The massive bull moose stood knee-deep in the alpine lake, mountain peaks reflecting in the water around him. Just another Tuesday morning in Colorado’s moose country – if you know where to look. After a decade of guiding wildlife tours here, I’m about to share the best place to see moose in Colorado.
When most people think of Colorado wildlife, they picture elk or bighorn sheep. But here’s something surprising: Colorado is home to one of the fastest-growing moose populations in the lower 48.
These newcomers to our state (introduced in 1978) have become Colorado wildlife-watching rock stars. Whether you’re dreaming of that perfect photo or planning your first moose hunt, I’m sharing my insider’s guide to finding these magnificent animals in Colorado’s high country.
Colorado’s Moose Story: From Zero to Hero
Unlike Maine or Alaska, Colorado’s moose are relatively new residents. What started with 12 moose released in North Park has grown to over 3,000 animals today. Think about that – we went from zero to thousands of moose in just a few decades. It’s one of Colorado’s greatest wildlife success stories.
Best Places to See Moose in Colorado
1. State Forest State Park (The Sure Thing)
- Nicknamed “Moose Capital of Colorado”
- Visitor center staff share daily sightings
- Moose-spotting success rate: nearly 90%
- Best spots: Michigan River Valley and Ranger Lakes
2. Rocky Mountain National Park (The Tourist Favorite)
- Kawuneeche Valley on the west side
- Early morning viewing along Trail Ridge Road
- Bonus: Spectacular mountain backdrop for photos
3. Grand Mesa (The Hidden Gem)
- Less crowded than other spots
- Multiple lakes and wetlands
- Perfect summer viewing
4. Cameron Pass Area (The Local Secret)
- High-elevation wetlands
- Joe Wright Reservoir area
- Less tourist traffic
When to See Colorado Moose: Timing is Everything
Let’s get real about timing – you could spot a moose any day of the year here, but why not stack the odds in your favor?
Best Seasons
- Summer (June-August): Prime time! Moose hit the wetlands and lakes
- Fall (September-October): Mating season brings out the bulls
- Winter: Easier to spot against white snow, but access can be tricky
- Spring: Watch for mothers with newborn calves
Best Times of Day
- Dawn (5:30-8:00 AM): Your best bet
- Dusk (6:00-8:30 PM): Second-best window
- Midday: Head to shaded wetlands
- Pro tip: Bad weather often means good viewing
Colorado Moose Hunting: What You Need to Know
Getting a Colorado moose tag is like striking gold – these permits are some of the most coveted in North America. Here’s the inside scoop:
The Basics
- License system: Preference point lottery
- Success rate: Around 75% for those lucky enough to draw
- Season: September through October
- Units: Mostly northern and central mountains
Key Tips for Hunters
- Start building points early (like yesterday)
- Average wait time: 15-20 years for bull tags
- Cow tags: Slightly easier to draw
- Guides recommended (these animals are huge!)
Hunting Areas to Consider
- North Park (GMU 161)
- Grand Mesa (GMUs 411, 421)
- Taylor Park (GMU 55)
- Never Summers (GMU 17)
Viewing Safety: Respect the Giants
Here’s something critical: Colorado moose aren’t like their eastern cousins. Our moose have little fear of humans, which makes them more dangerous, not less. Some straight talk about safety:
Essential Rules
- Keep 50+ yards away (minimum!)
- Never approach a calf
- Don’t let your dog off-leash
- Use your car as a blind
Warning Signs
- Laid-back ears
- Raised neck hair
- Licking lips
- Stopping feeding to stare at you
Pro Tips for Moose Photography in Colorado
Let’s talk about getting that perfect shot (with your camera, not your rifle). Colorado’s mountain backdrop makes for epic moose photos, but there are some tricks to the trade:
Essential Gear
- Long lens (400mm minimum)
- Tripod for stability
- Car window mount (safer than stepping out)
- Weather protection (mountain storms pop up fast!)
Photography Tips
- Morning light hits best in mountain meadows
- Shoot through your vehicle window for safety
- Look for reflections in calm lakes
- Capture mountains in the background for that Colorado feel
The Local’s Guide to Successful Moose Spotting
After years of tracking these giants, here’s what works:
Proven Strategies
- Check visitor center logs for recent sightings
- Drive slowly along wetland areas
- Look for fresh tracks in mud or snow
- Watch for groups of stopped cars (the “moose jam”)
Best Viewing Routes
- Colorado State Forest State Park’s Moose Drive
- Trail Ridge Road’s western valley
- Grand Mesa’s Land’s End Road
- Cameron Pass scenic byway
Your Colorado Moose Adventure: Next Steps
Ready to spot your first Colorado moose? Here’s your action plan:
1. Time Your Visit
- Summer months are the most reliable
- Book lodging in Walden or Grand Lake
- Allow 2-3 days for the best chances
- Check road conditions (especially in winter)
2. Essential Prep
- Download offline maps
- Pack binoculars
- Bring bear spray (it works on moose, too)
- Get your camera ready
Local Resources
Final Thoughts
Colorado’s moose might be newcomers to our state, but they’ve made these mountains their home. Whether you’re watching a bull stride through a summer meadow or seeing a cow teach her calf to forage, spotting these magnificent animals in their Rocky Mountain habitat is unforgettable.
Remember: our moose are wild and free and deserve our respect. Keep your distance, leave no trace, and take only pictures. The memories (and photos) will last a lifetime.
Pro Tip: Share your moose sightings with visitor centers – you’ll help the next wildlife enthusiast have their magical moose moment.
