A Complete Overview of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge in Colorado

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is located just 11 miles Northeast of Denver, Colorado off of Interstate 70. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge was originally used as a weapons production site by the U.S. Military during World War II, but was sold off in pieces once it was no longer deemed useful for that purpose. In 1986, however, scientists discovered a large population of wintering bald eagles there, and the area's transformation to a wildlife refuge began.

Despite an ongoing environmental rehabilitation program, the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge is once again open to the public. The extensive clean-up effort is expected to be complete by 2011. In the meantime, visitors can still enjoy this breath-taking natural attraction on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wildlife Viewing Tours are also provided on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. An annual pass to the Refuge costs $80.00 per person.

If you love to fish, you'll be interested to know that the fishing season for 2008 at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge runs from June 14 - October 14. Common fish for this area include the Walleye, Brook Trout, Largemouth Bass, Brown Trout, Bluegill, Rainbow Trout and Channel Catfish. You will need to obtain a Colorado State Fishing License to fish on the Refuge grounds. In addition, the Recreational Fishing Fee for those aged 16 and older is $3.00 per day.

The Refuge Trails are a refreshing treat for hikers looking for a truly unscathed view of Colorado's natural beauty. Each of the various trail options focuses on a particular aspect of the Refuge's natural beauty. Examples of available trails include the Prairie Trail, Woodland Trail, Havana Ponds Trail, North Ladora Trail and Lake Mary Trail. These trails provide a combination of mountain views, lakefront strolls, woodlands and wildlife viewing.

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal Wildlife Refuge also offers convenient one-day nature programs to educate visitors and make their visit more enjoyable. Examples of their programs include Photo-riffic Days, Song Dogs Hay Rides, a Kid's Fishing Derby, Birding By Ear, Friends of a Feather and It's Easy Being Green. Registration costs vary by program.

A surprising variety of animals make their home in the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. These happy residents include black-tailed prairie dogs, coyotes, bald eagles, deer and burrowing owls. Many other species of bird and fish also call the Refuge home. Eventually, once the current clean-up efforts are complete, officials hope to reintroduce three nearly-extinct species to the Refuge: the bison, the pronghorn and the sharp-tailed grouse.

If you ever have a chance to visit this impressive wildlife reserve, I would highly recommend it. Not only does it highlight the beauty of Colorado's plains and mountains, but the Refuge clearly works hard to preserve and advance the welfare of its inhabitants. So choose your favorite outdoor activity, and enjoy some time at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.