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Betty Ford Alpine Gardens: A Rocky Mountain Oasis

4.8 (1300)

Discover the beauty of high-altitude flora at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest botanical garden in North America, located in Vail, Colorado.

Nestled in Vail, Colorado, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens stand as the highest botanical garden in North America, boasting an elevation of 8,200 feet. This unique garden showcases a diverse collection of high-altitude plants from around the world, offering visitors a serene escape into the beauty of the alpine environment.

A brief summary to Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Education Center to learn about alpine plant life and explore interactive exhibits.
  • Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the gardens' history, flora, and conservation efforts.
  • Check the schedule for special events like yoga in the gardens, workshops, and plant sales.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat, as shade is limited and paths may be uneven.
  • Explore Vail Village, located a short walk from the gardens, for shopping, dining, and art galleries.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Vail Village, walk east along South Frontage Road or take the scenic path alongside Gore Creek (Betty Ford Way) to Ford Park. The gardens are located east of the Wren condominiums. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Take the free in-town bus to the Golden Peak bus stop. Walk across the street through the Manor Vail Lodge breezeway into Ford Park; the Education Center will be to your left. Alternatively, take the Orange, Blue, or Yellow routes to the Ford Park bus stop and follow the path past the tennis courts and along the athletic fields to the Education Center. Bus service is free.

  • Parking

    Parking is available at the Vail Village Parking Structure (Exit 176, head east on South Frontage Road). The rate is $2/hour, with the first hour free, and free after 3 PM. The gardens are a 7-10 minute walk east of the parking structure, located in Ford Park. Another option is the Ford Park Parking Lot, half a mile east of the Vail Village parking structure. The rate is $2/hour, with the first hour free. During summer events in Ford Park, a $20 parking fee may apply.

Discover more about Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, founded in 1985 and named in honor of former First Lady Betty Ford in 1988, offer a unique horticultural experience in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Located within Ford Park, adjacent to the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, the gardens serve as a living tribute to Mrs. Ford's love of gardening and her commitment to serenity and natural beauty. Comprising four distinct sections—the Mountain Perennial Garden, Mountain Meditation Garden, Alpine Rock Garden, and Children's Garden—the site features over 3,000 species of high-altitude plants. Many plants originate from the Rocky Mountains, while others come from high-altitude regions worldwide. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including the Silk Road Garden, and discover sustainable landscaping examples. The Alpine Rock Garden features a stunning 120-foot waterfall. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are open year-round and offer free admission, making them accessible to all. The Education Center provides interactive exhibits, workshops, and events, enhancing visitors' understanding of alpine environments. The gardens host various programs, including guided tours, yoga sessions, and special lectures. With accessible paths and parking, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens welcome visitors of all abilities. The site aims to protect the alpine environment through education, conservation, and living plant collections.

Explore the best of what Betty Ford Alpine Gardens has to offer

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