Top Spots To View Wildlife Near Denver
Rocky Mountain National Park (credit: Sheila Weckman)With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time to go on a few nature hikes. Whether escaping the heat in the mountains, or checking out one of our wildlife refuges, there is ample opportunity for you and your family to check out some wildlife. Colorado has a bounty of natural scenery, so you can gather your friends and look at some of the native wildlife. However, the city also features a couple of unique venues in which you can observe wildlife that aren't native to the area. Pack up the car and head to one of these great spots to become one with nature.
1000 Highway 36
Estes Park, CO 80517
(970) 586-1206
www.nps.gov/romo
Offering 415 square miles of gorgeous wilderness located a mere hour from the Boulder area, Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect getaway for wildlife viewing. The east entrance of the park is accessible through Estes Park, while the west end is located near Grand Lake. The park is home to several species of plants and animals, including elk and big horn sheep. With a multitude of trails and wildlife viewing areas, you may want to stay overnight. The park offers five camp grounds for those who want to rough it, or you could book a hotel in nearby Estes Park.
1946 County Road 53
Keenesburg, CO 80643
(303) 536-0118
www.wildanimalsanctuary.org
Located about 45 minutes northeast of Denver, this 720 acre facility offers a natural refuge for animals of many species. Unlike many zoos, the animals are free to roam around, offering a mini safari experience close to home. Animals at the sanctuary include several species of big cats, including tigers, as well as bears, wolves and other animals. The facility's residents are rescue animals, and the facility is dedicated to nursing them back to help and educating the public. Admission is $15 for adults and $7.50 for children aged 3-12.
6550 Gateway Road
Commerce City, CO 80022
(303) 289-0930
www.fws.gov/refuges
If you're looking for a venue that's a little closer to home, check out this hidden gem, which is located north of the Stapleton redevelopment area. Home to a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, coyotes, deer, bald eagles and other local fauna, this sanctuary is dedicated to educating the public about the environment. Initially established as a protective habitat for bald eagles, the urban oasis is now home to many mammals, amphibians, birds and plants. Visitors can tour the facility by themselves or can sign up for a free guided tour to learn about the diverse wildlife.
Related: Top Spots To Go Fishing Near Denver
6060 Broadway
Denver, CO 80216
(303) 291-7227
www.coloradobirdingtrail.com
Colorado is home to more than 450 species of birds, so bird watchers all over the state could easily spend the entire summer looking for all of them. However, Colorado Birding Trail has resources for anyone who wants to take the guess work out of birding and find the best places to look for birds. The organization notes over 800 locations and 40 trails statewide for birding, and its website has an interactive guide to narrow your visit. Trails near the Denver area include Summit Trail, which is near Breckenridge, and Grand Lake Trail, which is near Rocky Mountain National Park. There are also several trails on the plains, which are easily accessible from the metro area.
4751 E. Roxborough Drive
Littleton, CO 80125
(303) 973-3959
www.cpw.state.co.us/roxborough
About 25 minutes southwest of Denver lies Roxborough State Park. With breathtaking rock formations, a variety of trails and plenty of wildlife, this park is a must visit for wildlife viewing. Common animal sightings in the park include mule deer, foxes and many birds, though visitors have occasionally reported seeing bobcats and bears. Entrance into the park is $7 per vehicle. Once in, check out the visitor's center to get information on the best places in the park for spotting wildlife. Biking is not allowed in the park, so pack some comfortable and sturdy shoes for the trek.
Related: Top Hiking Trails Near Denver
