Your 2024 Guide to Spring Break in the Vail Valley

It’s officially time to dive into the “ins” and “outs” of spring break in one of Colorado's most picturesque destinations. Whether you're a seasoned spring breaker or a first-timer, we have plenty of tips, tricks, and Mountain INNsider knowledge to ensure your Vail Valley getaway is nothing short of epic. 

Can I even take a spring break?

While late March/early April is known by most as the spring time break for students, it has become a trend in recent years for working adults to enjoy the changing seasons, too. What to consider:

  • Pick your dates. It's important to weigh what's going on when choosing dates. Look for events, and three-day holiday weekends to give you more activities to do while away while saving on your PTO. 

  • Pick your location. When deciding where to go, you should think about the time of year, climate, activities, and events offered in the area. For example, The Vail Valley’s ski and snowboard season is typically still in full-swing during spring break, making for great trips to the mountains to catch the best of spring skiing while you still can. 

  • Plan your stay. After you have all the logistics down, you can get to planning your spring break trip (the best part). Whether your vacation will be a long weekend in the mountains or a full week of relaxing, it’s important to have some activities planned. 

For the one who wants to unwind.

Young students and working adults all need a break every once in a while. A few days out of town and “out of office” are necessary for resetting. Here are a few of our favorite ways to relax in The Vail Valley:

  • Hit the spa. See the relaxing benefits of float spa treatments at Dreams Float Spa in Avon or spend the afternoon getting a massage at Bubbles Day Spa.

  • Sleep in. A necessity for any spring break. Make sure you pick a stay with comfortable beds and the amenities you want! Those plush beds and toppers will not go underappreciated. 

  • Hike or Snowshoe. The Inn’s complimentary Gear Garage for guests features snowshoes for check out. Explore the nearby trails on foot or strap on snowshoes for snowier weather. 

  • Fish Eagle River. Spring brings some great trout fishing to Edwards. Store your gear in the hotel’s gear garage, or book a guide through Vail Valley Anglers.

  • Wine and Beer Tours. Make an afternoon your own “sip tour” through the Vail Valley. Craftsmen Brew Co. and The Drunken Goat in Edwards, CO are a  “must-add” to your itinerary and great places to start.  

For the one who wants to see it all.

For some, the excitement of time off means taking in all the activities, dining, and area experiences. Here are a few tips for planning a trip to the Vail Valley:

  • Book your calendars. There are so many events and activities taking place in Edwards, CO. Taste of Vail in April is a must-visit event for any foodie. See our monthly Event Calendar to stay up to date on all the happenings.  

  • Tour the Valley on Horseback. See the budding flowers and snow-dusted mountains on horseback. Browse a few of the stables nearby to reserve your dates. 

  • Spend the day in Gypsum. See a bit more of the Valley golfing at Gypsum Creek Golf Course, opening mid-March.

  • Book your spaces. Whatever plans you make in the area, it's important to make reservations. Spring break is a busy time of the year, and dining out on the weekends calls for reservations at some restaurants. Call ahead!

For the powder chaser.

For some, a spring break trip to the Colorado mountains filled with epic skiing and snowboarding is all they need to make for a dream vacation. There are also some fun things happening off the slopes this time of year:

  • Spring Skiing. Surrounded by ski resorts, Edwards, CO is one of the best spring break locations for skiers. Ski world-class mountains like Vail Mountain or Beaver Creek. See more about spring skiing in the Valley. 

  • Gladed Skiing. Ski through the trees on gladed runs in the valley. Whether you are just beginning to get into gladed skiing, or are ready for a double-black, see our guide to gladed skiing for all you need to know to come prepared. 

  • Après Concerts. After a day of skiing, treat yourself to dancing and socializing at Vail’s Après Concerts

  • Hot Tub Hangouts. Whether you ski or not, you have to schedule some time to dip into a hot tub to relax those muscles while you are in town. The Inn at Riverwalk’s year-round outdoor hot tub makes stargazing and winding down after a long day of exploring ten times easier. 

Where to Stay

The Inn at Riverwalk is the best place to stay in Edwards this ski season. Close to the action, yet away from it all, The Inn is an independent hotel in the heart of Edwards offering a modern and relaxing home base for your adventures. Outdoor access is easy from The Inn’s doors. Located just minutes from Beaver Creek Mountain and surrounded by numerous hiking and biking trails, 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 The Inn is centrally located. Guests 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 stay at The Inn today.

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