September in the Mountains: Golden Leaves, Quiet Trails, and One Last Gondola Ride

While summer may be winding down in other parts of the country, early fall in the Vail Valley is a local’s favorite season. The weather is still warm, the trails are less crowded, and the golden glow of aspen leaves is right around the corner.

If you're planning to be in town for Labor Day or anytime in early September, here's your reminder that some of the best fun in the Vail Valley comes when you simply step outside your home.

🍂 What’s On in September:

• Leaf Peeping: Early to mid-September is prime time for fall colors in Vail and Beaver Creek. Take a scenic drive over Shrine Pass, or head up the Berry Picker trail to see golden aspens glowing.

• Gondola Rides & Mountaintop Picnics: Most gondolas shut down by mid-September, so now’s the time to squeeze in one last ride. Bring a picnic and enjoy the views from Eagle’s Nest or Spruce Saddle.

• Jeep Tours & E-Bike Adventures: Fall is perfect for backcountry Jeep tours or long e-bike rides—cool temps and fewer crowds make it ideal. The Eagle Bike Park continues to impress with its layout and flow. Not all great rides require a gondola.

• Dine Without the Wait: Enjoy the peace of post-peak season. Dinner reservations are easier to snag, and the valley’s best restaurants are still in full swing. Now’s the time to get that coveted table at Matsuhisa, Ticino, or Vin 48 without a wait.

• Sweater Weather is Here: Warm days give way to cool, crisp evenings. It’s the perfect time for s’mores around the fire, cozy patios, and layering up for a starlit stroll through the villages.

  
  

📌 Insider Tip: If you're a winter regular, buy your Epic Pass before the next price bump—it’s usually the best deal you’ll get all year.

Whether you’re here to soak up the last days of summer or sneak in some planning before ski season, September is a hidden gem in the mountains.