Quick Info
Elevation: 8,200 ft (world's highest botanical garden). Admission: Free. Season: Gardens open year-round; peak blooms June-August. Location: Ford Park, Vail Village. Time needed: 30-60 minutes.
The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens holds the distinction of being the world's highest botanical garden. Named for the former First Lady who lived in Vail, these free gardens showcase alpine plants from mountain regions around the globe. It's a peaceful escape from the bustle of Vail Village, just a short walk from the shops and restaurants.
Spread across Ford Park at 8,200 feet elevation, the gardens demonstrate what thrives in Colorado's challenging mountain climate. From native wildflowers to Himalayan specimens, the collection proves that harsh conditions produce extraordinary beauty. The adjacent schoolhouse offers educational programs year-round.
The Garden Areas
Alpine Rock Garden is the signature collection, featuring plants from alpine regions worldwide. Rocky outcrops showcase species from the Himalayas, Andes, Alps, and Colorado Rockies. Peak bloom occurs in late June and July when the rocks burst with color.
Alpine Display Garden presents plants in a more traditional garden setting. This accessible area shows how alpine species can work in home landscapes. It's the best introduction for visitors unfamiliar with mountain gardening.
Meditation Garden offers a contemplative space with Asian influences. Water features, carefully placed stones, and simple plantings create tranquility. Many visitors spend quiet time here after exploring the other areas.
Children's Garden engages young visitors with interactive elements. Hands-on activities, whimsical plantings, and educational displays make botany accessible to kids. It's surprisingly effective at capturing children's attention.
Mountain Perennial Garden demonstrates plants suitable for home gardens at altitude. Practical lessons for local gardeners alongside beauty for visitors. Each bed is labeled with growing information.
Seasonal Highlights
Late June through August brings peak bloom. Alpine wildflowers carpet the rock gardens. Colors change weekly as different species cycle through flowering. This is the time for photographers and flower enthusiasts.
September offers fall colors and seed heads. The alpine plants prepare for dormancy with subtle beauty. Fewer visitors create a more peaceful experience. Grasses and late-blooming species take center stage.
Winter transforms the gardens into a snow-covered landscape. The structures remain visible, and hardy evergreen specimens provide contrast. Cross-country ski trails pass nearby.
Spring (May-early June) brings the earliest blooms and snowmelt. Bulbs emerge first, followed by early perennials. It's a quiet time with anticipation building for summer displays.
Education Center
The Alpine House serves as education headquarters. Programs range from horticultural workshops to yoga classes. The building itself showcases sustainable mountain architecture.
Summer programs include guided tours, children's camps, and gardening classes. Tours run regularly during peak season—check the schedule for times. Most programs are free or low-cost.
Research partnerships with universities and botanic gardens worldwide advance alpine horticulture. The gardens serve as a living laboratory for high-altitude plant science. Visitors benefit from cutting-edge horticultural knowledge.
Visiting Tips
Location: Ford Park in Vail Village, adjacent to the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. Walk east from Vail Village or take the free bus to Ford Park stop. Parking available at the nearby structure.
Accessibility: Main paths are paved and accessible. Some rock garden areas have uneven surfaces. The Alpine Display Garden and Meditation Garden are fully accessible.
Combine visits: The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater hosts summer concerts next door. The Vail Recreation Path runs nearby for walking or biking. Make the gardens part of a Ford Park afternoon.
Best timing: Morning light is best for photography. Weekday mornings are quietest. Allow 30-60 minutes for a thorough visit, longer if attending programs.
About Betty Ford
Former First Lady Betty Ford and President Gerald Ford made Vail their home after leaving the White House. The Fords skied regularly and became beloved members of the community.
The gardens were named in her honor in 1988. Betty Ford attended the dedication and remained involved with the gardens until her death in 2011. Her legacy continues through ongoing programs and expansion.
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater next door honors the President. Together, the two facilities commemorate the First Couple's connection to Vail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is admission really free?
Yes, the gardens are free and open to the public year-round. Donations are welcomed and support garden programs. Some special workshops may have fees.
When is the best time to visit?
Late June through August for peak wildflower blooms. July is typically the most colorful month. Morning visits offer best light and fewer crowds.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors spend 30-60 minutes. Photography enthusiasts and garden lovers may want longer. Factor in extra time if attending educational programs.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted in the garden areas to protect the plants. Service animals are welcome. The adjacent park allows leashed dogs.
Is it worth visiting in winter?
The gardens have limited interest under snow, though the structures and evergreens provide some appeal. Summer and fall are the recommended seasons for visiting.