With the advent of COVID-19 in Eagle Valley, many of the usual summer kid activities have been closed due to the public health orders. However, the playgrounds have been open for active kiddos! So come on into American Ski Exchange, grab some sunscreen and have a look around! You may end up with a few cute Vail souvenirs or an adorable Wild Republic stuffed animal – like one of the many animals gracing our gorgeous mountains! They are one of our biggest hits for kids!
Here is an itinerary of playgrounds that stretch from Lionshead to West Vail. Whether you walk, bike, or drive, make it an adventure!
Lionshead
We recommend starting your adventure in the heart of Lionshead. Here, you can take in the sights of this Bavarian inspired village. While you are meandering, stop into one of the many restaurants with patio seating for lunch (COVID-19 precautions included). Then, make your way past the ice skating rink that is centrally located and surrounded by the Arrabelle. Just a few steps (or an escalator ride) from the ice skating rink, and you reach Sunbird Park Playground. It is a favorite in the winter because of its central Lionshead location – just steps away the mountain and hotel accommodations.
Sunbird Park Playground
Once the kiddos are tired of playing at this playground, take them across the pedestrian bridge that overarches I-70. You can reach the pedestrian bridge by heading towards the Little Diner and turning right at the Lionshead bus stop. The pedestrian bridge will take you to North Recreation Path. This path is a great place to have kids ride their bikes, scooters, or skateboards. It is also a great path for a long walk with incredible views of Vail Mountain. The mountain is just as pretty (if not prettier) in the summer! Both Buffehr Creek Park and Red Sandstone Park can be accessed along this path. For those who are not into walking, both of these parks have their own parking lots.
Along North Recreation Path
The first playground you will encounter along North Recreation Path is Buffehr Creek Park. The second playground you will encounter is Red Sandstone Park. Take a few snacks to enjoy at the picnic tables while the kids play. These playgrounds don’t tend to be overly crowded – so you may just get lucky enough to have them to yourself!
Buffehr Creek Park Address: 1950 Chamonix Ln, Vail, CO 81657
Red Sandstone Park Address: 715 N Frontage Rd W, Vail, CO 81657
West Vail: Donovan Park Address: 1600 S Frontage Rd W, Vail, CO 81657 Website: https://www.donovanpavilion.com/
