Winter wildlife viewing near Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular activity for many visitors. No matter what time of year, wildlife in the Estes Valley and the surrounding high country are abundant, but during the winter, the snow and bare trees make for a picture-perfect scenic landscape for viewing the beloved fauna. So, grab your camera and your binoculars and discover where and what to see during your vacation to Estes Park.
What to look out for
Though some wildlife hibernates in the winter, like the black bear, be on the lookout for the following animals that are still active in the area:
Elk – no matter what time of year, elk are always present in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. In the winter they migrate to a lower elevation, which means for those who aren’t yet ready to brave the arctic temperatures in the high country, they will still be able to see elk grazing with picturesque snow-capped mountain peaks in the background. Elk are also known to frequent the streets and parks in Estes Park, so always keep your eye out, even when staying at Alpine Trail Ridge Inn.
Other larger animals to be on the lookout for are moose. Although not very common to see, moose are sometimes spotted.
Pikas – on the smaller side of life, pikas do not hibernate in the winter. But the only way you will see these cute little creatures is if you venture into the high country. During the summer they spend their time gathering up food for the winter. They keep their food stored under rocks so that they have enough to survive on during the colder months.
Birds – Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are home base for hundreds of migratory birds, there are many that can be seen year-round, especially in the winter, including wild turkeys, hawks, falcons, woodpeckers, and pygmy owls.
Winter wildlife viewing tips
- How to see wildlife: There are many ways to enjoy winter wildlife viewing near Estes Park. Hit the trails to see the animals for a hike or snowshoeing. Take a tour with a local outfitter who will guide you along the way for the best places to spot wildlife or take a scenic drive on your own.
- Where: Some of the best viewing spots for winter wildlife near Estes Park are within Rocky Mountain National Park. These include Moraine Park, Bear Lake Road, and the Fall River entrance to the park. Also, in town, walk around Lake Estes and you’ll often spot a few birds and herds of elk.
- When: Wildlife tends to be more active at dawn or dusk.
- For your safety and others, always keep an appropriate distance. Inside the park, you need to keep at least 75 ft. of the distance between you and the wildlife, especially with mothers and their young, and up to 120 ft. for larger animals like moose and bears.
- Feeding wildlife is prohibited and is illegal inside national parks. Beyond the legal consequences, giving food to wildlife makes them dependent on humans for food, thus losing their sense of fear of humans and can become more aggressive.
Stay at Alpine Trail Ridge Inn
Complete your winter wildlife viewing near Estes Park with a stay at the Alpine Trail Ridge Inn! Often, you’ll see elk and other local wildlife frequent our property, being able to spot them easily from your room! Not, only do we offer one of the best locations in town for enjoying all there is to do in Estes Park, but we also offer one of the best off-season rates in town! Browse our accommodations and start planning your winter getaway today!
