Everything You Need to Know About Colorado’s Wildflower Season

Spring in Colorado means a rebirth of life. Wildlife around the state will emerge with their young, trees will regain their green leaves, and wildflowers will bloom all around the state.

Wildflower blooms in Colorado are impressive and vary significantly by elevation. At lower elevations, flowers are already blooming. As temperatures rise, the higher elevations will soon burst with color.

Here’s your guide to where and when to see the best wildflower displays across the state.

Read More: When Do Colorado's Mountain Passes Reopen in 2025?

What Are the Best Times to See Wildflowers Around Colorado?

That all depends on where you are in the state and what the weather's been like. Depending on how Mother Nature feels, we could see longer winter temperatures that put a damper on flower growth.

For generalizing purposes, here is what you can expect:

• April – June: Lower elevations (5,000–8,000 feet) start blooming first. Look for flowers in the foothills and grasslands.
• June – August: Mid-to-high elevations (8,000–11,000 feet) see peak blooms, especially in the mountain meadows.
• July – September: The Alpine tundra (above 11,000 feet) reaches its peak, offering stunning displays of rare high-altitude blooms.

Where are the Best Places to See Wildflowers Around Colorado?

Crested Butte – The "Wildflower Capital"

• Trail: Rustler Gulch
• Why Go? One of the most famous wildflower destinations, with meadows full of lupine, columbine, and Indian paintbrush.
• Best Time: July

Rocky Mountain National Park

• Trail: Tundra Communities Trail
• Why Go? High alpine flowers, including alpine forget-me-nots and sky pilot, with breathtaking views.
• Best Time: July – August

San Juan Mountains – Yankee Boy Basin

• Trail: Yankee Boy Basin Trail
• Why Go? Fields of blue columbines (Colorado’s state flower) set against rugged mountain peaks.
• Best Time: July

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

• Trail: Mule Deer Loop
• Why Go? A great early-season spot near Denver with pasqueflowers and prairie sunflowers.
• Best Time: May – June

Steamboat Springs – Flat Tops Wilderness

• Trail: Devil’s Causeway
• Why Go? Wildflowers paired with jaw-dropping cliffside views. Look for fireweed and paintbrush.
• Best Time: June – July