Big Meadows is a fun, scenic hike that is teaming with new life as a result of the 2020 wildfires. The hike begins at the Green Mountain Trailhead about 2.5 miles north of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky.

With only 740 feet of elevation gain, this moderate trek passes through a burn scar from the 2020 East Troublesome Fire which burned approximately 22,668 total acres in the park.

You'll see beautiful and colorful wildflowers like the Colorado blue columbine, different shades of pink wild roses and a rare sight, and Aquilegia elegantula otherwise known as the western red columbine which is normally only found on the west side of the park. You don’t need a book or app to learn about these plants when you have an expert like Michelle with you.