In warmer places like California, spring is usually when the first flowers of the year pop up. But up in Colorado’s high mountains—still buried under snow in spring—the wildflowers hold off until July to flaunt their colors.
The wait? Totally worth it. In Colorado, those vibrant flower fields stretch out with towering mountains behind them. And since some of the best blooms are way up in the peaks, you’ll need to hike (or take the gondola) to see them. The extra effort doesn’t just make the views even more rewarding—it also keeps the crowds thin. Plus, since certain wildflowers thrive higher up (like the Colorado blue columbine) while others prefer lower elevations (like the Mariposa Lily), you’ll get an incredible mix of plants and flowers along the way.
Wildflowers in Vail, Colorado
Max Ritter/Courtesy of Vail Resorts
Vail is one of the prettiest spots to experience Colorado’s wildflower season. Sure, skiing put this town on the map, but once the slopes are snow-free, hiking trails weave across the mountains—often cutting right through dazzling fields of wildflowers.
Come spring, the mountains around Vail are dotted with pale blue bluebells, pink fireweed, bright paintbrush, and the purples of lupin and larkspur, among others. But no bloom is as beloved as the Colorado blue columbine—the state flower (so, yes, it’s illegal to pick) and a high-altitude specialist, usually found in rocky areas. Its periwinkle petals typically start showing in July and August, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a hummingbird sipping from its slender spur.
Vail is just an hour and a half from Denver, and if you’re up for another 15-minute drive, you’ll hit Beaver Creek—another ski town (and, naturally, another summer wildflower hotspot).
Wildflowers in Beaver Creek, Colorado
Madison Miller/Courtesy of Vail Resorts
Here are some of the best hikes around Vail to catch the late-summer blooms, which usually start mid-July and last through mid-August:
- Grand Escape Trail: A moderate hike starting at the top of the Wildwood Express Lift, following Eagles Nest Ridge. You can go one-way (1.4 miles) or loop back. The wildflowers are stunning, but this trail can get crowded.
- Ridge Route Trail: Want flower fields with ski-area views? This is the one. It winds above Game Creek Bowl, crossing ski runs and wildflower meadows, with occasional glimpses into the Holy Cross Wilderness.
- Beaver Lake Trail: Over in Beaver Creek (15 minutes from Vail), this hike is perfect for spotting lupine, paintbrush, and bluebell. The best display? Larkspur Bowl. The trail starts at Beaver Creek Ski Area’s base and ends at Turquoise Lakes.
- Village to Village to Allie’s Way: For a bigger challenge, tackle the Village to Village Trail (7.4 miles roundtrip), then connect to Allie’s Way (a 3.8-mile loop)—often blanketed in blooms, with views of Strawberry Park and Grouse Mountain.