Wildlife in Colorado provides a stunning array of species, from the majestic elk to the secretive lynx, drawing nature lovers to explore its diverse ecosystems.
The state’s varied landscapes, from the high peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rolling plains in the east, harbor distinct communities of animals and plants.
In fact, Colorado has some of the most spectacular wildlife destinations in America.
Colorado Parks, located in the Rocky Mountains, are home to hundreds of wildlife species including mountain lions, mountain goats, prairie dogs, and even bison herd.
Nature lovers can take a scenic road trip to see elk in Rocky Mountain National Park or hike to spot the famous bighorn sheep in the San Juan Mountains.
Visit the less crowded eastern plains to spot animals like black-tailed jackrabbits and prairie dogs.
Avid birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts love planning a trip to Colorado’s popular wildlife viewing spots.
Here, we guide you through some of the best spots to observe the state’s vibrant wildlife, while emphasizing responsible and ethical wildlife watching.
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Best Spots for Wildlife in Colorado
Take a trip to the Great Sand Dunes National Park to witness the migration of dung bedding insects or paddle around Spinney Mountain Reservoir for stunning views of bald eagles.
Colorado boasts one of the best places in North America for spotting charismatic wildlife such as black bears, moose and mule deer – Rocky Mountain National Park!
Here are the best spots for wildlife in Colorado to observe them in their natural habitats.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park offers breathtaking scenery, picture-perfect hiking trails, and close up glimpses of incredible animals such as bighorn sheep and elk.
The park is a unique landscape inhabited by a range of fascinating animals.
Elks, belonging to the deer family, are an icon of the Rockies.
The park, with its natural streams and lakes, is a natural habitat for the North American Beaver.
However, they were trapped for fur in the Wild West days, resulting in fewer numbers within the park.
The park is also known for its population of mule deer, bighorn sheep, and the less frequently seen black bears.
Seeing the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep is an amazing experience – after all, this is Colorado’s official state animal.
This national park is also home to the elusive mountain lion, so be careful while you hike and camp!
This park is a great location for bird watchers, with over 280 species recorded.
Expect to see Steller’s jays, gray jays, mountain chickadees, and three-toed woodpeckers.
Animals and birds thrive in the park’s diverse habitats, from the montane and subalpine ecosystems to the alpine tundra.
There’s also a diverse range of smaller wildlife in the park, from the Abert’s squirrel to the pygmy shrew.
Watch for these industrious creatures in the early morning or late evening.
Always remember to view wildlife from a distance and respect their space.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument
Another must-see destination for lovers of nature is The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
Because of its remote location, the park is an extraordinary sanctuary for wildlife.
The dramatic cliffs and sheer rock walls provide a habitat for an impressive variety of wildlife.
Its rugged beauty leaves visitors mesmerized while increasing the chance of seeing some of the area’s smaller creatures like beavers.
Among the park’s residents are mule deer, elk, coyotes, and bobcats.
The park also hosts a large population of birds, including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and several species of owls.
Down by the river, you might see river otters and beavers going about their day.
This park is a must-visit for wildlife lovers, providing ample opportunities to observe these creatures in their natural environment.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park – with its hidden canyons and caves filled with thousands of ancient artifacts – is also a favorite spot for wildlife watching in Colorado.
The park provides a diverse habitat for a variety of wildlife.
As you explore the park’s ancient cliff dwellings, keep an eye out for the animals that call this place home.
Mule deer are common in the park, their graceful forms often silhouetted against the stark desert landscape.
You might also spot a coyote loping across a field or hear the howl of a grey wolf in the distance.
The park is also a habitat for smaller mammals, including the agile cliff chipmunk and the cute pinyon mouse.
Bird-watchers should keep their binoculars at the ready – the park is home to over 200 bird species, including the colorful western tanager and the acrobatic white-throated swift.
At night, the park comes alive with the sounds of nocturnal creatures such as the great horned owl and the elusive mountain lion.
Bears are also common in the park – be especially careful on the Mesa Verde hiking trails and while camping.
Mesa Verde, with its unique combination of cultural history and diverse wildlife, is a truly special place in Colorado’s wilderness.
Barr Lake State Park
Located in Brighton, Colorado, Barr Lake State Park is a popular spot with birders.
It is famous for its diverse bird population and a top amongst Colorado birding trails.
This 2,715-acre park is home to over 350 species of birds, making it a prime location for birdwatchers.
Among these, the majestic bald eagle is a focal point with winter being the ideal time to spot these incredible creatures.
The park is also inhabited by a variety of waterfowl, songbirds, and hawks.
Beyond its avian residents, Barr Lake State Park hosts several species of mammals.
Visitors may observe white-tailed deer grazing in the fields, or the American red fox trotting along the trails.
The park’s lake, Barr Lake, serves as a habitat for a variety of fish and is a favorite among local anglers.
When visiting Barr Lake State Park, plan to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
These are the times when animals are generally the most active.
Use binoculars for close-up views and maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife.
