Introduction
Colorado is a paradise for wildlife lovers with its diverse landscape, and climate that offers homes to thousands of animal species. From the Rocky Mountains to the stunning plains, Colorado has everything to provide excellent opportunities to enjoy wildlife and their habitats.
Here are some of the best places to see wildlife in Colorado.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the wonderful destinations in Colorado to see elk, sheep, and moose. The park is home to over 70 species of mammals, including black bears, coyotes, and bighorn sheep. You’ll also find over 280 species of bird in this park, making it the most bird-watching diverse place in the state.
Colorado National Monument
Colorado National Monument is one of the best places near Grand Junction to spot wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and coyotes. The monument offers stunning views of the canyons, and also boasts more than 50 miles of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the fantastic terrain of the park.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is home to more than 5000 archaeological sites and Indian dwellings, but the park also offers beautiful wildlife sightings for visitors. Some of the most commonly viewed animals in this park are black bears, mountain lions, and mule deer.
Great Sand Dunes National Preserve
Great Sand Dunes National Preserve is known for its artfully formed sand dunes, but the park also provides opportunities to see bighorn sheep, mule deer, and pronghorn antelope. At night, visitors can even spot black bears and mountain lions.
The San Luis Valley
The San Luis Valley is one of the best places in Colorado to watch impressive sandhill cranes, which flock in the area from March to November. The area is also home to a variety of raptors, such as golden eagles, bald eagles, and northern harriers.
Pawnee National Grassland
Pawnee National Grassland, located in the northeastern part of the state, is a beautiful grassy space that offers great wildlife viewing opportunities to visitors. It is one of the best places to see pronghorn, coyote, and burrowing owls.
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, located in El Paso County, is one of the best places to see bighorn sheep in their natural habitat. The surrounding area also offers great opportunities to spot elk, deer, and even black bears.
Conclusion
Colorado is truly a nature lover’s paradise. The state offers wonderful and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, from the highest peaks to the plains. Whether you’re an experienced wildlife enthusiast or just looking to get out and enjoy nature, the above-listed places are some of the best in Colorado to explore the natural beauty and diversity of wildlife in the state.