Lupines in Colorado 2025

Lupines are blanketing the slopes of the Rocky Mountains every summer, coloring meadows and roadsides in blue and purple tones. Silvery lupine or Lupinus argenteus is the most common type in Colorado, although there are at least half a dozen other lupine species growing in the state. These flowers prefer sunny areas at foothills or subalpine elevations.

Lupines can grow up to 1-3 feet (0.4- 1 m) tall depending on the area. The flowers can be purple, lavender, grey, or white. On moist meadows, it can blanket large areas, while in dry soils, it doesn't grow that well. This member of the pea family can be spotted in large numbers in White River and Gunnison National Forests, especially around Crested Butte. Lupin Trail in Crested Butte is one of the most popular wildflower hikes in the area. It can be done on foot or by mountain bike. Near Silverthorne, lupines are found on Acorn Creek Trail, a moderate 3.7-mi hike with views of the Gore Range.

San Juan National Forest also boasts quite a few lupine sightings. There is a huge Lupine Meadow on the foothills of the Sneffels Mountain and more flowers near Wilson Peak.