Nature Discovery Center: Vail's Mountaintop Ecology Hub
Explore Vail's alpine ecology at this mountaintop center with exhibits, guided hikes & snowshoe tours. A family-friendly adventure!
The Nature Discovery Center, perched atop Vail Mountain, offers an engaging introduction to the local wildlife and ecology of the Colorado Rockies. Accessible via a scenic gondola ride, this unassuming yurt is packed with exhibits and offers free guided hikes and snowshoe tours. It's a perfect family-friendly destination for learning about the natural world.
A brief summary to Nature Discovery Center
- Main Vail Spur C, Vail, Colorado, 81657, US
- +1970-945-2521
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the Nature Discovery Center's schedule in advance, as hours vary seasonally.
- Purchase a scenic gondola ticket or have a valid ski pass to access the center via the Eagle Bahn Gondola.
- Join a free guided nature hike or snowshoe tour led by a trained naturalist to enhance your experience.
- Bring binoculars to spot local wildlife and enjoy the majestic mountain views.
Getting There
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Gondola
To reach the Nature Discovery Center, take the Eagle Bahn Gondola from Lionshead Village. Purchase a scenic gondola ticket, which varies in price depending on the season and any current promotions, or use a valid ski pass. The gondola ride offers scenic views of Vail Mountain. The Nature Discovery Center is a short walk from the Eagle's Nest building at the top of the gondola.
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Parking
If driving to Lionshead Village, park in the Lionshead Parking Structure. The first hour is free, and it's $2 per hour with a maximum of $10 per day. Parking is free after 3 p.m. until 4 a.m.. From the parking structure, walk to the Eagle Bahn Gondola.
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Public Transport
Take the free Town of Vail bus to the Lionshead Village. From the Lionshead Transit Center, walk to the Eagle Bahn Gondola. The Town of Vail offers free year-round bus service throughout Vail.
Discover more about Nature Discovery Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
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Explore the sweet side of Vail at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, where handcrafted chocolates and gourmet treats await every visitor.
Vail Village Popcorn Wagon
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Liftside Condominiums
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Shakedown Bar
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Left Bank Restaurant
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J. Cotter Gallery - The Gold and Silversmith of Vail
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Root & Flower
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Joe's Famous Deli
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Sitzmark Vail
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Artful Sol Gallery
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Wild Bill's Emporium
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Larkspur Events & Dining
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Lion Square Lodge at the Gondola - Managed by Vacasa
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Sonnenalp Vail
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Tivoli Lodge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gondola One
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Vail Village
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Pirate Ship Playground
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Vail Interfaith Chapel
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Albert Einstein Statue
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International Bridge
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Eagle Bahn Gondola
2.7 km
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Vail International Gallery
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Covered Bridge
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Vail Epic Discovery
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Epic Discovery Ticket Office
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10th Mountain Division Memorial
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Vail
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Black Tie Ski & Bike Rentals in Vail & Beaver Creek
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Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame
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Essential places to dine
Gessner
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Express Lift Bar
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Almresi Vail
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Los Amigos
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First Chair
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Elway's
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Bully Ranch Restaurant
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Vendettas Restaurant
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Big Bear Bistro
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The Blü Cow
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Red Lion
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Ludwig's Breakfast
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Sweet Basil
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Lancelot Restaurant
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Swiss Chalet Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alaskan Shop
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Michele's Estate Jewelry and Silver
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Vail Resort Wear
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Lady Jones
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DAVIDOR Boutique Vail
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The Gilded Spruce
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Res Ipsa
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Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Village Gift Shop
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The Golden Bear
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Lolo Rugs and Gifts
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Generation Vail
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Wishes Toys
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Loro Piana
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Crazy Shirts
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Infusion Fine Gifts
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Bridge Street Bar
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The Gambit Bar
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The Remedy Bar at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail
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Bart & Yeti's
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Altitude Bar and Grill
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Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
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RMU Breckenridge
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Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
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Base Nine
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Prospector
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Ollie's Pub & Grub Breck
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Aurum Food & Wine Breckenridge
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