Looking to swap screen time for alpine sunshine? Colorado’s mountain towns are bursting with outdoor fun, fresh air, and cool temps that turn ordinary family vacations into lifelong memories. Whether you’re wrangling toddlers or trekking with teens, these adventures are made for bonding, laughing, and doing something a little different—together. Here are ten of the best ways to experience the magic of Colorado’s high country this summer.
1. Ride a Scenic Gondola to Mountaintop Adventure Zones
The gondola ride is just the beginning—at resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, and Keystone families soar above the trees to find a world of adventure at the top. Vail’s Eagle Bahn Gondola whisks you up to Epic Discovery where kids can climb walls, play mini golf, and ride the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster. Over in Breckenridge, the free BreckConnect Gondola delivers you to Peak 8, where more Epic Discovery fun awaits.2. Race Down a Mountain Coaster or Slide
Want to hear your kids laugh out loud? Let them steer their way down alpine coasters in Vail or Breckenridge, winding through forested trailsand taking in beautiful views and family-friendly thrills. The GoldRunner Mountain Coaster in Breckenridge soars over 2500 feet of track, and the Forest Flyer in Vail covers a whopping 3400 feet – plenty of time to laugh and share an adrenaline boost in the mountain air!3. Hike Through Wildflower Meadows
Take a break from the fast pace and wander through summer’s most colorful trails. In Crested Butte—known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado—you’ll find trails like Lower Loop and Lupine Trail bursting with blooms. Beaver Creek offers daily guided wildflower hikes that make it easy to learn as you explore.4. Hit the Trails at a Family-Friendly Bike Park
Mountain biking doesn’t have to be extreme. At Breckenridge, Vail, and Beaver Creek, you’ll find flowy, beginner-friendly trails perfect for young riders (and cautious parents). These resorts offer rentals, lessons, and lift-accessed terrain so you can focus on the fun—not the logistics. Ride as a family or split up for some solo downhill laps while the kids take a clinic.5. Fly Through the Trees on a Zipline or Conquer a Ropes Course
If your crew loves a challenge, these mountaintop aerial parks deliver thrills with a view. In Vail, the Golden Eagle Zipline sends you soaring above the slopes with stunning views and heart-pounding fun. Over in Whistler Blackcomb, Ziptrek’s network of ziplines and suspension bridges lets you fly high above Fitzsimmons Creek or wander through the treetops on guided eco-adventures. Seven Springs offers a mix of speed and strategy on the Screaming Hawk Zipline, where multiple ziplines, sky bridges, and challenge elements combine for a full-on family adrenaline rush.6. Splash, Paddle, or Picnic by the Lake
Summer in the mountains means sunshine, fresh air, and time by the water—and Keystone’s Lakeside Village delivers all three. Spend the day paddling across the scenic 5-acre lake in a kayak, canoe, paddle boat, or stand-up paddleboard. On land, enjoy free yard games like giant Jenga and cornhole, or relax in a lakeside hammock with mountain views all around. Grab a drink at Rathbone Tap Room and make a day of it—this is summer fun made easy.7. Saddle Up for a Scenic Horseback Ride
Explore the mountains the Western way with a guided trail ride. At Vail Stables, gentle horses and friendly guides lead you through aspen groves with stunning Gore Range views—plus pony rides and a petting zoo for younger kids. Nearby, Piney River Ranch offers scenic rides along wildflower meadows and the Piney River, with chances to spot moose or elk.Over at Keystone, riders of all levels can hit the trails, join a cattle drive, or sign up for a draft horse clinic. Little ones can enjoy pony rides, while adventurous groups can pair a ride with rafting for a full “saddle and paddle” day in the Rockies.
8. Explore Alpine Adventure Zones
Think: climbing walls, mini golf, and bungee trampolines with mountain views. Vail and Breckenridge’s Epic Discovery parks are packed with kid-friendly challenges, but don’t overlook Crested Butte’s Adventure Park. With rock walls, gem panning, and West Elk Mini Golf, it’s a great way to keep all ages engaged.9. Camp or Glamp Under the Stars
There’s something magical about sleeping in the mountains. Whether you pitch a tent or try glamping in luxe canvas tents, Colorado delivers on starry skies and peaceful nights. Check out Dunton River Camp in the San Juans or Puma Hills near Fairplay for upscale options, or go classic with forest campsites near Crested Butte or Buena Vista.10. Join the Fun at a Local Summer Festival
Music, food trucks, kids’ zones, and mountain-town charm—Colorado’s summer festivals have it all. 4th of July in Breckenridge brings the energy with live music, foot and bike races, family games, and more. In Vail, the Hot Summer Nights concert series the Vail Summer Sessions (June 27-29) offer free live music in a gorgeous alpine setting to enjoy together. And don’t forget to check out Crested Butte this summer – the Live! Summer Concert Series brings free live music to the mountain every Wednesday this summer. Just bring your picnic blankets and chairs and enjoy the show. It’s the kind of summer fun that feels effortless, yet unforgettable.Plan Your Colorado Mountain Getaway Today
There’s a reason Colorado’s ski towns are just as beloved in summer. With blue skies, wild landscapes, and family adventures around every corner, it’s time to pack the car (or book the flight) and head for the hills. Whether you're hiking, ziplining, or stargazing—memories are waiting.Start planning your Colorado mountain adventure today.
