Horseback Riding in Vail

One of the best ways to see Vail Valley is from the back of a horse. On scenic Sweetwater Lake, A. J. Brink Outfitters (3406 Sweetwater Rd., Sweetwater. 970/524-9301) has day and overnight horseback excursions high in the Flat Tops Wilderness.

About 12 mi north of Vail, Piney River Ranch (Piney Lake. 970/477-1171) has pony rides for kids and guided one-hour horseback rides for adults.

Beaver Creek Stable (Box 2050, Eagle. 970/845-7770) arranges outings ranging from one-hour rides to all-day excursions. Many trips include a tasty picnic lunch. In the evenings there are hayrides and sunset rides.