The grotto is a replica of the grotto at Lourdes, France. It was originally built over the spring in 1929 and was demolished and replaced in 1959 by the present one, built of sandstone. Here, in the quiet atmosphere of candlelight before the Mother Cabrini altar, many come to pray and ask her intercession with the Sacred Heart and the Blessed Mother. People present their many requests and, through faith, say their prayers are answered.

In 1954, a twenty-two foot statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus carved by an Italian artist, was mounted on an eleven foot base and erected above the Heart of Stones at the top of the mountain. This statue signifies the great devotion Mother Cabrini had to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, even naming her order of Sisters in His honor. Today, the statue stands as a beacon of faith overlooking the city of Denver and is a well known landmark in the Golden, Colorado.

Beginning September 11, 1954, 373 steps leading up to the top of the Mount of the Sacred Heart were placed and completed in just 67 days. The stairway follows the path Mother Cabrini, the sisters and the children took to the top of the mountain. This stairway following the Saint’s footsteps is also symbolic of the pathway Christ took on His sorrowful way to His crucifixion and death, through the Stations of the Cross. Each station is made of stone mosaics made in Italy and depicts the suffering of Jesus as He gave His life for our salvation. The mysteries of the rosary follow the stations of the cross along the path to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In 1955 the Knights of Columbus placed terra cotta benches along the stairway, thus allowing pilgrims to rest, pray and meditate. At the entrance to the stairway is a large crucifix.

A seating area designed for meditation and prayer that provides spectacular views of the Sacred Heart of Jesus statue and overlooks the Meditation Garden and the grotto.

This seating area was designed for meditation on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Located near the upper parking lot, the Path of the Holy Spirit overlooks the grotto and is a beautiful space for prayer.