Springtime in the Rockies can be unpredictable, but one thing is for sure, the beauty of the season shines with new colorful blooms spring. Whether you are headed to the mountains or are staying in town, there are several spring gardens in Estes Park that are sure to put a spring in your step.
Mrs. Walch’s Gardens
A sort of hidden oasis in the center of town, Mrs. Walch’s Gardens is located at the west end of Elkhorn Avenue across from Performance Park. Visitors can walk along the winding path that guides them to a peaceful pond. Rest peacefully on a bench or explore the garden during any season and become inspired by the abundant colors of nature. Enjoy a colorful display of plants native to Estes Park and the surrounding Rocky Mountain Region with Star Lilies, Western Chokecherries, Waxflowers, and so much more! It is open from dawn till dusk and admission is free.
Big Thompson Riverwalk
While not an official garden, there are many sections along the Big Thompson Riverwalk in town that feature blooming wildflowers come early May into late June and July. The Riverwalk begins at the Estes Park Visitor’s Center making this a great place to begin your Estes Park adventure. Be sure to ask the staff for more information about where to see more spring wildflowers and colorful blooms.
Krueger Rock Trail
A local favorite and one of the most popular hikes outside of Rocky Mountain National Park is the Krueger Rock Trail. A four-mile loop features a moderate climb in elevation, but its star of the show are the panoramic views of Estes Valley and mountain peaks in the distance. Plus, the trail is complemented with dozens of wildflowers during the spring months.
Grouped in a nearby meadow, it is like a garden of colorful blooms come late May and early June with blue and purple Mountain Iris. Even heading into summer, hikers will see red Kings Crown and yellow Snow Buttercup through August. You can access the trail through the Hermit Park Open Space.
Alpine Visitor Center
Take the drive up to the Alpine Visitor Center via the famous Trail Ridge Road to see the stunning alpine gardens at 11,796 feet! The road opens fully after Memorial Day, just in time to catch some early spring and summer blooms. Not only are the flowers beautiful but it is one of the most spectacular places to see the Continental Divide because of the elevation it reaches at its highest point at 12,183 feet. Walk the Tundra Nature Trail or Ute Trail at the Alpine Visitor Center to see colorful Alpine Avens and Alpine Forget-Me-Nots.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Take in the beauty of the Rockies with these spring gardens in Estes Park and with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts. Many guests staying at our cabins and vacation rentals can enjoy colorful wildflowers right from their window! Our vacation rentals are just minutes from the park’s entrance and offer beautiful Rocky Mountain scenery, all on a budget you can afford. Choose from cabins with a hot tub, cabins with a fireplace, or cabins on the river. No matter what you book, it’s the perfect setting for enjoying springtime in the Rockies.
