St. Frances Xavier Cabrini discovered the site's spring in 1912 while searching for a water source for the children at her summer camp.
The 22-foot statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was created by sculptor Maurice Monetti and installed in 1954.
The stone stairway to the top of the hill contains hand-carved stone statues representing the 14 Stations of the Cross.
Mother Cabrini served as the founder of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, establishing numerous schools and hospitals globally.
The site originally functioned as a summer camp for orphan girls from Denver, known as 'Mount Sacred Heart'.
Mother Cabrini Shrine is a historic pilgrimage site nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, dedicated to St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the first American citizen to be canonized as a saint. The site features a 22-foot statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus visible from the surrounding area. Visitors can walk the 373-step stone path leading to the top of the mountain, modeled after the stations of the cross. A natural spring is located on the property, which the Saint herself reportedly discovered during a drought. The grounds include a chapel, a gift shop, and various outdoor prayer spaces. The architecture of the main chapel features stained glass depictions of St. Cabrini's life and work. The site serves as a functioning Catholic sanctuary that hosts mass and private retreats. The property provides panoramic views of the Denver metropolitan area and the Front Range.
The base of the large Sacred Heart statue offers the best vantage point for panoramic photos of the plains and mountains.
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes to navigate the steep, uneven stone steps leading to the statue.
Bring a water bottle to fill at the spring fountain located on the property.
Check the official website for mass times if you wish to attend a service during your visit.
Attempting the stair climb during lightning storms or heavy winter snow, as the path can become hazardous.
The grounds remain open daily, but specific buildings such as the chapel or gift shop may have restricted access during religious services or holidays.
Maintain a quiet, respectful tone as this is a religious sanctuary; modest attire is expected.
