Spot, snap photos, and check off nature’s most colorful treasures – right here at Riversong Inn and RMNP
At Riversong Inn Retreat, nature isn’t just nearby — it’s woven into every moment of your stay. Whether you’re sipping coffee on the porch, wandering our meadow trails, or exploring Rocky Mountain National Park just minutes away, you’re surrounded by vibrant blooms, mountain air, and photo-worthy views. This guide is your invitation to discover beginner-friendly hikes that offer stunning scenery without the strenuous climb — perfect for slow mornings, romantic strolls, and wildflower spotting at your own pace
Why Spring and Summer in Estes Park Are a Wildflower Lover’s Dream
Spring isn’t the only time to witness nature’s paintbrush at work. In late June through August, the wildflower show continues — sometimes even more vibrant and abundant. As the snow melts from higher elevations, new varieties bloom at different altitudes, offering guests a chance to see something completely different from one month to the next.
Whether you’re here for a spring escape or a summer adventure, there’s always something beautiful blooming nearby.
Spring Wildflowers to Watch For (Late May – June)
These early bloomers pop up as soon as the snow melts and sunshine warms the ground.
Pasqueflower
Soft lavender petals with golden centers. One of the first to appear in spring.
📍 Spot it: Open meadows + our property
Western Wallflower
Clusters of tall, golden-orange blooms that catch the light.
📍 Spot it: Rocky trails + sunny edges around the inn
Colorado Columbine
Colorado’s beloved state flower with dreamy pale blue and white petals.
📍 Spot it: Shady trails and quiet garden corners
Indian Paintbrush
Fiery red-orange “painted” blooms — they stand tall and proud.
📍 Spot it: Hillsides + sun-kissed soil
Mountain Bluebell
Bell-shaped, blue-violet flowers hanging like tiny lanterns.
📍 Spot it: Damp forests and shaded pathways
Avalanche Lily
Bright yellow or white blooms with a delicate silhouette.
📍 Spot it: High elevations + forest clearings
Wild Iris
Striking purple petals with a yellow tongue — often found in clusters.
📍 Spot it: Near streams or moist meadows
Summer Wildflowers to Discover (July – August)
As the high country thaws and summer heats up, the wildflower cast changes. These midsummer beauties love the alpine sun.
Alpine Sunflower
Bright yellow daisy-like blooms that cover the hillsides like confetti.
📍 Spot it: Above treeline, alpine tundra areas
Pink Elephanthead
Unmistakable pink spikes shaped like tiny elephant heads. A quirky favorite!
📍 Spot it: Moist meadows near streams or lakes
Scarlet Gilia (Skyrocket)
Red-orange tubular blooms that hummingbirds love.
📍 Spot it: Dry slopes and sunny openings
Fleabane Daisy
Small daisy-like flower with lavender petals and yellow centers.
📍 Spot it: Everywhere from trail edges to lodge gardens
Milkweed
Tall stalks, broad leaves, and clusters of soft pink or purplish blooms, milkweed is both beautiful and vital. It’s best known as the essential host plant for monarch butterflies.
📍 Spot it: Abundant along roadsides and in moist meadows.
Devil’s Paintbrush
Bold and fiery with tall stems and vivid red-orange blooms that look like they’ve been dipped in flame. It’s a favorite of hummingbirds.
📍 Spot it: Thrives in sunny, open meadows and hillsides.
Wildflower-Inspired Rooms at Riversong Inn Retreat
Nature isn’t just outside your door — it’s in the very heart of your stay.
At Riversong Inn, many of these wildflowers bloom right here on the property — no hiking boots required. From sun-kissed garden paths to the shady spots along our creek, there’s beauty in every direction.
Also, did you know that many of our rooms are also named after the beautiful blooms that thrive right here in Estes Park. Take a peek at the flower behind your room’s name:
🌸 Room Name | 🌿 Wildflower Inspiration |
Cowboy’s Delight | A playful nod to the vibrant Scarlet Gilia — a mountain meadow favorite said to “delight cowboys.” |
Prairie Sage | Silvery, aromatic leaves and soft purple blooms — beloved by pollinators and prairie dwellers alike. |
Shooting Star | A whimsical pink flower with petals that flare back like a comet — just as magical as its name. |
Meadow Bright | Inspired by beautiful summer blooms — cheerful, sunny, and radiant. |
Morning Glory | Classic and charming — these blooms spiral open with the sun, symbolizing renewal and joy. |
Pasque Flower | One of the earliest spring bloomers — a fuzzy purple flower signaling winter’s end. |
Wood Nymph | A rare woodland wildflower, delicate and enchanting — just like the room it names. |
Chiming Bells | Soft blue, bell-shaped blossoms that sway gently in the breeze — a forest favorite in early summer. |
Mountain Rose | Hardy and fragrant with soft pink petals — the wild cousin of the cultivated rose. |
Forget-Me-Not | A timeless symbol of remembrance, blooming in small clusters along creeks and shaded glens. |
Ready to capture the bloom?
Wildflower season changes weekly — and every visit is a little different. Book your spring or summer stay with us at Riversong Inn Retreat and enjoy nature’s most colorful show from the comfort of your mountain escape.