Tubing down Gore Creek is one of the most rewarding summer experiences for families visiting Vail. With its calm mountain water, scenic surroundings, and convenient access, Gore Creek offers a kid-friendly adventure that feels spontaneous yet easy to plan. For Vail locals, tubing with children is a cherished tradition—and one that gets even better when families know where to go, what to bring, and how to float safely. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a smooth, fun-filled day that delights everyone from toddlers to teens.
The Best Time for Family Tubing
The ideal family tubing season in Vail falls between July through August, when snowmelt has tapered off and creek conditions become calm and manageable. Earlier in the summer—especially in May or early June—water levels are high, cold, and fast-moving, making tubing unsafe for young children. By July, however, Gore Creek tends to flow gently and predictably, with water temperatures warming up under the alpine sun.
Vail’s elevation and weather patterns also influence the day’s tubing rhythm. Locals favor early afternoon floats, when the sun is warm but not scorching and thunderstorms are less likely. Choosing weekdays helps families avoid larger crowds and allows more space on the creek for a relaxed ride.
Before heading out, many families check water flow data or stop by a local outfitter for a quick update on creek conditions. A flow rate of 100–200 cubic feet per second (cfs) is generally considered safe for kids, while anything above that requires extra caution or a change of plans.
Where to Launch and Land with Kids
Not all stretches of Gore Creek are suitable for tubing with children, but Vail offers a few segments that are perfectly suited to family fun. Local parents tend to stick to short, mellow routes with easy access to parking, bathrooms, and nearby parks.
Top Family Tubing Route: Ford Park to Vail Village
This popular stretch is about 20- 30 minutes long and features a gentle current, easy put-in and take-out points, and scenery that includes alpine gardens, tall trees, and mountain views. Ford Park has ample space for organizing gear, and Vail Village offers playgrounds and restaurants for a natural transition from water to land-based fun.
Do not float downstream of Lionshead. The route is full of large rapids, strainers, rocks, and other river hazards.
How to Prepare for a Safe and Comfortable Float
Vail’s mountain climate and creek conditions make safety and comfort top priorities, especially for families. Most local parents agree that the key to a successful float is packing the right gear and setting clear expectations with kids ahead of time.
Tubing Essentials for Families:
- Life jackets for all children, regardless of swimming ability
- Covered-bottom tubes with backrests for stability and comfort
- Water shoes or closed-toe sandals for better grip and foot protection
- Lightweight sun-protective clothing, hats, and waterproof sunscreen
- Dry bag with a towel, snack, first-aid items, and a phone for emergencies
Before getting on the water, review simple safety rules with children. Teach them how to stay calm if they fall off their tube, float on their backs with feet downstream, and look for an adult or the shoreline. Families with very young kids should float in pairs—one adult to every child—to keep things safe and manageable.
Keep the Fun Going After the Float
Gore Creek tubing is just one part of what can become a full day of family-friendly adventure. After drying off and changing into comfortable clothes, many families head straight to nearby parks, ice cream shops, or outdoor patios to relax and refuel. Lionshead Village, in particular, offers everything from casual lunch spots to shaded play areas—making it the perfect end to a tubing day.
Make your Vail family tubing trip effortless and fun! Call 970-476-1477 for insider tips, trusted gear recommendations, and expert guidance to plan the safest, most memorable Gore Creek adventure for your kids. Let us help you create a summer day they’ll never forget!