Piney Lake
An alpine lake at the end of a dirt road north of Vail, reflecting the Gore Range, with boating, horseback riding, hiking and a ranch restaurant on the shore.
Piney Lake is about 18 km north of Vail. It takes about 40 minutes to drive there along Piney Lake Road, which turns into gravel near the end. The lake's surface reflects the peaks of the Gore Range, making it one of the most photogenic alpine lakes near Vail. The Piney River Ranch on the lakeshore operates in summer, offering kayak, stand-up paddleboard and canoe rentals, horseback riding and a restaurant. You can also hike from the lake into the Eagles Nest Wilderness. The road is closed in winter, and after rain conditions can be poor, so drive slowly if you are in a regular car. Parking is tight on weekends, so arrive early.
Opening hours
Summer, about mid-June to September
Nearby sights
- Lionshead Village
- Vail Village
- Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame
- Vail Mountain
- Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
- Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
- Eagle's Nest & Eagle Bahn Gondola
- Booth Falls