Ridge Route Trail
Distance
1.4 miles (one way)Difficulty
IntermediateCrowds
HighFinding this popular trail can be a bit tricky for first-timers. From the Eagles Nest gondola area head south towards signs for Game Creek. Shortly after, at a junction where several service roads converge from the Eagles Nest Ridge, look for the Grand Traverse bike trail signs. Pass Grand Traverse and continue up the service road for another 20 yards until you spot the Ridge Route trail marker.
Initially, Ridge Route runs parallel to the Grand Traverse trail but gradually diverges, leading you across ski runs, wildflower meadows, and shaded groves. Near the top, Ridge Route intersects with Ptarmigan Loop but officially concludes at the summit of Game Creek bowl. From here, you can choose to either switchback to the top of the Wildwood ski lift or bushwhack a few feet up to the Game Creek ski lift.
Ridge Route Trail
Care for Colorado: Leave No Trace
Exploring Vail goes hand in hand with caring for our beautiful natural environment. Here’s how you can do your part!
Stay on the Trail
No shortcuts — going off trail compromises trail construction, kills the vegetation, increases soil erosion and may result in reduced water quality.
Pack Out Trash
Stash it until you can trash it — anything you bring with you, you must pack back out. Trash can hurt wildlife and contaminate water ways.
Dog Do's and Don'ts
Do pick up the doo — pack out all dog poop. Don’t let dogs off leash to protect them from wildlife and protect wildlife from them.
Respect Wildlife
Give them space — observe wildlife from a distance and do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals as it can alter their behavior.
Plan Ahead
Take the trail less traveled — there are more than 100 miles of hiking trails in the Vail area! Use the trail guide to discover area trails and, whenever possible, ride a bike or take a free Town of Vail bus to the trailhead.
Dogs & Leashes
Dogs are allowed in the White River National Forest, but may not be on permitted in certain areas of Vail Resorts. Please adhere to any posted signs. We recommend that you keep your dog on a leash when you are in Vail Resort and around other forest users, other dogs, or are in bear country.
Explore Other Hikes
Lost Lake Trail
Upper Piney River Trail
Shrine Ridge Trail
North Trail (Buffehr Creek to Red Sandstone)
Deluge Lake Trail
Booth Lake Trail
Son of Middle Creek Trail
Ptarmigan Loop
