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Craving botanical beauty after weeks of hibernation? We’re rounding the winter bend, so feel free to start planning a spring excursion to shake off the cold weather blahs. For a change of scenery and a more robust color palette, think wildflowers.
While there are many places in the US to see amazing wildflowers, you might not consider heading to a ski town ranked the 'Second Snowiest Small Town in America.' But the charming town of Crested Butte, Colorado shifts gears from winter sports town to Wildflower Capital of Colorado as the snow begins to melt.
The fertile soil that allows the wildflowers to thrive comes from the area's mountain ranges, including the Maroon Bells and the San Juan Mountains. Crested Butte is surrounded by meadows that burst with color from a mix of glacier lilies, lupines, sunflowers, marigolds, primrose and countless other wildflowers.
Mid-June to late July tends to be the peak of wildflower season, though it may begin earlier in 2022 due to below-average snowpack this year. The flowers bloom at different rates, so for the biggest variety of blooms, head out the second or third week of July.
You won’t need any special permits or skills to see the wildflowers as Crested Butte is surrounded by public land. You can freely explore the meadows, but take care not to trample and definitely don’t pick the flowers. Several trails wind through the area, offering great views. The Lupine Trail will get you an early peek at the blooms, but more than 60 trails in the area offer access.
Plus, celebrate a magical, fleeting floral beauty with a visit to the best cities to see cherry blossoms.