The best hikes from bus stations in Holy Cross Wilderness
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710
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Hiking in Holy Cross Wilderness offers diverse terrain characterized by rugged ridgelines, glacier-carved valleys, and extensive spruce-fir forests. The region features elevations ranging from approximately 8,500 feet to over 14,000 feet, including the iconic Mount of the Holy Cross. Numerous alpine lakes and cascading streams are prominent features, contributing to the area's natural beauty. The wilderness provides a network of trails suitable for various hiking abilities, from gentle paths to challenging ascents.
Best bus station hiking trails in Holy Cross Wilderness
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Market Square at Beaver Creek loop from Beaver Creek, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This easy route features a moderate elevation gain through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Arrowhead Mountain loop from Bachelor Gulch, a moderate 6.7 miles (10.8 km) path. This trail offers significant elevation changes and views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
- Local hikers also love the Eagle Valley Trail Picnic Area – Eagle Valley Trail loop from Avon, a 3.9 miles (6.4 km) trail leading through riverside areas, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking in Holy Cross Wilderness is defined by rugged ridgelines, glacier-carved valleys, and numerous alpine lakes. The trail network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging mountain paths.
- The routes in Holy Cross Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from several reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Holy Cross Wilderness's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
2
hikers
5.81km
01:50
250m
250m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
10.8km
03:26
460m
460m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
15
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
11.8km
03:08
120m
120m
The Vail – Old Town of Vail loop from Chamonix Lane offers a refreshing escape into the diverse landscapes surrounding Vail. You'll wind through mixed pine and aspen forests, enjoying rewarding views of Vail Mountain, and as you climb, the trail opens up to expansive vistas of the Holy Cross Wilderness and the Gore Range. This moderate 7.3-mile (11.8 km) hike involves 397 feet (121 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 3 hours and 7 minutes.
Before you head out, be aware that the North Trail system, which this loop utilizes, is subject to seasonal closures, usually from April 15 to June 15 or 20, to protect elk during calving season. Access begins near Chamonix Lane, and to complete your loop back to Old Town Vail, you'll likely connect via the free Town of Vail bus system or the paved Gore Valley Trail.
This route is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Vail area without the crowds often found on other popular trails. It provides a more serene hiking experience, showcasing diverse alpine plants and offering a quiet environment, making it a great option for those seeking a peaceful journey through the wilderness.
6
hikers
8.63km
02:18
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This trail runs through the valley along the Eagle River and I-70 corridor. It connects many towns and parks and offers great views along the way. It is a paved, multi-use path, so be courteous to your fellow trail users who may be going along at a slower pace.
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Gore Creek Trail follows Gore Creek, a tributary of the Eagle River, which flows through the heart of downtown Vail. The path connects Lionshead and Vail Village via the scenic Gore Creek Path. This paved path offers a leisurely walk or bike ride, perfect for enjoying Vail’s charm. The trail spans 2 miles through town but extends nearly 19 miles as the Gore Valley Trail for those seeking a longer journey. Dog-friendly and easily accessible from most Vail hotels, the path has beautiful views, opportunities for fly fishing, and the peaceful ambiance of the mountain town.
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Gore Creek Trail follows Gore Creek, a tributary of the Eagle River, which flows through the heart of downtown Vail. The path connects Lionshead and Vail Village via the scenic Gore Creek Path. This paved path offers a leisurely walk or bike ride, perfect for enjoying Vail’s charm. The trail spans 2 miles through town but extends nearly 19 miles as the Gore Valley Trail for those seeking a longer journey. Dog-friendly and easily accessible from most Vail hotels, the path has beautiful views, opportunities for fly fishing, and the peaceful ambiance of the mountain town.
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Avondale Lane takes riders right under the awning and loading area of Market Square at Beaver Creek. This area has hotels, shops, and an ice rink and is a popular winter and summer destination. The Beaver Creek architecture mimics the European Alpine village look.
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Although the town of Vail is best known for its world-famous ski resort, there is a lot more to this town than that. The town is surrounded by hiking and biking trails, like the popular Booth Falls Trail, and other activities such as fly-fishing and gondola rides. In the summer, golfers can also tee off at Vail Golf Club. The town itself offers a mix of upscale boutiques, art galleries, and unique shops in Vail Village and Lionshead. There are restaurants, cafes, and breweries too for you to grab a great bite to eat at after a day of adventuring.
