Vail, Colorado, offers endless attractions and activities throughout the seasons. No matter when you plan your vacation, you can enjoy free fun at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest-elevation botanical garden in North America. Discover snowshoeing trails in the winter months, scenic garden walks in the summertime, and year-round activities at the Education Center. Whether you are visiting with kids or traveling solo, the alpine gardens are a wonderful place to experience nature and learn about conservation!

Education Center 

Start your exploration at The Education Center and learn about the region’s alpine environments through informational displays, activities, and a greenhouse. Walk through the Alpine House and see rare plants inside the cold greenhouse. This center is open year-round for visitors. 

Winter Fun

The garden grounds are open during the winter months for snowshoers and skiers. Explore the snowy paths and enjoy the serene environment along Gore Creek Path. You can also sign up for guided snowshoeing and explore the trails with a local naturalist. 

Summer Fun

Summer is the most popular time to visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Stroll through the blossoming gardens that showcase the Rocky Mountain ecosystems and alpine plants from around the world. Public garden tours are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day and include a guide taking you through the gardens to learn about alpine flora, rare collections, identification, and history. 

You can also expect several fun programs and events throughout the season, like yoga classes, cooking demonstrations, and expert speakers. 

Family Activities

Betty Ford is fun for all ages! They offer a special Children’s Garden where kids can play and let their imaginations run wild. Or pick up a scavenger hunt from the Education Center and search for clues in the gardens together. 

Book Your Vacation Rental in Vail, Colorado

Plan a trip to Vail, Colorado, and discover year-round fun at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Beyond the beautiful alpine gardens, Vail is a fantastic place to experience nature throughout the seasons. Spend your getaway skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, river rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, and more. 

Choose Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Colorado Properties as your lodging partner and find the perfect basecamp for your adventures. We offer vacation rentals throughout Vail Valley with a broad range of property types, amenities, locations, and prices. Book with us today!