The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge boasts over 15,000 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies that house 330 species of animals, including bison, deer, coyotes, and bald eagles. Drive their newly expanded 11-mile wildlife auto loop and explore over 10 miles of hiking trails, for spectacular wildlife viewing year-round. To see the animals living in their wild natural habitat is a truly magical experience, and one that every Denverite should enjoy at least once. Plan your visit to the majestic Rocky Mountain Arsenal today!
Prior to becoming a wildlife refuge, Rocky Mountain Arsenal was a chemical weapons manufacturing facility during WWII and was also used for weapons production and demilitarization during the Cold War. An extensive cleanup began in the 1980s, and Congress designated the site as a wildlife refuge in 1992.
Following the cleanup program's completion in 2010, Rocky Mountain Arsenal and its expansive 15,988-acre grounds is now one of the largest urban refuge's in the country and is home to 330 species of animals, including the magnificent bison that were reintroduced in 2007.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal offers a network of over 10 miles of trails that are open year-round and range from easy to moderate, as well as a self-guided 11-mile wildlife drive that allows you to access additional hiking trails, photograph the Refuge, and enjoy prime bird-watching around the grounds.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal was originally established partly to protect our national symbol, the majestic bald eagle. Did you know bald eagles can fly at about 30 MPH and can reach speeds of up to 100 MPH when diving?
The Refuge boasts hundreds of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish for your viewing pleasure throughout each season of the year, including coyotes who communicate to the outside world by howling.
At the Visitor Center you can enjoy nature programs, environmental education, interactive exhibits, and more! The Visitor Center is open Wednesdays through Sundays 9 am - 4 pm and is closed on Federal holidays.
Rocky Mountain Arsenal offers the opportunity to see bison and other animals roaming the plains as they did over 100 years ago, and to teach your children about the importance of wildlife conservation in our great nation. Plan your visit today!
If you’re looking for another fantastic family outing, stop by White Fence Farm for an utterly unique dining experience.
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