View Airbnb Rentals. We spent our time in Grand Lake splashing in the largest natural lake in Colorado, eating pizza at White Buffalo, and hiking to East Meadow where we spotted a moose. Breckenridge, Colorado, is an amazing place to spend a weekend vacation. Visitors should remember that Trail Ridge Road is closed during the winter/spring season, so to get to the west side of the park from Estes Park, you will need to go around the south side of the park to get to Grand Lake. Yearling bulls sport small spikes or small plates, with antlers increasing in size as the bulls mature. ALL | GLENWOOD SPRINGS ” Two years ago, the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources teamed up to re-establish a moose population in Colorado’s Grand Mesa National Forest by relocating animals from an overpopulated area in … Colorado’s moose population now approaches 3,000 animals statewide. Each individual establishes a range and may stay in a given location for days or weeks. Moose are tending to migrate farther south, but, last I heard, not that far. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. In 1978, Colorado Parks and Wildlife first introduced 12 moose from Utah to the area west of the Never Summer Mountains near the town of Walden. Moose are most comfortable in cold damp environments. City Park – Birds. Before long, North Park’s moose population was doing so well that some were moved to the upper Rio Grande drainage. In fact, Kawuneeche Valley is a favorite spot for moose to graze with its marshy, wet grasses. If you're in search of beautiful fall foliage, then you'll want to head to the mountain … Both bulls and cows are aggressive during the breeding season, with bulls often fighting head to head until the dominant bull drives off, injures, or even kills the challenger. It may be hard to believe, but until 20 years ago hardly anyone ever saw a moose in Colorado, especially Steamboat Springs. Wildlife Viewing in Pagosa Springs Colorado Posted by mmitchell. Often spotted browsing among the willows of North Park, visitors can honestly see moose anywhere in Jackson County, including downtown Walden! Antler conformation varies considerably, and it is not uncommon to see a bull moose, especially a younger bull moose, with antlers similar to those of an elk. Unfortunately, having more moose around can present a challenge to motorists. Rangers suggest heading up the Kawuneeche Valley and also the Colorado River near Timber Creek Campground on the west side of the park. In recognition of this wildlife phenomena, the state legislature designated Walden as the "Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado" in 1995. You'll have to go farther north, say to central Wyoming (Wind River Range). It may be hard to believe, but until 20 years ago hardly anyone ever saw a Coloring - Their rumps are brown, not white or cream colored as found in deer, elk, or pronghorn. Kat, 19, was enjoying some fresh air in … Unsubscribe anytime by clicking the link at the bottom of your email. In Minnesota, hike the moose-mobbed Superior Hiking Trail, CR6 to Silver Bay (18.6 miles round-trip), with spectacular, airy views overlooking Lake Superior. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. “When in moose habitat, expect to see a moose, whether in the backcountry or within developed areas,” said District Wildlife Manager Jeromy Huntington of Granby. Although fewer in number on the east side and rarer to see, moose can sometimes be found in the marshy areas around Sprague Lake and Cub Lake. Another great spot is along the Colorado River up by Lulu City, also on the west side of the park. Though a bit of a hike, moose are known to graze here and the seasonal springtime wildflowers are spectacular. Start looking along Trail Ridge Road from the Colorado River Trailhead all the way to Grand Lake. One thing is for certain. Many can be spotted on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park and here in Grand Lake. Today, the state’s moose populations are doing well with an estimated 2,500 living throughout the state, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife. That’s far from the case today. Location. … Get inspired with tips about where to go and what to see on your national park vacation, delivered right to your inbox. Moose at Piney Lake near Vail, Colorado. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​, Sagebrush & Sage Species Conservation Strategy, Be SMART! Since they are so large it’s hard to miss them grazing in the low-lying valleys and wet areas near lakes. See State Forest State Park. Not only do the moose provide recreational opportunities for sportspeople, they have also become a main attraction for all who enjoy watching wildlife. Kat and Wyatt Wulfestieg had an unexpected visitor on their property in Penrose, south of Colorado Springs, last week. Colorado Parks and Wildlife shared a photo of a large moose seen in Colorado Springs on Thursday. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner. The best places to see moose are in marshy wetlands and around lakes such as Breckenridge’s Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve between town and the Breckenridge Ski Resort. … This depends on food availability and harassment. What you should do if wildlife gets too close.