Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Guided tours
No
Backcountry camping
No
Lodging
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is a former Army chemical weapons facility (coined Rocky Mountain Arsenal). Shortly after the Cold War the facility was converted into a park and wildlife refuge after a group of bald eagles was discovered on the premises. Located just 10 miles from Denver, the refuge is easily spotted on a map as the expansive green area just northeast of downtown that covers 15,000 acres. While not considered a state or national park, the refuge is managed and operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is classified as a National Wildlife Refuge.

Just one day in the refuge will expose you to an abundance of wildlife. On a typical day driving through the refuge, it's not uncommon to spot bison, deer, prairie dogs, bald eagles, hawks, owls, herons, and many other wildlife viewing opportunities for families, photographers, and birders alike.

There are roughly 10 miles of trails for hiking throughout the refuge, multiple picnic areas, paid fishing opportunities, and a 9-mile scenic wildlife drive within the park.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

No crowds. Abundant wildlife. Short and flat hikes. Great views.

Cons

No challenging hikes. Section closures for controlled burning. No biking or trail running. Lack of potable water sources.

Features

ADA accessible
Flushing toilets
Picnic tables
Covered picnic areas
Fishing
Bird watching
Wildlife

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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