Shrine Pass is one of the most beautiful Colorado hikes for wildflower and mountain peak viewing! The winding trail takes you up above Vail Pass and allows for stunning views of multiple mountain ranges and fields of wildflowers. It really is one of the prettiest summer hikes in the Vail mountains.

I enjoyed this hike with a good friend and her baby in mid July, and the wildflowers did not disappoint! Of course I had to bring my camera and take some family photos in the Colorado mountains and wildflowers!

Although this hike has easy parking access with clear trail markings, it's good to keep in mind that this is a very high altitude hike with some high inclines throughout. It takes about an hour to get to the top, probably longer if you have young kids with you. While not impossible, I would not necessarily suggest this hike for people coming directly from sea level or who aren't prepared for a vigorous, high altitude hike!

This had been one of my favorite summer family photo sessions in the Vail area! This would also be a super pretty location for engagement or couples photo session in the Colorado mountains, with all those wild flowers and gorgeous views. I wouldn't really suggest this for a sunset photo session though, as the hike down would possibly be tricky to hike down in the dark (lots of winding trail with rocks and exposed tree roots).