I enjoy going on a hike in the mountains about as much as any activity that comes to mind. That’s why many of my vacations are focused on being outdoors and why my retirement home is nestled in the mountains.
When we visited Vail, I did some research on hikes in the area, of which there are many. Most are very steep and challenging. But one that appealed to me was of about moderate difficulty (climbing about 700 ft) with great mountain views and a walk through an aspen forest. This is the Upper Piney River Falls trail, which I’ll discuss in this post.
(Picturesque Piney Lake and the peaks of the Gore Range in the background)
Upper Piney River Falls Trail is about a 3-mile there and 3-mile back hike best enjoyed in the summer months when the water flows quickly and wildflowers are blooming, or in the fall when the colors are beautiful. The trail is above 9000 ft altitude, so access in the offseason is limited. The trailhead is somewhat remote and requires about 45 minutes of travel on a rough gravel road. A vehicle with good suspension and high clearance will make your drive easier. You’ll reach the entrance to Piney River Ranch, a private restaurant/gift shop open during the summer months, where you might want to enjoy an ice cream on a warm day.
(Piney River Ranch)
The first part of the trail takes you along beautiful Piney Lake into the Eagles Nest Wilderness, the Gore Range looming in the background.
(Piney River wandering through shrubland)
The trail continues to ascend through meadows following the winding Piney River. Enjoy the delightful wildflower display in the early summer months.
The trail continues through large stands of aspen, a type of forest I’m fond of and prone to take lots of photos of….
You enter a mixed conifer forest before descending to a pretty cascading waterfall on the Piney River as it tumbles down the mountain. There iare a lot of rocks and open space around the waterfall and it’s a delightful spot for a picnic lunch or snack break. You can continue further into the mountains if you want, but most people use this as their turnaround point.
There are nice overlooks from this area, so take time to look around.
When you’re ready to return, follow the trail back to Piney Lake. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
This is a popular hike on a summer weekend day, less busy on weekdays and in the fall after the Ranch closes. I’ve done it a few times and always enjoyed it. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some wildlife. Once we spent a full half hour watching a pair of moose grazing on watergrasses in Piney Lake no more than 40 feet from us.
Be aware that the air is thin here, so a few days of acclimatization to a nearly 3000 meter altitude will make it much easier on you. And be sure to drink lots of fluids as the air is very dry in the summer.
