The Flash Player and a browser with Javascript support are needed.
1. State Forest State Park
The area in and around the park, near Walden, has been named the official moose capital of Colorado. More than 600 moose live there year-round, as well as elk, mule deer, beaver, fox, eagles and black bears. Route: Seven miles along County Road 41 inside the park.
2. Rocky Mountain Natl Park
Elk can be spotted bugling and sparring, especially during their fall rutting (mating) season, in Moraine and Horseshoe sections near Estes Park. Route: Enter the park on the east side and follow signs to Moraine or Horseshoe
3. South Platte River Trail
In the winter, more than 100 bald eagles can be found roosting on the branches of cottonwood trees along the river. Red-tailed hawks, kestrels, merlins and golden eagles also inhabit the area. Route: Hwy. 34 between Fort Morgan and Kersey.
4. Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots and pikas search for food along this 28-mile route that climbs more than 7,000 feet in elevation to the top of one of Colorado’s 54 fourteeners. Route: From Echo Lake, take Hwy. 5 to the top of Mount Evans; near Idaho Springs. Closed in winter.
5. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Located just outside Denver in Commerce City is one of the largest urban refuges in the country. It’s home to more than 300 species, including mule deer, coyotes, bison, songbirds and bald eagles (winter). Route: Two-hour trolley tours are available Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from the visitor center.
6. San Juan Skyway
See elk, foxes, eagles, goshawks, red-tailed hawks, bluebirds, kestrels and the occasional black bear as you traverse some of the state’s most magnificent mountain passes. Route: Any portion of the 233-mile loop between Telluride, Ridgway, Silverton, Durango, Mancos, Cortez and Dolores.
7. Bighorn Sheep Canyon
Bighorn sheep can be seen year-round scaling the walls of the canyon and drinking from the Arkansas River, especially in the winter. Route: Hwy. 50 from Parkdale to Coaldale, near Cañon City.
Click the Ads for
more information.
