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If you’re tired of sweltering under the Texas sun and craving a break from the heat, it’s time to pack and head to an adventure that may have been off your radar: the 2025 GoPro Mountain Games in Vail, Colorado.
From June 5-8, this iconic festival provides the perfect escape from the heat and humidity of a Lone Star summer packed with thrilling outdoor adventures, jaw-dropping athletic competitions, and live music in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re a spectator soaking in the action or just looking to relax in cooler temps, there’s something for everyone in this celebration of mountain culture.
What started in 2002 as a little whitewater event has grown into the country’s biggest celebration of adventure sports, music, art, and mountain culture, all rolled into one unforgettable long weekend. The Mountain Games are everything you love about Colorado: blue skies, cool rivers, mountain trails, and a laid-back, good-vibes crowd that makes you feel at home, even if you’re visiting for the first time.
For four days, Vail and the surrounding valleys come alive with competitions in biking, running, climbing, kayaking, rafting, SUPing (the world’s fastest-growing water sport), fishing, disc golf, slacklining, yoga, and even dog events (because, why not?). More than $150,000 is up for grabs in more than 35 events, but don’t worry, you don’t have to break a sweat unless you want to.
One of the coolest things about the Mountain Games other than the weather? The pros and regular folks compete on the same courses. That means you might catch a glimpse of an Olympian flying past while you’re sipping a cold drink and enjoying the view. (Fun Fact: I was planning to participate in the road bike time trial but with a full schedule of writing and book preparation, I realized I didn’t have the proper time to train to compete. Spectating, however, requires no training schedule so I’ll be there!)
And when it comes to spectating, it’s completely free. You can wander from riverside rapids to bouldering walls to bike races without spending a dime. Plus, there are daily giveaways, free live music, gear demos, and pop-up events throughout the event.
When the sun starts to set, the party keeps rolling with the Mountains of Music Concert Series at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater (those shows are ticketed, but from what I can tell will be worth every penny). Imagine ending your day of mountain adventures under the stars, with live music echoing through the valley and the bright, dark Colorado sky – it’s the recipe for magic.
Bringing the kids? Even better. There’s a Kids’ Climbing Wall, SUP and kayak pools, music camps, and even their own mini-competitions all designed to get our next generation hooked on Mother Nature and the great outdoors.
Behind the scenes, this whole spectacular event is pulled off by a local nonprofit, The Vail Valley Foundation. They do it because they love the valley and they want everyone who visits to fall in love with it, too.
What’s New for 2025:
- The first-ever Mountain Games mobile app will help you plan your weekend, track events, and maybe even win some prizes. The new app is available to download in all app stores and is the ultimate digital companion for navigating the action-packed four-day festival.
- The first-ever Mountain Games Athlete Team.
- Speed climbing events (trust me, you haven’t seen anything until you’ve seen Olympic athletes basically sprint up a wall). Olympians currently registered include Zach Hammer and Emma Hunt, with more expected to compete. Recognized as one of the fastest-growing Olympic sports, speed climbing challenges athletes to scale a standardized 15-meter wall in record-breaking time.
- The inaugural Vail Ultra, benefiting 50 for the Fallen.
- Kayak Cross and a YETI Speed Camp
Whether you come to cheer, chill, or maybe even get a little inspired to sign up next year (never say never, right? I may just join you in 2026 with more training time!), the GoPro Mountain Games are the perfect mountain getaway to escape the heat, recharge your spirit, and kick off summer the right way.
If you’re game for the Mountain Games and aren’t sure where to stay, Vail Valley has made that easy, too. Click HERE to decide the vibe you prefer for this one-of-a-kind event. The Mountain Games help kick off the summer season and has become the country’s most celebrated festival of adventure sports, art, and music and the best all-around mountain experience anywhere in the world. The Mountain Games take place in Vail, Colorado, June 5-8, 2025.
What to Pack for the GoPro Mountain Games:
- Light layers (mornings and nights are cool, but the sun is strong during the day)
- Comfortable shoes (you’ll want to roam)
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- A small backpack or tote for freebies and swag
- Refillable water bottle (lots of places to top off and staying hydrated is the best way to acclimate to the elevation)
- Your go-to headache medication (the elevation gain from Texas is real and it may take a day or two to acclimate)
- Rain jacket (just in case — mountain weather likes surprises)
- An adventurous spirit (non-negotiable!)
Pro tip: Throw in an extra bag…with all the goodies, you’re probably going home with more than you came with!
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Cover photo Jon Resnick
Haven Lindsey resides in Taos, NM. She is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience writing on topics including healthcare, addiction, public policy, education, travel, food, and human interest stories. She was recognized by NPR for her solo travel series exclusive to Texas Lifestyle Magazine. Haven’s second children’s book, The Blue Dog and The White Horse ‘The Best of Friends’ will be released by Brandylane Publishers, Inc. on July 8, 2025.
