Elevating the science of plants

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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.

Educational Snowshoe Tour

Plan your visit

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.

Snow in the Gardens

Hours

The outdoor gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk. Visit the Education Center and Alpine House for bird watching and alpine exploration | Daily 10am-4pm.

Group snowshoe in Ford Park

snowshoe in ford park

Great for beginners and nature enthusiasts.

Create a winter memory on snowshoes. Wander through the snow-covered winding paths of the Gardens and enjoy the river along the Gore Creek Path. Snowshoe Rentals available everyday 10am – 3pm for $10. Guided snowshoe tours with a naturalist available on Wednesdays and Thursdays @ 10:30 for $15. Space is limited, reserve your spot HERE.

Featured Event

Snowshoe tour of Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Guided Snowshoe: Vail Tales on Snowy Trails

Snowshoe through the scenic trails of Betty Ford Alpine Gardens with a naturalist guide. This intermediate-level tour takes you through the riparian ecosystem and across the Gardens’ stunning landscapes. Along the way, discover the fascinating history of Vail’s earliest residents and explore the unique alpine environment. Learn about the incredible adaptations of alpine plants and […]
02 Jan
10:30 am - 11:30 am
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
No event found!

Upcoming Events

Enjoying Winter Trail Hike at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Dec 26 2024
10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Rent Snowshoes

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Enjoying Winter Trail Hike at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Dec 27 2024
10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Rent Snowshoes

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Enjoying Winter Trail Hike at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
Dec 28 2024
10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Rent Snowshoes

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
No event found!

What's Special About This Garden?

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.

"On the Roof of the Rocky Mountains" Book Cover - Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Gardens' Keepsake Coffee Table Book

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.

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Forget-Me-Nots image ©2022 Fabio Mologni

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Gift Shop Is Now Open at New Location!

Save the alpine, one gift at a time! Find up below the Vail Village Gondola, next to Burton | 244 Wall Street | (970) 476-7416