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This is a nice place to stop in Avon when riding along the Eagle Valley Trail. There are picnic tables and trash cans right off the trail for you to use.
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Whether you want to call it the old town or not is up to you. In any case, you "hike" from the parking lot through the nice retort district to the cable car. In the evenings, Vale becomes a kitschy, test-tube town that still has a lot of flair. Made for hungry skiers looking for one of the nice restaurants to feed themselves. There are plenty of shops and restaurants here. The price level is quite high, adjusted to the flow of tourists. However, the quality is usually quite good. You should have seen it. If not, you haven't missed anything. By the way, the district is quite small and can be explored quickly. The restaurant search in the evening takes a little longer because the bars are very well stocked. It's worth booking in advance so you don't end up on the second shift eating.
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Pretty walking trail from Four Seasons all the way to West Vail
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus station accessible hiking trails are available in Holy Cross Wilderness?
There are 8 hiking routes in the Holy Cross Wilderness that are accessible from bus stations. These trails range from easy strolls to more challenging moderate hikes, offering diverse experiences for all skill levels.
Are there any easy hiking trails accessible by bus in the Holy Cross Wilderness?
Yes, there are 4 easy hiking trails accessible by bus. A great option for a relaxed outing is the Eagle Valley Trail Picnic Area – Eagle Valley Trail loop from Avon, which is 6.3 km long and features minimal elevation gain. Another easy choice is the Market Square at Beaver Creek loop from Beaver Creek, a 5.8 km route perfect for a leisurely walk.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on bus-accessible hikes in Holy Cross Wilderness?
The Holy Cross Wilderness is renowned for its dramatic, glacier-carved valleys, rugged ridgelines, and dense spruce-fir forests. Even on bus-accessible trails, you'll experience the region's natural beauty, often encountering cascading streams and, depending on the season, vibrant aspen groves. While some of the more remote alpine lakes require longer treks, the bus-accessible routes provide a taste of this stunning Rocky Mountain environment.
Are there any longer, moderate hikes accessible from bus stations?
Absolutely. For a more extended adventure, consider the Gore Creek Trail – Ford Park loop from Chamonix Lane, which spans 14.4 km and offers a moderate challenge. Another excellent moderate option is the Arrowhead Mountain loop from Bachelor Gulch, covering 10.8 km with scenic views.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in Holy Cross Wilderness?
The Holy Cross Wilderness is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility of these trails from public transport, allowing them to immerse themselves in the stunning mountain scenery and enjoy well-maintained paths without needing a car.
Can I find any lakes or water features along these bus-accessible routes?
While many of the wilderness's 160+ alpine lakes require deeper backcountry access, some bus-accessible routes offer glimpses of the region's 'water wilderness' character. For instance, the Gore Creek Trail loop from Chamonix Lane follows Gore Creek, providing pleasant riverside scenery. For specific lake destinations, you might need to plan a longer hike from a trailhead, but highlights like Bear Lake or West Tennessee Lakes are notable attractions in the broader wilderness area.
Are there any points of interest or landmarks near the bus-accessible trails?
Yes, the Holy Cross Wilderness is rich with natural beauty. While hiking bus-accessible trails, you'll be in proximity to areas that offer stunning views. Notable natural highlights in the wider region include Fancy Pass, known for its dramatic mountain scenery, and various pristine lakes such as Saint Kevin Lake, which are part of the wilderness's allure.
Are these bus-accessible trails suitable for families?
Many of the easy bus-accessible trails are well-suited for families. Routes like the Eagle Valley Trail Picnic Area – Eagle Valley Trail loop from Avon are relatively flat and shorter, making them enjoyable for children and those looking for a less strenuous outing. Always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
What is the best time of year to hike these bus-accessible trails?
The prime hiking season in the Holy Cross Wilderness, including trails accessible by bus, typically runs from mid-July to mid-September. During this period, you can expect clear trails, abundant wildflowers, and generally stable weather conditions. Fall also offers spectacular views as the aspen groves turn golden, though temperatures will be cooler.
Are dogs allowed on the bus-accessible hiking trails in Holy Cross Wilderness?
Generally, dogs are permitted on trails within the Holy Cross Wilderness, but they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, which includes packing out all pet waste. It's advisable to check specific trail regulations or local signage for any temporary restrictions before heading out.
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