Booth Falls Trail

The Booth Fall Trail can be hiked independently. From the trailhead, you’ll head straight into a steep section for the first 0.6 miles (1 kilometer), which then changes to a more gradual incline until you reach the last 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) of steep switchbacks that lead to the top of Booth Falls (Booth Creek Falls). Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of sandstone formations of the Booth Creek drainage valley, Vail Valley, and the Gore range.

• Wear proper footwear and bring lots of water, snacks, sun protection, and insect repellent.

• There are no barriers at the top of Booth Falls; keep a close eye on kids and pets, and don’t get too close to the falls.

• Leashed dogs are permitted on the trail, though not on the Vail shuttle, with the exception of service dogs.

• The trail is also known as the Booth Creek Falls Trail.

The Booth Falls trailhead is located off Booth Creek Road in East Vail. There is no parking at the trailhead or in the surrounding areas from May 31 through to fall. Hikers must be dropped off or take the East Vail or the seasonal Hiker Express shuttle from the Vail Village Transportation Center. Free parking for the shuttle can be found at Vail Village or Lionshead parking structure.

The Booth Falls Trail can be enjoyed year-round, though it’s best between June and October, when the trail will most likely be snow-free. Expect wildflowers in the summer (and the potential for afternoon thunderstorms) and colorful foliage in the fall. It can get busy during peak times, such as weekends and holidays. The Hiker Express shuttle runs between May 31 and October 13.

Although most hikers turn around once they reach Booth Falls, you can extend the hike to Booth Lake (Booth Creek Lake) by continuing on for another 2.7 miles (4.3 kilometers) until you reach the lake, for a total one-way distance of 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) and 3,050 feet (930 meters) in elevation change. Start early in the day if you plan to go all the way to Booth Lake and back.