The Top 7 Best Places to See Wildlife in Colorado

One of the most beautiful states in the U.S. is Colorado. There is so much to do, see, and explore. Colorado, for instance, is home to Rocky Mountain National Park and Mesa Verde National Park. The state is filled with tall mountains, reaching as high as 14,000 feet, and long rivers, spreading as long as 1,800 miles. While here, you spend your days hiking through lush green forests and impressive, dry, and rocky deserts. Within these unique environments are hundreds of native animals, but where are the best places to see animals? Follow along to discover Colorado’s top 7 best places to see wildlife.

Rocky Mountain National Park

The first wildlife viewing spot on our list is likely the most iconic Rocky Mountain National Park in the state. This stunning national park has a surface area of 265,807 acres. While here, visitors can marvel at the park’s beautiful meadows, towering mountain peaks, sparkling lakes, and gorgeous waterfalls. You can spend days, if not weeks, wandering around the park. Bring a pair of binoculars and good hiking boots, and you may see animals like moose, bighorn sheep, Colorado River cutthroat trout, and western tanagers.

Barr Lake State Park

You don’t have to spend all your time exploring national parks to see animals. Many state parks in Colorado have excellent animal viewing opportunities, including Barr Lake State Park. This state park is in Adams County, near Brighton. It’s an important spot for bald eagles. Some hiking trails may be close to protect these incredible birds. You can especially see bald eagles feeding and flying along Barr Lake. Although mostly known for bald eagles, over 300 bird species have been observed in this 2,715-acre state park.

Castlewood Canyon State Park

Another excellent state park to make our list is Castlewood Canyon State Park near Franktown, Colorado. This day-use park is popular for hiking and is family-friends. The park also features the remains of the Castlewood Canyon Dam. This dam was built in 1890 and collapsed on August 3, 1933. Trails lead to the remains. Hikers may see animals like golden eagles, coyotes, and meadow-jumping mice on these trails.

State Forest State Park

State parks are popular on our list. The next best spot to see animals in the wild in Colorado is State Forest State Park. This state park has a surface area of nearly 71,000 acres. While visiting, guests can hike, camp, boat, and picnic. Within the park are over 90 miles of hiking trails, which may lead to animals like moose, mule deer, elk, and black bears. Some plants in State Forest State Park are mountain ball cacti, ponderosa pine trees, common junipers, and Rocky Mountain raspberries.

Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway

Who says you need to leave your car to see wildlife in Colorado? An excellent place to see animals without leaving the comfort of your vehicle is the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway. This scenic byway is about 28 miles long, so plan accordingly. It’s breathtaking during fall as you can see trees with many color-changing leaves. This scenic byway also climbs over 7,000 feet. While driving, you may see moose, goats, and many different types of birds.

John Martin Reservoir State Park

Bird lovers will enjoy visiting John Martin Reservoir State Park in Bent County. You can see as many as 400 bird species within this park. The park was established in 2001 and has a surface area of around 13,100 acres. Not only can you see birds, but also participate in water activities on the John Marin Reservoir like boating and water-skiing. Some birds you may spot within the park include burrowing owls, sandhill cranes, American white pelicans, piping plovers, and common grackles.

Staunton State Park

Last but not least is Staunton State Park in Park and Jefferson counties. The surface area of this state park is 3,908 acres. This park has so much to see, including astonishing rock outcroppings, several streams, and a waterfall. You can see the park’s beauty by hiking the park’s many trails. Pond fishing is also available. Animals you may see within the state park are belted kingfishers, bobcats, hawks, and golden eagles. The best way to see these animals is by taking a hike. A popular hike in the park is the ​Elk Falls Trail​ , which runs for about 12 miles.

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