it’s also fleeting. From late June through mid-August, the state’s alpine meadows and high-elevation trails burst into color with vibrant blooms like columbine, Indian paintbrush, lupine, and bluebells. As summer starts to wane, now is the perfect time to hit the trail and catch the last wave of wildflowers before they fade. Here are some of the best spots to see them before the season ends.
1. Crested Butte – The Wildflower Capital of Colorado
Known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte offers miles of trails lined with dazzling blooms. Snodgrass Mountain, Brush Creek Trail, and Rustler’s Gulch are especially popular in late July and early August. The combination of high elevation and varied terrain creates ideal conditions for an incredible mix of species.
2. Yankee Boy Basin – Ouray
Accessible via a rugged jeep road, Yankee Boy Basin near Ouray explodes with color each summer. Visitors will see everything from tall delphinium to the state flower, the blue columbine. The area is also rich in waterfalls and dramatic scenery, making it a perfect photography spot.
3. Indian Peaks Wilderness – Near Nederland
Located just west of Boulder, the Indian Peaks Wilderness offers several moderate trails with abundant wildflowers and alpine lakes. The 4th of July Trailhead, Arapaho Pass, and Pawnee Pass are reliable choices for late-season blooms.
Tips for a Great Visit:
- Go early in the morning to avoid afternoon storms.
- Pack layers! Weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Stick to trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
- Bring a field guide or plant ID app to learn about what you’re seeing.
Wildflower season in Colorado doesn’t last long, but with a little planning, you can still catch the tail end of this annual spectacle. Don’t wait too long! By late August, the blooms begin to fade as fall sets in.
