It’s wildflower time in Colorado and as locals know, they’re not too difficult to track down. That said, if you want to see the best of the best, here’s the road trip for you:

Day One: Roxborough State Park

Kick off your road trip at Roxborough State Park, known for its dramatic red rock formations, plant communities, and wildlife including black bears, mule deer, and much more. Visitors will find a variety of wildflowers across the park’s diverse ecosystems, including Colorado columbine, lupines, asters, and prairie coneflowers.

Where to eat

Enjoy some food at the Waterton Tavern after exploring Roxborough State Park.

Where to stay

The Hilton Garden Inn Denver/Highlands Ranch and Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Littleton are near Roxborough State Park.

Things to do

Roxborough State Park offers great hiking, picnicking, birding, and more.

Day Two: Indian Peaks Wilderness

Located just outside Boulder, the Indian Peaks Wilderness is an excellent place to see wildflowers in Colorado. The area has plenty of scenic hikes like Long Lake Trail and Lake Isabelle Trail.

Where to eat

Head to The Sink or West End Tavern for a great meal in Boulder.

Where to stay

Stay at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder or St. Julien Hotel & Spa.

Things to do

Stroll down Pearl Street and do some shopping, or take a hike in the Flatirons.

Day Three: Vail

Vail is home to some incredible exhibits of wildflowers. Some of the best wildflower hikes in Vail include Berry Picker, Upper Piney Lake Trail, Gore Creek Trail, and Booth Falls. You can also check out the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, which showcases a variety of alpine plants and wildflowers including columbine, lupine, and Indian paintbrush.

Where to eat

Have a meal at Los Amigos, Vendettas, or Mountain Standard (if you’re looking for something more upscale).

Where to stay

The Arrabelle at Vail Square, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail, or Antlers at Vail are great places to stay in the mountain town.

Things to do

Go mountain biking, horseback riding with Piney River Ranch, or take a scenic gondola ride up Vail Mountain.

Day Four: Maroon Bells

Check out Aspen’s Maroon Bells, some of the most photographed mountains in Colorado. The meadows around Maroon Lake and the surrounding trails are covered with wildflowers including Colorado columbine, lupine, Indian paintbrush, and wild geraniums.

Where to eat

Check out Element 47 or The Wild Fig for lunch or dinner after exploring the wildflower-filled fields.

Where to stay

Stay at Aspen Meadows Resort or The Little Nell for a more luxurious stay.

Things to do

As well as a hike or drive up to the Maroon Bells, Aspen offers mountain biking, fly fishing, rafting, paddle boarding, and more.

Day Five: Crested Butte

You can’t take a wildflower-viewing road trip without stopping by Crested Butte. Known as the “wildflower capital of Colorado,” Crested Butte offers stunning displays of wildflowers. The mountain town also hosts the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival in July, which includes hikes, workshops, and more.

Where to eat

Have a slice of pizza at The Secret Stash or stop by The Hideout for burgers.

Where to stay

Enjoy a stay at Elk Mountain Lodge in Crested Butte.

Things to do

Crested Butte offers a variety of fun outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and much more.

Author’s Note: In its entirety, this road trip travels about 400 miles, with an estimated drive time of nine hours.