Mount Goliath Natural Area and Nature Center
Explore ancient bristlecone pines and vibrant alpine wildflowers on the stunning Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Mount Goliath Natural Area and Nature Center
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient bristlecone pines and vibrant alpine wildflowers on the stunning Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
"Literally a magical enchanted forest!!! Stunningly Breathtakingly Indescribably Incredible!"
🚗 Timed Entry is Key
Book your Mount Evans Scenic Byway reservation in advance! It's required for entry and can sell out.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trails are beautiful but can be uneven. Good hiking boots or shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Bristlecone Pines
Various points along trails
Walk among ancient, gnarled bristlecone pines, some over a thousand years old. A truly magical, almost enchanted forest experience.
Alpine Wildflowers
Meadows and trailsides
In season, discover vibrant alpine wildflowers painting the landscape with color. A stunning contrast to the rugged terrain.
Scenic Trailheads
Trail access points
Enjoy well-maintained trails offering breathtaking views and access to the unique alpine ecosystem. Perfect for a refreshing hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservations & Road Access
Best Footwear & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Timed Entry is Key
Book your Mount Evans Scenic Byway reservation in advance! It's required for entry and can sell out.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trails are beautiful but can be uneven. Good hiking boots or shoes are a must for exploring.
🧥 Layer Up!
Alpine weather is fickle. Bring layers, even on a sunny day, as it can get cold and windy quickly.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited services. Pack plenty of water and snacks for your visit, especially if hiking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Timed Entry is Key
Book your Mount Evans Scenic Byway reservation in advance! It's required for entry and can sell out.
🥾 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
The trails are beautiful but can be uneven. Good hiking boots or shoes are a must for exploring.
🧥 Layer Up!
Alpine weather is fickle. Bring layers, even on a sunny day, as it can get cold and windy quickly.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited services. Pack plenty of water and snacks for your visit, especially if hiking.
📸 Capture the Magic
The views are incredible! Don't forget your camera to capture the ancient pines and alpine scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the 'magical' and 'enchanted' feel of Mount Goliath, particularly the ancient bristlecone pines and vibrant alpine wildflowers. The stunning views and well-maintained trails are frequently praised. However, the mandatory timed entry reservation and associated fee for the Mount Evans Scenic Byway are important logistical considerations for planning a visit.
"Absolutely stunning area. Beautiful gardens, bristlecone pines, nice trails. There were no attendants in the building for our visit, but it looks like may be set up for some educational stuff as well. Restrooms are also available. There's a price question on this review form... while there is no separate fee for the Mt. Goliath area, it does cost around $12 per carload to get on the road to the Mt. Evans summit (which is also how you get here.) And you will need to make a reservation for a specific time slot to drive up (2-hour windows of time ... just entry times though, no limit on how long you stay.)"
Sean Pruitt
"Another place thats within an hour drive from Denver (part of Mt. Evans scenic area), what a beautiful place it is. With lots of bristle pine cone trees and many alpine wild flowers. This was the first stop on the way to the top of Mt. Evans."
Keshava Mysore
"Literally a magical enchanted forest!!! Stunningly Breathtakingly Indescribably Incredible! But don't take my words for it. They don't come near to doing it justice. Go see with your own eyes, you won't regret it!"
Meraki K9 • Invictus Anima
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Goliath Natural Area is accessed via the Mount Evans Scenic Byway (CO-5). You'll need to make a timed entry reservation for the byway, which includes a per-vehicle fee. The area is typically the first major stop on the way up to Mount Evans Peak.
No, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is a seasonal road, typically open from late May or early June through mid-October, weather permitting. Always check current road conditions before you go.
Yes, you can drive directly to Mount Goliath via the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. The Natural Area and Nature Center are located along this road.
Mount Goliath Natural Area is located within an hour's drive from Denver, Colorado, making it a popular day trip destination.
