappearing into the tranquil forest. The beginning of the hike, for the first 0.3 miles or so, feels like the most challenging part of the journey.

You’ll ascend straight uphill before delving into the aspen trees and crossing the space used as ski runs in the winter (it’s neat to think that folks are cruising down this hill where you’re trekking across when there’s snow!) Hikers can admire views of Colorado’s Gore Range as they tramp along a well-trafficked pathway, encountering babbling streams and lush scenery. It’s nice to have some pockets of shade in the wooded areas throughout the ascent. 

I appreciate that it’s a well-maintained and highly traveled trail, and it’s not too isolated from civilization, meaning I’m rarely alone. If something were to go wrong, I know other hikers would be coming along to help me. The trail is also well-marked, meaning it’s easy to follow. Throughout the final 0.3 miles of the trail, there are little podium stands sprinkled throughout the journey with details about the local flora and fauna, which is interesting to read (and a great excuse to stop and take a break). 

At the summit, soak in the sweeping views of the alpine peaks. The trail ends on the bottom left side of Eagle’s Nest, the lodge connected to the gondola, where you can refill your water bottle or grab a drink or a snack to reward yourself for the climb. Be sure to stop at the wooden overlook platform that boasts views of Mount Holy Cross, Beaver Creek, and the Vail Valley region’s inspiring wilderness sights.  

Also at the top, you can visit the “Epic Discovery” park, which features a range of summertime alpine adventure activities like a zip line course and a mountain coaster (if you haven’t had enough adrenaline for one day). Then, it’s time to either trek back down on two feet or enjoy a leisurely and scenic gondola ride down the Eagle Bahn Gondola. The gondola runs summer operations from June through September until 4:00 p.m. back to Lionshead Village. 

This hike is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring along furry family members. But always remember to pick up dog waste and keep pets away from any wild animals you may run into. It’s recommended that dogs be kept on a leash, just in case. 

The Berrypicker Trail is a short but challenging hike that boasts beautiful, rewarding views at the summit. If you're seeking another beautiful Colorado hike, a lakeside trek in Rocky Mountain National Park is another excellent option. There are also plenty of hikes closer to Denver that are worth checking out. And if you're still looking for more adventurous trails or other things to do in Colorado, check out our itinerary planner for loads more recommendations!