Relive the GoPro Games 2019

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GoPro Games 2019 in Vail, Colorado

It’s safe to say that the GoPro Games kick-off the true beginning of summer up in Vail, Colorado. The four day festival has enough activities to last you the year… or at least until the Burton U.S. Open or the X Games

Walking through Vail Village makes you reassess where you are– Colorado or Switzerland? By the time the games roll around, locals and visitors alike trade in their skis for some hiking boots, and the mountainside is completely covered in fresh green grass with wildflowers peeping through. The event grounds are huge. If you’re looking for music, vendors, and the world’s largest gathering of Dock Dogs, the Lionshead area is your place; while freestyle Kayaking, food vendors, the IFSC World Cup, and Slackliners make residence in Vail Village. 

What to expect at the GoPro Games

Each year, more events are added, such as the Down River Kayak Sprint and the SUP Sprint, to inspire both world-class professionals and amateur athletes to compete. With over 2,800 athletes, you’ll often find them in not one or two events, but more like six or seven! It’s easy to see that rather than being a weekend competing for gold medals, it’s more about the joy of getting outside and pure sport. Athletes and spectators alike are seen throughout Vail Village and Lionshead catching up with friends, checking out the free swag, and cracking cold beers along the river banks. And, as soon as the sun goes down, the free concerts and cover bands give everyone the opportunity to bust out some moves. 

Where to stay in Vail

In terms of accommodations, there are plenty of options in Vail Village and Lionshead both from hotels and Airbnb’s. However, be forewarned that you may be paying a lofty price. Another option is to get a little outside of the event area and explore Eagle, Silverthorne, Breckenridge, Dillon, or Frisco. Each of those smaller towns will get you away from crowds, and you’ll be paying a lower rate to be about 20 to 30 minutes outside of Vail.

In my book, it’s worth it. Not only do you get to experience another mountain town, but you’ll also be able to meet some locals at coffee shops and breweries. If you’re more into the camping scene, Summit County and Eagle County have campgrounds that are both reserved and first-come, first-served. You’ll be able to get incredible vantage points of the peaks and some pretty epic sunrises.

Next up for me, back down to Telluride. 

Photos by Claire Oswald

Accommodation near Vail, Colorado

Rad Season is providing you with rentals and hotels at the lowest prices available online. Book your stay near Vail, Colorado using the map below!

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Claire Oswald

Claire Oswald is a visual storyteller based in Denver, Colorado. She is an environmental advocate, outdoor enthusiast, and adventure-seeker. You can find her on assignment with outdoor industry brands, and working some of action-sports biggest events.

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