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. 
 
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 membership, to donations, to volunteerism. Join our community and help us protect life above the treeline.

DINOSAURS AMONG US

Exhibit organized by the American Museum of Natural History. Hosted and sponsored by Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Beginning Memorial Day weekend 2024 at the Gardens, from dawn til dusk daily.

Explore the link between birds of today and their extinct ancestors – the dinosaurs. This captivating exhibit highlights the unbroken line between the charismatic dinosaurs that dominated the planet for nearly 170 million years and modern birds. Large scale color illustrations throughout the Gardens bring to life the connection between ancient dinosaurs and birds of today.

Inside the Alpine House at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Plan your visit

Spring is in the air at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. The Gardens and Education Center are open to explore and the Alpine House is in full bloom. Garden trails are still snow covered but snowshoes are packed away until next winter. Visit and enjoy a cup of team in the Education Center. 

Betty Ford Gardens Education Center

Hours

The outdoor gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk. The Education Center and Alpine House are open daily  from 10am-4pm. 

Nick teaching at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

nick courtens fund

Sharing his knowledge with the community was part of the vibrant fabric of the Gardens' late Curator of Plant Collections, Nick Courtens. Read more about the plan to honor him.

Featured Event

Succulent at the Plant and Bulb Sale at Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Plant Sale

Shop water-efficient plants suited for mountain gardens, rock gardens, perennial borders and container gardens. Select from a unique variety of water-wise mountain perennials including Penstemon, milkweed, asters, ornamental grasses, rock garden plants, succulents, groundcovers and unusual plant divisions from the Gardens. Dominque Turnbull will have handmade troughs available for sale, designed to fill with alpine plants for […]
31 May - 02 Jun
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
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Upcoming Events

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Only a few copies of first printing still available for $45

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

On the Roof of the Rocky Mountains

A stunning coffee table book celebrating Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, its rare alpine botanical collections and its dedication to the conservation of high mountain plants and habitats. An informative narrative and photographic journey through one of the most beautiful and distinguished high altitude (8,200 feet) botanical gardens in the world.

Limited number of first printing copies available for only $45. Purchase at the gift shop, the Education Center or order online below.

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Forget-Me-Nots image ©2022 Fabio Mologni

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