Snowshoeing is a perfect way for both non-skiers and those with worn-out ski legs to explore Vail’s mountains. Get out of the busy town into the quiet, pristine, snow-covered peaks and meadows.

Walking Mountains Science Center offers free daily snowshoe tours with a wilderness guide departing from their Nature Discovery Center yurt located at the top of the Lionshead gondola. Online registration is required for all free snowshoes. https://www.walkingmountains.org/

The Vail Nordic Center also offers professionally guided private or group snowshoe tours for a fee. The Nordic Center has easy, intermediate, and difficult terrain for those wanting to snowshoe on their own. Snowshoe rentals are available for a fee. https://www.vailrec.com/vail-recreation/nordic

Beaver Creek’s Nordic area, McCoy Park, is located at the top of the Strawberry Park chairlift and features groomed and rustic trails for snowshoeing on your own or with a guide. Snowshoe rentals are available for a fee. Free group tours depart daily as do private tours for a fee – reservations required. https://www.beavercreek.com/plan-your-trip/ski-and-ride-lessons/category/nordic-center.aspx

In addition to these guided options, Vail has many trails suitable for snowshoeing more remotely. The North Trail system rises in the northern mountains above Sandstone Creek Club and offers beautiful views of Vail Ski Resort and the Vail Valley. Meadow Mountain near Minturn is also a popular snowshoe area with open rolling hills and meadows. The Winter Recreation Area at the top of Vail Pass is also open to snowshoers with the purchase of a day pass at the trailhead and offers some of the best views around. If you want to snowshoe on your own, you can rent snowshoes at Charter Sports: https://www.chartersports.com/winter-rental/snowshoes/.