Mount Goliath Natural Area: A High-Altitude Botanical Treasure
Explore ancient bristlecone pines and colorful alpine wildflowers in a unique high-altitude environment near Denver.
Discover ancient bristlecone pines and vibrant alpine wildflowers at Mount Goliath Natural Area. This unique destination, managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Denver Botanic Gardens, offers stunning views and a chance to explore a fragile alpine environment just a short drive from Denver.
A brief summary to Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center
- Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center, Mount Blue Sky Rd, Evergreen, Colorado, 80439, US
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Purchase a timed-entry ticket in advance at Recreation.gov, as they are required for entry.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for gravel walkways and moderately rugged trails.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Mount Goliath Natural Area, start from Idaho Springs and head south on CO 103 (Squaw Pass Road) for approximately 12 miles to Echo Lake. Turn right onto Highway 5 (Mount Blue Sky Road) and proceed about 3 miles to the entrance of Mount Goliath Natural Area. Note that a timed-entry reservation is required to access Mount Goliath. These can be purchased online at Recreation.gov. As of July 2025, the fee is $2 plus a $15 entry fee, but this is waived if you have a National Park Pass. The Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway is typically open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, depending on snow conditions. Parking is available at the Dos Chappell Nature Center.
Discover more about Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chief Mountain
7.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Chief Mountain, a stunning peak in the heart of Colorado's majestic Rockies.
Mestaa’Ėhehe Mountain fire lookout
9.5 km
Experience the stunning views and rich history at Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain Fire Lookout in the heart of Colorado.
Colorado Central Mill
10.4 km
Discover the rich mining history of Colorado at the Colorado Central Mill, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District
12.0 km
Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
Veterans Memorial Tunnels
15.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Veterans Memorial Tunnels in Idaho Springs, Colorado, a tribute to veterans and an engineering marvel amidst stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.
A & A Historical Horseback Riding
16.1 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Central City, Colorado, with A & A Historical Horseback Riding – an unforgettable adventure awaits!
Century Casino & Hotel Central City
18.9 km
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The Gilpin Casino
19.5 km
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Ameristar Black Hawk
19.6 km
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Horseshoe Black Hawk
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St Mary's Glacier Trailhead
21.0 km
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Loveland Pass
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Genesee Park
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Golden Gate Canyon State Park
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Lair o’ the Bear Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive
1.4 km
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Echo Lake Park
2.0 km
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Summit Lake Park
6.4 km
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Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway
7.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, where Colorado's natural wonders come alive with stunning vistas and vibrant wildlife.
Mount Blue Sky
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Mount Bierstadt
9.3 km
Hike Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado's most accessible 14,000-foot peaks, offering stunning views and a rewarding challenge for all skill levels.
Mt Bierstadt
9.3 km
Hike Colorado's Mount Bierstadt: A popular and accessible 14,065-foot peak with stunning views, perfect for beginner mountaineers and experienced hikers alike.
Georgetown Energy Museum
11.2 km
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Capital Prize Gold Mine Tours
11.3 km
Experience Colorado's gold rush history with a guided tour through an authentic 1860s gold mine in Georgetown.
Hamill House Museum
11.4 km
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Guanella Pass
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Georgetown Loop Railroad
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Phoenix Gold Mine
12.0 km
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AVA Cliffside Zipline
12.1 km
Experience high-flying fun for the whole family on six thrilling ziplines with Rocky Mountain views, near Denver in historic Idaho Springs, Colorado.
AVA Rafting & Zipline
12.1 km
Experience Colorado's best outdoor adventures with whitewater rafting, ziplining, and mountaineering at AVA Rafting & Zipline in historic Idaho Springs.
Essential places to dine
Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant
42.1 km
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Traverse Restaurant & Bar
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Soupz On
42.5 km
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Oaxacan bites
42.6 km
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The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
42.6 km
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Blue River Bistro
42.6 km
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Tin Plate Pizza
42.7 km
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Hearthstone Restaurant
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The Carlin Breckenridge
42.7 km
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Tavern Underground
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Salt Creek Steakhouse
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Twist
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Rootstalk Breckenridge
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Bird and Cow
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Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunshine Herb Corner
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Local Experience
38.4 km
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Safeway
38.5 km
Explore Safeway in Fraser, CO - your go-to grocery store offering fresh produce, local specialties, and quality services for every traveler.
Bottle Pass Liquors
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Breckenridge Ski & Sport
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A Racer's Edge
42.7 km
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Lace and Lariat
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Two Wild Sisters
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Björn's Colorado Honey
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Breckenridge Shirts & More
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Towne Square Mall
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Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet
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Simply Breck
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Slope Style Ski + Bike
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The Shop On Main Street
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gravity Haus Winter Park
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Randi's Grill & Pub
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Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
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RMU Breckenridge
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Ski Town Chicken Joint
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Prospector
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Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
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Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
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Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
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The Absinthe Bar
42.9 km
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Molly Jacks
42.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
Fireside Lounge
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Base Nine
43.5 km
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Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
43.6 km
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Southern Sun Pub & Brewery
48.0 km
Discover the heart of Boulder at Southern Sun Pub & Brewery, where handcrafted beers and local flavors come together in a lively atmosphere.
