Mount Goliath Natural Area: A High-Altitude Botanical Escape
Explore ancient bristlecone pines and alpine beauty at Mount Goliath Natural Area, a unique high-altitude destination near Evergreen, Colorado.
Discover ancient bristlecone pines and vibrant alpine wildflowers at Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center, nestled high in the Colorado Rockies. This unique destination offers stunning views and educational exhibits, making it a perfect day trip for nature lovers of all skill levels.
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 reservation in advance at Recreation.gov, as they are required for entry.
- Prepare for varying weather conditions, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly at higher elevations.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available.
- Check the U.S. Forest Service website or call the Clear Creek Ranger District for road closures and current conditions, especially during winter months.
Getting There
-
Driving
To reach Mount Goliath Natural Area from Denver, take I-70 west to Idaho Springs (Exit 240). Follow Highway 103 south for approximately 12 miles to the junction with Highway 5. Continue on Highway 5, also known as the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, for 3 miles to reach the entrance of Mount Goliath Natural Area. Note that a timed-entry reservation is required to enter the Mount Blue Sky Recreation Area, including Mount Goliath. Reservations must be purchased in advance at www.recreation.gov. A standard amenity fee of $10 is required for the Mount Goliath Natural Area. This fee is included in the online reservation. Be aware that the Mount Blue Sky Highway is typically open from late May to mid-October, weather permitting. Also, the Mount Blue Sky Highway will be closed for the 2025 season due to road construction.
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
Discover the excitement of gaming and the comfort of hospitality at Century Casino & Hotel Central City, a top destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
The Gilpin Casino
19.5 km
Experience the thrill of gaming and entertainment at The Gilpin Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado, a premier destination for tourists seeking excitement.
Ameristar Black Hawk
19.6 km
Discover the excitement and luxury of Ameristar Black Hawk, Colorado's premier casino destination, offering gaming, dining, and breathtaking mountain views.
Horseshoe Black Hawk
19.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Horseshoe Black Hawk, your gateway to Colorado's stunning landscapes and rich history.
St Mary's Glacier Trailhead
21.0 km
Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.
Loveland Pass
24.6 km
Experience the stunning vistas and exhilarating outdoor activities at Loveland Pass, a must-visit destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Genesee Park
25.9 km
Discover the diverse wildlife, scenic views, and outdoor adventures awaiting you at Genesee Park near Golden, Colorado.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
26.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Golden Gate Canyon State Park, a Colorado gem featuring trails, wildlife, and breathtaking views.
Lair o’ the Bear Park
28.8 km
Explore Lair o' the Bear Park in Idledale, Colorado - a serene escape with scenic trails, picnic spots, and abundant wildlife, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mt Blue Sky Scenic Drive
1.4 km
Drive to the top of the world on the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, offering unparalleled views and alpine adventures in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Echo Lake Park
2.0 km
Discover stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and a peaceful alpine lake at the base of Mount Blue Sky, near Evergreen, Colorado.
Summit Lake Park
6.4 km
Discover breathtaking alpine scenery and rare tundra at Summit Lake Park, the highest city park in North America, along Colorado's Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway.
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
7.5 km
Drive to the top of the world on the highest paved road in North America, with breathtaking views and rich history at every turn.
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
Explore the history of hydroelectric power in a still-functioning 1900 plant. Discover Georgetown's energy past and its impact on local mining.
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
Explore 19th-century Victorian life in a silver mining magnate's home at the Hamill House Museum in historic Georgetown, Colorado.
Guanella Pass
11.4 km
Discover breathtaking views, hiking, and history on this scenic byway connecting Georgetown and Grant in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Georgetown Loop Railroad
11.7 km
Journey through Colorado's mining history on a vintage train, traversing the scenic Georgetown Loop Railroad between Georgetown and Silver Plume.
Phoenix Gold Mine
12.0 km
Explore a real Colorado gold mine, discover its history, and pan for gold at the Phoenix Gold Mine in Idaho Springs.
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
Discover authentic American cuisine paired with handcrafted spirits at Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant in beautiful Colorado.
Traverse Restaurant & Bar
42.1 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at Traverse Restaurant & Bar in Breckenridge.
Soupz On
42.5 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Soupz On in Breckenridge—your ultimate destination for delicious and comforting soups.
Oaxacan bites
42.6 km
Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Oaxacan Bites in Breckenridge - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
42.6 km
Discover Breckenridge's culinary gem at The Canteen Tap House & Tavern - where local flavors meet a vibrant bar scene.
