Natural science education, summer camps, hiking, snowshoe tours and things to do in the Eagle River Valley and Vail, Colorado.

Fresh off the Trail: Fairy Slipper Wildflower Sighting

Written by Walking Mountains Science Center | Jun 15, 2017 10:48:05 AM

Welcome to the first installment of Walking Mountains Science Center’s Blooming Blog! Check back throughout the season to find out what is blooming where and what elevation and trails have the most impressive blooms! Its Orchid season in Colorado’s high country and that means the forest floor is littered with Fairy Slippers, Calypso Bulbosa. Look for these along Cross Creek trail and in wet shady areas in Maloit Park. But be Careful! These fragile flowers are extremely susceptible to disturbance like boot prints and puppy paws!

When you participate in one of our guided backcountry hikes not only are you exploring new areas of the Eagle Valley, you’re doing it with someone who really knows their stuff! Peter, our backcountry guru who dilligently reports back from the trail about current blooms is not only a trail expert, but also knows a ton about local flora and fauna! Click here to sign up for a hike led by him and see all of Colorado’s unique blooms in person.

2017 Full Day Hikes
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays (6/6 – 9/1)
Tuesdays & Fridays (9/5 – 10/31)

2017 Family Hikes (6/8-10/5)
Summer Hikes: Thursdays | 9:00am – 1:00pm (6/8-8/31)
Fall Color Hikes: Wednesday & Thursdays | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm (9/6-10/5)

Click here to see the detailed hiking schedule and register for your adventure today!