Discovery Garden
Standing at the southern end of the Entry Promenade you understand both the problem and the opportunity immediately. The views of the San Juan Mountains are sweeping and stunning. What lies beyond in the gardens is not — yet.
Today, the area hosts the small, Happy Hollow Children's Garden, tucked out of sight and worn past its welcome. At just 15x70 feet, with no shade, a rugged dirt trail, and features that were always meant to be temporary, it has been a beloved space — but never the destination it deserves to be. Beyond this area the Homestead Garden sits largely out of reach, its path neither obvious nor easy to navigate, leaving this area of the Gardens far less visited and utilized than it deserves to be.
That is all about to change.
Aligning with our 2019 Master Plan, the half-acre section south of the Promenade has been reimagined as the thriving center of the garden that invites visitors of all ages to explore, learn, create, gather and connect with the natural world.
The Discovery Garden will be an immersive outdoor experience that reflects the character of the Uncompahgre Valley and inspires a sense of wonder in children and adults alike. Key Design Features include:
-
Wide concrete walking paths that can accommodate wheelchairs, strollers and larger groups
-
Convenient links to the Promenade, the Shavano Shelter and the Homestead Garden
-
Thoughtfully placed trees and shade structures that maximize summer comfort while preserving the iconic San Juan Mountain views
-
Permanent, covered shelter with seating for up to 75 visitors, supporting classes, performances, picnics, group gatherings and community events
-
Interactive, hands-on features including raised garden beds, water elements, boulders, a children’s play hub, and sculptures
-
Interpretive and educational hands-on activities and displays celebrating local geology, gardening, water wise plants, native ecology and other learning opportunities.
Happy Hollow today