Keep quiet to increase your chances of spotting animals, and stick to the park’s trails to minimize your impact on wildlife habitats.
South Platte River Trail
South Platte River Trail is a prime wildlife watching location in Colorado.
Situated in the northeast part of the state, the trail is easily accessible from major cities such as Denver and Boulder.
To reach the trail, take I-76 east from Denver and exit on County Road 8 towards Brush.
Follow the signs to reach the South Platte River area.
Once at the trail, visitors are treated to a wealth of wildlife.
The South Platte River Trail is particularly famous for spotting the bald eagle, especially in the winter months when these majestic birds are most visible.
Apart from the bald eagles, there’s also a significant diversity of other bird species along the trail including red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, and various types of waterfowl.
The surrounding area is home to a variety of mammals too, including deer, foxes, and wild rabbits.
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge, located in San Luis valley, is a prime location in southern Colorado for experiencing nature and observing wildlife.
This 11,169-acre refuge is a sanctuary for numerous animal species.
As you traverse its trails, you might spot mule deer or coyotes making their way through the grasslands.
The refuge’s wetlands are a habitat for many different bird species, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching.
You can spot sandhill cranes, bald eagles, and over 200 other bird species throughout the year.
The refuge is also home to a range of smaller animals, such as rabbits and squirrels.
Alamosa’s unique combination of wetland and desert environments allows for a diverse wildlife population that is a joy to explore.
State Forest State Park
Do you want to spot a moose?
Make your way to State Forest State Park and stand a good chance of seeing one!
Located near Walden, Colorado, the park is home to over 600 moose.
As you hike or explore by car, be on the lookout for these magnificent creatures!
Moose aside, there’s an abundance of wildlife in this state park with its boreal forests and high alpine tundra.
The park is home to mule deer, mountain lions, and various species of birds including the striking American dipper and the elusive northern pygmy owl.
If you’re lucky, you might also see a black bear or a bighorn sheep perched atop a rocky cliff.
Pike-San Isabel National Forest
Colorado’s forests are home to a diverse array of wildlife, making them ideal locations for observing nature.
Pike-San Isabel National Forest spans over 1 million acres and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and wildlife spotting opportunities.
The forest is home to various mammals including black bears, mountain lions, and elk.
Birdwatchers will delight in the many species of birds that call this forest home – keep an eye out for the beautiful mountain bluebird and the majestic golden eagle.
Pike-San Isabel National Forest also has several designated wildlife viewing areas, making it easier to spot animals in their natural habitats.
Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars for an unforgettable experience!
Colorado National Monument
On Colorado’s western slope near Grand Junction, you’ll find the Colorado National Monument, a breathtaking park filled with wildlife and stunning landscapes.
The diverse ecosystems within the monument attract a wide range of animals, including bighorn sheep, coyotes, pronghorn antelopes, Great Plains rattlesnake, and bald eagles.
Visitors can explore the park’s trails or drive along its scenic roads to spot wildlife in their natural habitats.
Don’t forget to look up – the monument is also home to over 200 bird species, including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and red-tailed hawks.
Be sure to visit in the early morning or evening when animals are most active for a chance to see these incredible creatures up close.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary
If you’re looking for a unique wildlife viewing experience, head to The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado.
This is one of the best places to visit in Northern Colorado.
This 9,000-acre refuge is home to over 600 rescued animals and provides a natural habitat for them to roam freely.
Visitors can take a walk along the sanctuary’s elevated walkways to observe animals like lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and more.
The sanctuary also offers educational programs and tours to learn about these animals and their stories.
Experience the beauty of Colorado’s wildlife while supporting a worthy cause at The Wild Animal Sanctuary.
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge
Located in Southern Colorado, Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is an impressive sanctuary that houses a diverse collection of animal species.
The 14,804-acre refuge is particularly known for its large population of migratory birds.
Every spring and fall, the refuge becomes a temporary home for tens of thousands of sandhill cranes, creating a spectacle that wildlife watchers will admire.
The cranes feed and rest in the refuge’s wetlands and grasslands before continuing their migration, providing visitors with a fantastic birdwatching opportunity.
In addition to these migratory birds, the refuge is home to several year-round avian residents, including red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, and various waterfowl species.
The refuge’s wet meadows, thick cattails, and bulrush marshes create an ideal habitat for these birds.
Beyond the birds, the refuge is also a habitat for a variety of mammals.
While walking the trails, you might spot a coyote prowling in the distance, or see a black-tailed jackrabbit darting into the underbrush.
The refuge is also home to several species of small mammals and reptiles, making it a prime location for wildlife observation.
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is a testament to the diverse wildlife that calls Colorado home and is an exceptional site for wildlife observation.
Colorado is a remarkable state to explore and discover, especially when it comes to the wildlife!
From alpine regions to high desert plateaus and canyons, spotting animals that frequent these areas is one of the state’s great treats.
Let us know about your most memorable wildlife encounters in Colorado in the comments.