If you love animals, you know that Colorado is chock-full of them in the mountains, along the plains, and even in the cities (via our world-class zoos). Did you know that we also have one of the largest wildlife refuges in the country (and that admission to the said refuge is FREE)? Now you do, and it is time to play your visit:

Welcome to the Rocky Mountain National Wildlife Refuge.
TripAdvisor/Deborah M
Located just 10 miles northeast of Denver, the Rocky Mountain National Wildlife Refuge is a sprawling 15,000 acres that has worn many hats over the years, as it was once Native American hunting grounds before becoming a WWII weapons arsenal, an agricultural-chemical plant, and, finally, a wildlife sanctuary.
Oborseth/Wikimedia Commons
Whether you take the 11-mile Wildlife Drive or hike along one of the designated trails, you will be treated to wide-open spaces complete with 330 animal species and 280 native plants.
TripAdvisor/Matthew B
Keep your eyes peeled, as you can see everything from eagles and songbirds to bison, prairie dogs, deer, and coyotes.
TripAdvisor/Comfort Dental Kids

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In addition to seeing the animals, visitors can also take in one of the refuge's many classes or special events, a la Nature Art for Kids, interactive ranger talks, and up-close looks at some of the 4-legged residents!
TripAdvisor/issyrphotos
Need we mention that admission is FREE?
TripAdvisor/romanpiekosz
To learn more about this incredible area, please visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's website.
TripAdvisor/Matthew B
The Rocky Mountain National Wildlife Refuge is open every day from sun up to sundown.
TripAdvisor/Michael Ryno

Do you have a favorite place that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? Tell us about it here! For even more can’t-miss animal attractions, check out Once Again, Colorado’s Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Named One Of The Best In America.

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Featured Addresses
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, 6550 Gateway Rd, Commerce City, CO 80022, USA