Local Activities Summer
The Vail Valley is a vacationers' paradise. There really are too many activities, events and amenities to mention them all. Our Concierge staff is here to make your visit to the Vail Valley as exciting and memorable as possible. So whether your tastes are for the high flying outdoor activities or if you prefer just to relax and dine out each evening, the Concierge staff will offer help and advice. We look forward to providing you with an enjoyable vacation experience to remember! Our seasoned staff of reliable and efficient agents is very knowledgeable about the Vail Valley and surrounding areas and can readily supply you with referrals, reservations and recommendations for dining, shopping and activities to suit your fancy.
Let us plan your perfect vacation. Prior to arrival call or e-mail us to set up any activities. Concierge 1-800-551-4326. E-mail: concierge@christielodge.com
HORSE BACK RIDING
Heighten your senses and experience Colorado's majesty with a scenic ride across the historic Bearden and Fenno homesteads. Relax and enjoy the company of a wrangler who shares stories about the history and the nature of the land through which you ride. The mountain trails will be navigated by a beautiful, experienced horse selected to suit your riding ability. All abilities welcome.NATURAL HOT SPRINGS
Colorado is a geological hot spot which means Hot Springs. There is a wide variety to choose from here whether it be the world's largest natural hot springs pool or rock pools in a rustic setting. Most springs are within an hour and half of the hotel. Glenwood Springs is about forty five minutes from the lodge and is a pool more than two city blocks long. Kids will love the twisty water slides while you catch a tan on the grassy lawn area. Or if you prefer something a bit smaller, head to Mount Princeton Hot Springs near Buena Vista. This was a sacred site for the Ute Indians and now has seventeen indoor and outdoor hot mineral baths. Moonlight swims are a local's favorite activity.GOLF
The Vail Valley has some fantastic courses to offer you if golf is your game. The golf courses in the Vail Valley provide an array of playing options including par three, nine holes, pitch and putt and a challenging game of 18 holes. Any of our courses in the valley, whether it be Beaver Creek, Eagle-Vail, Gypsum or others, offer a beautiful, scenic setting for your round of golf. For a full list of courses, prices or local favorites, just contact the Concierge Desk at The Christie Lodge.FISHING
If fishing is your ideal way to kick back and relax and enjoy the Rocky Mountains, then look no further. Organized fly-fishing trips offer float fishing, wade fishing or private water fishing. With the most experienced guides in the valley, you're sure to hit the best spots and have a fantastic day. For a list of highly recommended guides and flyshops contact the Concierge Desk at The Christie Lodge.JEEP / HUMMER TOURS
Colorado has so much to offer that it can be difficult to know what exactly is a must see. A jeep tour is a great way to get panoramic views of the New York, Sawatch, and Gore Mountain Ranges. A knowledgeable guide will give you insight into the local history and geology, flora and fauna, and so much more. Take advantage of their vast depth of information while being awed with the magnificent sights of the Rocky Mountains. You can even do a sunset tour and watch the sun set on the Gore Range. Contact the Concierge desk for information on local outfitters and the different kind of trips.TANDEM PARAGLIDING
Take yourself on the experience of a lifetime with an adrenaline rush. Flying in tandem with an advanced rated pilot there can be no better way to see the Vail Valley than from the air. Paragliding offers a unique experience, an adrenalin rush combined with a sense of peace and tranquility, a blend rarely visited at the same time. This is an exciting activity that you will remember for the rest of your life and you will always talk about this "One time in Vail.." There are no age restrictions or limitations but there are restrictions on weight. HOT AIR BALLOONING
You'll never forget the enchantment of a hot air balloon ride. The trip begins a little after sunrise to ensure the best winds. Once you've successfully left the ground the pilots will show the scenery from its best vantage point and each excursion will take up to three and a half hours with the flight taking between one and two hours. Enjoy hot refreshments before the trip such as hot chocolate as well as a post flight ceremony that includes a certificate of flight and a complimentary champagne toast. There is only way to see the valley and that is from above, call the concierge to book a trip with Camelot Balloons. No children under the age of 6 are permitted.
RIVER RAFTING / KAYAKING
Rafting is the ideal way to cool down and have a bit of fun on those hot sunny days. Meander through a picturesque river canyon or take on the rolling rapids for a thrilling experience. We have the Colorado River and the Arkansas River at our fingertips and each river is unique providing you with a different type of trip. Enjoy the Shoshone section or maybe Browns Canyon for a Class III trip or if you want more of an adventure try Gore Canyon, a classic Class V section. Each outfitter focuses on safety and the enjoyment of the guest. Or create a trip that caters to your group, the options are endless. You can even combine a day of rafting with duckying, an inflatable kayak, to explore the rivers on your own. What a spectacular way to enjoy Colorado! All abilities and skill levels welcome
HIKING
Hiking is one of the most popular activities here in the Vail Valley. It is a great way to explore the Mountains on your own. Hike into the Holy Cross Wilderness on the Missouri Lakes Trail, a scenic forestry adventure up to a set of three lakes. Or if High Alpine meadows and wildflowers are what you are seeking, try the Shrine Pass Trail. Hanging Lake in the Glenwood Canyon was named one of the Most Scenic Hikes in the United States. It is only forty five minutes away and takes you high into the canyon to sit beside a crystal clear lake perched in the canyon wall. Whatever skill level or ability, we have a hike for you. Or if you can't decide, just ask the Concierge what their favorite hike is.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Another great way to explore the backcountry is through Mountain Biking. This is a great place to learn how to mountain bike or for those already familiar with the sport, allow you to take it to the next level. We have everything from paved bike paths, single track, or riding the chair lift up and mountain biking down. We have an in-house bike shop that can accommodate your needs with the kind of bike you need for the adventure you choose. We know the best trails and can point you in the right direction for the trail that suits your skill level.