Where to spot moose in Colorado
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
A moose at Maroon Bells. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder
Getting a glimpse of a majestic moose in the wilderness is never not cool.
The big picture: More than 3,000 moose call Colorado home, but the territorial and solitary creatures rarely venture into populated areas.
So we compiled a list of where moose sightings are more common.
- Caveat: Moose are massive and can be dangerous if provoked or protecting their calves. So think about leaving the dogs at home and keep your distance.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area: Good news — one of the best places to find moose is about an hour west of Boulder.
- Arrive at the park early and check the willow thickets along the shoreline and adjacent meadows.
- There's a $12 fee for vehicles without a National Parks pass, and timed entry is required in the summer.
North Park basin: The moose viewing capital of the state, this area in northern Colorado includes State Forest State Park and the Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge.
- State Forest State Park is home to 600 moose and the Moose Visitor Center.
- Pro tip: Check out the Lake Agnes Trail. I've spotted moose quite a bit at the trailhead, and otherwise, the lake is a gorgeous consolation prize.
Rocky Mountain National Park: This park just outside Boulder County is home to more than 200 moose.
- The west side of the park is your best bet. Check out Kawuneeche Valley and the North Inlet Trail near Grand Lake.
- On the east side, check out Sprague Lake and Cub Lake Trail.
- Reminder: You need timed entry to gain access to those areas during peak months.
Maroon Bells: This area just outside Aspen is a tourist hot spot — for people and moose.
- You may have to deal with large crowds, but it's hard to beat that backdrop.