​, ​​​​​​Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet, November 2013​ â€‹(2 MB), Moose Reintroduction Program - Grand Mesa. They also do well in drier habitats of oakbrush, mountain mahogany, aspen and sagebrush. Cows give birth in May and June. (Via Colorado Parks and Wildlife Twitter) We can only assume it was a traumatic day for one unsuspecting moose. In fact they are quite large and rather clumsy looking. Moose sightings in Steamboat Springs have grown over the last few years to the point that they have become a daily occurrence. Their thick, dark brown coat appears black at a distance, and enables them to stay warm in the coldest winters. Answer 1 of 4: We went in after 5 today and had a great time (since we missed getting our timed entry permit). In 1979, another 12 from Wyoming were released in the same region in the Illinois River drainage. Visitors see moose fairly frequently along Highway 34 in the Kawuneeche Valley. In 1987 a transplant of 12 moose from Wyoming helped establish a strong population in that valley as well. The moose (alces alces) is the largest member of the deer family, and also the largest wild animal to inhabit Rocky Mountain National Park.When we say moose are large, we mean it: male moose, called bulls, average up to 7 feet all at the shoulder, and can weigh in excess of 1,500 pounds! Two moose sightings in the Springs in the last week. Wildlife officers were able to follow prints left by the moose… South Platte River Trail. Even though mature moose are massive–often 6 feet high at the shoulder and with antlers 6 feet across–they can be fast swimmers and quick movers on land, too. Look for moose in areas with aquatic vegetation and willows. Moose in Kawuneeche Valley on the west side of the park. There are 5 ways to get from Colorado Springs to Moose Jaw by plane, bus, train or car. There you can observe most of the animals of this area and have the chance to see how they look in a fairly natural setting. | Photo: Timberline guide Ben Hilley. But until the late 1970s it was rare to catch a glimpse of moose in Colorado, even though there are records of moose sightings as far back as the 1850s, according to an Aspen Daily News article. Seeing moose in the Park typically is not that difficult. In the winter, more than 100 bald eagles can be found roosting on the … By 2007, 91 moose were transplanted and were released in three main areas. The hike to East Meadow begins at the East Inlet trailhead at 8,390 ft in elevation. That initial 91 grew to over 400, a healthy population according to CPW. This early population thrived and some moved into the Laramie River Valley. “Just north of Divide, there’s a whole bunch of Forest Service roads,” said Kroening, of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. From here you can see Grand Lake in … Moose may live for up to 20 years in the wild. If you do happen to see a moose make sure to remember they are wild and unpredictable. The bell varies in size and is much larger on bulls. © 2021 Pocket Outdoor Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. These strays were probably just transient animals seeking new habitats, but they never came in large enough numbers to establish a stable population here. Amenities. “Try to stay in open areas where wildlife can been detected from a distance, especially when walking with a dog. As expected, moose flourished on the Grand Mesa. The greater Yellowstone area and Colorado also have Bullwinkles: Explore Wyoming’s Gros Ventre River, or Colorado’s State Forest State Park, west of Fort Collins. This moose, a 2-year-old cow, had quite a traumatic day in Colorado Springs. Get a free Colorado national park trip planner for inspiring itineraries and essential information. Rangers suggest heading up the Kawuneeche Valley and also the Colorado River near Timber Creek Campground on the west side of the park. We made it up to Alpine, saw 6 bighorn sheep, marmots, pikas, awesome elk, and to finish it off a huge moose. I'm already a … Their numbers have grown so dramatically that limited hunting is offered in North Park, Middle Park and the Laramie River area. Moose have long legs, which allow them to traverse deep winter snows and thick willow habitat types. Approximately 70 moose currently live in Game Management Unit 14, which is bounded by U.S. 40/Rabbit Ears Pass on the south, U.S. 40 and Elk River Road on the west, the Continental Divide on the east and from Steamboat Lake to the … This large animal in the deer family is second only to the moose in … Shape - Their long head, overhanging snout, and a pendulant flap of skin of varying sizes hanging from their throat ("bell") give moose an unmistakable silhouette when observed in the wild. These initial moose came from Utah, and, in 1979, another dozen from Wyoming were released in the same region, in the Illinois River drainage. Standing over six feet tall and weighing between 600 and 1,600 pounds, moose are a common sight within Rocky Mountain National Park and a visitor favorite. Encircled by mountain ranges, North Park is a secluded and pristine region. Unlike Elk, which can have several mates at the same time, moose typically stick to one cow at a time. A couple hours north of Denver, the likelihood of seeing a moose is higher here than just about anyplace else in the Colorado (although not as good as the prime Canadian and Maine spots). Biologists think moose might have been expanding their ranges slowly southward and may have established themselves in Colorado on their own. Gloria Wadzinski. As long as there are aquatic grasses and willows to feed on, they will stay in the same area. Their legs seem too long for their bodies. Where to see them: State Forest State Park near North Park is home to the largest concentration of moose in the state, with an estimated 600 animals.Stop at … Read how you can be a safe motorist in moose country. The state's moose populations are thriving, thanks to successful reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks & Wildlife. traveling West on Hwy 14 toward Steamboat Springs. Did you know that North Park is the Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado? Moose are more likely to live in riparian (areas located along rivers, streams, and lakes) habitats with willows, which is their primary food source. Moose can be found in sagebrush, high in the mountains above timberline, as well in the more traditional willow, aspen, pine, and