Best Wildflower Hikes in the Mountain West

Spring in the Mountain West doesn’t exactly ease in. One week it’s snow boots, the next it’s sun hats and sandals. But when the wildflowers show up—they really show up. If you’ve never seen a high-alpine meadow lit up in lupine, Indian paintbrush, or glacier lilies, it’s time to change that. Here are some of the best wildflower hikes across the region, plus when to hit the trail for peak bloom.

1. Crested Butte, CO

When to go: Mid-July to early August
What to hike: Snodgrass Mountain, Judd Falls Trail

Crested Butte isn’t nicknamed the Wildflower Capital of Colorado for nothing. The annual Wildflower Festival happens each July, but you can catch blooms for weeks around it. Snodgrass offers sweeping views of Mount Crested Butte and alpine meadows full of color.

Pro tip: Stay in town for easy access to trailheads and après-hike beers at Public House.

2. Albion Basin, UT (Little Cottonwood Canyon)

When to go: Late July to early August
What to hike: Cecret Lake Trail

Just outside Salt Lake City, this high-elevation basin turns technicolor in summer. The Cecret Lake Trail is an easy 1.8-mile round trip with big reward: wildflowers galore and a scenic lake surrounded by rugged peaks.

Pro tip: Arrive early or take the shuttle—parking fills up fast during bloom season.

3. Stanley, ID

When to go: Mid-June to late July
What to hike: Alpine Lake via Iron Creek Trailhead

The Sawtooth Range doesn’t play around when it comes to views—or wildflowers. The trail to Alpine Lake offers dense forests, waterfalls, and meadows that pop with blooms in early summer. Bonus: it’s less crowded than similar hikes in Colorado.

Pro tip: Camp at Redfish Lake or book a rustic cabin for prime stargazing.

4. Beartooth Highway, MT/WY

When to go: Late June to early August
What to hike: Lake Fork Trail, Glacier Lake Trail

This scenic stretch of highway between Red Lodge and Cooke City is surrounded by high alpine terrain that explodes with color in summer. Pull off for short hikes or make a day of it with longer trails that bring you into wildflower-filled basins.

Pro tip: Combine with a trip to Yellowstone for a wild and wildly beautiful loop.

5. Telluride, CO

When to go: Mid-July
What to hike: Bear Creek Trail, Bridal Veil Basin

Telluride is an overachiever in all seasons, but summer brings wildflowers and waterfalls. Bear Creek Trail is great for all levels, while Bridal Veil Basin requires more effort (and delivers more payoff).

Pro tip: Take the free gondola for incredible views and access to even more trails.

Before you go: Weather in the Mountain West can change fast, especially at altitude. Always check trail conditions, bring layers, and pack out everything you pack in.

Need a basecamp? Check out our guides to spring cities and small towns nearby—you’ll want the full weekend to soak it all in.