Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge

Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge spans 14,800 acres of wetlands, meadows, and upland habitats at 7,500 feet elevation in the San Luis Valley.

The U.S. Migratory Bird Conservation Commission established this refuge in 1953 to protect waterfowl habitats along the Central Flyway migration route.

Local irrigation structures from the 1880s continue to supply water throughout the refuge, maintaining essential wetland environments for numerous wildlife species.

Designated viewing areas along Wildlife Drive provide observation points for visitors to watch thousands of sandhill cranes during spring and fall migrations.

The refuge maintains artesian wells and irrigation canals to create artificial wetlands supporting over 200 bird species in this high-altitude desert environment.

Location: Colorado

Inception: 1953

Operator: US Fish and Wildlife Service

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/monte_vista

GPS coordinates: 37.48330,-106.09200

Latest update: March 6, 2025 22:31