A Riot of Wildflowers

In spring seasons where there is an unusual amount of rain, Rocky Mountain National Park experiences an exceptionally lovely wildflower blooming season. Mountain woodlilies (Lilium philadelphicum), one uncommon and especially beautiful park wildflower, is at its showiest at that time. Beardless sidebells penstemons (Penstemon virgatus var. asa-grayi) seem to carpet many open areas to such an extent that whole hillsides have a pinkish purple glow.

The large number of park wildflowers bloom at some location in the park in July which is the best time to get out your camera to try to capture the best pictures. If you are not an great photographer, or a trip to the park is not possible now, check out our Photo Gallery to find a few photos of park wildflowers as well as other great pictures. Because these photos are in the public domain, you can use them for your own purposes.

Wildflowers are not the only organisms benefiting from the extra moisture. Mushrooms are popping up everywhere, and are eaten with relish by many of the park's squirrels and other rodent species. Please remember that it is not legal for you to collect mushrooms, pick flowers, or remove plants from Rocky Mountain National Park. By obeying these rules, you leave food for our wildlife, and lovely flower-filled meadows for other visitors to enjoy!

Last updated: August 4, 2016

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1000 US Hwy 36
Estes Park, CO 80517

Phone:

970 586-1206
The Information Office is open year-round: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily in summer; 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Mondays - Fridays and 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Saturdays - Sundays in winter. Recorded Trail Ridge Road status: (970) 586-1222.

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