Blue River Bistro
42.6 km
Experience exquisite American-Italian cuisine at Blue River Bistro, nestled in scenic Breckenridge - perfect for any dining occasion.
Tin Plate Pizza
42.7 km
Experience the best pizza in Breckenridge at Tin Plate Pizza - where quality ingredients meet innovative recipes in a cozy atmosphere.
Hearthstone Restaurant
42.7 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at Hearthstone Restaurant in Breckenridge – where fine dining meets breathtaking mountain views.
The Carlin Breckenridge
42.7 km
Experience exquisite seafood and fine dining at The Carlin Breckenridge – where every dish is a masterpiece amid stunning mountain views.
Tavern Underground
42.7 km
Discover Tavern Underground: A cozy bar in Breckenridge offering delectable American dishes and unique cocktails in a vibrant setting.
Salt Creek Steakhouse
42.7 km
Indulge in expertly grilled steaks and savory BBQ at Salt Creek Steakhouse, where every meal is an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience.
Twist
42.7 km
Experience eclectic fine dining at Twist in Breckenridge - where innovative cuisine meets a vibrant bar atmosphere amidst stunning mountain views.
Rootstalk Breckenridge
42.7 km
Experience innovative American cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Rootstalk Breckenridge – where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
Bird and Cow
42.7 km
Discover Bird and Cow in Breckenridge - where gourmet burgers meet innovative American cuisine in a cozy mountain setting.
Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon
42.7 km
Experience gourmet dining at Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon in Breckenridge—where prime cuts meet rustic charm amidst stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunshine Herb Corner
38.3 km
Explore Sunshine Herb Corner in Fraser, Colorado - your go-to destination for vitamins, supplements, and health foods amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Local Experience
38.4 km
Discover top-notch ski gear and unbeatable service at Fraser's Local Experience, perfect for your Colorado winter adventures.
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
38.5 km
Discover a diverse selection of wines and liquors in Fraser, Colorado at Bottle Pass Liquors – your local destination for fine spirits.
Breckenridge Ski & Sport
42.1 km
Explore the beauty of Breckenridge with top-notch ski and outdoor rental services. Your adventure starts here!
A Racer's Edge
42.7 km
Discover A Racer's Edge, Breckenridge's premier sporting goods store for ski gear and outdoor sports equipment, where adventure awaits.
Lace and Lariat
42.7 km
Explore Lace and Lariat in Breckenridge, a charming boutique offering unique fashion and accessories for both men and women amidst stunning mountain views.
Two Wild Sisters
42.7 km
Explore Two Wild Sisters in Breckenridge, a charming gift shop filled with unique handcrafted jewelry and local art treasures.
Björn's Colorado Honey
42.7 km
Explore Björn's Colorado Honey: A sweet destination in Breckenridge for artisanal honey and local treasures.
Breckenridge Shirts & More
42.7 km
Explore unique apparel and souvenirs at Breckenridge Shirts & More, capturing the charm of Colorado's mountain town.
Towne Square Mall
42.7 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Towne Square Mall in Breckenridge, Colorado, where unique shops and delicious dining await every visitor.
Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet
42.7 km
Explore stylish clothing at Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet in Breckenridge, CO, where mountain charm meets fashion-forward shopping.
Simply Breck
42.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and stylish clothing at Simply Breck, the ultimate shopping destination in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Slope Style Ski + Bike
42.8 km
Discover Breckenridge's ultimate destination for ski and bike rentals, expert repairs, and personalized service for all outdoor enthusiasts.
The Shop On Main Street
42.8 km
Explore the heart of Breckenridge at The Shop On Main Street, where unique clothing and accessories meet the charm of Colorado's mountains.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gravity Haus Winter Park
34.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Randi's Grill & Pub
35.3 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
42.7 km
Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
RMU Breckenridge
42.8 km
Discover RMU Breckenridge - The ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts with live music, bike repairs, and a vibrant bar scene in the heart of Colorado!
Ski Town Chicken Joint
42.8 km
Discover the flavors of Breckenridge at Ski Town Chicken Joint, where delicious comfort food meets a cozy mountain atmosphere.
Prospector
42.8 km
Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
42.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
42.9 km
Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.
Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
42.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Burke and Riley's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where delicious food, drinks, and live music meet the charm of Ireland.
The Absinthe Bar
42.9 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
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
42.9 km
Discover the warmth of Fireside Lounge in Breckenridge, a cozy bar perfect for relaxing after mountain adventures with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Base Nine
43.5 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge at Base Nine, a premier bar with a vibrant atmosphere and an impressive drink selection.
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
43.6 km
Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.
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.