Berrypicker Trail

Name: Berrypicker Trail
Rating: 10

Panoramic views from the Berrypicker Trail hike in Vail, Colorado

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Berrypicker Trail hikes up Vail Mountain to Eagle’s Nest from Lionshead Village. The trail steeply winds through meadows of wildflowers (which are the ski runs during winter), aspen groves, and pine stands. The hike is often done as a one-way with help from the Eagle Bahn Gondola taking the return journey.

Route Description for Berrypicker Trail

This trail could be done from the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola coming down or walking up from the Village and taking the Gondola back down. This description is for walking up from Lionshead Village. Those who want an easier walk can take the gondola up and walk down following this route in reverse.

From Lionshead Village, cross the bridge beside the Eagle Bahn Gondola that passes over Gore Creek. Keep an eye out for mountain bikers and follow the signs straight ahead for Berrypicker Trail.

The trail starts out with a steep 0.5 km ascent up the side of a grassy field (a ski run during winter). As the trail flattens you will cross a wide mountain bike trail. Be sure to look both ways and cross safely towards the Berrypicker trail sign. Be mindful of mountain bikers throughout the trail as the trail crosses several mountain biking trails.

The trail resumes its ascent up the mountain for 1.6 km, but the incline is much more gradual. The trail zig-zags through shady sections of aspen and pine trees. The trail will also cross through tall grasses and wildflower meadows.

3.2 km in, the trail meanders through another meadow offering brilliant views of the Gore Range across from Vail Mountain. This view ranks high on the list of best places to see the Gore Range in Vail.

Next, you’ll be on an open ski-trail meadow that is a black diamond run during the ski season. The final portion of the trail alternates between meadows and pine stands until Eagle’s Nest.

The last 0.5 km of trail has podium stands with information about native wildlife and plants. Be sure to slow down and read some information about the spectacular local wildlife!

The trail ends on the bottom left side of Eagle’s Nest, where Vail Mountain offers numerous fun activities at “Epic Discovery”. The activities include adventure courses, ziplines, a mountain coaster and more.

Follow the trail back through the ski runs and aspen and pine stands, or you cam take the gondola back to Lionshead Village to finish your hike!

Insider Hints for Berrypicker Trail

Vail Village, which is east of Lionshead Village, is home to Yeti’s Grind which has all the caffeine drinks necessary to get you energized for the hike while Vail Brewing Co. has the necessary post-hike relaxation beers.
While you have to pay to ride the Lionshead Gondola to Eagle’s Nest, with information on the Vail website. The gondola offers free rides down the mountain until 4:30pm.
Ridge Route, another 10Hikes Vail hike, begins at Eagle’s Nest and offers gorgeous views of Sawatch Range and Mount of the Holy Cross to the south (52nd tallest 14er in Colorado).

Getting to the Berrypicker Trail Trailhead

The hiking trail starts just over the bridge at the base of Vail Mountain in Lionshead Village. Parking is available for free during the summer months in Lionshead parking garage.