Northeast Rim Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Views · Wildflowers

This trail starts from the PHQ area below Henry's hut, directly across the road from the end of the Sunlight trail. Contour around the hillside and then under Chair 5. Soon you duck into the trees and pass under the Northwoods chair. Enjoy the wildflowers and shady forest in this area. Looking uphill, you'll see the short rock cliffs and steep ski runs that give this trail its name.

The descending route roughly parallels the ridgeline and soon begins to switchback over much steeper terrain. There is a wooden bench and also a memorial tucked into the pine forest. This trail is very new (built in 2021) and still suffers somewhat from overly sloped tread and protruding stubs that are a tripping hazard. With time and weathering, these tricky spots will surely improve. There are a few very nice overlooks where the mountains of the Gore Range loom in the distance.

The trail emerges from the forest onto the favorite double diamond ski run "Prima" for a couple wider switchbacks before ducking back into the trees. Next, traverse the famous "Riva Ridge" ski run and then continue over flatter, more relaxing ground in a sun-dappled grove of some of the best tree skiing in Vail. The trail ends at the base of chair 4 and fencing directs hikers below the machinery and back towards Mid-Vail.