beaver pond-type habitats. In Colorado, moose are most often found in North Park, near Walden, which bills itself as the "Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado." It is not rare to see a cow traveling with her mate or calf close behind. Another great spot for finding moose in Colorado is in the mountains of Nederland, CO. Mud Lake Trail used to be home to a cool run-down school bus, but now all you’ll find are some great views and maybe a moose or two. Best places to see moose in Glacier National Park. In spite of their size, they often go unnoticed as they spend a great deal of time in heavy, dark cover in willow bottoms and forests. Their body hair is grizzled dark brown, appearing black at a distance, and they have white hair on the inside of their legs. If you want to watch for wildlife in the winter, … Today, experts estimate that about 2,500 moose are living in Colorado. The state's moose populations are thriving, thanks to successful reintroduction efforts by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Quick Guide to Colorado's Scenic & Historic Byways . Visitors may see moose at almost any time of the day. The breeding season, or rut, begins in mid- to late September and runs through October. What you should do if wildlife gets too close, ​​​Moose Reintroduction Fact Sheet, November 2013. South Platte River Trail. Unless things have changed a lot the past 10-15 years, moose are not found that far south. Moose aren’t the most eloquent creatures, but they sure are cool. Until the late 1970s, only a few stray moose would wander into northern Colorado from herds in Wyoming. This is a great place to see bald eagles—especially in the winter. Typically moose on guard either raise their head high, or dip their head to a low position. Twins are common in good habitat, and triplets have been documented. If you do happen to encounter an angry moose it is best to leave slowly and not provoke the animal. City Park in downtown Denver is a great place to spot a whole load of birds. Between 1991 and 1992 about 100 moose from Wyoming, Utah, and North Park were released in southern Colorado near Creede. In 1987 a transplant of 12 moose from Wyoming helped establish a strong population in that valley as well. Colorado’s moose population is on the rise with around 2,000 in the state. Moose aren’t small. The best place to see moose is the western side of RMNP and in the Grand Lake area. This early population reproduced quickly, and some began to move into the Laramie River Valley. SOUTH PLATTE RIVER TRAIL. Antlers - Bull moose grow flattened, palmated antlers with points around the edge, reaching up to 5 feet wide in larger and older bulls. Moose are known to return to a favorite feeding ground with surprising regularity each year which makes it easier for rangers to predict where they will be. That’s far from the case today. Bulls begin breeding activities by setting up territories, and attract cows by calling with a low grunting sound that resonates across the willow bottoms. In 1978, Colorado wildlife managers arranged for the first transplant of 12 moose to Colorado’s North Park region near Walden. Moose are primarily found on the west side of the park, but they are occasionally spotted in wet areas on the east side as well. It also features information on the park and its wildlife. With its marshy shores and surrounding woods, Piney Lake provides the type of habitat that moose love. Lots of deer and elk in the mountains around Walden, though! These antlers are shed in early winter and re-grown each year. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. The wild animal then headed to Palmer Park, a popular spot for people, not a fitting environment for a moose. It may be hard to believe, but until 20 years ago hardly anyone ever saw a moose in Colorado, let alone hunted one. During September through November their mating season (rut) takes place as bulls seek out a mate. Bulls stand up to 6 feet at the shoulder. Fishercap Lake; Red Rock and Bullhead Lakes; Two Medicine Lake; St. Mary River; Lake McDonald creeks; Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Moose Viewing. The Skyway area, Muddy Creek and Buzzard Creek drainages had become the new home for these imported moose. The moose was fitted with a collar and was recently reported to be near the Grand Mesa in western Colorado. Pretty freaking cool and I love the expansion of their range. Another great spot is along the Colorado River up by Lulu City, also on the west side of the park. Since the transplants, our moose have thrived and expanded their range into good habitats. Be SMART! ... Like us on Facebook to see similar stories. Moose and Red Wing Blackbird at Sprague Lake on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park, Best of Colorado Road Trip Featuring 5 National Park Sites, 12 Unusual Places to Stay near Rocky Mountain National Park. Telluride. Wildlife managers and biologists, however, decided to give the moose a boost in the right direction. Operated by the Colorado State Forest State Park and located near the former logging camp of Gould, the Center tells the story of the North Park moose and early timber camps. Size - Colorado’s Shiras moose (Alces alces shirasi) are Colorado’s largest big game animal with adults weighing 800 to 1,200 pounds. Traveling typically in small groups, moose feed on water plants, aspen, and willow. In the forests north of Divide lurks Teller County’s resident group of 10 to 20 moose, which stick to stream beds and beaver dams but sometimes cross roads and meadows in their pursuit of munchables. Moose. The term moose comes from the Algonquin Indian word meaning "eater of twigs," and the most common place to find moose is where there is lots of brush for them to browse on. Since moose on a whole don’t have the best eyesight it is imperative you do not approach them.