Betty Ford Alpine GardensBetty Ford Alpine Gardens
At Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, our mission is to protect the alpine environment through education, conservation and living plant collections. We are the only botanic garden in North America dedicated to the preservation and conservation of alpine plant species and their associated habitats.
Winter is here at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. The Gardens and Education Center are open to explore for skiers and non-skiers alike. Wander the Gardens’ snowy pathways and delight in the trees and birds as you make special mountain memories. Check out the current exhibit here.
The outdoor gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk. Visit the Education Center and Alpine House for bird watching and snowshoe rentals (season opens Dec 5) Monday – Saturday from 10am-4pm.
Rent snowshoes to explore the snowy wonders of Ford Park. Great beginner trails.
Create a winter memory on snowshoes. Rentals available everyday starting Dec 5. Traipse through the snow covered winding paths of the Gardens and wander along the Gore Creek Path. Rentals available $15. Guided snowshoe tours ($20) with a naturalist guide on Wednesdays @ 10:30. Space is limited, reserve your spot online.
While it is a stunning place to visit and enjoy the natural beauty of the native plants and the picture-perfect setting under the shadow of the Gore Range in the heart of Vail, the Gardens offer much more.
Every year we host a new educational exhibit designed to broaden awareness and deepen understanding of the alpine environment we live in. Our workshops and speaker series provide in-depth insights to help local residents and visitors better understand the plants that grow above the treeline and how they are being affected by climate change.
The scientific work that fuels the Gardens is apparent when you step into our Education Center or meander the paths among our native plant collections. Underneath our dedication to maintaining a beautiful outdoor space for visitors is our dedication to saving the fragile species that dwell in alpine habitats.
Alpine habitats need your support. Won’t you consider making a donation or becoming a member? There are many ways to get involved, from annual memberships to donations to volunteerism. Join our community and help us protect life above the treeline.
A stunning coffee table book celebrating one of the most beautiful and distinguished high altitude (8,200 feet) botanical gardens in the world. This book is a photographic journey that highlights the dedication to the conservation of high mountain plants and habitats.
Purchase in the Gift Shop or order online below.
Get the happenings from Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in your inbox when you subscribe to our newsletter.