Nature Discovery Center, Vail Travel Guide

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Explore Vail's alpine ecology at this mountaintop center with exhibits, guided hikes & snowshoe tours. A family-friendly adventure!

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Nature Discovery Center

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
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nature Discovery Center.

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.

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Vail Nature Center | Walking Mountains

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Explore Nature Discovery Center on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Nature Discovery Center, mapped for you.

Getting There

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.
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.
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

Nestled near the Eagle's Nest building at the summit of Vail Mountain, the Nature Discovery Center serves as a gateway to understanding the unique environment of the Colorado Rockies. Since opening in 2000, this mountaintop center, operated by the Walking Mountains Science Center in partnership with Vail Resorts and the White River National Forest, has offered visitors meaningful access to the wonders of the natural world.The center features a variety of natural history exhibits showcasing local wildlife, including ravens, weasels, lynx, and black bears. Knowledgeable naturalists lead free nature hikes and snowshoe tours, providing insights into the plants, animals, and ecology of the mountain environment. In the summer, explore the subalpine habitat and learn how animals adapt to the season. During winter, snowshoe tours reveal Vail in its snow-covered finery.The Nature Discovery Center is not only an educational hub but also a starting point for outdoor adventures. It's easily accessible via the Eagle Bahn Gondola from Lionshead Village, making it a convenient and memorable experience for all ages. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking to immerse yourself in nature, the center provides an enriching and unforgettable experience.Note that the Nature Discovery Center's days and hours of operation can vary depending on the season. Registration may be required for tours, so it's best to check their official website and events calendar before planning your visit.