601 Vail Valley Drive • Vail, CO 81657      |      Directions      |       Calendar of Events
970-479-2291      |      Fax 970-479-3459      |       nature@vailrec.com

A log cabin perched between an alpine meadow and the forested bank of Gore Creek houses the Vail Nature Center. This seven-acre facility, in the heart of Vail, is a tranquil gem whose knowledgeable staff hosts informative bird, wildflower and beaver pond hikes, as well as the Vail Hiking Club. Camp Eco Fun is heaven for children. Classes in the art and photography of nature or fly fishing are available. They even offer stargazing after dark or an opportunity to meet Colorado's amazing raptors. With such a wide variety of offerings, the Vail Nature Center always seeks volunteers. The Nature Center is open seven days per week Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, plus winter on a limited basis.

Family, Adult, Children’s Programs       |      All Ages   |  Information
Each week the Nature Center offers programs that teach based on Vail's natural surroundings. Perfect for anyone and everyone, especially families, activities include wildflower walks, beaver pond tours, star gazing, morning bird walks and more. 

Camp Eco Fun       |      Ages 4 to 12  |                  Information
The Nature Center joins VRD Youth Services for a unique day-camp, which familiarizes children with the beautiful alpine environment surrounding Vail. The adventure awaits just steps from your front door. Click here for details.

Hiking Programs       |      Ages 18 and Older   |   Information 
Join the Nature Center for a morning, a full day or the entire summer and venture into Vail's surrounding wildnerness where you're learn about the local flora and fauna. Half day and full day hikes are available for ages 16 and older, as well as a summertime hiking club. Reservations required.

Fly Fishing/Stream Ecology    |  All Ages    |  Information
The fly fishing and stream ecology program is comprised of education about ecosystem and entomology (study of insects), as well as teaches the basic tools and knowleadge of fly fishing. It caters to all age groups and abilities and includes lessons for children, adult and families. Reservation required.

Art in Nature      |    Youth and Adult Programs    |  Information
Students of all skill levels learn how to blend art with nature including sketching, acrylics, printmaking, paper making and more. Class schedules to be determined. Reservations required.

Photo Safaris     |    Ages 16 and Older     |  Information
These Photo Safaris with Master Photographer Dennis Jones will include spending an enjoyable morning exploring the beauty of the Vail Valley with your camera. Master Photographer Dennis Jones will teach you easy techniques and tricks that will immediately improve your photography. Reservations required.

Groups
The Nature Center can host a variety of groups from school-age children to senior citizens. Costs vary and programs are tailored to fit the group’s needs. Call for details.

Volunteers
Each summer the Nature Center seeks volunteers to assist with facilitation of programs. Volunteers are needed for maintenance projects, gardening projects and facility upkeep. Call for details.

 Directions
The Nature Center is located just east of Vail Village, across Gore Creek from the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and the Ford Amphitheater. Parking is available at the Soccer Field or Tennis Center.

The VRD is an equal opportunity service provider and operates under special permission from the White River National Forest.