So, you’re the type who finds joy in alpine trails, fresh mountain air, and fields of wildflowers swaying beneath towering pines? Hey, me too! You’re in the right place. This guide is tailor-made to be the perfect weekend in Vail for hiking lovers looking to escape into nature without sacrificing good food and mountain town vibes.
Whether you’re mapping out a solo getaway or bringing a trail-loving crew, this itinerary will help you make the most of every moment. Before locking in your plans, check out my month-by-month Vail guide to find the best time to visit because timing your trip correctly can make all the difference.
Friday: Arrival & an Easy, Delicious Start
Dinner at Il Mago in Edwards
Arriving in Vail on Friday evening? You’ve got big trail plans tomorrow, so we’ll keep things chill tonight. Start the weekend strong with a relaxed but delicious dinner at Il Mago in nearby Edwards. This fun, cozy spot dishes up some of the best Neapolitan pizza and handmade pasta in the valley. Pro tip: order the Margarita pizza and pair it with a refreshing Hugo Spritz.
If you roll in early, don’t miss their happy hour from 4:00–5:30 PM, featuring $14 Margarita Pizzas, $12 Caesar Salads, and $10 Spritz cocktails. It’s the perfect way to fuel up without overdoing it. Tomorrow’s sunrise hike awaits!
Saturday: Start Strong with an Epic Alpine Adventure
Hike Missouri Lakes and Fancy Loop Trail
Rise and shine! Saturday is all about the outdoors, and if you’re up for a challenge with stunning rewards, the Missouri Lakes and Fancy Loop Trail (rated Hard on AllTrails) is calling your name. This 8.6-mile loop with 2,601 feet of elevation gain weaves through the mountains and offers a postcard-perfect views of alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, dense forests, and the dramatic Savage Range.
It’s one of my all-time favorite lake hikes in Colorado – wildly scenic, blissfully remote, and the kind of trail that sticks with you long after the last mile. Don’t forget to pack a lunch to enjoy alpine-lakeside!
Trail Details at a Glance
Trail Name | Missouri Lakes & Fancy Lakes Loop |
Distance | 8.6 miles |
Elevation Gain | 2,601 ft |
Estimated Time | ~5 hours 15 minutes |
Route Type | Loop (best done counter-clockwise) |
Getting There
Hit the road by 7:30 AM from Vail, driving south on Highway 24 toward Leadville. Turn onto Homestake Reservoir Road, a dirt road that you’ll follow for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye out for signage to the Missouri Lakes Trailhead.
On the Trail: Two Lakes, One Unforgettable Loop
Aim to hit the trail by 9:00 AM. You’ll start by heading counter-clockwise toward Fancy Lake, climbing steadily until you reach jaw-dropping alpine vistas. Then, continue over the pass and descend toward Missouri Lakes, where you can take a dip, have lunch by the water, and soak up panoramic views of the Savage Range.
If there’s snow over the pass (not uncommon, even in summer), you can still enjoy either lake as a scenic out-and-back. Be sure to check recent AllTrails reviews for up-to-date trail conditions.
Après-Hike Reward: Brews & Bites
After clocking those miles, reward yourself with a cold pint at Vail Brewing Company in Eagle-Vail. This local favorite has a relaxed vibe, a sunny patio with mountain views. Pair your brew with tacos from the Rocky Mountain Taco Truck parked right outside – some of the best tacos in the Valley!
Dinner Upgrade: Sushi with a View
Craving something a little more refined after a hot shower? Head into Vail Village and snag a table at Yama. This intimate sushi spot is a hidden gem with some of the best sushi in town (and patio!!!). Sit outside with sake and soak in sweeping views of the Gore Range as the sun sets.
Want to keep the evening going?
If you’re not quite ready to call it a night, check out my full guide on Where to Apres in Vail Like a Local. Whether you’re in the mood for craft cocktails or live music, there’s a spot that’ll match your post-hike vibe perfectly.
Sunday: One Last Hike & a Stroll Through Vail’s Farmers Market
Morning Magic on Stag Gulch Trail
Make the most of your final morning in Vail with one more soul-refreshing hike. Head west toward Edwards and set your GPS to the Colorow Creek Trailhead, the starting point for the Stag Gulch Trail. Use AllTrails to guide you there and help you stay on course during your hike.
You’ve got options with this one: while the full loop clocks in at 6.7 miles, I usually hike it as an out-and-back to the summit meadow, making it a manageable 5-mile roundtrip. At the top, you’ll come to an open field bursting with wildflowers and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and you’ll know exactly why this trail is a favorite.
In early summer, expect a sea of golden Desert Mule’s Ear lighting up the trail. This trail is the perfect way to soak in the last bit of mountain magic before heading home.
Midday Treat: Vail Farmers Market
After your hike, head back toward Vail Village for the Vail Farmers Market & Art Show, open every Sunday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM (mid-June through early October). With over 40 food vendors, artists, and local farms lining the cobblestone streets, this is the most charming farmers market around.
Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet grilled cheese or the best BBQ around, there’s something here for every craving. Of course, you can’t leave without visiting the Dang Sweets tent. Their handmade pastries are dream worthy. I’m still dreaming about that flaky peach tart, and my husband swears by their gluten-free Basque cheesecake. Whatever you try, it’s gonna be good.
Soak It All In Before You Head Out
Take a little time to wander the art stalls, sip on an iced coffee, and browse through farm-fresh produce for the road. This is your last dose of mountain town magic before heading home and the perfect way to end a weekend packed with trails and high-altitude joy.
Itinerary Recap
Friday
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Arrive in Vail
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Dinner at Il Mago in Edwards (Happy Hour 4:30–6:00 PM)
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Early night
Saturday
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Drive to Missouri Lakes & Fancy Lakes Loop (8.6 mi)
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Hike counter-clockwise via Fancy Lake
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Swim, lunch, and views at Missouri Lake
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Après at Vail Brewing Co. + Rocky Mountain Taco
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Dinner at Yama in Vail Village
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Optional night cap
Sunday
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Hike Stag Gulch Trail (5–6.7 mi)
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Lunch at Vail Farmers Market
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Visit Dang Sweets pastry tent
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Explore art tents before heading home
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