Exciting news for wanderlusters was recently released by the Eagle County Regional Airport that has us counting down to the start of summer. Mark your calendars and prepare for a getaway, because the Vail Valley is now more accessible than ever with two brand-new direct flight routes launching June 7th. The Vail Valley, known as a skier’s paradise in the winter turns into a haven for activities like whitewater rafting, hiking and biking in the summer. 

As temperatures rise for the warmer seasons, Edwards and the surrounding Vail Valley transform into a playground teeming with activities and events for mountain goers of all kinds. Nature enthusiasts converge on the area, drawn by breathtaking trails in the Eagle’s Nest Wilderness and along the Upper Piney River. For cyclists, winding mountain trails and scenic routes like the Copper-Vail Valley-Leadville Loop offer endless exploration. And that's just the beginning—there are attractions like high-end cuisine, family-friendly activities, and mountain relaxation waiting in Edwards, the valley’s largest town. 

New direct flights to and from Chicago, IL will be available from June 7th to September 1st this year, while a new direct route from Houston, TX will be operational from June 7th to August 18th. Additionally, United Airlines is expanding its services this year with four daily flights to Denver during the summer months.

Both the Chicago and the Houston flights into Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), the valley’s hub airport, arrive regularly on Friday and Saturday evenings and depart the Valley on Saturday and Sunday mornings. 

Other Ways In: Getting to the Vail Valley

Driving

In the summer months, driving to Edwards and the greater Vail Valley gives travelers some of the most beautiful views. Road trippers can enjoy mountain scenery and lush green landscapes that Colorado is famous for. A trip along I-70 brings visitors into the Valley from both East and West. Edwards is a great year-round destination to enjoy, but for those wanting to get the full lay of the land or planning to just pass through on a larger journey, multi-stop road trips are popular through this area. 

Flying

For those traveling from out of state, or those just wanting to make their travel experience more streamlined, flying is a great option. 

1. Private Flights

Aside from commercial flights, the valley has great fixed-based-operator services. Travelers can fly into the Vail Valley Jet Center at the EGE. 

2. Commercial Flights

Luckily, our mountain valley has its very own regional airport making travel to and from the area simple and stress free. Flight routes into the valley include departure cities like New York, Austin, TX, San Francisco, CA and Phoenix, AZ, just to name a few.

For those flying internationally, travelers can choose a route with a layover in Denver or choose to land in Denver and drive to The Vail Valley. The drive from Denver to Edwards is approximately two hours. 

Winter Travelers: Planning Ahead

It’s never too early to start thinking about the coming season for skiing and other activities. It’s important to keep in mind that driving to Edwards in the winter can be both beautiful and, at times, unpredictable. To avoid potential road closures and severe weather conditions, we recommend flying into the Valley for better ease. Denver travelers can conveniently fly directly into EGE. Direct flights arrive into the Valley from 13 other major destinations throughout the winter months, as well. 

Where to Stay:

The Inn at Riverwalk is the best place to stay in Edwards during every season. Close to the action, yet away from it all, The Inn is Edwards’ only independent hotel, located right in the heart of town on the historic Riverwalk. It offers a modern and relaxing home base for your adventures, whether summer or winter travel is more your style. Outdoor access is easy from The Inn’s doors, with the Eagle River flowing right behind the property accompanied by a scenic river path. Also located just minutes from Beaver Creek Mountain and surrounded by numerous hiking and biking trails for the summer season, nature is at your fingertips here. 

The Inn is surrounded by more than just national forest; there are dozens of local shops and restaurants in downtown Riverwalk, where guests can immerse themselves in local culture. Guests of The Inn also receive exclusive discounts on dining, shopping, and activities at many local businesses, as an added bonus.

Do it all, or nothing at all. Book your spring or summer stay at The Inn today.