Public transportation is not available to Mount Goliath Natural Area. Access is primarily by private vehicle via the Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need a timed entry reservation for the Mount Evans Scenic Byway to access Mount Goliath Natural Area. These reservations are for specific 2-hour entry windows.
There is no separate fee for Mount Goliath Natural Area itself. However, there is a per-car fee for the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, which is approximately $12.
The Nature Center building may not always have attendants present. While there are no strict operating hours for the outdoor natural area, check local forest service information for any specific building hours.
No, a timed entry reservation for the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is mandatory for access. Without one, you will not be able to drive up the road to Mount Goliath.
While the reservation is for an entry time, there is generally no strict limit on how long you can stay within the Mount Goliath Natural Area or on the byway once you have entered.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Mount Goliath offers several trails, including paths through the ancient bristlecone pines and areas with alpine wildflowers. The 'trailhead' is often mentioned as a great starting point for exploration.
While not guaranteed, you might spot small alpine mammals, birds, and various insects. The focus is more on the unique plant life and geological features.
Yes, families can enjoy the accessible trails and the unique environment. The ancient trees and potential for seeing wildflowers can be fascinating for children.
Restrooms are available at Mount Goliath Natural Area, which is a convenient amenity for visitors.
Mount Goliath is situated at a high altitude, around 11,000 feet (approximately 3,350 meters). Be aware of potential altitude sickness and stay hydrated.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient bristlecone pines, especially when framed by the alpine landscape, offer incredible photographic opportunities. Also, capture the vibrant alpine wildflowers in bloom and the panoramic views from the trails.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more dramatic lighting for your photos. Midday sun can be harsh at this altitude.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national forest areas and scenic byways to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check with the U.S. Forest Service for specific regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a macro lens can be useful for detailed shots of wildflowers. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Yes, you can photograph the Nature Center building and its surroundings. It serves as a good reference point and often has interpretive displays.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for alpine wildflowers and any small creatures they might spot. The Nature Center, even if unstaffed, can provide context. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and be mindful of the altitude. Dressing in layers is crucial for keeping everyone comfortable.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the botanical diversity, especially the chance to see bristlecone pines and seasonal wildflowers. The area is a prime spot for photography, with dramatic landscapes and intricate plant details. Remember to check the weather and be prepared for varying conditions.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a macro lens for detailed shots of the flora. The changing light conditions at high altitudes can create stunning photographic opportunities. Be prepared for wind, which can add a dynamic element to your shots, but also consider a tripod for stability.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Bristlecone Pines
Walking among these venerable trees feels like stepping back in time. The unique shapes and textures of the bristlecone pines, sculpted by wind, snow, and ice over centuries, make for truly awe-inspiring sights. It's a humbling experience to stand beside a tree that has witnessed so much history. Photographers and nature lovers alike will find endless fascination in these resilient giants.
Remember to stay on marked trails to protect these fragile ecosystems. The bristlecone pine ecosystem is delicate, and respecting the environment ensures these ancient wonders can be appreciated for generations to come.
Navigating the Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Crucially, the byway operates on a timed entry reservation system during its open season (typically late May/early June to mid-October). Visitors must book a reservation for a specific 2-hour entry window. This system is in place to manage traffic and ensure a better visitor experience. There is also a per-vehicle fee to use the byway.
Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions as you ascend. Even on a warm summer day, temperatures can drop significantly, and wind can be a factor. It's essential to have layers of clothing and be aware of the altitude, which can affect some individuals.
Alpine Flora and Fauna
While the area is primarily known for its plant life, you might also encounter some alpine wildlife. This could include marmots, pikas, various bird species, and smaller mammals adapted to the high-altitude environment. However, sightings are not guaranteed, and the focus remains on the unique botanical and geological features.
Respecting the delicate alpine environment is paramount. Stick to designated trails to avoid disturbing the flora and fauna. The fragile alpine ecosystem is a precious resource that requires careful preservation.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit