Mountainsides covered in wildflowers with panoramic views of the Gore Range and Holy Cross Wilderness.
Shrine Ridge is one of the most incredible wildflower spots in the state of Colorado. Not only is the area incredibly beautiful with carpets of flowers covering verdant mountainsides, it's only a 1.5-hour drive from Denver. The ridge summit is a short 2-mile hike from the parking area at Shrine Pass and winds through marshy meadows, pine forests, burn areas, and rocky outcroppings. Shrine Ridge was named for its sweeping view of Mt. of the Holy Cross and the area was originally a Ute Indian Trail.
Depending on snowpack and rain, the timing can vary for peak wildflowers; late July to early August is typical peak. Please respect the wildflowers and preserve the area for others to enjoy: don't walk through, trample, or pick the wildflowers.