Rafting

The Vail Valley has plenty of rafting options for the whole gang from mild to wild. There is a trip for every family member’s appetite for adventure.

The closest option is the Eagle River—just a stone’s throw from Vail, Beaver Creek and Avon. The Lower Eagle section is a family favorite with easy to manage class II-III rapids. For a high-octane adventure, try the local top pick beginning outside of Minturn; Dowd Chute offers class IV rapids and a thrilling ride. It’s always best to check with the guides on how fast the rivers are running when planning a family trip. Half-day outings begin at about $43 per person.

Nova Guides, http://Novaguides.com
Lakota Guides, www.lakotariver.com
Timberline Tours, http://timberlinetours.com
Rock Garden Rafting, www.rockgardens.com

Tee It Up!

We’ve spent many a chilly morning teeing up at The Vail Golf Club. (You’ll peel the layers away as the sun rises.) A championship par 71, the course is laid out at 8,200 feet. It’s family-friendly and the views are spectacular. Added ego bonus: Golf balls really do fly an average of 10 percent farther in the high elevation.

The course fills up fast and morning tee times are most popular, so plan in advance. Guest tee times may be reserved up to six months in advance with a credit card guarantee. Greens fees: Adults, $80 for 18 holes plus cart. Juniors, $55 plus cart.

• Vail's mountain rivers offer plenty of places for rafting.
• Courtesy of Vail Summer Media Guide

For reservations call 888-709-3939, or visit www.vailgolfclub.com for more information and to check Web specials.

A Piney River Adventure

For years we have headed up the 10 miles of dirt road to picnic, hike and when the kids were older paddle a canoe on the picturesque Piney River Lake. With the jagged peaks of the Gore Range as your backdrop, this magnificently beautiful spot provides the whole family an opportunity to appreciate the alpine air while engaging in a range of activities.

Enjoy an afternoon on the lake casting a fly, slip into the saddle for a ride through some magnificent Colorado country or settle in under a tree with a good book. The Piney River Ranch now has a restaurant that serves up tasty summer barbecue specials—burgers, ribs, chicken and salty fries. Enjoy the grub at outside picnic tables and drink in the views.

Too tired to head down the mountain after a full day of fun in the sun? Sack out in a yurt, a tee pee or one of four lakeside cabins.

Piney River Adventures, www.PineyRiverAdventures.com. Yurts from $20 per person/per night; teepees from $20 per person/per night. Cabins from $110 per night. Reservations: tel. 970-477-1171. Horseback riding with Triple G Outfitters: tel. 970-477-1171.